Photo of Andrea Colombu, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Andrea Colombu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My work is informed by Transpersonal, Humanistic-Existential, Contemplative, Buddhist & Somatic Psychology, and Nondual Wisdom With COUPLES I focus particular attention in creating & supporting conscious relationships, communication issues, per-marital counseling, separation & divorce, trust & infidelity.
The interface between contemporary psychology and the wisdom of contemplative practice spirituality is central to my work with individuals and couples and to my general approach to therapy. With the use of MINDFULNESS based therapy and a non-judgmental and non-pathological approach I create a healing and supportive environment were growth and transformation can take place through our in depth process of exploration. From this general holistic and contemplative perspective I address a variety of issues of emotional, existential and relational nature with both individuals and couples and would be very happy to help you as well!
My work is informed by Transpersonal, Humanistic-Existential, Contemplative, Buddhist & Somatic Psychology, and Nondual Wisdom With COUPLES I focus particular attention in creating & supporting conscious relationships, communication issues, per-marital counseling, separation & divorce, trust & infidelity.
The interface between contemporary psychology and the wisdom of contemplative practice spirituality is central to my work with individuals and couples and to my general approach to therapy. With the use of MINDFULNESS based therapy and a non-judgmental and non-pathological approach I create a healing and supportive environment were growth and transformation can take place through our in depth process of exploration. From this general holistic and contemplative perspective I address a variety of issues of emotional, existential and relational nature with both individuals and couples and would be very happy to help you as well!
(925) 247-3565 View (925) 247-3565
Photo of Danyelle Caruthers, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94596, CA
Danyelle Caruthers
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, MPA
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My therapeutic perspective is rooted in Humanistic theory and I work utilizing Womanist, relational, and somatic perspectives, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and attachment-based approaches.
I believe you are the expert in your life. I believe the decision to seek therapy can be beautiful, and complicated because such is life. Healing isn’t linear and is a journey that can be filled with a variety of feelings and emotions–expansion, discomfort, learning, relearning, and unlearning. My goal is to co-create a space and container that will allow you to explore, discover, and tap into parts of yourself unknown to you. I am committed to using a healing-centered, trauma-informed lens and feel your journey of holistic transformation is unique and valuable.
My therapeutic perspective is rooted in Humanistic theory and I work utilizing Womanist, relational, and somatic perspectives, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and attachment-based approaches.
I believe you are the expert in your life. I believe the decision to seek therapy can be beautiful, and complicated because such is life. Healing isn’t linear and is a journey that can be filled with a variety of feelings and emotions–expansion, discomfort, learning, relearning, and unlearning. My goal is to co-create a space and container that will allow you to explore, discover, and tap into parts of yourself unknown to you. I am committed to using a healing-centered, trauma-informed lens and feel your journey of holistic transformation is unique and valuable.
(925) 643-2162 View (925) 643-2162
Photo of Stacy Taylor Linder, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Stacy Taylor Linder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I hold a certificate in Somatic Experiencing (SE); a trauma healing modality that integrates bio-physiology to resolve stress and trauma.
Therapy is a partnership. Together, we work gently with the body, mind, and emotional experience to reduce and heal troubling symptoms. I invite into our sessions the parts of us that facilitates perceiving, thinking, sensing, feeling, remembering, imagining, expressing, connecting, and relating. I support clients to become more aware of different aspects of themselves - those aspects that support and contribute to their well-being, and those that constrain or stagnate their potential. Together, we work towards mind-body integration for renewed purpose and well-being. I offer a free 20 minute consultation.
I hold a certificate in Somatic Experiencing (SE); a trauma healing modality that integrates bio-physiology to resolve stress and trauma.
Therapy is a partnership. Together, we work gently with the body, mind, and emotional experience to reduce and heal troubling symptoms. I invite into our sessions the parts of us that facilitates perceiving, thinking, sensing, feeling, remembering, imagining, expressing, connecting, and relating. I support clients to become more aware of different aspects of themselves - those aspects that support and contribute to their well-being, and those that constrain or stagnate their potential. Together, we work towards mind-body integration for renewed purpose and well-being. I offer a free 20 minute consultation.
(925) 290-6352 View (925) 290-6352
Photo of Kathryn Schroeder, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 94596, CA
Kathryn Schroeder
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I utilize both traditional talk and somatic therapies that recognize the mind-body connection.
