Photo of Katherine Jones, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Katherine Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
I am a somatic practitioner who specializes in working with trauma, the LGBTQIA+ community, cultural concerns, non-monogamy/polyamory, and kink/BDSM.
Welcome to my practice! Seeking professional support is a courageous step. Life often poses many challenges, which can be difficult to navigate alone. Through empathic, genuine, and non-judgmental support, I help clients understand how past and current experiences impact their lives and relationships. I work collaboratively, creatively, and from a consent-based and anti-racist framework to build awareness, confidence, and a sense of empowerment to make changes that lead to more satisfying and fulfilling lives. My aim is to help clients reduce suffering, develop more adaptive resources, and facilitate growth, healing, and resilience.
I am a somatic practitioner who specializes in working with trauma, the LGBTQIA+ community, cultural concerns, non-monogamy/polyamory, and kink/BDSM.
Welcome to my practice! Seeking professional support is a courageous step. Life often poses many challenges, which can be difficult to navigate alone. Through empathic, genuine, and non-judgmental support, I help clients understand how past and current experiences impact their lives and relationships. I work collaboratively, creatively, and from a consent-based and anti-racist framework to build awareness, confidence, and a sense of empowerment to make changes that lead to more satisfying and fulfilling lives. My aim is to help clients reduce suffering, develop more adaptive resources, and facilitate growth, healing, and resilience.
(202) 335-4436 View (202) 335-4436
Photo of Will Hayden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Will Hayden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I also use Somatic Experiencing (SE) to support integration of insight and change.
Being in distress and discomfort is hard, tiring, and sometimes discouraging. "I'm struggling with something, but what can I do about it?" "Why is it so easy for everyone else?" "I just want out of my head, and back into my life." I believe successful therapy is a collaborative effort that helps you build a real, authentic, and happy life. Therapy can be helpful when sensitive topics and difficult challenges feel intimidating and overwhelming. As your therapist, I will listen to and learn about your challenges. We'll find a pace that works for you and I'll help you keep your goals in focus. 
I also use Somatic Experiencing (SE) to support integration of insight and change.
Being in distress and discomfort is hard, tiring, and sometimes discouraging. "I'm struggling with something, but what can I do about it?" "Why is it so easy for everyone else?" "I just want out of my head, and back into my life." I believe successful therapy is a collaborative effort that helps you build a real, authentic, and happy life. Therapy can be helpful when sensitive topics and difficult challenges feel intimidating and overwhelming. As your therapist, I will listen to and learn about your challenges. We'll find a pace that works for you and I'll help you keep your goals in focus. 
(202) 999-3137 View (202) 999-3137
Photo of Brian Heenan, MSW, LGSW @Our Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Brian Heenan, MSW, LGSW @Our Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I use my training in somatic sensorimotor psychotherapy to influence my person-centered, psychodynamic therapeutic approach.
Are anxious thoughts causing your thoughts and feelings to spiral? Does the mention of conflict make your stomach churn? Are you just overall feeling stuck? These problems are complex and painful, affecting your emotions and your personal and professional life.
I use my training in somatic sensorimotor psychotherapy to influence my person-centered, psychodynamic therapeutic approach.
Are anxious thoughts causing your thoughts and feelings to spiral? Does the mention of conflict make your stomach churn? Are you just overall feeling stuck? These problems are complex and painful, affecting your emotions and your personal and professional life.
(202) 935-7907 View (202) 935-7907
Photo of Keltie Hawkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Keltie Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I have certifications in reproductive mental health and trauma and often incorporate expressive and somatic therapies (art, movement, breathing) into session.
I specialize in the treatment of unresolved trauma and difficult life experiences. But I also believe therapy is a comfortable space to get to know yourself better—and a vehicle for hope, whether you are in acute crisis, or simply feeling stuck. Through an integrative approach, I help you identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may have begun early in life and continue to affect your relationships or your work.
I have certifications in reproductive mental health and trauma and often incorporate expressive and somatic therapies (art, movement, breathing) into session.
I specialize in the treatment of unresolved trauma and difficult life experiences. But I also believe therapy is a comfortable space to get to know yourself better—and a vehicle for hope, whether you are in acute crisis, or simply feeling stuck. Through an integrative approach, I help you identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may have begun early in life and continue to affect your relationships or your work.
