Somatic Therapists in Arlington, VA

Photo of Anne Robertson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I integrate attachment-focused work, trauma-informed care, and somatic therapy to really get to the heart of what's going on.
Are you struggling with some curveballs life threw your way? That's where I come in. Whether you're healing from narcissistic abuse, mending a broken heart, battling burnout, or wrestling with anxiety and depression, I want you to know one thing: I'm here to help. I'm here to help you reclaim and rebuild your sense of self.
As a therapist, I integrate attachment-focused work, trauma-informed care, and somatic therapy to really get to the heart of what's going on.
Are you struggling with some curveballs life threw your way? That's where I come in. Whether you're healing from narcissistic abuse, mending a broken heart, battling burnout, or wrestling with anxiety and depression, I want you to know one thing: I'm here to help. I'm here to help you reclaim and rebuild your sense of self.
(571) 497-5564 View (571) 497-5564
Photo of Lauren Ziel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Ziel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22204
Combining relational & depth oriented talk-therapy with somatic (body-focused) practices we work together to tailor sessions for your unique needs and provide you with the tools & insights necessary to move toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Many of us have lived-experiences where we’ve been forced to disconnect from the most fundamental aspects of ourselves. This disconnection, & the beliefs we construct to protect ourselves from the pain of this, serves as the basis for much suffering. I believe rebuilding a positive relationship with your whole being (mind/body/spirit) is a fundamental principle of healing & that a safe therapeutic relationship is one way we can grow capacity for the exploration, understanding, & reclamation of self required to heal. I aim for our work to bring you into contact with the self-observer, advocate, and healer inside you.
Combining relational & depth oriented talk-therapy with somatic (body-focused) practices we work together to tailor sessions for your unique needs and provide you with the tools & insights necessary to move toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Many of us have lived-experiences where we’ve been forced to disconnect from the most fundamental aspects of ourselves. This disconnection, & the beliefs we construct to protect ourselves from the pain of this, serves as the basis for much suffering. I believe rebuilding a positive relationship with your whole being (mind/body/spirit) is a fundamental principle of healing & that a safe therapeutic relationship is one way we can grow capacity for the exploration, understanding, & reclamation of self required to heal. I aim for our work to bring you into contact with the self-observer, advocate, and healer inside you.
(571) 496-8148 View (571) 496-8148
Photo of Katherine Hughes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22204  (Online Only)
I am neurobiologically-informed and incorporate a trauma-informed perspective with strong influences of cognitive-behavioral, somatic, biopsychosocial, and mindfulness models.
I work with adults and teens. I understand that there are many factors that influence behaviors and also many ways to approach those behaviors to improve lives. I believe that everyone has inherent worth, strengths, and abilities that can be harnessed to help overcome life’s struggles and build resiliency.
I am neurobiologically-informed and incorporate a trauma-informed perspective with strong influences of cognitive-behavioral, somatic, biopsychosocial, and mindfulness models.
I work with adults and teens. I understand that there are many factors that influence behaviors and also many ways to approach those behaviors to improve lives. I believe that everyone has inherent worth, strengths, and abilities that can be harnessed to help overcome life’s struggles and build resiliency.
(571) 200-1036 View (571) 200-1036
Photo of Ioana Marcus, PhD, LPC, GEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ioana Marcus
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, GEP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
My approaches will be based on my client's needs, and include Gestalt & somatic psychotherapy, trauma-focused equine facilitated psychotherapy, EMDR, equine-assisted EMDR, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
If you are tired of feeling stuck in your life, I invite you to take a different approach to life and therapy, which is somatic and experiential. My practice is founded on creating a safe space for you to become your most authentic self. We focus not only on understanding your past experiences, whether family, relationships, traumas or mental health concerns that have been hindering your growth, but also supporting you to step into your life NOW. I will support you and walk the walk with you. We will explore how to fully live and thrive in the present, grow to your fullest potential, way beyond what you imagine for yourself.