Do you feel alone in the midst of overwhelming emotions? Or maybe you feel lost, numb, or not fully alive? When we experience loss, grief, trauma, or any number of life transitions, we often experience disconnection and dis-integration. This may help us to temporarily from feeling pain, but it also severs our connection to joy and spontaneity. You are not alone. Let me help you find your way back to wholeness through integrating your whole being, your relationship with yourself, and your connection with others.
I utilize both traditional talk and somatic therapies that recognize the mind-body connection.
Do you feel alone in the midst of overwhelming emotions? Or maybe you feel lost, numb, or not fully alive? When we experience loss, grief, trauma, or any number of life transitions, we often experience disconnection and dis-integration. This may help us to temporarily from feeling pain, but it also severs our connection to joy and spontaneity. You are not alone. Let me help you find your way back to wholeness through integrating your whole being, your relationship with yourself, and your connection with others.
(925) 794-8292 View (925) 794-8292
Photo of Erica Thiessen, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 94596, CA
Erica Thiessen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
In my 20 years as a clinician, I have developed expertise working with adolescents and adults through a relational, trauma informed and somatic/body based lens, with attention towards my client's unique learning style and world view.
Life gets tangled up; it doesn’t have to stay that way. You may be wrestling with emotional ups and downs, life transitions, grief and loss, or strained family dynamics. You could be exploring future options, challenges from the past, or integrating life experiences into your personal or spiritual framework. Whether preparing for adulthood or navigating life's myriad of challenges, my clients are looking for a safe and empathetic space in which to unravel patterns and perspectives. They are seeking to develop a stronger sense of their own strengths and abilities with which to navigate life’s journey.
In my 20 years as a clinician, I have developed expertise working with adolescents and adults through a relational, trauma informed and somatic/body based lens, with attention towards my client's unique learning style and world view.
Life gets tangled up; it doesn’t have to stay that way. You may be wrestling with emotional ups and downs, life transitions, grief and loss, or strained family dynamics. You could be exploring future options, challenges from the past, or integrating life experiences into your personal or spiritual framework. Whether preparing for adulthood or navigating life's myriad of challenges, my clients are looking for a safe and empathetic space in which to unravel patterns and perspectives. They are seeking to develop a stronger sense of their own strengths and abilities with which to navigate life’s journey.
(707) 657-0933 View (707) 657-0933
Photo of Dwan Kathleen Brennan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Dwan Kathleen Brennan
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
This means that I use somatic methods to directly address how trauma shows up physically and mentally, as well as “parts work” to help untangle where you might get stuck.
Many times the reaction I get when people find out what I do is "Isn't that depressing?" Actually, it's the opposite: challenging, yet inspiring and very fulfilling. I love helping people move from pain and frustration to hope and new ways of living that work better. I work alongside you, to help you find your solutions, your strength, to make positive change happen in your life.
This means that I use somatic methods to directly address how trauma shows up physically and mentally, as well as “parts work” to help untangle where you might get stuck.
Many times the reaction I get when people find out what I do is "Isn't that depressing?" Actually, it's the opposite: challenging, yet inspiring and very fulfilling. I love helping people move from pain and frustration to hope and new ways of living that work better. I work alongside you, to help you find your solutions, your strength, to make positive change happen in your life.
(925) 336-3073 View (925) 336-3073
Photo of Tricia M. Banda, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Tricia M. Banda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Through my holistic approach I bring a range of highly effective techniques and modalities, including mind (cognitive behavior), body (somatic) and spirit (transpersonal).
You may think that big things have to change in your life in order for you to feel better and experience improvement. But I've come to believe that a key, gentle shift in perspective can bring about more positive change than many realize. That is a shift from taking a critical approach with yourself to taking a Kinder Approach. With this shift in how you approach yourself and your experiences comes greater self-awareness and feelings of confidence, hopefulness, empowerment and knowing your value. You can begin to see and feel new possibilities and choices for your life.
Through my holistic approach I bring a range of highly effective techniques and modalities, including mind (cognitive behavior), body (somatic) and spirit (transpersonal).
