Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Amanda Zoloto, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Zoloto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Using a client-centered, body-neutral approach, I incorporate solutions-focused therapies, systems theories, IFS/ Somatic Parts Work, and mindfulness and meditative techniques.
I love supporting my clients in discovering the brightest versions of themselves. I strive to be a grounding presence, offering strengths-based insight in a consistent, nurturing, and nourishing space where you can stretch, grow, and thrive. My trauma-informed clinical work also names the heavy impact of the systems at play in our lives - racism, white supremacy, colonization, capitalism, patriarchy, anti-queerness, anti-fatness and ableism must be acknowledged as complex and enduring influences on our institutions and therefore on our individual and collective healing.
Using a client-centered, body-neutral approach, I incorporate solutions-focused therapies, systems theories, IFS/ Somatic Parts Work, and mindfulness and meditative techniques.
I love supporting my clients in discovering the brightest versions of themselves. I strive to be a grounding presence, offering strengths-based insight in a consistent, nurturing, and nourishing space where you can stretch, grow, and thrive. My trauma-informed clinical work also names the heavy impact of the systems at play in our lives - racism, white supremacy, colonization, capitalism, patriarchy, anti-queerness, anti-fatness and ableism must be acknowledged as complex and enduring influences on our institutions and therefore on our individual and collective healing.
(708) 261-0491 View (708) 261-0491
Photo of Maggie Reynolds - Counseling with Maggie, PLLC, LCPC, EMDR, NCC, Counselor
Counseling with Maggie, PLLC
Counselor, LCPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
Using a combination of EMDR, ACT, IFS, mindfulness, and somatic-based tools, we’ll recalibrate your nervous system.
It’s difficult to predict how you’ll feel from one moment to the next. A second ago, you were keyed up; every muscle in your body tense and on high alert, ready for danger to strike. Now, you’re completely checked out, numb to the world, sleepwalking through the day. You know this isn’t a sustainable way to live, but you’re not sure how else to cope with the painful wounds of your past. It’s as though you can no longer trust yourself to differentiate between safe and threatening situations, so you avoid everything. You’re struggling at work and growing more distant from your loved ones each day. Something needs to change, and soon.
Using a combination of EMDR, ACT, IFS, mindfulness, and somatic-based tools, we’ll recalibrate your nervous system.
It’s difficult to predict how you’ll feel from one moment to the next. A second ago, you were keyed up; every muscle in your body tense and on high alert, ready for danger to strike. Now, you’re completely checked out, numb to the world, sleepwalking through the day. You know this isn’t a sustainable way to live, but you’re not sure how else to cope with the painful wounds of your past. It’s as though you can no longer trust yourself to differentiate between safe and threatening situations, so you avoid everything. You’re struggling at work and growing more distant from your loved ones each day. Something needs to change, and soon.
(312) 614-1672 View (312) 614-1672
Photo of Dr. Maddy Hartline, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Maddy Hartline
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
My work integrates somatic practices to deepen the understanding of the mind-body connection, and I utilize Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support your growth.
Hello and welcome! I’m Maddy, a dedicated therapist passionate about empowering individuals through their healing journeys. My therapy practice is deeply rooted in honoring diverse identities and providing multi-culturally congruent care. I view our work together as a collaborative partnership that celebrates your authentic self throughout the process. I am curious about how each person’s identities—whether related to race, gender, sexuality, or neurodiversity—inform their experiences and their relationship to mental health care. I believe that everyone brings unique strengths to their healing journey!
My work integrates somatic practices to deepen the understanding of the mind-body connection, and I utilize Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support your growth.
Hello and welcome! I’m Maddy, a dedicated therapist passionate about empowering individuals through their healing journeys. My therapy practice is deeply rooted in honoring diverse identities and providing multi-culturally congruent care. I view our work together as a collaborative partnership that celebrates your authentic self throughout the process. I am curious about how each person’s identities—whether related to race, gender, sexuality, or neurodiversity—inform their experiences and their relationship to mental health care. I believe that everyone brings unique strengths to their healing journey!