My approaches will be based on my client's needs, and include Gestalt & somatic psychotherapy, trauma-focused equine facilitated psychotherapy, EMDR, equine-assisted EMDR, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
If you are tired of feeling stuck in your life, I invite you to take a different approach to life and therapy, which is somatic and experiential. My practice is founded on creating a safe space for you to become your most authentic self. We focus not only on understanding your past experiences, whether family, relationships, traumas or mental health concerns that have been hindering your growth, but also supporting you to step into your life NOW. I will support you and walk the walk with you. We will explore how to fully live and thrive in the present, grow to your fullest potential, way beyond what you imagine for yourself.
(703) 997-6804 View (703) 997-6804
Photo of Jen Viola - Jen Viola - Viola Counseling LLC, EMDR, Trauma, Anxiety, OCD, CPTSD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Viola - Viola Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR, Trauma, Anxiety, OCD, CPTSD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
I use components of CBT, Somatic therapies, and typical talk therapy.
Are you a busy professional, college student, young adult, and/or parent trying to do it all? Do you feel that past or current events are causing distress in your professional, personal, and/or relational life? You know you are capable, but you feel stuck. You feel ready to work through the struggle and work towards healing to have a more hopeful and healthy future. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, feeling irritable, trouble sleeping, anger outbursts, low energy, hypervigilance, or anything else - I will come along side you on your healing journey.
I use components of CBT, Somatic therapies, and typical talk therapy.
Are you a busy professional, college student, young adult, and/or parent trying to do it all? Do you feel that past or current events are causing distress in your professional, personal, and/or relational life? You know you are capable, but you feel stuck. You feel ready to work through the struggle and work towards healing to have a more hopeful and healthy future. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, feeling irritable, trouble sleeping, anger outbursts, low energy, hypervigilance, or anything else - I will come along side you on your healing journey.
(540) 698-5435 View (540) 698-5435
Photo of Nancy Brutsché, MSN, RN, PMHCNS, BC
Nancy Brutsché
MSN, RN, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207
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.
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Photo of Emily Webb Olsen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Webb Olsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and deep level healing? I utilize somatic therapy and trauma therapy approaches that helps you recognize our deep connection between the body and mind, offering you a holistic path to emotional well-being. I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and build a foundation for lasting transformation. I enjoy working with other mental health professionals and teachers, and I offer sliding scale for those who are just starting their profession.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and deep level healing? I utilize somatic therapy and trauma therapy approaches that helps you recognize our deep connection between the body and mind, offering you a holistic path to emotional well-being. I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and build a foundation for lasting transformation. I enjoy working with other mental health professionals and teachers, and I offer sliding scale for those who are just starting their profession.
(540) 235-5664 View (540) 235-5664
Photo of Leslie K. Dalton, PhD, Psychologist
Leslie K. Dalton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I also use mindfulness and Somatic Experiencing to facilitate integration and healing from trauma and chronic anxiety.
I offer a warm and safe environment within which we can explore your concerns, rediscover forgotten parts of yourself, and move towards wholeness. Together we can find alternative perspectives and solutions to life problems that have made you feel stuck. Our work can help you feel more connected to yourself, to others, and the world around you so that you feel more balanced and alive, able to reclaim your full capacity for joy.
I also use mindfulness and Somatic Experiencing to facilitate integration and healing from trauma and chronic anxiety.
I offer a warm and safe environment within which we can explore your concerns, rediscover forgotten parts of yourself, and move towards wholeness. Together we can find alternative perspectives and solutions to life problems that have made you feel stuck. Our work can help you feel more connected to yourself, to others, and the world around you so that you feel more balanced and alive, able to reclaim your full capacity for joy.
(540) 491-4913 View (540) 491-4913
Photo of John W Cornelius, MS, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John W Cornelius
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209
I help individuals work on life issues tied to anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, stress symptoms tied to childhood trauma, and families struggling with behavioral challenges. I teach communication skills that help with difficult relationships. These skills include helping my clients improve their power, voice, and contact with significant others. I employ many approaches in psychotherapy, including psychodynamic, gestalt, somatic experiencing (SE), accelerated experiential dynamic (AEDP), cognitive behavioral (CBT) and emotionally focused couples therapy (EFT).
