Somatic Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Jodi Rhoden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19141
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize modalities and frameworks such as internal family systems (IFS), attachment theory, boundary work, mindfulness and somatic practices, existential therapy, and feminist therapy in my work with clients.
I became a therapist because of my sincere belief that when each of us as individuals is able to engage in our own journey of healing, we can’t help but to heal the world. I believe that each person has a unique sense of purpose and meaning in their lives, the “why” of what brings them to the next step in their life path. My work is to help them explore this meaning and purpose, while feeling safe and at home in their bodies and in the world. I specialize in working with adults in healing and recovery from trauma, grief, estrangement, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
I utilize modalities and frameworks such as internal family systems (IFS), attachment theory, boundary work, mindfulness and somatic practices, existential therapy, and feminist therapy in my work with clients.
I became a therapist because of my sincere belief that when each of us as individuals is able to engage in our own journey of healing, we can’t help but to heal the world. I believe that each person has a unique sense of purpose and meaning in their lives, the “why” of what brings them to the next step in their life path. My work is to help them explore this meaning and purpose, while feeling safe and at home in their bodies and in the world. I specialize in working with adults in healing and recovery from trauma, grief, estrangement, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
(267) 813-1509 View (267) 813-1509
Rachael Jelnicky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, RYT200
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Rachael, a therapist in Philly working with individual client. You might be seeking therapy at a time when you feel stuck, confused, frustrated or overwhelmed. My goal is to help you broaden your view of yourself, your relationships and your struggles in order to navigate through them differently. I specialize in working with anxiety, emotional avoidance, life transitions and working through difficult family relationships. I'm interested in getting curious about the parts of yourself that feel most unlovable.
I'm Rachael, a therapist in Philly working with individual client. You might be seeking therapy at a time when you feel stuck, confused, frustrated or overwhelmed. My goal is to help you broaden your view of yourself, your relationships and your struggles in order to navigate through them differently. I specialize in working with anxiety, emotional avoidance, life transitions and working through difficult family relationships. I'm interested in getting curious about the parts of yourself that feel most unlovable.
(267) 682-8169 View (267) 682-8169
Emily Endres
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143
Somatic therapy entails understanding deeply how the body is responding to things in your life (and how it responds to thoughts and feelings that happen inside), and learning how to calm or energize the body to bring it into balance.
We've all found ways of surviving in an often chaotic and overwhelming world, but without awareness and compassion for ourselves, we might get mired in those habitual ways of being, unable to see other possibilities very clearly. In my work as a therapist, I help people see more clearly. I believe that healing starts with acceptance and compassion, and that everything else unfolds from there. Through the courageous and compassionate facing of the truth, our natural wisdom is able to emerge and lead the way. This perspective is deeply informed by meditation training and practice, as well as training in trauma and Gestalt therapy.
Somatic therapy entails understanding deeply how the body is responding to things in your life (and how it responds to thoughts and feelings that happen inside), and learning how to calm or energize the body to bring it into balance.
We've all found ways of surviving in an often chaotic and overwhelming world, but without awareness and compassion for ourselves, we might get mired in those habitual ways of being, unable to see other possibilities very clearly. In my work as a therapist, I help people see more clearly. I believe that healing starts with acceptance and compassion, and that everything else unfolds from there. Through the courageous and compassionate facing of the truth, our natural wisdom is able to emerge and lead the way. This perspective is deeply informed by meditation training and practice, as well as training in trauma and Gestalt therapy.
(215) 782-6108 View (215) 782-6108
Kianna Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19148
I interweave modalities such as IFS, EMDR, DBT, and somatic work to meet clients needs.
You find yourself searching for calm and peace of mind. You hope to embrace life. To feel safe, seen, and supported during tumultuous times. You envision releasing generational patterns while embracing self compassion and belonging. You can make this a reality with the right support! We are designed to heal and grow. We are capable of embodying peace, love, and joy. Welcome to the journey of co-creating a secure space that empowers you to be your authentic self while calming your body and mind.
I interweave modalities such as IFS, EMDR, DBT, and somatic work to meet clients needs.
You find yourself searching for calm and peace of mind. You hope to embrace life. To feel safe, seen, and supported during tumultuous times. You envision releasing generational patterns while embracing self compassion and belonging. You can make this a reality with the right support! We are designed to heal and grow. We are capable of embodying peace, love, and joy. Welcome to the journey of co-creating a secure space that empowers you to be your authentic self while calming your body and mind.