(708) 332-8364 View (708) 332-8364
Photo of Kevin Davis, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kevin Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I'm Dr. Kevin Davis, a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals and relationship clients with anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, OCD, and trauma (CPTSD, DID) particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is empathic and client-centered, while also integrating somatic techniques and third-wave CBT techniques like ACT and DBT. I believe in creating a safe, understanding space, where you can explore at your own pace, fostering personal growth and healing.
I'm Dr. Kevin Davis, a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals and relationship clients with anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, OCD, and trauma (CPTSD, DID) particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is empathic and client-centered, while also integrating somatic techniques and third-wave CBT techniques like ACT and DBT. I believe in creating a safe, understanding space, where you can explore at your own pace, fostering personal growth and healing.
(872) 253-4401 View (872) 253-4401
Photo of Rose Carol, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rose Carol
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Whatever the obstacle - fear to move forward, nagging self-doubt, or a harsh inner critic that tells you that you can't do it, I'm here to help you get unstuck! I'm passionate about working with adults affected by anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma as well as those wanting to focus on personal growth and relational issues. I have a background in Executive Functioning Coaching and Holistic Health Coaching, and expertise in a variety of approaches including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Depth Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Inner Child Healing, Somatic/Body Work, and Meditation.
Whatever the obstacle - fear to move forward, nagging self-doubt, or a harsh inner critic that tells you that you can't do it, I'm here to help you get unstuck! I'm passionate about working with adults affected by anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma as well as those wanting to focus on personal growth and relational issues. I have a background in Executive Functioning Coaching and Holistic Health Coaching, and expertise in a variety of approaches including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Depth Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Inner Child Healing, Somatic/Body Work, and Meditation.
(312) 376-2805 View (312) 376-2805
Photo of Iggy V Ladden, AM, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iggy V Ladden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, RYT
Not Verified Not Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Additionally my training as a social worker, RYT500 yoga teacher, and somatic meditation instructor influence who I am as a therapist and bring unique avenues for therapeutic exploration.
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
Additionally my training as a social worker, RYT500 yoga teacher, and somatic meditation instructor influence who I am as a therapist and bring unique avenues for therapeutic exploration.
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
(331) 442-4449 View (331) 442-4449
Photo of Carllie Meeks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carllie Meeks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I am a licensed clinical social worker who mainly utilizes CBT, DBT and components from Somatic and Cognitive Processing Therapy, to connect the mind and body.
Envisioning my ideal client involves understanding the complexities of their experiences and recognizing their unique voyage towards healing and growth. Therapy is a journey and I am here on this road with you. My goal is for you to feel confident using the skills you inherently have to cultivate resilience, enhance self-awareness, and develop coping strategies to cope with adversity effectively. So come start your healing!
I am a licensed clinical social worker who mainly utilizes CBT, DBT and components from Somatic and Cognitive Processing Therapy, to connect the mind and body.
Envisioning my ideal client involves understanding the complexities of their experiences and recognizing their unique voyage towards healing and growth. Therapy is a journey and I am here on this road with you. My goal is for you to feel confident using the skills you inherently have to cultivate resilience, enhance self-awareness, and develop coping strategies to cope with adversity effectively. So come start your healing!
(872) 267-9832 View (872) 267-9832
Photo of Sue Shekut, LCPC, Counselor
Sue Shekut
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610  (Online Only)
Additionally, I am trained in somatic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, and psychodrama.
I look forward to working with you! As a specialist in treating trauma, I am passionate about helping clients strengthen resilience & improve relationships. My aim is to help you better handle difficult emotions and feel more self-compassion and self-acceptance. I enjoy helping couples and individuals with relationship issues (such as ineffective patterns of communicating, intimacy/attachment issues, invalidation, shame defense mechanisms) to heal and grow. I integrate wellness, interpersonal neurobiology, somatic psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, and attachment theory in my work.
Additionally, I am trained in somatic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, and psychodrama.
I look forward to working with you! As a specialist in treating trauma, I am passionate about helping clients strengthen resilience & improve relationships. My aim is to help you better handle difficult emotions and feel more self-compassion and self-acceptance. I enjoy helping couples and individuals with relationship issues (such as ineffective patterns of communicating, intimacy/attachment issues, invalidation, shame defense mechanisms) to heal and grow. I integrate wellness, interpersonal neurobiology, somatic psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, and attachment theory in my work.