You may think that big things have to change in your life in order for you to feel better and experience improvement. But I've come to believe that a key, gentle shift in perspective can bring about more positive change than many realize. That is a shift from taking a critical approach with yourself to taking a Kinder Approach. With this shift in how you approach yourself and your experiences comes greater self-awareness and feelings of confidence, hopefulness, empowerment and knowing your value. You can begin to see and feel new possibilities and choices for your life.
(925) 532-2404 View (925) 532-2404
Photo of Valorie de Leña, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Valorie de Leña
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
We explore and map how you function using tools from EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, spirituality and more.
Our pursuit of a good life can be deeply affected by the current world situations. We may be struggling not only in our personal lives but also by difficult worldly events such as climate change, the economy, retirement, health care and many more. When the world doesn't feel safe, it's more difficult to tolerate the emotions, sensations, and thoughts arising inside of us, making us turn toward old coping mechanisms This will not heal us. We need to build the confidence to be with and understand our inner experiences no matter what! This is our pathway to truly heal and live a more peaceful and meaningful life in the world.
We explore and map how you function using tools from EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, spirituality and more.
Our pursuit of a good life can be deeply affected by the current world situations. We may be struggling not only in our personal lives but also by difficult worldly events such as climate change, the economy, retirement, health care and many more. When the world doesn't feel safe, it's more difficult to tolerate the emotions, sensations, and thoughts arising inside of us, making us turn toward old coping mechanisms This will not heal us. We need to build the confidence to be with and understand our inner experiences no matter what! This is our pathway to truly heal and live a more peaceful and meaningful life in the world.
(925) 452-7943 View (925) 452-7943
Photo of Paul E. Rammer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Paul E. Rammer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My expertise is in Somatic Psychology approaches.
I am an active psychotherapist - listening, asking questions, exploring new ways to understand your experiences and helping you find new strategies. My approach to therapy is one of warmth, empathy, insight and a focus on goal setting. The goal of therapy is to establish internal clarity, more happiness and an increased sense of success. Some people seek counseling to feel happier and more connected in their intimate relationships or relationships with friends and coworkers. I believe one can experience movement towards a whole and satisfying life with yourself, significant others and the world at large.
My expertise is in Somatic Psychology approaches.
I am an active psychotherapist - listening, asking questions, exploring new ways to understand your experiences and helping you find new strategies. My approach to therapy is one of warmth, empathy, insight and a focus on goal setting. The goal of therapy is to establish internal clarity, more happiness and an increased sense of success. Some people seek counseling to feel happier and more connected in their intimate relationships or relationships with friends and coworkers. I believe one can experience movement towards a whole and satisfying life with yourself, significant others and the world at large.
(510) 924-0343 View (510) 924-0343
Photo of Rae C Hipolito, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Rae C Hipolito
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
Create joy and inner calm in your life. My role is to guide you in coming back to your wholeness. I am passionate about helping you heal your wounded parts. This wounding may show up as depression, anxiety, or PTSD in adulthood. My approach is heart-based; it is a fusion of experiential, somatic/body-oriented (releasing emotional pain which is stored in our bodies), gestalt, cognitive behavioral, EMDR, hypnosis, and internal family systems approaches. I don't focus on analyzing nor intellectualizing your past. We visit the past to let go of any pain or heal trauma.
Create joy and inner calm in your life. My role is to guide you in coming back to your wholeness. I am passionate about helping you heal your wounded parts. This wounding may show up as depression, anxiety, or PTSD in adulthood. My approach is heart-based; it is a fusion of experiential, somatic/body-oriented (releasing emotional pain which is stored in our bodies), gestalt, cognitive behavioral, EMDR, hypnosis, and internal family systems approaches. I don't focus on analyzing nor intellectualizing your past. We visit the past to let go of any pain or heal trauma.
(949) 537-2883 View (949) 537-2883
Photo of Judy Brennan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94596, CA
Judy Brennan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in working with children, families, adults, and couples, through a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship problems, transitions, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, childhood, and other life challenges. I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals. Some of the modalities I find helpful in addition to Somatic Psychotherapy include EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness, Play, and Art Therapy.
I specialize in working with children, families, adults, and couples, through a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship problems, transitions, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, childhood, and other life challenges. I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals. Some of the modalities I find helpful in addition to Somatic Psychotherapy include EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness, Play, and Art Therapy.