(267) 762-2074 View (267) 762-2074
Chelsea Faulkner
Associate Professional Counselor , MA, ATR, LAPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In our work together, I draw from art therapy, EMDR, cognitive processing therapy, somatic practices, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, liberation psychology, feminist therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
You may be seeking therapy to better manage stress, grow from past experiences, navigate relationships, or feel more grounded in your day-to-day life and to have a space where you don’t have to carry everything alone. Many clients I work with feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, often carrying the effects of trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. Some are navigating life transitions, identity exploration, or the emotional toll of an unpredictable world.
In our work together, I draw from art therapy, EMDR, cognitive processing therapy, somatic practices, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, liberation psychology, feminist therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
You may be seeking therapy to better manage stress, grow from past experiences, navigate relationships, or feel more grounded in your day-to-day life and to have a space where you don’t have to carry everything alone. Many clients I work with feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, often carrying the effects of trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. Some are navigating life transitions, identity exploration, or the emotional toll of an unpredictable world.
(215) 402-5448 View (215) 402-5448
John Moletress
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MFA
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104
I blend CBT, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Somatic and Mindfulness therapies, and EMDR to support insight, emotional healing, and nervous system regulation, helping clients process past experiences, connect to the present, and build lasting resilience.
Feeling stuck? From the outside, it may seem like you have everything together, but inside you might be carrying anxiety, self-doubt, or exhaustion. Work, relationships, and daily stress can leave you overwhelmed, caught in cycles of overthinking, burnout, or people-pleasing. Beneath it all may be a desire to feel more grounded, authentic, and connected to yourself. Together, we'll slow down, create space for what's beneath the surface, identify the patterns keeping you stuck, and build new pathways toward greater clarity and lasting change.
I blend CBT, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Somatic and Mindfulness therapies, and EMDR to support insight, emotional healing, and nervous system regulation, helping clients process past experiences, connect to the present, and build lasting resilience.
Feeling stuck? From the outside, it may seem like you have everything together, but inside you might be carrying anxiety, self-doubt, or exhaustion. Work, relationships, and daily stress can leave you overwhelmed, caught in cycles of overthinking, burnout, or people-pleasing. Beneath it all may be a desire to feel more grounded, authentic, and connected to yourself. Together, we'll slow down, create space for what's beneath the surface, identify the patterns keeping you stuck, and build new pathways toward greater clarity and lasting change.
(215) 608-3512 View (215) 608-3512
Patty Kelly
Licensed Social Worker, PhD, LSW
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
I draw on ACT, DBT, Somatic, Brainspotting, and Narrative approaches, tailored to your goals.
Hi! I'm Patty. I view my role as your therapist at Luna Therapy Group as collaborative and supportive, where we build a relationship of trust and work through the isolation and overwhelm that can accompany life transitions, traumatic events, and the major and minor crises that all of us experience at some point. I work with clients in Society Hill, Old City, Bella Vista, Center City East, and throughout Philadelphia. I cultivate a therapeutic space that is safe, empathetic, and geared toward getting unstuck, healing, and growth. My approach is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and tailored to your individual needs.
I draw on ACT, DBT, Somatic, Brainspotting, and Narrative approaches, tailored to your goals.
Hi! I'm Patty. I view my role as your therapist at Luna Therapy Group as collaborative and supportive, where we build a relationship of trust and work through the isolation and overwhelm that can accompany life transitions, traumatic events, and the major and minor crises that all of us experience at some point. I work with clients in Society Hill, Old City, Bella Vista, Center City East, and throughout Philadelphia. I cultivate a therapeutic space that is safe, empathetic, and geared toward getting unstuck, healing, and growth. My approach is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and tailored to your individual needs.
(267) 952-3915 View (267) 952-3915
Mabel Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I provide support to individuals navigating mental health concerns, exploring relationship and family dynamics, or moving through life transitions. I have significant experience working with women, individuals that hold marginalized identities, and those navigating chronic or life-altering medical conditions but am equally passionate about working with people of all backgrounds and experiences.
I provide support to individuals navigating mental health concerns, exploring relationship and family dynamics, or moving through life transitions. I have significant experience working with women, individuals that hold marginalized identities, and those navigating chronic or life-altering medical conditions but am equally passionate about working with people of all backgrounds and experiences.
