Somatic Therapy and EMDR: The Differences
Trauma is complex and there are many treatment approaches to healing from it. Two approaches that are often used to address trauma are somatic therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Understanding the differences between these two approaches can help you make the right decision about your therapy journey.
What is Somatic Therapy?
Somatic therapy is a body-centered approach to mental health. It operates on the belief that emotions and trauma are not only stored in the mind but also in the body, which are two deeply interconnected entities. The physical sensations we experience can hold memories, emotions, and stressors, and by tuning into these sensations, we can access experiences that traditional talk therapy might miss. Somatic therapy is now widely recognized as an effective treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression, and even chronic pain.
Some Common Somatic Therapy Techniques
Somatic therapy is a holistic therapeutic approach that connects the mind and body. It’s rooted in the idea that trauma and chronic stress often manifest physically. Somatic therapy explores how the body stores and expresses emotions, often in the form of tension, pain, or disconnection. Here are some common techniques used in somatic therapy and how they contribute to the healing process.
5 Ways in Which Somatic Therapy Helps with Anxiety and Trauma
Are you struggling with anxiety or trauma that just won't seem to go away? You've probably tried talk therapy, maybe even medication, but still feel stuck. Somatic Therapy is a holistic approach that focuses on the mind-body connection to address anxiety and trauma.