(925) 275-5178 View (925) 275-5178
Photo of Jess Piasecki, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94596, CA
Jess Piasecki
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I trust your intuition. You may have landed here because you're feeling something difficult, or not quite sure how you feel. I work relationally to help you connect more to yourself and to integrate all parts of your experience, safely. I find a depth-oriented approach effective with utilizing EMDR, Attachment, DBT, Somatic Experiencing, & Psychodynamic lenses. I do not view symptoms as a pathology, but information about our needs, our inner world, and our life's meaning. I am in it with you.
I trust your intuition. You may have landed here because you're feeling something difficult, or not quite sure how you feel. I work relationally to help you connect more to yourself and to integrate all parts of your experience, safely. I find a depth-oriented approach effective with utilizing EMDR, Attachment, DBT, Somatic Experiencing, & Psychodynamic lenses. I do not view symptoms as a pathology, but information about our needs, our inner world, and our life's meaning. I am in it with you.
(510) 901-4652 View (510) 901-4652
Photo of Beth Hawley, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Beth Hawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PPSC
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My approach to therapy is holistic and addresses mind, body, and spirit as essential, interwoven aspects of who we are. Through my years of practice, I've learned to integrate various somatic and mindfulness modalities into sessions because they go beyond strictly talk therapy in helping calm the nervous system, reduce the effects of trauma and overwhelm, foster new perspectives, and create a healthier relationship with the body. The result is greater resilience, self-compassion, fulfillment, empowerment, and joy. EFT Tapping and Embodied Mindfulness are two modalities that I use & teach so that clients have tools to use at home.
My approach to therapy is holistic and addresses mind, body, and spirit as essential, interwoven aspects of who we are. Through my years of practice, I've learned to integrate various somatic and mindfulness modalities into sessions because they go beyond strictly talk therapy in helping calm the nervous system, reduce the effects of trauma and overwhelm, foster new perspectives, and create a healthier relationship with the body. The result is greater resilience, self-compassion, fulfillment, empowerment, and joy. EFT Tapping and Embodied Mindfulness are two modalities that I use & teach so that clients have tools to use at home.
(925) 433-7957 View (925) 433-7957
Photo of Theo Kuczek, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Theo Kuczek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Therapy with me will have you leaving my office with tangible ways, for you or you and your loved ones, to facilitate changes in what you want in your life from the very first session. I will challenge you hard but with compassion. I enjoy helping people develop an enthusiasm for the process of self-discovery and healing. I make authentic contact with people help them cultivate a taste for their own Truths while making space to grieve the loss of old ways or relating to people and the world around them. I see starting therapy is a sign of intelligence.
Therapy with me will have you leaving my office with tangible ways, for you or you and your loved ones, to facilitate changes in what you want in your life from the very first session. I will challenge you hard but with compassion. I enjoy helping people develop an enthusiasm for the process of self-discovery and healing. I make authentic contact with people help them cultivate a taste for their own Truths while making space to grieve the loss of old ways or relating to people and the world around them. I see starting therapy is a sign of intelligence.
(925) 232-0438 View (925) 232-0438
Photo of Kathryn Mehler-Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Kathryn Mehler-Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself repeatedly reacting to recurring emotional triggers; trapped in repetitive negative cycles in your relationships, or unable to figure out how to move forward to a more positive, secure bond with your partner? My warmth, humor and interactive style creates trust and safety to encourage and support you. Clients express that they feel relief from symptoms of stress, such a anxiety or depression, and experience feeling more emotional flexibility and balance.
Do you find yourself repeatedly reacting to recurring emotional triggers; trapped in repetitive negative cycles in your relationships, or unable to figure out how to move forward to a more positive, secure bond with your partner? My warmth, humor and interactive style creates trust and safety to encourage and support you. Clients express that they feel relief from symptoms of stress, such a anxiety or depression, and experience feeling more emotional flexibility and balance.
(925) 308-5619 View (925) 308-5619
Photo of Celeste Cruz Beyond Survival Into Self-Worth, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94596, CA
Celeste Cruz Beyond Survival Into Self-Worth
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Does creating boundaries feel awkward? Are you not feeling valued in your relationships? Do you have a sense life could be better but not sure where to begin? This is exactly what I want to help you figure out. I can support you creating boundaries that feel supportive and even nurturing to your everyday life, create relationships (new and old) where you are seen, heard and respected, as well as, gain a clearer understanding of your wants and your needs and how to communicate them to others. In our sessions you will build your internal resources that will have you standing in your strength and freedom you truly desire.