(215) 494-4254 View (215) 494-4254
Silence of Space Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi I am Nicole Kent—founder of Silence of Space Counseling LLC, registered art therapist and licensed counselor. Here, there’s no need to wear the “strong one” mask. Whether you’re navigating tangled family dynamics, relationship ruts, or inner storms, simply show up as your real self. Sure, therapy can feel intimidating, but so can muscling through one more week on your own. Think of this as your personal adventure, with me as your trusty wing-woman. Together, we’ll map out what helps you —one brave, step at a time.
Hi I am Nicole Kent—founder of Silence of Space Counseling LLC, registered art therapist and licensed counselor. Here, there’s no need to wear the “strong one” mask. Whether you’re navigating tangled family dynamics, relationship ruts, or inner storms, simply show up as your real self. Sure, therapy can feel intimidating, but so can muscling through one more week on your own. Think of this as your personal adventure, with me as your trusty wing-woman. Together, we’ll map out what helps you —one brave, step at a time.
(412) 501-3235 View (412) 501-3235
Casey Eichelberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
48 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
As a clinician with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology, I take a person-centered and multicultural approach to therapy—always considering the unique context of your family, racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual identities. My personal experiences as an allow me to bring additional understanding and empathy into the therapeutic relationship, creating a safe and inclusive space for healing. I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, life transitions, and the unique mental health concerns experienced within communities of color.
As a clinician with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology, I take a person-centered and multicultural approach to therapy—always considering the unique context of your family, racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual identities. My personal experiences as an allow me to bring additional understanding and empathy into the therapeutic relationship, creating a safe and inclusive space for healing. I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, life transitions, and the unique mental health concerns experienced within communities of color.
(215) 960-9405 View (215) 960-9405
Jenna Strusowski
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Something feels stuck — in your relationship, in yourself, or somewhere in between. Maybe you're struggling to feel close to your partner, navigating a painful rupture, or trying to understand your own desire or worth. Whatever brought you here, you don't have to figure it out alone. I take a collaborative, compassionate approach to individuals and couples ready to move toward deeper connection and genuine healing — meeting you with kindness, curiosity, and a non-judgmental space to explore sex and relationships openly.
Something feels stuck — in your relationship, in yourself, or somewhere in between. Maybe you're struggling to feel close to your partner, navigating a painful rupture, or trying to understand your own desire or worth. Whatever brought you here, you don't have to figure it out alone. I take a collaborative, compassionate approach to individuals and couples ready to move toward deeper connection and genuine healing — meeting you with kindness, curiosity, and a non-judgmental space to explore sex and relationships openly.
(215) 596-4167 View (215) 596-4167
Ashley King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, EdM, LPC
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Areas of interest & specialty include: Generalized anxiety & depression, spiritual & existential concerns, somatic & body-centered work, women’s issues, couples, creatives, helping professionals, HSPs, life transitions, grief & loss, relationships & sexuality, LGBTQ+ issues
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
Areas of interest & specialty include: Generalized anxiety & depression, spiritual & existential concerns, somatic & body-centered work, women’s issues, couples, creatives, helping professionals, HSPs, life transitions, grief & loss, relationships & sexuality, LGBTQ+ issues
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
(215) 995-0219 View (215) 995-0219
Alaina O'Neill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, LAPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I support clients with OCD and anxiety through a blend of IFS parts work, somatic grounding, and skills from ACT and ERP.
Seasons of change, new parenthood, fertility struggles, pregnancy, or hormonal dysfunction can disrupt your sense of what is normal. It makes sense to reach for safety in the face of uncertainty, even when those patterns start to feel restrictive. Intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, and overwhelm is exhausting to hold alone. I work with individuals navigating anxiety and OCD by meeting their experience with care and courage. Together, we will gently challenge fear and strengthen trust in oneself.
I support clients with OCD and anxiety through a blend of IFS parts work, somatic grounding, and skills from ACT and ERP.
Seasons of change, new parenthood, fertility struggles, pregnancy, or hormonal dysfunction can disrupt your sense of what is normal. It makes sense to reach for safety in the face of uncertainty, even when those patterns start to feel restrictive. Intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, and overwhelm is exhausting to hold alone. I work with individuals navigating anxiety and OCD by meeting their experience with care and courage. Together, we will gently challenge fear and strengthen trust in oneself.
(267) 848-9808 View (267) 848-9808
Dejah Harley-Chan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Online Only
My approach to therapy is person centered, trauma informed, and pulls from Relational, Emotion-Focused, Somatic, Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
I recognize that starting therapy often feels scary and overwhelming. That is why I value meeting people where they are, without judgment! I know firsthand how challenging it can be to experience anxiety, depression, loss, eating disorders and trauma. I know how hard it can be to move out of a shame/guilt spiral, reevaluate your relationships and everything you’ve known about your life so far. I know what it’s like to suffer with something alone and feeling terrified to share it with anyone else from fear of being misunderstood, rejected, shamed, etc.