(773) 206-1866 View (773) 206-1866
Photo of Claire Fior, PsyD, Psychologist
Claire Fior
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
My orientation to psychology integrates interpersonal, psychodynamic, creative, and somatic/mindfulness approaches, each looking at different aspects of our relationship to the world around us.
I believe how humans experience growth and how they change are the big themes of psychology. We grow and change through our relationships with others, but sometimes we can get stuck in certain relationship patterns that cause distress. Uncovering the dynamics of these patterns, how they affect our self-concept, our feelings, our understanding of others, and our nervous systems can be healing. Practicing new patterns of emotion, thought, and behavior, whether through talk- therapy, mindfulness practices, or a combination of both, can assist growth and change toward more compassion and connection in our lives.
My orientation to psychology integrates interpersonal, psychodynamic, creative, and somatic/mindfulness approaches, each looking at different aspects of our relationship to the world around us.
I believe how humans experience growth and how they change are the big themes of psychology. We grow and change through our relationships with others, but sometimes we can get stuck in certain relationship patterns that cause distress. Uncovering the dynamics of these patterns, how they affect our self-concept, our feelings, our understanding of others, and our nervous systems can be healing. Practicing new patterns of emotion, thought, and behavior, whether through talk- therapy, mindfulness practices, or a combination of both, can assist growth and change toward more compassion and connection in our lives.
(412) 871-6296 View (412) 871-6296
Photo of LaDonna V Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaDonna V Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Oftentimes, reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 9 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals!
Oftentimes, reaching out for help is a big step towards wellness and healing. Congratulations on taking that step! My name is LaDonna Miller and I am a clinical social worker in Chicago, Illinois. I have over 9 years working in the mental health field and would love to work alongside you to accomplish your goals!
(773) 923-1095 View (773) 923-1095
Photo of Olivia Santiago, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
(773) 900-7996 View (773) 900-7996
Photo of Ellie Schwartzman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Schwartzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
(312) 734-1593 View (312) 734-1593
Photo of Emily McCabe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily McCabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60609  (Online Only)
My ideal client is anyone who may wish to embark on a journey of self-exploration and learning about how to manage stress, trauma, difficult life experiences or adversities, improve self-esteem, learn relationship skills, coping strategies, and how to improve one's ability to set and maintain boundaries, and to connect and establish meaningful relationships.
My ideal client is anyone who may wish to embark on a journey of self-exploration and learning about how to manage stress, trauma, difficult life experiences or adversities, improve self-esteem, learn relationship skills, coping strategies, and how to improve one's ability to set and maintain boundaries, and to connect and establish meaningful relationships.
(872) 276-8109 View (872) 276-8109
Photo of Afsha Merchant, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Afsha Merchant
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Navigating relationships can feel tricky and confusing. Do you find yourself giving to others and not getting the same in return? Maybe you feel like there is no room for your voice, your opinions, or to ask for your needs to be met by others. You might even have a sense that some of the relationships you are in are unhealthy. You have tried to find balance and fairness, but have felt unsuccessful. I get it! Who you are matters. What you want matters. Whether we are working on work, partner, familial relationships, or the relationship you have with yourself,
Navigating relationships can feel tricky and confusing. Do you find yourself giving to others and not getting the same in return? Maybe you feel like there is no room for your voice, your opinions, or to ask for your needs to be met by others. You might even have a sense that some of the relationships you are in are unhealthy. You have tried to find balance and fairness, but have felt unsuccessful. I get it! Who you are matters. What you want matters. Whether we are working on work, partner, familial relationships, or the relationship you have with yourself,
(773) 869-7144 View (773) 869-7144
Photo of Elizabeth Diaz, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist of 2-3 months; immediate opening Tues 4pm. I specialize in treating individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety (including performance anxiety), depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). I have experience working with individuals who have experienced or been witness to severe trauma, including sexual abuse, childhood abuse, traumatic loss, birth trauma, loss of a parent, etc. Additionally, I am trained in working with individuals who have adjustment disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and developmental disabilities and disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia.
