Somatic Psychotherapy Sessions

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Therapy is an avenue for developing self-awareness and supporting your inborn drive for growth. Through the exploration of experiences, identities, narratives, thoughts and emotions, you can develop a greater understanding of where you have come from, who you are because of it and how you would like to show up in the world. 

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What is Somatic Psychotherapy?

The word “somatic” is derived from the Greek word “soma” which can be translated as “living body” or “the living body in its wholeness”. ⁣At its core, somatic psychotherapy is an integrated and holistic approach that is grounded in the relationship between the mind and the body.⁣

 

The body can be a powerful ally in therapy. Along with talk therapy, our sessions may also include embodiment practices, Yoga Therapy, Somatic Experiencing and other somatic approaches. By incorporating the experience of the body in session, we can provide space for the innate wisdom of your body to communicate with more clarity. Over time and with practice, it is possible to re-connect with the body as a place of safety, worthiness and belonging. 

 

As each individual is unique in their experience and needs, each session and the way in which tools are utilized will vary. For some, sessions may be primarily talk therapy. For others, sessions may include movement or breath work. As this is your journey, you can choose to explore various approaches over time and together we will periodically reflect on how to continue forward that best supports you.  

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Please note that these sessions are also available as adjunct therapy to support your work with an established therapist or other healthcare provider. 

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What is embodiment practice?

Embodiment practice utilizes somatic approaches that center the body as a medium to get to know ourselves, embody our values, heal, grow and transform.⁣ Combining movement, mindfulness, imagery, and breath, this approach:

• supports the development of awareness of the body, the senses, sensation, felt-sense and emotion⁣

• is a process of re-learning to listen to and trust the body and the wisdom it provides⁣

• is a radical reclamation of what is rightfully yours (your body and all its wisdom) and the release of what is not (including trauma and internalized oppressive forces)⁣

• supports the re-inhabiting your physical form as a place of belonging (both within yourself and within the collective whole)⁣

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What is Yoga Therapy?

Yoga Therapy is an integrated healing modality and approach to wellness that is anchored in the ancient tools of yoga, yoga philosophy, meditation, mindfulness, and Ayurveda. Please see below for more information. 

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What is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-oriented approach to the healing of trauma and other stress disorders. SE was developed by Dr. Peter Levine and is designed to support the nervous system in processing and discharging unresolved trauma responses. Trauma may arise from an acute event (such accidents, invasive medical procedures, assault, birth trauma, etc.) or result from cumulative stress (such as repeated abuse, neglect, ongoing fear, etc.). SE aims to support the recalibration of one's nervous system and ability to function with resilience and ease. For more information, please click here.

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Somatic Psychotherapy can be beneficial for addressing a variety of issues, including:​

• anxiety and stress

• depression

• grief and loss

• body image and disordered eating patterns

• chronic pain and illness

• PTSD and trauma

• identity and existential explorations 

• periods of transition and personal growth

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These sessions may be supportive for those looking to:

• Explore family dynamics and interpersonal relationships

• Develop self-awareness and tools for growth

• Explore emotional and behavioral patterns and develop ways of being that align with personal values and goals

• Improve communication and interpersonal skills

• Increase self-acceptance and recognition of worth

• Develop tools to support stress, anxiety, loss and more

• Explore identities (such as race, gender, sexuality, ability, etc) and the ways in which they impact life experience

• Increase capacity for flexibility, openness, and ownership of choice

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