Somatic Therapists in Richmond, VA

Photo of Tess Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tess Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach integrates EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, parts-based work, CBT-I, along with somatic practices to support deeper healing.
You may appear to have things together on the outside, but inside feel overwhelmed, anxious, burnt out, or disconnected from yourself. I work with mothers navigating infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, loss, trauma, insomnia, and the emotional weight of motherhood. Many of the women I work with struggle with mom guilt, feeling “not good enough,” overstimulation, relationship stress, or grief over how much life and identity have changed. Together, we create space to process your experiences, reconnect with yourself, and move toward healing with greater self-compassion and support.
My approach integrates EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, parts-based work, CBT-I, along with somatic practices to support deeper healing.
You may appear to have things together on the outside, but inside feel overwhelmed, anxious, burnt out, or disconnected from yourself. I work with mothers navigating infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, loss, trauma, insomnia, and the emotional weight of motherhood. Many of the women I work with struggle with mom guilt, feeling “not good enough,” overstimulation, relationship stress, or grief over how much life and identity have changed. Together, we create space to process your experiences, reconnect with yourself, and move toward healing with greater self-compassion and support.
(804) 597-9512 View (804) 597-9512
Photo of Ashley Gibson, Resident in Counseling, MEd, NCC
Ashley Gibson
Resident in Counseling, MEd, NCC
Richmond, VA 23229
My clients are high-achievers navigating burnout, trauma, anxiety, and major life transitions. Many are mission-driven professionals and leaders who feel like they "should" have it all together, but can't figure out why they're still stuck despite their insight and effort. You've likely tried therapy before, and know yourself well! Yet something still isn't shifting. Together, we'll go beyond talking about what's happening and actually process it, working to untangle your old patterns and build a life that feels authentic and sustainable.
My clients are high-achievers navigating burnout, trauma, anxiety, and major life transitions. Many are mission-driven professionals and leaders who feel like they "should" have it all together, but can't figure out why they're still stuck despite their insight and effort. You've likely tried therapy before, and know yourself well! Yet something still isn't shifting. Together, we'll go beyond talking about what's happening and actually process it, working to untangle your old patterns and build a life that feels authentic and sustainable.
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Photo of Alyssa Shank, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CCTPII
Alyssa Shank
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CCTPII
Online Only
Does life seem confusing or even impossible? Does it ever feel like even when you are with others you feel alone? It is brave to ask for help. With every fiber of my being, I believe you have the answers you need and you can be the expert on you. Let me help you better understand your story and help guide you out of the dark places you are stuck in and into your truth. So much of the time we are living a narrative that others have crafted, by pain rather than strength. These narratives can feel like prisons but you have the ability to heal and take back your story.
Does life seem confusing or even impossible? Does it ever feel like even when you are with others you feel alone? It is brave to ask for help. With every fiber of my being, I believe you have the answers you need and you can be the expert on you. Let me help you better understand your story and help guide you out of the dark places you are stuck in and into your truth. So much of the time we are living a narrative that others have crafted, by pain rather than strength. These narratives can feel like prisons but you have the ability to heal and take back your story.
(540) 513-4622 View (540) 513-4622
Photo of Christina Triantafillou, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Christina Triantafillou
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
Do you feel like you’re running yourself ragged trying to make everyone else happy? Like you don’t know who you are outside of others’ expectations? I work with people who are struggling with identity in different ways. Some feel like their identity was lost to abuse or to a bigger personality in the house. Others are recovering from losing who they are because of a traumatic experience that seemed to change them forever. Still others do not feel like their true identity is within the body they were born in.
Do you feel like you’re running yourself ragged trying to make everyone else happy? Like you don’t know who you are outside of others’ expectations? I work with people who are struggling with identity in different ways. Some feel like their identity was lost to abuse or to a bigger personality in the house. Others are recovering from losing who they are because of a traumatic experience that seemed to change them forever. Still others do not feel like their true identity is within the body they were born in.
