Photo of Cathy Trenary, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Cathy Trenary
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I draw upon CBT, IFS, somatic therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy to support the processing of trauma, fostering a holistic healing experience that encompasses both mind and body.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
I draw upon CBT, IFS, somatic therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy to support the processing of trauma, fostering a holistic healing experience that encompasses both mind and body.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
(415) 992-6925 View (415) 992-6925
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
(415) 855-7073 View (415) 855-7073
Photo of Jessica Brugel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jessica Brugel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
I weave Somatic approaches into most therapy sessions finding that the mind-body connection hold the greatest value in healing and personal growth.
Welcome! The focus of my practice is to work in partnership with my clients to help build resilience and facilitate positive change. Fostering kindness and compassion with a mindfulness based approach is at the heart of my work. I provide a safe and nurturing environment in which to explore options, and also offer the respect, understanding and empathy that encourages exploration and growth. As an experienced therapist, therapy can assist with clarifying, setting and maintaining your specific goals, as well as provide a space for self-exploration.I will be there to accompany and collaborate with you on your unique journey.
I weave Somatic approaches into most therapy sessions finding that the mind-body connection hold the greatest value in healing and personal growth.
Welcome! The focus of my practice is to work in partnership with my clients to help build resilience and facilitate positive change. Fostering kindness and compassion with a mindfulness based approach is at the heart of my work. I provide a safe and nurturing environment in which to explore options, and also offer the respect, understanding and empathy that encourages exploration and growth. As an experienced therapist, therapy can assist with clarifying, setting and maintaining your specific goals, as well as provide a space for self-exploration.I will be there to accompany and collaborate with you on your unique journey.
(510) 900-8026 View (510) 900-8026
Photo of Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I also utilize somatic (body-centered) approaches to treating PTSD.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
I also utilize somatic (body-centered) approaches to treating PTSD.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(415) 936-0776 View (415) 936-0776
Photo of Pay Rose, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Pay Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I incorporate a variety of therapeutic models, including: Relational, Somatic, Formative Psychology, Developmental, Humanistic, Existential, Systemic, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness-Based models.
Psychotherapy is one of many ways to improve the quality of your life and your relationships with others. While emotional wounds from the past are often the source of challenging symptoms, our sessions focus on the present as well as the past. I place great value on a solid therapeutic relationship and through this relationship, insights will surface and positive changes can occur. My style is collaborative, interactive, and supportive. I work with an open caring heart and humbly bring my authentic self to our sessions. I welcome individuals and couples of all ages and from all walks of life.
I incorporate a variety of therapeutic models, including: Relational, Somatic, Formative Psychology, Developmental, Humanistic, Existential, Systemic, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness-Based models.
Psychotherapy is one of many ways to improve the quality of your life and your relationships with others. While emotional wounds from the past are often the source of challenging symptoms, our sessions focus on the present as well as the past. I place great value on a solid therapeutic relationship and through this relationship, insights will surface and positive changes can occur. My style is collaborative, interactive, and supportive. I work with an open caring heart and humbly bring my authentic self to our sessions. I welcome individuals and couples of all ages and from all walks of life.
(510) 323-4326 View (510) 323-4326
Photo of Ann Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Trained as both a psychotherapist and a nurse my approach offers a unique mind-body and somatic perspective.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Trained as both a psychotherapist and a nurse my approach offers a unique mind-body and somatic perspective.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(415) 341-9910 View (415) 341-9910
Photo of Nicole Poell, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Nicole Poell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I also utilize EMDR, somatic-based, compassion-focused and trauma-focused therapies to help in the healing process.
Right now, you are doing something very courageous! You are taking the first step toward a more meaningful and rich life. You might sense that your thoughts and feelings are holding you back from truly living your life. You might have had traumatic life experience(s) that shaped your life in a way that is unfulfilling and terrifying. You might feel plagued by depression and/or anxiety, feel uncomfortable in your own skin or as if you are not performing to your best abilities. I want to commend you for taking this step and I would feel honored to be on this journey with you, helping you live a more satisfying, engaged and full life.
I also utilize EMDR, somatic-based, compassion-focused and trauma-focused therapies to help in the healing process.
Right now, you are doing something very courageous! You are taking the first step toward a more meaningful and rich life. You might sense that your thoughts and feelings are holding you back from truly living your life. You might have had traumatic life experience(s) that shaped your life in a way that is unfulfilling and terrifying. You might feel plagued by depression and/or anxiety, feel uncomfortable in your own skin or as if you are not performing to your best abilities. I want to commend you for taking this step and I would feel honored to be on this journey with you, helping you live a more satisfying, engaged and full life.
(510) 849-6755 View (510) 849-6755
Photo of Daniel Brandon Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Daniel Brandon Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, RN
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am certified in Somatic Experiencing, which uses body awareness and physical symptoms as way to access and heal trauma.
Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, or complex trauma? As a therapist, I focus exclusively on helping people heal from trauma. I will help you learn to release fear, anxiety and depression and build resilience while healing your traumas. I believe trauma leaves a long-lasting impact on our body, mind and soul. I use several modalities when I work with trauma including: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I am very creative in my approach because everyone is different. Releasing trauma requires careful guidance and it’s important to find a therapist you trust.
I am certified in Somatic Experiencing, which uses body awareness and physical symptoms as way to access and heal trauma.
Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, or complex trauma? As a therapist, I focus exclusively on helping people heal from trauma. I will help you learn to release fear, anxiety and depression and build resilience while healing your traumas. I believe trauma leaves a long-lasting impact on our body, mind and soul. I use several modalities when I work with trauma including: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I am very creative in my approach because everyone is different. Releasing trauma requires careful guidance and it’s important to find a therapist you trust.
(415) 993-6810 View (415) 993-6810
Photo of Lucy Collier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lucy Collier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from harm-reduction, holistic, feminist-relational, psychodynamic, somatic, transpersonal, eco-psychological, and shamanic perspectives, and from my own life experience.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice in the East Bay since 1996. I offer a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship where individuals, couples or families can find self acceptance, safety, access insight and intuition, and cultivate an attitude of kindness toward the self and others. Recovery from trauma, working on communication and relationships, overcoming addiction, spiritual self-development and healing, and coping with depression/stress from major life transitions are common themes. I have taught and supervised therapists in training at various local agencies. I also have a background in holistic and shamanic healing.
I draw from harm-reduction, holistic, feminist-relational, psychodynamic, somatic, transpersonal, eco-psychological, and shamanic perspectives, and from my own life experience.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice in the East Bay since 1996. I offer a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship where individuals, couples or families can find self acceptance, safety, access insight and intuition, and cultivate an attitude of kindness toward the self and others. Recovery from trauma, working on communication and relationships, overcoming addiction, spiritual self-development and healing, and coping with depression/stress from major life transitions are common themes. I have taught and supervised therapists in training at various local agencies. I also have a background in holistic and shamanic healing.
(510) 403-8133 View (510) 403-8133
Photo of Natalie O'Mara, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Natalie O'Mara
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I use a holistic and largely experiential approach incorporating mindfulness, somatic methods, IFS, EMDR and cognitive therapy to fit the needs and wishes of each client.
The decision to begin therapy is a courageous step–one that can be life-changing. Whether you are feeling anxious, sad, stressed, angry, confused or stuck, therapy can offer a safe space for you to explore your inner world and gain new insights and skills. I have helped clients across the lifespan manage difficult emotions, heal traumas, gain self-confidence, learn new skills for navigating romantic and social relationships, find relief from long-term mental health issues, uncover creativity and life purpose, and reconnect with their partners in new ways. Therapy is a collaboration and I am here to help you on your journey.
I use a holistic and largely experiential approach incorporating mindfulness, somatic methods, IFS, EMDR and cognitive therapy to fit the needs and wishes of each client.
The decision to begin therapy is a courageous step–one that can be life-changing. Whether you are feeling anxious, sad, stressed, angry, confused or stuck, therapy can offer a safe space for you to explore your inner world and gain new insights and skills. I have helped clients across the lifespan manage difficult emotions, heal traumas, gain self-confidence, learn new skills for navigating romantic and social relationships, find relief from long-term mental health issues, uncover creativity and life purpose, and reconnect with their partners in new ways. Therapy is a collaboration and I am here to help you on your journey.
(510) 999-8598 View (510) 999-8598
Photo of Caitlin Cotter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Caitlin Cotter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I take a holistic approach and integrate mindfulness, and somatic (body awareness) therapies.
Pain and suffering in life is often caused by feeling stuck. With over ten years of experience, I love helping people get unstuck! I can bring skillful support to help yield the change you seek. I believe that everyone has the keys to unlocking themselves from within. However, that doesn’t mean you are on your own. A collaborative, therapeutic relationship can cultivate, restore and strengthen the connection to your own inner wisdom, bringing freedom and greater ease into your life.
I take a holistic approach and integrate mindfulness, and somatic (body awareness) therapies.
Pain and suffering in life is often caused by feeling stuck. With over ten years of experience, I love helping people get unstuck! I can bring skillful support to help yield the change you seek. I believe that everyone has the keys to unlocking themselves from within. However, that doesn’t mean you are on your own. A collaborative, therapeutic relationship can cultivate, restore and strengthen the connection to your own inner wisdom, bringing freedom and greater ease into your life.
(510) 405-7437 View (510) 405-7437
Photo of Sylvie Stein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sylvie Stein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
My approach is warm, holistic, somatic, spiritual, and mindfulness-based, and is shaped by peer support, expressive arts, ancestral connection, and healing justice—a framework centering economic, disability, and racial justice.
Hi there! My name's Sylvie and my pronouns are she/her and they/them. As a therapist, I am tender with people, tough on systems, and committed to our collective liberation. I've been a mental health worker for over eight years in schools, at a crisis center, and as a family therapist. I'm particularly experienced in and passionate about working with trauma in its many forms, and partnering with you to transform harm into what serves you, your beloved relationships, and the world you want to see. I offer individual counseling with youth and adults and relationship counseling with loved ones of all kinds.