I help individuals work on life issues tied to anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, stress symptoms tied to childhood trauma, and families struggling with behavioral challenges. I teach communication skills that help with difficult relationships. These skills include helping my clients improve their power, voice, and contact with significant others. I employ many approaches in psychotherapy, including psychodynamic, gestalt, somatic experiencing (SE), accelerated experiential dynamic (AEDP), cognitive behavioral (CBT) and emotionally focused couples therapy (EFT).
(202) 600-9053 View (202) 600-9053
Photo of Lenée N. Essig, LCSW, SEP, LFYP-1, ACHP-SW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lenée N. Essig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, LFYP-1, ACHP-SW, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22206  (Online Only)
Sometimes we just need a safe space to collect our thoughts, name our hurts, explore our desires and work through our fears. I can offer you a space of hope and reprieve. Together, you and I, will work through the anxiety and sadness that is overshadowing your life, and not allowing you to live the full and authentic life that you desire. I work from a cognitive behavioral modality and somatic (body-centered) approach, while emphasizing mindfulness and eastern philosophy.
Sometimes we just need a safe space to collect our thoughts, name our hurts, explore our desires and work through our fears. I can offer you a space of hope and reprieve. Together, you and I, will work through the anxiety and sadness that is overshadowing your life, and not allowing you to live the full and authentic life that you desire. I work from a cognitive behavioral modality and somatic (body-centered) approach, while emphasizing mindfulness and eastern philosophy.
(571) 200-8460 View (571) 200-8460
Photo of Sarah Eberle, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Eberle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203
Waitlist for new clients
With a specific focus on trauma recovery and using therapeutic interventions including but not limited to EMDR, IFS, mindfulness, and somatic therapy, I provide space to create goals and foster healing.
I provide a trauma informed, safe, genuine, and compassionate environment where individuals can learn practical skills and tools to feel better. I use client-centered, trauma-focused, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies that have proven effective both in my own practice and in evidence-based research. Particular areas of strength and interest are LGBTQIA+ communities, BIPOC communities, religious trauma, gender fluidity and identity, childhood trauma, ADHD, and working with survivors of sexual abuse. My practice is committed to working with a diverse population and providing a safe and inclusive environment.
With a specific focus on trauma recovery and using therapeutic interventions including but not limited to EMDR, IFS, mindfulness, and somatic therapy, I provide space to create goals and foster healing.
I provide a trauma informed, safe, genuine, and compassionate environment where individuals can learn practical skills and tools to feel better. I use client-centered, trauma-focused, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies that have proven effective both in my own practice and in evidence-based research. Particular areas of strength and interest are LGBTQIA+ communities, BIPOC communities, religious trauma, gender fluidity and identity, childhood trauma, ADHD, and working with survivors of sexual abuse. My practice is committed to working with a diverse population and providing a safe and inclusive environment.
(571) 248-3818 View (571) 248-3818
Photo of Michell K Stanley - Legacy Therapy, LICSW, LGPC, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Legacy Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LGPC, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22204
Legacy Therapy, LLC. is a Minority Woman & Black/POC owned Holistic Psychotherapy and Coaching practice in Washington D.C. Legacy Therapy is a holistic approach to mental wellness that combines psychotherapy with holistic services (such as mindfulness, somatic experiencing and yoga) to enhance wellness and fulfillment in all areas of life functioning.
Legacy Therapy, LLC. is a Minority Woman & Black/POC owned Holistic Psychotherapy and Coaching practice in Washington D.C. Legacy Therapy is a holistic approach to mental wellness that combines psychotherapy with holistic services (such as mindfulness, somatic experiencing and yoga) to enhance wellness and fulfillment in all areas of life functioning.