(757) 379-8816 View (757) 379-8816
Photo of Kara Gibbs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kara Gibbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Exhausted by the effort it takes to hide parts of yourself you think others' won't like or might judge? Whether due to LGBTQ+ identity, family dynamics, mental health history, or religious trauma, you may feel like an outsider. You want deep connection, but being "seen" feels dangerous, so you retreat or over-perform to stay safe. You are ready for something different. I work with those ready to look at these painful patterns and risk vulnerability for the sake of transformation. We will work to heal the isolation and shame that keeps you stuck, helping you build a life of authentic, grounded connection.
Exhausted by the effort it takes to hide parts of yourself you think others' won't like or might judge? Whether due to LGBTQ+ identity, family dynamics, mental health history, or religious trauma, you may feel like an outsider. You want deep connection, but being "seen" feels dangerous, so you retreat or over-perform to stay safe. You are ready for something different. I work with those ready to look at these painful patterns and risk vulnerability for the sake of transformation. We will work to heal the isolation and shame that keeps you stuck, helping you build a life of authentic, grounded connection.
(615) 857-1756 View (615) 857-1756
Photo of Lucy Cary, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Lucy Cary
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
Waitlist for new clients
Mental health concerns are not always something to be pathologized, but rather a signal that needs our presence, curiosity, and compassion. I know how intimidating and/or nerve-racking it can feel to start therapy or even just find a new therapist, so I am very intentional about creating a relaxed, inviting space to cultivate safety and connection. Taking steps towards healing and personal growth can feel both difficult and empowering, and I would be honored to support you in navigating this journey if it feels aligned with your needs. :)
Mental health concerns are not always something to be pathologized, but rather a signal that needs our presence, curiosity, and compassion. I know how intimidating and/or nerve-racking it can feel to start therapy or even just find a new therapist, so I am very intentional about creating a relaxed, inviting space to cultivate safety and connection. Taking steps towards healing and personal growth can feel both difficult and empowering, and I would be honored to support you in navigating this journey if it feels aligned with your needs. :)
(804) 979-2592 View (804) 979-2592
Photo of Robyn Gold - Robyn Gold | Growing With Gold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Robyn Gold | Growing With Gold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you stuck between knowing what you want to do and actually doing it? Do you try to think your way out of feelings only to end up feeling worse? Maybe you escape, avoid, or try to “fix” emotional discomfort by jumping into problem solving mode or dreaming of a future when things will be “better.” What might your life be like if you lived in ways that are rooted in what’s most meaningful and true to you, instead of what you think you “should do,” how you “should be,” or what you think other people expect of you? If you're ready to build a more intentional, authentic, and heart-centered life, I'm here to be your mindfulness guide.
Are you stuck between knowing what you want to do and actually doing it? Do you try to think your way out of feelings only to end up feeling worse? Maybe you escape, avoid, or try to “fix” emotional discomfort by jumping into problem solving mode or dreaming of a future when things will be “better.” What might your life be like if you lived in ways that are rooted in what’s most meaningful and true to you, instead of what you think you “should do,” how you “should be,” or what you think other people expect of you? If you're ready to build a more intentional, authentic, and heart-centered life, I'm here to be your mindfulness guide.
(804) 315-2840 View (804) 315-2840
Photo of Izzy A Shurte, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEDS, ERYT500
Izzy A Shurte
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEDS, ERYT500
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
Eating Disorders create suffering for those who experience them and everyone around. Finding a treatment team can be daunting task. As an ED Specialist I see my role as both educator orienting folks to the treatment process as well as treatment provider. As your therapist my work is to help you understand and work with emotion skillfully, so that maladaptive coping skills such as avoidance, aggression, disordered eating and self harm do not run roughshod over your life. As a meditator and experienced E-RYT 500 Yoga Teacher I can help you to find the present moment and put you back in your life, no matter the issue you face.
Eating Disorders create suffering for those who experience them and everyone around. Finding a treatment team can be daunting task. As an ED Specialist I see my role as both educator orienting folks to the treatment process as well as treatment provider. As your therapist my work is to help you understand and work with emotion skillfully, so that maladaptive coping skills such as avoidance, aggression, disordered eating and self harm do not run roughshod over your life. As a meditator and experienced E-RYT 500 Yoga Teacher I can help you to find the present moment and put you back in your life, no matter the issue you face.