My approach to therapy is person centered, trauma informed, and pulls from Relational, Emotion-Focused, Somatic, Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
I recognize that starting therapy often feels scary and overwhelming. That is why I value meeting people where they are, without judgment! I know firsthand how challenging it can be to experience anxiety, depression, loss, eating disorders and trauma. I know how hard it can be to move out of a shame/guilt spiral, reevaluate your relationships and everything you’ve known about your life so far. I know what it’s like to suffer with something alone and feeling terrified to share it with anyone else from fear of being misunderstood, rejected, shamed, etc.
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Asia Rose Irgangladen
Licensed Associate Professional Counselor , LAPC, MEd
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm trained in psychodynamic, somatic, and trauma-informed care, as well as energy work and ancient wisdom traditions.
I help sensitive, thoughtful individuals and couples—especially creatives and deep feelers—feel less overwhelmed and more connected. In our work, individuals gain clarity and emotional balance, while couples focus on communication, intimacy, and repeating relationship patterns that feel stuck or painful. I offer a warm, grounded space to better understand emotions, strengthen relationships, and feel more at ease in daily life. I hold a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. If you’re ready for change that feels supportive and real, I invite you to reach out.
I'm trained in psychodynamic, somatic, and trauma-informed care, as well as energy work and ancient wisdom traditions.
I help sensitive, thoughtful individuals and couples—especially creatives and deep feelers—feel less overwhelmed and more connected. In our work, individuals gain clarity and emotional balance, while couples focus on communication, intimacy, and repeating relationship patterns that feel stuck or painful. I offer a warm, grounded space to better understand emotions, strengthen relationships, and feel more at ease in daily life. I hold a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. If you’re ready for change that feels supportive and real, I invite you to reach out.
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Cathlene Dooner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Clients can expect a warm, collaborative space where they are truly seen, heard, and supported. My work is grounded in a person-centered and trauma-informed approach, integrating cognitive-behavioral strategies with somatic practices to support healing on both the emotional and physical levels. My goal is to help clients gently explore past and present challenges, build practical tools for coping, and reconnect with their innate strengths. Sessions are guided by compassion, curiosity, and a deep respect for each person’s unique path.
Clients can expect a warm, collaborative space where they are truly seen, heard, and supported. My work is grounded in a person-centered and trauma-informed approach, integrating cognitive-behavioral strategies with somatic practices to support healing on both the emotional and physical levels. My goal is to help clients gently explore past and present challenges, build practical tools for coping, and reconnect with their innate strengths. Sessions are guided by compassion, curiosity, and a deep respect for each person’s unique path.
(484) 806-0712 View (484) 806-0712
Jannah Madyun
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, MFT
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I offer an intuitive, psychodynamic approach using somatic , emotion-focused, IFS, and narrative therapy.
You’re the one who holds it all together, but inside you’re unraveling. Maybe you feel numb, disconnected, or exhausted in your body and in your closest relationships. You and your partner may love each other deeply, yet find yourselves stuck in the same arguments, struggling with intimacy, or feeling emotionally far apart. Sex may feel tense, awkward or like you're roommates who miss the spark and don't know how to get it back. A significant part of my work centers on couples navigating intimacy blocks, desire differences, and communication breakdowns.
I offer an intuitive, psychodynamic approach using somatic , emotion-focused, IFS, and narrative therapy.
You’re the one who holds it all together, but inside you’re unraveling. Maybe you feel numb, disconnected, or exhausted in your body and in your closest relationships. You and your partner may love each other deeply, yet find yourselves stuck in the same arguments, struggling with intimacy, or feeling emotionally far apart. Sex may feel tense, awkward or like you're roommates who miss the spark and don't know how to get it back. A significant part of my work centers on couples navigating intimacy blocks, desire differences, and communication breakdowns.
(267) 843-4989 View (267) 843-4989
Julie Yencha
Counselor, LAPC
Online Only
I am trained in EMDR and incorporate mindfulness and somatic based techniques.
If you are feeling stuck in your thoughts or in a particular feeling, you are not alone. It can be so difficult to get "unstuck" and feel like yourself again. Often times we know ourselves so well, but still struggle to understand and heal certain parts of ourselves on our own. As a fellow human, I totally get it. I help my clients shift unhelpful self-beliefs and patterns towards whatever it is that they want instead. No matter what you are going through, I know that you are doing your best, and I am here to guide you on the path back to yourself.