Does creating boundaries feel awkward? Are you not feeling valued in your relationships? Do you have a sense life could be better but not sure where to begin? This is exactly what I want to help you figure out. I can support you creating boundaries that feel supportive and even nurturing to your everyday life, create relationships (new and old) where you are seen, heard and respected, as well as, gain a clearer understanding of your wants and your needs and how to communicate them to others. In our sessions you will build your internal resources that will have you standing in your strength and freedom you truly desire.
(925) 515-4030 View (925) 515-4030
Photo of Michael Keesey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Michael Keesey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Feeling stuck, immobilized and unable to change your life? What's holding you back from being your best self? Through a behavioral lens we work together to identify the behaviors and patterns that are holding you back from your goals and systematically relearn healthy patterns and coping mechanisms that will empower you to make the best decisions for yourself, your relationships or your family. I work from a person centered approach creating a safe space where we work together to help determine your needs and goals.
Feeling stuck, immobilized and unable to change your life? What's holding you back from being your best self? Through a behavioral lens we work together to identify the behaviors and patterns that are holding you back from your goals and systematically relearn healthy patterns and coping mechanisms that will empower you to make the best decisions for yourself, your relationships or your family. I work from a person centered approach creating a safe space where we work together to help determine your needs and goals.
(925) 267-6286 View (925) 267-6286
Photo of Shannon Rogers, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Shannon Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I see therapy as an opportunity to have a new kind of relationship, a relationship in which you come to know yourself in a new way. In therapy we work together to uncover and make sense of confusing or conflicting desires, thoughts, and feelings. With understanding, awareness, and the practicing of new skills comes the freedom and capacity to make conscious choices, relate to difficult feelings and situations differently, and change entrenched patterns or habits that are no longer working for you. Many people come to see me after years of trying to "feel better" or "fix things" on their own. You don't have to do this alone.
I see therapy as an opportunity to have a new kind of relationship, a relationship in which you come to know yourself in a new way. In therapy we work together to uncover and make sense of confusing or conflicting desires, thoughts, and feelings. With understanding, awareness, and the practicing of new skills comes the freedom and capacity to make conscious choices, relate to difficult feelings and situations differently, and change entrenched patterns or habits that are no longer working for you. Many people come to see me after years of trying to "feel better" or "fix things" on their own. You don't have to do this alone.
(510) 662-0437 View (510) 662-0437
Photo of Debbie L Rosenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Debbie L Rosenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing support for individuals, couples, and adolescents. I’m passionate about supporting and empowering individuals through a collaborative process — with a focus on improving overall psychological well-being and quality of life. We will work together to assist in your healing, to increase your insight of patterns you may wish to change, and also find creative solutions that allow you to achieve your goals and live a more fulfilled and authentic life.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing support for individuals, couples, and adolescents. I’m passionate about supporting and empowering individuals through a collaborative process — with a focus on improving overall psychological well-being and quality of life. We will work together to assist in your healing, to increase your insight of patterns you may wish to change, and also find creative solutions that allow you to achieve your goals and live a more fulfilled and authentic life.
(707) 309-7165 View (707) 309-7165
Photo of Fengmei Li, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94596, CA
Fengmei Li
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Trauma may manifest in your life as all kinds of disruptions, such as anxiety, depression, burnout, nightmares, family conflicts, or relationship struggles. Yet, I see them as how your pain has found its own way to show up in this particular form. I approach this work with a trauma lens, yet it doesn’t mean that I will be searching for your “brokenness”. I see trauma as an inherent aspect of the human condition, and that we are all continuously healing from traumas, whether “big” or “small”, personal or collective.
Trauma may manifest in your life as all kinds of disruptions, such as anxiety, depression, burnout, nightmares, family conflicts, or relationship struggles. Yet, I see them as how your pain has found its own way to show up in this particular form. I approach this work with a trauma lens, yet it doesn’t mean that I will be searching for your “brokenness”. I see trauma as an inherent aspect of the human condition, and that we are all continuously healing from traumas, whether “big” or “small”, personal or collective.
(925) 854-4469 View (925) 854-4469

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.