Waitlist of 2-3 months; immediate opening Tues 4pm. I specialize in treating individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety (including performance anxiety), depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). I have experience working with individuals who have experienced or been witness to severe trauma, including sexual abuse, childhood abuse, traumatic loss, birth trauma, loss of a parent, etc. Additionally, I am trained in working with individuals who have adjustment disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and developmental disabilities and disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia.
(312) 635-4278 View (312) 635-4278
Photo of Meg Kelleher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Kelleher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645
As Oscar Wilde once said, "One's real life is so often the life that one does not lead." But, for you, today can mark a decisive step down a path of authenticity, interpersonal connection, and greater ease in your body. As a licensed clinical social worker and practicing writer and artist, I am skilled in collaborating with you to first identify and then reimagine the themes, forms and narratives of your past and your everyday. My objective is to help you rediscover your potential and lead a more satisfying, conscious, and generative existence—all while feeling at home somatically.
As Oscar Wilde once said, "One's real life is so often the life that one does not lead." But, for you, today can mark a decisive step down a path of authenticity, interpersonal connection, and greater ease in your body. As a licensed clinical social worker and practicing writer and artist, I am skilled in collaborating with you to first identify and then reimagine the themes, forms and narratives of your past and your everyday. My objective is to help you rediscover your potential and lead a more satisfying, conscious, and generative existence—all while feeling at home somatically.
(773) 530-3754 View (773) 530-3754
Photo of Melody Chen - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Allison Levin, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allison Levin
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Curiosity and exploration are how I navigate the world. As a therapist, I use these driving forces, along with empathy and compassion, to work with you to help create meaning in your life. I aim to create a warm and safe therapeutic environment to explore what you need and where you’re going. Throughout this journey, I strive to work alongside you, supporting you as you create your own genuine and authentic path. I specialize in neurodiverse-affirming care, LGBTQ+-affirming care, and trauma-affirming care. I also focus on mood disorders, anxiety, grief/loss, stress management, and couples therapy.
Curiosity and exploration are how I navigate the world. As a therapist, I use these driving forces, along with empathy and compassion, to work with you to help create meaning in your life. I aim to create a warm and safe therapeutic environment to explore what you need and where you’re going. Throughout this journey, I strive to work alongside you, supporting you as you create your own genuine and authentic path. I specialize in neurodiverse-affirming care, LGBTQ+-affirming care, and trauma-affirming care. I also focus on mood disorders, anxiety, grief/loss, stress management, and couples therapy.
(872) 253-8450 View (872) 253-8450
Photo of Jx Heithmar, LCSW, LICSW, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jx Heithmar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community. I work with folks around trauma healing, gender and sexual identity exploration, developing healthy conflict and attachment styles (poly and kink affirming,) combating addiction, disability/chronic illness and building sincere connection to self and others. I center my practice around queer theory, feminist theory and critical race theory. I aim to recognize any power dynamic in a therapeutic alliance and work towards cultivating a space that is egalitarian. Finding balance and stability through struggle is a primary focus of mine in my practice.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community. I work with folks around trauma healing, gender and sexual identity exploration, developing healthy conflict and attachment styles (poly and kink affirming,) combating addiction, disability/chronic illness and building sincere connection to self and others. I center my practice around queer theory, feminist theory and critical race theory. I aim to recognize any power dynamic in a therapeutic alliance and work towards cultivating a space that is egalitarian. Finding balance and stability through struggle is a primary focus of mine in my practice.
View
Photo of Mary Hotze, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Hotze
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with individuals, families, and couples, to help them build, strengthen, and heal their relationships. In more than 19 years of clinical practice, I have developed transformative ways to work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. I use a variety of techniques including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I also help individuals who are facing life transitions, or who are experiencing difficulties in their partner relationships. I have experience with diverse family structures, and cross-cultural families and have lived extensively overseas, giving me a unique cultural perspective.
I work with individuals, families, and couples, to help them build, strengthen, and heal their relationships. In more than 19 years of clinical practice, I have developed transformative ways to work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. I use a variety of techniques including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I also help individuals who are facing life transitions, or who are experiencing difficulties in their partner relationships. I have experience with diverse family structures, and cross-cultural families and have lived extensively overseas, giving me a unique cultural perspective.
(773) 985-3859 View (773) 985-3859
1
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.