I am trained in EMDR and incorporate mindfulness and somatic based techniques.
If you are feeling stuck in your thoughts or in a particular feeling, you are not alone. It can be so difficult to get "unstuck" and feel like yourself again. Often times we know ourselves so well, but still struggle to understand and heal certain parts of ourselves on our own. As a fellow human, I totally get it. I help my clients shift unhelpful self-beliefs and patterns towards whatever it is that they want instead. No matter what you are going through, I know that you are doing your best, and I am here to guide you on the path back to yourself.
(484) 946-8425 View (484) 946-8425
Tajante Wainwright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19122
I describe my therapeutic approach as a trauma-informed and mindfulness based lens while also drawing on elements of CBT, ACT, TF-CBT, EMDR, Flash Technique, and Somatic Psychotherapy to support clients with challenges ranging from life transitions to reprocessing and healing from traumatic events.
I am passionate about creating a safe, healing space that allows individuals to reconnect with their full selves. I offer a person-centered approach to encourage a collaborative environment and to support the unique experiences, challenges, and goals that each individual may have. I find it important to acknowledge how the body can hold stress and trauma and to reflect on the mind-body connection within sessions to support identifying and meeting needs, rebuilding awareness of oneself, and to acknowledge holistic care. My goal is to ensure each individual can develop skills and resources to support themselves in their daily lives.
I describe my therapeutic approach as a trauma-informed and mindfulness based lens while also drawing on elements of CBT, ACT, TF-CBT, EMDR, Flash Technique, and Somatic Psychotherapy to support clients with challenges ranging from life transitions to reprocessing and healing from traumatic events.
I am passionate about creating a safe, healing space that allows individuals to reconnect with their full selves. I offer a person-centered approach to encourage a collaborative environment and to support the unique experiences, challenges, and goals that each individual may have. I find it important to acknowledge how the body can hold stress and trauma and to reflect on the mind-body connection within sessions to support identifying and meeting needs, rebuilding awareness of oneself, and to acknowledge holistic care. My goal is to ensure each individual can develop skills and resources to support themselves in their daily lives.
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Claudia Greenholt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing into my practice.
Hi! I’m Claudia, a trauma-informed Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Philadelphia. Understanding that our environments—culture, society, community, and relationships—profoundly influence our well-being, I adopt an integrative, personalized approach to therapy. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and young adults, providing an affirming space for all sexual and gender identities and expressions. I work well with folx struggling with people-pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, mood disorders, anxiety/OCD, chronic illness, caregiving roles, relationship difficulties, and family-of-origin concerns.
I integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing into my practice.
Hi! I’m Claudia, a trauma-informed Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Philadelphia. Understanding that our environments—culture, society, community, and relationships—profoundly influence our well-being, I adopt an integrative, personalized approach to therapy. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and young adults, providing an affirming space for all sexual and gender identities and expressions. I work well with folx struggling with people-pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, mood disorders, anxiety/OCD, chronic illness, caregiving roles, relationship difficulties, and family-of-origin concerns.
(215) 999-6895 View (215) 999-6895

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Somatic Therapists
How does somatic therapy work?
Somatic therapy is a form of treatment that focuses on how the body and mind are interconnected. In this approach, physical symptoms are addressed because they may in fact signal emotional distress. Somatic therapists combine mindfulness, talk therapy, breathwork, yoga, dance, and physical manipulations of the body to help patients become more attuned to what their body is telling them.

Is EMDR a somatic therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of somatic therapy, as it incorporates mental and physical principles. EMDR involves remembering a traumatic experience while allowing one’s eyes to track a side-to-side visual stimulus from a therapist. This lateral eye movement is believed to diminish the painful power of the memory so that it can be discussed with a therapist.

Is somatic therapy evidence-based?
Somatic therapy has been researched and studied, and some forms of somatic therapy are found to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions. Because somatic therapy encompasses many techniques, some, such as EMDR and meditation, have been studied more than others.

What is somatic trauma therapy?
Somatic trauma therapy is based on the idea that when people experience trauma, they can become stuck in the “freeze” part of a “fight, flight, or freeze” response. In this state, trauma can manifest itself both mentally and physically—through tension in the muscles, anxiety, and stress. Popular forms of somatic trauma therapy include EMDR, sensorimotor therapy, and somatic experiencing.