somatic psychotherapy

"The spirit and the body are one, and when we listen to the whispers of our ancestors and feel the rhythms of our breath, we remember how to heal."

— Sobonfu Somé, Burkinabe Author and Spiritual Teacher

what is somatic psychotherapy?

Somatic psychotherapy is a type of mental health counseling that focuses on the connection between the mind and body. It's based on the idea that the body stores negative experiences, such as trauma, in somatic memory. Somatic therapy aims to help patients heal by using mind-body techniques to release stress, trauma, and tension. 

While there are different types of somatic therapy, I have training in and heavily utilize Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP).

In SP, the mind, body, and spirit are addressed as a whole rather than as separate parts. The body is a source of information and a target for interventions. Understanding how the body reacts and contributes to thoughts, emotions, and behaviors helps you deeply and thoroughly address experiences like intrusive symptoms, numbness, motor inhibitions, avoidance, emotional dysregulation, and difficulties with relationships and general daily functioning.

The focus is on helping you develop your own internal resources to process the trauma, transcend the prolonged flight-flight-or-freeze reaction of the autonomic nervous system, recognize and self-regulate emotions, and respond calmly and thoughtfully to your world.

Note: This link will take you to Usawa Wellness Services’ booking page. Be sure to request your appointment with Harmony.

somatic psychotherapy may be able to help you

  • reclaim a sense of control over responses to the trauma and traumatic memories

  • understand the impact that experiences have on both mind and body

  • develop awareness of physical symptoms and sensations and how these relate to the trauma and emotional responses

  • separate the past from the present so mind and body respond appropriately to current happenings rather than reacting from traumatic memories

  • if you have experienced trauma and/or have attachment issues

  • if you are experiencing grief and anxiety

  • if you feel disconnected from your body, needs and your desires

  • manage symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression and more

Are you ready to embark on your journey toward holistic, embodied wellness?

Note: This link will take you to Usawa Wellness Services’ booking page. Be sure to request your appointment with Harmony.