(804) 373-2651 View (804) 373-2651
Photo of Hailey Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Hailey Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229
Have things been feeling strained, disconnected, or difficult to navigate lately, either in your relationship or in life? Many of the clients I work with feel stuck in recurring patterns, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward. I provide structured, evidence-based care, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), to help clients understand their experiences, improve communication, rebuild trust, and create more secure, meaningful relationships.
Have things been feeling strained, disconnected, or difficult to navigate lately, either in your relationship or in life? Many of the clients I work with feel stuck in recurring patterns, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward. I provide structured, evidence-based care, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), to help clients understand their experiences, improve communication, rebuild trust, and create more secure, meaningful relationships.
(804) 361-9722 View (804) 361-9722
Photo of Ellison Spencer-Helms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Ellison Spencer-Helms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Strategies include CBT, DBT, and somatic techniques.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected form yourself, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Are you having increased difficulty navigating daily life and relationships because of your marginalized identity and/or body? As a queer and nonbinary therapist, I both specialize in and relate to these issues, and I have several years of experience with children and adults alike. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, attachment wounds, religious trauma, identity issues, or chronic overwhelm, I support clients in working WITH their bodies - not against them - so that healing can happen from the inside out.
Strategies include CBT, DBT, and somatic techniques.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected form yourself, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Are you having increased difficulty navigating daily life and relationships because of your marginalized identity and/or body? As a queer and nonbinary therapist, I both specialize in and relate to these issues, and I have several years of experience with children and adults alike. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, attachment wounds, religious trauma, identity issues, or chronic overwhelm, I support clients in working WITH their bodies - not against them - so that healing can happen from the inside out.
(804) 376-8492 View (804) 376-8492
Photo of Sydney Villeneuve, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Sydney Villeneuve
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My identity as a therapist is rooted in a depth-based, somatic approach with a focus on attachment theory that honors the process of how life experiences have shaped who we are and who we are becoming.
I believe that healing is ongoing, by exploring what feels most vulnerable. I feel called to hold space for women and men who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges & the lasting impacts of trauma. I support my clients through issues that are hindering them from living the life they want and from being the person they aim to be in their relationships. I value supporting people in shifting how they view themselves and the world we share through improving self-esteem, self-worth & relational dynamics.
My identity as a therapist is rooted in a depth-based, somatic approach with a focus on attachment theory that honors the process of how life experiences have shaped who we are and who we are becoming.
I believe that healing is ongoing, by exploring what feels most vulnerable. I feel called to hold space for women and men who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges & the lasting impacts of trauma. I support my clients through issues that are hindering them from living the life they want and from being the person they aim to be in their relationships. I value supporting people in shifting how they view themselves and the world we share through improving self-esteem, self-worth & relational dynamics.
(804) 322-9955 View (804) 322-9955
Photo of Holly Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Holly Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23294
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults to support them through experiences that can feel confusing, overwhelming, or hard to put into words. I often help individuals navigate trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, attachment challenges, and life transitions.
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults to support them through experiences that can feel confusing, overwhelming, or hard to put into words. I often help individuals navigate trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, attachment challenges, and life transitions.
(804) 417-6518 View (804) 417-6518
Photo of Molly Placido, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Molly Placido
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
I integrate EMDR, Parts Work, and somatic therapy to create an individualized treatment plan that meets you where you are.
Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed by stress, struggling in your relationships, or searching for deeper purpose, therapy can be a place to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and begin to heal. Many of the clients I work with are insightful and self-aware, yet exhausted from trying to “fix” themselves. They're seeking a space where they don’t have to perform, where they can feel safe, seen, and supported while they untangle the patterns rooted in past trauma or attachment wounds.
I integrate EMDR, Parts Work, and somatic therapy to create an individualized treatment plan that meets you where you are.
Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed by stress, struggling in your relationships, or searching for deeper purpose, therapy can be a place to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and begin to heal. Many of the clients I work with are insightful and self-aware, yet exhausted from trying to “fix” themselves. They're seeking a space where they don’t have to perform, where they can feel safe, seen, and supported while they untangle the patterns rooted in past trauma or attachment wounds.