(202) 918-4218 View (202) 918-4218
Photo of Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator in Washington, DC
Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator
Coach, CPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I support what wants to emerge with approaches from Systemic Family Constellations, Attachment-Based and Trauma-Informed, Brain-Informed Empathic Coaching & Training, Body-Based Somatic and Polyvagal Applications, Collaborative and Change-Making Communication Skills, Restorative Practices, Positive Discipline, Systemic Transformative Justice and Change.
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
I support what wants to emerge with approaches from Systemic Family Constellations, Attachment-Based and Trauma-Informed, Brain-Informed Empathic Coaching & Training, Body-Based Somatic and Polyvagal Applications, Collaborative and Change-Making Communication Skills, Restorative Practices, Positive Discipline, Systemic Transformative Justice and Change.
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
(202) 760-2780 View (202) 760-2780
Photo of Kris Oseth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
(202) 759-8060 View (202) 759-8060
Photo of Eloiza Jorge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Eloiza Jorge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LCSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
Waitlist for new clients
With over 15 years of training in non-dual healing and mindfulness modalities, I guide people to tune into a deeper somatic awareness and presence.
Hi, I'm a culturally responsive therapist who aims to be compassionate open-hearted. Some problems I can help with are: feeling blue, imposter syndrome, stress, anger, boundaries, parenting, creative blocks, break ups, anxiety and grief.
With over 15 years of training in non-dual healing and mindfulness modalities, I guide people to tune into a deeper somatic awareness and presence.
Hi, I'm a culturally responsive therapist who aims to be compassionate open-hearted. Some problems I can help with are: feeling blue, imposter syndrome, stress, anger, boundaries, parenting, creative blocks, break ups, anxiety and grief.
(973) 657-5955 View (973) 657-5955
Photo of Mali Jimenez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Mali Jimenez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I also focus on processing core emotional experiences by honing in on the somatic location of emotions and learning to be fully present with whatever may arise.
My ideal client is someone who is self-motivated to work through their hindrances with kindness, compassion and commitment. I work alongside clients to develop their awareness of behavioral patterns and use mindfulness-based CBT techniques to redirect repetitive and compulsive thought patterns. I particularly enjoy working with clients heal and recover from narcissistic abuse, which is rampant in our day and age.
I also focus on processing core emotional experiences by honing in on the somatic location of emotions and learning to be fully present with whatever may arise.
My ideal client is someone who is self-motivated to work through their hindrances with kindness, compassion and commitment. I work alongside clients to develop their awareness of behavioral patterns and use mindfulness-based CBT techniques to redirect repetitive and compulsive thought patterns. I particularly enjoy working with clients heal and recover from narcissistic abuse, which is rampant in our day and age.
(202) 849-9984 View (202) 849-9984
Photo of Ajunwa 'ajuu' Nwogu, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Ajunwa 'ajuu' Nwogu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
My approach is a mix of narrative therapy, mindfulness, somatic practices, and polyvagal theory-based interventions.
Are you almost ready to give up the possibility that life could be better, that life does not have to be full of internal struggle? Do you want your self-talk to be one that lifts you up and focuses on savoring the positives in your life rather than tearing you down, focusing on the disappointments in your life? Would you want sadness, worries, or anger to not have undue influence on you and not control your life. If yes, it is time to make a choice and reach out to someone who can guide and support you to a better experience of life and a more preferred self.
My approach is a mix of narrative therapy, mindfulness, somatic practices, and polyvagal theory-based interventions.
Are you almost ready to give up the possibility that life could be better, that life does not have to be full of internal struggle? Do you want your self-talk to be one that lifts you up and focuses on savoring the positives in your life rather than tearing you down, focusing on the disappointments in your life? Would you want sadness, worries, or anger to not have undue influence on you and not control your life. If yes, it is time to make a choice and reach out to someone who can guide and support you to a better experience of life and a more preferred self.
(240) 685-9419 View (240) 685-9419
Photo of Nancy Hyatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Nancy Hyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
(202) 796-6091 View (202) 796-6091
Photo of Nancy Brutsché in Washington, DC
Nancy Brutsché
MSN, RN, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
My current methods include: Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems (IFS), neuroscience, Somatic Touch Skills, mindfulness, meditation [MBSR, MBCT, Mindful Self-Compassion, Meditation Teachers Training Institute (Tara Brach), etc.
