While trauma can leave lasting emotional and physical impacts, healing is possible. Somatic therapy is a powerful therapeutic modality that addresses the scars that trauma leaves behind. By fostering a connection between mind and body, somatic therapy taps into the body’s innate wisdom to help us to uncover and heal from trauma. This article will cover what somatic therapy is, how it works, who might benefit from it, and how to find a somatic therapist.
What is somatic therapy?
Somatic therapy is a holistic approach to healing that combines the mind and body. It recognizes that trauma is not just in our heads; it’s also stored in our bodies. This therapy helps individuals become aware of how their bodies express emotional pain and stress. By focusing on bodily sensations, somatic therapy aims to release the trapped emotions that can lead to physical and psychological symptoms.
How does somatic therapy work?
Somatic therapy works by guiding individuals to reconnect with their bodies. Somatic therapists use techniques like grounding exercises, breath-work, and mindfulness to help clients identify where stress or trauma is stored in their bodies. By bringing attention to these physical sensations, somatic therapy can strengthen the mind-body connection, release trapped energy and emotions, and promote overall well-being.
Key Techniques in Somatic Therapy:
Resourcing: Developing a sense of safety and comfort during sessions.
Pendulation: Moving between discomfort and feelings of safety to build resilience.
Titration: Gradually introducing memories of trauma to avoid overwhelming emotions.
What is the difference between trauma and PTSD?
Trauma is the experience of being exposed to a distressing event that overwhelms our ability to cope. Maybe it's a single event, like a car accident, or an ongoing stress, like living in an abusive situation. PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a specific mental health condition that can develop after experiencing trauma. While not everyone who faces trauma will develop PTSD, those who do may experience persistent symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety.
Who can benefit from somatic therapy? Is it just for trauma?
Somatic therapy can help a wide range of individuals, including those struggling with:
PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
Chronic pain
Complicated grief
If you’ve experienced trauma or are feeling overwhelmed by stress, somatic therapy might be the right fit for you. It’s especially beneficial for those who find traditional talk therapy unhelpful or too triggering.
How is somatic therapy different from talk therapy?
While talk therapies, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), focus primarily on thoughts and behaviors, somatic therapy emphasizes the body’s sensations and experiences. In talk therapy, clients may discuss traumatic events, but somatic therapy encourages them to feel and process those experiences through their bodies. This can lead to a deeper, more holistic healing experience while avoiding the re-traumatization that talk therapy might inadvertently cause.
Is EMDR somatic therapy?
Yes. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is considered a form of somatic therapy because it addresses how trauma memories are stored in the body. EMDR uses specific eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help clients process trauma, which can be effective for many people.
Can somatic therapy be done online?
Yes, somatic therapy can be conducted online. Many somatic therapists, myself included, offer virtual sessions that allow you to engage in somatic techniques from the comfort of your own space. Using video conferencing tools, somatic therapists can guide you through exercises and help you tune into your body, making it a convenient option for many clients.
How do I find a somatic therapist near me?
If you want to find a somatic therapist, the process is similar to what you would do when looking for any mental health professional. Here are some steps to help you get started:
Search Online: Use platforms that specialize in therapy services, like Psychology Today. You can use keywords like "somatic therapist" or "EMDR therapist" to find a therapist trained in somatic modalities.
Ask for Recommendations: Speak with friends, family, or healthcare providers who might know qualified therapists. Tell them exactly what you are interested in, whether that somatic trauma therapy or an AEDP therapist.
Check Qualifications: Ensure the therapist has the right training and certification in somatic approaches. For example, if you want to work with a somatic EMDR therapist, you could ask them if they've completed EMDRIA approved training.
FAQs about Somatic Therapy
Q: What should I expect in a somatic therapy session?
A: In your first session, your therapist will create a safe space for you. They might ask about your experiences and guide you through body awareness exercises. Each session will be tailored to your comfort level.
Q: How long does somatic therapy take to work?
A: The duration varies from person to person. Some may feel relief after a few sessions, while others might take longer. Healing is a personal journey.
Q: Is somatic therapy covered by insurance?
A: Coverage can vary based on your insurance plan. It’s best to check with your provider to see if you have mental health benefits and what therapeutic modalities are covered.
Q: Can anyone practice somatic therapy?
A: No. It’s essential to work with a trained and licensed somatic therapist to ensure effective and safe treatment. For example, I am trained in EMDR therapy, which is a type of somatic therapy. Be sure to ask your prospective therapist about their qualifications before beginning therapy with them.
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Somatic Therapy in NYC and Brooklyn
If you have more questions about somatic therapy or want to explore if it's right for you, feel free to reach out. I'm a New York based therapist, and I offer online somatic EMDR therapy for individuals in New York. Together, we can explore the benefits of somatic therapy for your individual needs.
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