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Photo of Sammi Santini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Sammi Santini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
I often integrate mindfulness, breathwork, and somatic exploration as well as ACT and CBT to offer skills tailored to your unique needs.
Does exploring your mental health challenges and talking about them with somebody new seem daunting? Does it feel like past experiences and trauma are preventing you from moving toward the things you want to do in life? Do you feel overwhelmed by your thoughts or feelings? No matter what might be impacting you, your emotions, experiences, thoughts, and feelings are worthy of exploring, and you are capable of doing it. > > > All are welcome here. As a practitioner, I am particularly passionate about, and experienced, working with those who have experienced trauma in their lifetime, as well as queer and neurodivergent adults.
I often integrate mindfulness, breathwork, and somatic exploration as well as ACT and CBT to offer skills tailored to your unique needs.
Does exploring your mental health challenges and talking about them with somebody new seem daunting? Does it feel like past experiences and trauma are preventing you from moving toward the things you want to do in life? Do you feel overwhelmed by your thoughts or feelings? No matter what might be impacting you, your emotions, experiences, thoughts, and feelings are worthy of exploring, and you are capable of doing it. > > > All are welcome here. As a practitioner, I am particularly passionate about, and experienced, working with those who have experienced trauma in their lifetime, as well as queer and neurodivergent adults.
(804) 581-1707 View (804) 581-1707
Photo of McClain Owens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, RYT200
McClain Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, RYT200
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Believing that trauma memory is stored beyond the mind and deep into the body, I weave cognitive, somatic and nature-based approaches for highly effective treatment.
You are the expert of your experiences, your goals and your healing—I am here to assist you on your journey. The relationship between client and therapist is sacred and I hope to co-create a space with you that fosters safety, vulnerability, softness, compassion and accountability.
Believing that trauma memory is stored beyond the mind and deep into the body, I weave cognitive, somatic and nature-based approaches for highly effective treatment.
You are the expert of your experiences, your goals and your healing—I am here to assist you on your journey. The relationship between client and therapist is sacred and I hope to co-create a space with you that fosters safety, vulnerability, softness, compassion and accountability.
(804) 374-9940 View (804) 374-9940
Photo of Sarah Lapp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Sarah Lapp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of multiple roles — caregiver, professional, partner — and unsure where you fit in all of it? I help women who are ready for meaningful change untangle stress, trauma, and old patterns so they can reconnect with themselves and move forward with clarity and confidence. As someone who understands both the strengths and the struggles of rural life, I bring a grounded, modern perspective to therapy. I believe in resilience, autonomy, and the power of small, meaningful shifts that lead to long-term growth.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of multiple roles — caregiver, professional, partner — and unsure where you fit in all of it? I help women who are ready for meaningful change untangle stress, trauma, and old patterns so they can reconnect with themselves and move forward with clarity and confidence. As someone who understands both the strengths and the struggles of rural life, I bring a grounded, modern perspective to therapy. I believe in resilience, autonomy, and the power of small, meaningful shifts that lead to long-term growth.
(740) 206-8556 View (740) 206-8556
Photo of Meg Gallear, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTR
Meg Gallear
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTR
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23221
I provide a somatic, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, affirming space where you can slow down, feel understood, and begin creating meaningful, lasting change.
I draw from emotions-focused therapy, parts work, and somatic experiencing in my approach, with attention to how past experiences, identity, relationships, and systems shape the way we move through the world. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling stuck in cycles of shame, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, or relational pain.
I provide a somatic, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, affirming space where you can slow down, feel understood, and begin creating meaningful, lasting change.
I draw from emotions-focused therapy, parts work, and somatic experiencing in my approach, with attention to how past experiences, identity, relationships, and systems shape the way we move through the world. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling stuck in cycles of shame, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, or relational pain.
(804) 570-2459 View (804) 570-2459
Photo of Suzanne Vogel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Suzanne Vogel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23219
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate approaches from EMDR (including Pre-Verbal), Parts Work/Ego State, Mindfulness, Somatic, and CBT - to help (re-)build a lasting, manifest, "felt" sense of safety, trust, self-worth, and empowerment.