MINDFULNESS-BASED SOMATIC PSYCHOTHERAPY & INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS: "What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." [Ralph Waldo Emerson]. All that you seek already lies within you. It is my great pleasure to assist you in opening up to your wholeness. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, chronic illness, pain, feeling stuck, existential/spiritual issues or simply seeking what you have been missing or what calls you, I am here to help you find the freedom, peace, love and joy you desire. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE NOR MANAGE MEDICATIONS.
My current methods include: Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems (IFS), neuroscience, Somatic Touch Skills, mindfulness, meditation [MBSR, MBCT, Mindful Self-Compassion, Meditation Teachers Training Institute (Tara Brach), etc.
MINDFULNESS-BASED SOMATIC PSYCHOTHERAPY & INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS: "What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." [Ralph Waldo Emerson]. All that you seek already lies within you. It is my great pleasure to assist you in opening up to your wholeness. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, chronic illness, pain, feeling stuck, existential/spiritual issues or simply seeking what you have been missing or what calls you, I am here to help you find the freedom, peace, love and joy you desire. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE NOR MANAGE MEDICATIONS.
View
Photo of Carla Carreira in Washington, DC
Carla Carreira
MA, MS, SEP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I am especially versed in issues regarding somatic therapy techniques for increased trauma recovery and resiliency.
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
I am especially versed in issues regarding somatic therapy techniques for increased trauma recovery and resiliency.
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
(240) 226-2577 View (240) 226-2577
Photo of Mary Liz Austin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Mary Liz Austin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Are you looking for a seasoned therapist with years of experience and training who is also affordable and can see you in the comfort of your own home? I am currently working with individuals and couples virtually and am licensed in both Maryland and the District of Columbia. I am trained as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and in the Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (P.A.C.T). To learn more about P.A.C.T and Somatic Experiencing, please go to my website at www.marylizaustin.com. Virtual sessions save you time and money and work beautifully when guided by the right person.
Are you looking for a seasoned therapist with years of experience and training who is also affordable and can see you in the comfort of your own home? I am currently working with individuals and couples virtually and am licensed in both Maryland and the District of Columbia. I am trained as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and in the Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (P.A.C.T). To learn more about P.A.C.T and Somatic Experiencing, please go to my website at www.marylizaustin.com. Virtual sessions save you time and money and work beautifully when guided by the right person.
(301) 804-2860 View (301) 804-2860
Photo of Ginny Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ginny Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
With a trauma informed and social justice lens, I incorporate Somatic Experiencing (SE) and related mind-body modalities.
Throughout my years of practice my work has been enriched by all the people I have supported to experience their capacity while navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges. Now more than ever, living in a COVID-19 pandemic, facing day to day challenges can feel even more overwhelming. I believe in each person’s competence and resilience, and I am confident that I can help clients to live life to the fullest with integrity, dignity and courage. I work with families, couples and individuals from diverse backgrounds. LGBTQIA clients are welcome.
With a trauma informed and social justice lens, I incorporate Somatic Experiencing (SE) and related mind-body modalities.
Throughout my years of practice my work has been enriched by all the people I have supported to experience their capacity while navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges. Now more than ever, living in a COVID-19 pandemic, facing day to day challenges can feel even more overwhelming. I believe in each person’s competence and resilience, and I am confident that I can help clients to live life to the fullest with integrity, dignity and courage. I work with families, couples and individuals from diverse backgrounds. LGBTQIA clients are welcome.
(802) 278-6660 View (802) 278-6660
Photo of Shawn Parell, Counselor in Washington, DC
Shawn Parell
Counselor, RYT, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
My approach blends somatic mindfulness with interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, family systems, and positive psychology.
We have a lot in common. As human beings, our nature is to be resilient and wholehearted. Presence is fundamental to our wellbeing. We want the freedom to define ourselves on our terms and also to sense our belonging to the world around us. We live in an era when antiquated paradigms are giving way to new possibilities and, as humanity grapples with its place among the family of things, more equitable, sustainable, and intra-connected models for healing are emerging.
My approach blends somatic mindfulness with interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, family systems, and positive psychology.