(202) 978-4457 View (202) 978-4457
Photo of Patricia O'Donnell, LPCC-S, LPC, SEP, Counselor
Patricia O'Donnell
Counselor, LPCC-S, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22206
I offer consultation services to other practitioners looking to implement somatic practices into their work, strengthen their understanding of trauma and sharpen their EMDR skills.
As a counselor, I believe my role is to help others tap into their own innate and powerful ability to heal. I support my clients in cultivating awareness around the connection between their bodies and minds. This leads to a deeper understanding of ourselves, how we relate to others and how and cope with daily life.
I offer consultation services to other practitioners looking to implement somatic practices into their work, strengthen their understanding of trauma and sharpen their EMDR skills.
As a counselor, I believe my role is to help others tap into their own innate and powerful ability to heal. I support my clients in cultivating awareness around the connection between their bodies and minds. This leads to a deeper understanding of ourselves, how we relate to others and how and cope with daily life.
(571) 556-4833 View (571) 556-4833
Photo of Live A More Embodied Life- Alison Cariello, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Live A More Embodied Life- Alison Cariello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
I am deeply passionate about somatic psychotherapy because I believe that our bodies hold valuable insights and pathways to healing.
Welcome! I'm Alison, a licensed somatic therapist with nearly 10 years of experience helping individuals live more embodied life. If you're seeking a deeper connection to yourself and looking to address issues that traditional therapy may not fully address, you are in the right place.
I am deeply passionate about somatic psychotherapy because I believe that our bodies hold valuable insights and pathways to healing.
Welcome! I'm Alison, a licensed somatic therapist with nearly 10 years of experience helping individuals live more embodied life. If you're seeking a deeper connection to yourself and looking to address issues that traditional therapy may not fully address, you are in the right place.
(571) 576-6563 View (571) 576-6563
Photo of Erika Rodriguez - Kindred Tree Healing Center, llc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kindred Tree Healing Center, llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22206
Through somatic based therapy approaches we help you connect mind and body for deeper healing.
At Kindred Tree Healing Center, we provide holistic psychotherapy, yoga, reiki, and other healing based services. We help individuals overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and other life stressors. We operate from an attachment based lens, and are a social justice allied practice.
Through somatic based therapy approaches we help you connect mind and body for deeper healing.
At Kindred Tree Healing Center, we provide holistic psychotherapy, yoga, reiki, and other healing based services. We help individuals overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and other life stressors. We operate from an attachment based lens, and are a social justice allied practice.
(571) 424-1189 View (571) 424-1189
Photo of Brittany Grove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Grove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I can motivate you! My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, trauma, dialectical-behavioral, emotionally-focused, solution-focused, transpersonal, mindfulness, somatic therapies, etc.
Are you sick of feeling anxious, depressed, numb, overwhelmed or empty? Does life feel meaningless? I can help you heal and find real joy, peace and wholeness. I have helped hundreds of people with numerous issues such as depression. addiction, trauma, anxiety and more transform inside, out. I care about my clients’ well-being as much as I care about my own well-being. Helping others is a calling, not just a career. It is my greatest desire to help people heal, discover their authenticity and awaken to their true potential. I use my intuitive abilities, education and experience to empower you to build a life worth living!
I can motivate you! My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, trauma, dialectical-behavioral, emotionally-focused, solution-focused, transpersonal, mindfulness, somatic therapies, etc.
Are you sick of feeling anxious, depressed, numb, overwhelmed or empty? Does life feel meaningless? I can help you heal and find real joy, peace and wholeness. I have helped hundreds of people with numerous issues such as depression. addiction, trauma, anxiety and more transform inside, out. I care about my clients’ well-being as much as I care about my own well-being. Helping others is a calling, not just a career. It is my greatest desire to help people heal, discover their authenticity and awaken to their true potential. I use my intuitive abilities, education and experience to empower you to build a life worth living!
(434) 577-8595 View (434) 577-8595
Photo of Cynthia Minto, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Minto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209
I have been trained extensively in Somatic Experiencing (SE), which is a trauma modality that supports the gentle release of bound trauma in the nervous system.