Hello and welcome to Inner Light Counseling Services. I strive to provide a compassionate and safe space for individuals who feel deeply, think uniquely, and are shaped by experiences of trauma and/or neurodivergence. I am passionate about assisting folks in gently and safely uncovering their truest, most joy-filled ways of being. These are reasons to be alive. Often, these parts get buried under layers of anxiety, depression, shame, and other self-protective patterns. These have likely helped you to survive. They tell an important story. We honor this story. But it is not who you are. Let's gently come to honor YOU.
I integrate approaches from EMDR (including Pre-Verbal), Parts Work/Ego State, Mindfulness, Somatic, and CBT - to help (re-)build a lasting, manifest, "felt" sense of safety, trust, self-worth, and empowerment.
Hello and welcome to Inner Light Counseling Services. I strive to provide a compassionate and safe space for individuals who feel deeply, think uniquely, and are shaped by experiences of trauma and/or neurodivergence. I am passionate about assisting folks in gently and safely uncovering their truest, most joy-filled ways of being. These are reasons to be alive. Often, these parts get buried under layers of anxiety, depression, shame, and other self-protective patterns. These have likely helped you to survive. They tell an important story. We honor this story. But it is not who you are. Let's gently come to honor YOU.
(804) 567-7944 View (804) 567-7944
Photo of Bridgette Taylor, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, LMHP-S
Bridgette Taylor
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, LMHP-S
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
I integrate a strengths based approach with somatic, trauma-informed, polyvagal, psychodynamic, humanistic and other evidence-based therapies, focusing on issues of trauma, identity, and self-love.
Every person holds the seeds for their growth, waiting for the right environment and connections to nurture wellness. I lead with validation, affirmation, and warmth to create a therapeutic environment that enhances resilience. There's many reasons why we become disconnected from ourselves. The effects of trauma, stress, and surviving in an increasingly chaotic world leave many folks longing for deeper connection. Wherever you are on the inner journey, I'm happy to walk beside you. You are the expert of your life and experiences, and I want to help you learn to use that expertise to grow into thriving and vibrant mental health.
I integrate a strengths based approach with somatic, trauma-informed, polyvagal, psychodynamic, humanistic and other evidence-based therapies, focusing on issues of trauma, identity, and self-love.
Every person holds the seeds for their growth, waiting for the right environment and connections to nurture wellness. I lead with validation, affirmation, and warmth to create a therapeutic environment that enhances resilience. There's many reasons why we become disconnected from ourselves. The effects of trauma, stress, and surviving in an increasingly chaotic world leave many folks longing for deeper connection. Wherever you are on the inner journey, I'm happy to walk beside you. You are the expert of your life and experiences, and I want to help you learn to use that expertise to grow into thriving and vibrant mental health.
(804) 297-5206 View (804) 297-5206
Photo of Jamila Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Jamila Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Online Only
I integrate somatic therapy with sex education to help you reconnect with your body and your partner.
You're an individual or couple struggling with intimacy, sexual health, or emotional disconnection. Maybe you're navigating shame around sexuality, recovering from addiction, dealing with low desire, or experiencing sexual dysfunction. As an individual, you might be facing sexual health challenges through life transitions or trauma recovery. As a couple, you've stopped connecting sexually and emotionally, or you're rebuilding trust after betrayal. You're tired of the distance and silence. You need a therapist who specializes in sexual wellness and relationships—someone who won't judge.
I integrate somatic therapy with sex education to help you reconnect with your body and your partner.
You're an individual or couple struggling with intimacy, sexual health, or emotional disconnection. Maybe you're navigating shame around sexuality, recovering from addiction, dealing with low desire, or experiencing sexual dysfunction. As an individual, you might be facing sexual health challenges through life transitions or trauma recovery. As a couple, you've stopped connecting sexually and emotionally, or you're rebuilding trust after betrayal. You're tired of the distance and silence. You need a therapist who specializes in sexual wellness and relationships—someone who won't judge.
(757) 859-0327 View (757) 859-0327

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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.