My approach is warm, holistic, somatic, spiritual, and mindfulness-based, and is shaped by peer support, expressive arts, ancestral connection, and healing justice—a framework centering economic, disability, and racial justice.
Hi there! My name's Sylvie and my pronouns are she/her and they/them. As a therapist, I am tender with people, tough on systems, and committed to our collective liberation. I've been a mental health worker for over eight years in schools, at a crisis center, and as a family therapist. I'm particularly experienced in and passionate about working with trauma in its many forms, and partnering with you to transform harm into what serves you, your beloved relationships, and the world you want to see. I offer individual counseling with youth and adults and relationship counseling with loved ones of all kinds.
(408) 766-2985 View (408) 766-2985
Photo of Elyse Sg Bart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Elyse Sg Bart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
As an Integrative Psychotherapist, I base my approach from the relational work of Psychodynamic Therapy and integrate forms of Attachment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Practices, Parts Work, Addiction and Trauma work - all based in Social Justice. I fully believe that every individual has the power and strength they need to actualize the changes they want, and can shift the old and new narratives of established stories and patterns of their daily lives.
As an Integrative Psychotherapist, I base my approach from the relational work of Psychodynamic Therapy and integrate forms of Attachment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Practices, Parts Work, Addiction and Trauma work - all based in Social Justice. I fully believe that every individual has the power and strength they need to actualize the changes they want, and can shift the old and new narratives of established stories and patterns of their daily lives.
(510) 394-1740 View (510) 394-1740
Photo of Creature Comforts Therapy , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Creature Comforts Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Welcome! My experience and education are rooted in working with individuals from various backgrounds to help them identify a path towards feeling more safe in their own bodies. I have vast experience working with substance use disorders or folks that are supporting a loved one with a substance use disorder. I also help individuals focusing on harm reduction efforts. I have a passion for helping individuals to identify stressors in their lives and help them manage their experiences of depression, burn out, stress, trauma, anxiety, grief, and loss more effectively.
Welcome! My experience and education are rooted in working with individuals from various backgrounds to help them identify a path towards feeling more safe in their own bodies. I have vast experience working with substance use disorders or folks that are supporting a loved one with a substance use disorder. I also help individuals focusing on harm reduction efforts. I have a passion for helping individuals to identify stressors in their lives and help them manage their experiences of depression, burn out, stress, trauma, anxiety, grief, and loss more effectively.
(341) 234-3148 View (341) 234-3148
Photo of Jennifer Lara, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(415) 200-3335 View (415) 200-3335
Photo of Yosi Amram, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Yosi Amram
Psychologist, PhD, MBA, MSEE
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I offer holistic integrative psychotherapy for adults and couples, helping bring integration and wholeness to all major dimensions of our humanness: mind, heart, body and soul. My style is warm and unconditionally accepting, open-minded and open-hearted. I am always honored to be of help supporting each person in her or his unique journey towards happiness and life satisfaction. I have been fortunate to receive the 'Best of Palo Alto' Psychotherapist award for 2014 and see clients in my Rockridge-Oakland and Palo Alto offices. My approach is both pragmatic, offering near term relief, and deeper change, growth and transformation.
I offer holistic integrative psychotherapy for adults and couples, helping bring integration and wholeness to all major dimensions of our humanness: mind, heart, body and soul. My style is warm and unconditionally accepting, open-minded and open-hearted. I am always honored to be of help supporting each person in her or his unique journey towards happiness and life satisfaction. I have been fortunate to receive the 'Best of Palo Alto' Psychotherapist award for 2014 and see clients in my Rockridge-Oakland and Palo Alto offices. My approach is both pragmatic, offering near term relief, and deeper change, growth and transformation.
(510) 402-1287 View (510) 402-1287
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 712-1672 View (415) 712-1672
Photo of Jose Luna, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(415) 969-7465 View (415) 969-7465
Photo of Daishea Poole, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Daishea Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
(415) 534-3894 View (415) 534-3894
Photo of Anna Benassi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Anna Benassi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Waitlist for new clients
I am not your run of the mill therapist. Oh sure, I listen well and am very compassionate and calm. But I just don't sit there and ask you how you feel. I do care about your feelings but I am more curious about your experience and how we can increase your awareness so that you can make helpful and inspired choices. As you can imagine I help people deal with any issue you can possibly think of- from depression to life transitions to the loss of a loved one or trauma.
I am not your run of the mill therapist. Oh sure, I listen well and am very compassionate and calm. But I just don't sit there and ask you how you feel. I do care about your feelings but I am more curious about your experience and how we can increase your awareness so that you can make helpful and inspired choices. As you can imagine I help people deal with any issue you can possibly think of- from depression to life transitions to the loss of a loved one or trauma.
(510) 585-9164 View (510) 585-9164
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.