Somatic Therapy

Somatic stems from the word soma, an ancient greek word meaning body. Somatic therapy addresses the root cause of distress rather than simply surface symptoms. From this more holistic perspective we can understand the effects of trauma, stress, and emotional pain as physical experiences stored and released through our living human body. In our work together, we will move away from intellectualizing and towards your felt experience, deepening your mind-body-spirit connection. I walk alongside you towards an embodied state to build self-awareness, increase resilience, and ultimately foster healing and growth for your whole self. To cultivate this felt sense, we often incorporate practices such as grounding, breathwork, and mindfulness at your own pace.

Session structure

Some folks come to therapy with some experience with somatic therapy; however, the vast majority of my clients do not. The pace of our work largely depends upon your needs, which we will assess at intake and reassess as needed. As we get to know each other we will usually talk more about your story, your history, and anything else that feels important for me to know. As sessions progress we will identify skills, exercises, and practices that feel most nourishing to you. Over time you will gain familiarity with your nervous system. Some sessions involve more “talk therapy” than others depending on what you bring to session and what is going on in your life at that moment.

Therapeutic relationship

The quality of the relationship between the therapist and client is an integral part of somatic therapy. This process begins with the co-construction of a safe container, which the therapeutic relationship provides the foundation for. Once this safer space is established, deeper somatic work can be explored at a pace attuned to you and your needs. This type of somatic work is foundationally trauma-informed and relational, and I will continually check in with you to assess safety, boundaries, and pacing.

My approach to Somatic Therapy

Somatic therapy doesn’t ask us to perform, mask, or people-please. It simply asks us to hold curiosity as we witness our own experience. My goal is to echo this, holding unconditional support for whatever arises during session. It is an honor to walk alongside you as you deepen your felt sense and ultimately feel more at home within yourself.