We have a lot in common. As human beings, our nature is to be resilient and wholehearted. Presence is fundamental to our wellbeing. We want the freedom to define ourselves on our terms and also to sense our belonging to the world around us. We live in an era when antiquated paradigms are giving way to new possibilities and, as humanity grapples with its place among the family of things, more equitable, sustainable, and intra-connected models for healing are emerging.
(505) 240-8476 View (505) 240-8476
Photo of Allison Hoke, Counselor in Washington, DC
Allison Hoke
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also use Emotion-Focused Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, Polyvagal Theory, & somatic body-based practices in my work with clients.
Have you reached a point where your past experiences and beliefs about yourself are impacting your life now? Are you wanting to live as your most authentic self, but having a hard time doing so? Do you want to improve your relationship with your partner(s), but think a guide would be helpful? Then I'm glad you're here! Through exploration and skills-building, I can help you develop greater resilience, and a deeper connection with yourself and your community. I (they/them) am a trans and queer therapist who enjoys working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, & polyamorous folks.
I also use Emotion-Focused Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, Polyvagal Theory, & somatic body-based practices in my work with clients.
Have you reached a point where your past experiences and beliefs about yourself are impacting your life now? Are you wanting to live as your most authentic self, but having a hard time doing so? Do you want to improve your relationship with your partner(s), but think a guide would be helpful? Then I'm glad you're here! Through exploration and skills-building, I can help you develop greater resilience, and a deeper connection with yourself and your community. I (they/them) am a trans and queer therapist who enjoys working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, & polyamorous folks.
(202) 851-7308 View (202) 851-7308
Photo of Magnolia Mental Health DC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Magnolia Mental Health DC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Have you felt your light dimming over the past few years? Felt disconnected from yourself and others? It’s hard to find people you can talk to about these things. It’s been harder to find people who understand your unique challenges? MMHDC’s therapists specialize in treating issues unique to minority communities including black women and members of the LBGTQIA+ community. We specialize in you! Are you ready to bloom and to grow? Learn more by contacting us at www.magnoliamhealth.com to set up an appointment.
Have you felt your light dimming over the past few years? Felt disconnected from yourself and others? It’s hard to find people you can talk to about these things. It’s been harder to find people who understand your unique challenges? MMHDC’s therapists specialize in treating issues unique to minority communities including black women and members of the LBGTQIA+ community. We specialize in you! Are you ready to bloom and to grow? Learn more by contacting us at www.magnoliamhealth.com to set up an appointment.
(877) 696-1642 View (877) 696-1642
Photo of Zachary Rothwell in Washington, DC
Zachary Rothwell
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
(202) 953-5174 View (202) 953-5174
Photo of Laelia Gilborn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Laelia Gilborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
Adult clients come to me when feeling stuck, anxious or depressed. Others are coping with trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting struggles, or a major life change. Using a variety of approaches, I help clients gain insight and self-acceptance, to navigate life transitions from a position of strength, to grow in relationships, and to make meaning from loss. Therapy is a wonderful form of self-care. Whether you are in crisis or just feeling stuck, I strive to be an honest, accepting, and active partner in your journey to greater fulfillment.
Adult clients come to me when feeling stuck, anxious or depressed. Others are coping with trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting struggles, or a major life change. Using a variety of approaches, I help clients gain insight and self-acceptance, to navigate life transitions from a position of strength, to grow in relationships, and to make meaning from loss. Therapy is a wonderful form of self-care. Whether you are in crisis or just feeling stuck, I strive to be an honest, accepting, and active partner in your journey to greater fulfillment.
(202) 998-4757 View (202) 998-4757
Photo of Caitlin McNally Olsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Caitlin McNally Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
I work primarily with women who are struggling with identity crises and self-acceptance, depression and anxiety, self-trust and overwhelm. First, we have a history-taking and goal-setting session. We then use gentle self-care to establish a healthy mental wellness routine. Next, I guide you toward your goals. Our work together is complete, usually after 6-12 months, when you have met those goals and have a strong, accepting sense of who you are.
I work primarily with women who are struggling with identity crises and self-acceptance, depression and anxiety, self-trust and overwhelm. First, we have a history-taking and goal-setting session. We then use gentle self-care to establish a healthy mental wellness routine. Next, I guide you toward your goals. Our work together is complete, usually after 6-12 months, when you have met those goals and have a strong, accepting sense of who you are.
(702) 766-2685 View (702) 766-2685
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.