What is Somatic Psychotherapy?

Somatic psychotherapy is grounded in the belief that the mind and body are intimately linked and therefore both must be considered to be mentally healthy.

In other words, somatic psychotherapists believe that, in order to understand one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, one must also understand what is happening in the body.

In recent years, somatic psychotherapy has focused on the impact of traumatic events on the mind and body. It is believed that past trauma can become stuck in the body, leaving survivors with a host of physical concerns such as chronic pain, gut issues, and even autoimmune disorders. 

Somatic psychotherapy isn’t just used to treat trauma though, it is also used for:

-anxiety

-depression

-grief

-chronic pain

-sexual dysfunction

-addiction

What to expect in a somatic psychotherapy session:

Depending on the therapist, somatic therapy may look different. However, there are some techniques that are widely used in somatic psychotherapy sessions including:

-mindfulness

-grounding exercises

-meditation

-breathwork

-gentle movement

-yoga

By using techniques such as the ones mentioned above, you will gain a greater sense of your own body, explore emotional and physical concerns, achieve greater emotional regulation, and move past the things that are keeping you stuck. 

For those looking to process traumatic experiences, therapists will frequently guide you to safely revisit the traumatic event to release emotions and sensations that have been stored in the body since the incident(s).

If you are interested in learning more and would like a free 20 minute consultation, contact us at info@bravecounseling.com. We work virtually with clients throughout the Denver and Boulder area and all throughout CO.