I am a Richmond-based licensed professional counselor with more than 20-years of experience working with individuals and families in community mental health settings and the military. As a proud military retiree, I have a passion for military members and understand their unique culture and stressors. I have worked extensively with individuals with developmental disabilities and physical disabilities. I am passionate about helping people work through challenging life issues that have been impacted by trauma, marginalization, and lack of autonomy.
I have been trained extensively in Somatic Experiencing (SE), which is a trauma modality that supports the gentle release of bound trauma in the nervous system.
I am a Richmond-based licensed professional counselor with more than 20-years of experience working with individuals and families in community mental health settings and the military. As a proud military retiree, I have a passion for military members and understand their unique culture and stressors. I have worked extensively with individuals with developmental disabilities and physical disabilities. I am passionate about helping people work through challenging life issues that have been impacted by trauma, marginalization, and lack of autonomy.
(804) 531-4175 View (804) 531-4175
Photo of Vanessa Durrant, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, RMT, RYT-, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Durrant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, RMT, RYT-
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22206
Are you or your child struggling at home, school, work, or in peer relationships? I specialize in helping people heal from any difficult situation, experience, or trauma. I'm here to support you into new insights and get you unstuck. I work with children, teens, and adults who are looking to find integrative and holistic methods to real mind-body healing. Anxiety, trauma, depression, perfectionism, grief, and life transitions. Together we will make sure that you take charge of your life in a way that helps you thrive. I especially love to blend ancient healing approaches with modern therapies for true somatic based healing.
Are you or your child struggling at home, school, work, or in peer relationships? I specialize in helping people heal from any difficult situation, experience, or trauma. I'm here to support you into new insights and get you unstuck. I work with children, teens, and adults who are looking to find integrative and holistic methods to real mind-body healing. Anxiety, trauma, depression, perfectionism, grief, and life transitions. Together we will make sure that you take charge of your life in a way that helps you thrive. I especially love to blend ancient healing approaches with modern therapies for true somatic based healing.
(571) 512-7496 View (571) 512-7496
Photo of Andrada Florescu, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrada Florescu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
I empower clients by connecting them with their strengths to heal and grow. My priority as a therapist is to provide a safe space for you to feel heard and understood. I have experience working with adults and teens who are struggling with trauma, grief, depression, and chronic pain. My holistic approach integrates Mindfulness, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Parts, and somatic work. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnosis, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
I empower clients by connecting them with their strengths to heal and grow. My priority as a therapist is to provide a safe space for you to feel heard and understood. I have experience working with adults and teens who are struggling with trauma, grief, depression, and chronic pain. My holistic approach integrates Mindfulness, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Parts, and somatic work. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnosis, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
(571) 601-2162 View (571) 601-2162
Photo of Michell Kothari Stanley, LICSW, CLC, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michell Kothari Stanley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CLC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22204
My holistic approach (includes yoga, somatic therapy, meditation and hypnosis) to help my clients live with authenticity and intention.
Many of my clients have done therapy before and want more than a therapist who can listen and validate. I offer guidance, feedback, coping tools and mindfulness practices to help clients dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions and relationship frustrations to enhance their confidence, resilience and interpersonal effectiveness. By responding with intention (instead of reacting from fear), you will be able to navigate decisions and respond to stress, in a way reveals new opportunities. You will emerge from our work together having peace about the past, contentment in the present and optimism for the future.
My holistic approach (includes yoga, somatic therapy, meditation and hypnosis) to help my clients live with authenticity and intention.
Many of my clients have done therapy before and want more than a therapist who can listen and validate. I offer guidance, feedback, coping tools and mindfulness practices to help clients dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions and relationship frustrations to enhance their confidence, resilience and interpersonal effectiveness. By responding with intention (instead of reacting from fear), you will be able to navigate decisions and respond to stress, in a way reveals new opportunities. You will emerge from our work together having peace about the past, contentment in the present and optimism for the future.
(310) 340-2179 View (310) 340-2179
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.