FAQ
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What is somatic psychotherapy?
Somatic psychotherapy is an evidence-based, body-centered approach to healing that integrates the mind, body, emotions, and nervous system.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which primarily engages cognition and conscious awareness, somatic therapy works with the nervous system and subconscious mind, allowing for deep and lasting change. Research in Somatic Experiencing® (Levine, 1997), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy® (Ogden et al., 2006), and Polyvagal Theory (Porges, 1994)demonstrates that trauma is stored in the body, and healing requires more than cognitive processing—it requires nervous system regulation and embodied awareness.
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Is somatic therapy an evidence-based treatment for trauma?
Yes, somatic therapy is recognized as an evidence-based treatment for trauma and PTSD. Research shows that trauma is not only encoded in explicit memory but also stored in the subconscious and autonomic nervous system (Van der Kolk, 2014). Because somatic therapy works directly with the body and nervous system, it allows for trauma processing without reactivating overwhelming memories, making it highly effective for individuals with PTSD and complex trauma.
Several studies support the efficacy of somatic therapy for trauma healing:
A 2017 study on Somatic Experiencing® (Andersen et al.) found significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, demonstrating that body-based therapies can alleviate trauma at a physiological level.
Neuroscientific research (Van der Kolk, 2014; Porges, 1994) confirms that bottom-up approaches such as somatic therapy are essential for regulating the nervous system and restoring a sense of safety in the body.
A 2022 meta-analysis (Langmuir et al.) found that somatic-based interventions, including movement and breathwork, are effective in treating trauma related disorders, anxiety, and stress.
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What does a session look like?
Each session is tailored to your unique needs and may include:
Verbal processing to explore emotions and patterns.
Resourcing
Somatic awareness exercises to track bodily sensations and subconscious material.
Inner-Relational Focusing
Internal Family Systems parts work to access Self, create a Self to parts relationship, unblend and unburden parts.
Sessions are designed to create a felt sense of safety, emotional release, and deeper self-awareness, leading to meaningful and sustainable healing.
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Who is this for?
Somatic psychotherapy is especially beneficial for individuals who:
Experience anxiety, chronic stress, or burnout and want to regulate their nervous system.
Have a history of trauma, PTSD, or complex PTSD and feel disconnected from their bodies.
Struggle with overthinking or emotional numbness and want a deeper connection to themselves.
Have tried traditional talk therapy but still feel stuck in repetitive patterns.
Want to strengthen their intuition, connection to their felt sense, build emotional resilience, and mind-body connection through a holistic approach.
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Are virtual sessions available?
Yes, both in person and virtual sessions are available.
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How much are sessions?
Sessions are $250 for 50 minutes.
I reserve a certain number of slots for sliding scale clients. All of these slots are currently taken.
While I don’t take insurance I can provide you with a Superbill to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
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What additional training do you have?
Certified in Somatic Attachment Therapy
Certified Polyvgal Informed Coach by The Polyvagal Institute
Online Circle by The Internal Family Systems Institute
Two week long immersions with Dick Schwartz, founder of The Internal Family Systems Institute
Level One Training, The Internal Family Systems Institute
Level One Training, Terry Real’s Relational Life Therapy for Couples
Certified PSYCH K Facilitator