What Is Somatic Therapy, and What Is It Used For?

Traditionally, psychotherapy has included a lot of talking. Most mental health therapy involves discussing thoughts and beliefs. Somatic therapies take a different approach. Rather than focusing mainly on thoughts, they explore experiences and sensations in the body.

So what kinds of somatic therapy are out there, and what can you expect? Keep reading to find out.

What are somatic techniques?

Somatic therapy is a broad term that describes techniques based on the mind-body connection. It may also be called body psychology or somatic psychotherapy. Some use it as a medical term to describe mental health treatments that involve the body, such as antidepressants.

But most often, somatic therapy refers to a specific treatment called somatic experiencing (SE). Peter Levine, PhD, an expert in biological physics, developed this approach. Practitioners have traditionally used the therapy to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress.

What is somatic experiencing (SE) therapy?

According to SE theory, emotions like fear and anger become stored in the body. This happens when someone’s natural response to a traumatic event is interrupted. For example, if someone is in a car accident, their body may hold onto tension for months after the event. 

SE practices are based on how animals respond to stress and shock. Animals may shake or tremble after being attacked until they return to a normal state. This releases the extra energy stored in their bodies.

SE is based on the idea that humans don’t always complete this natural process after a shocking incident. So after a traumatic event, the stressful feelings might stay in the body. SE techniques are meant to help release that stress.

What to expect with somatic experiencing therapy

If you participate in SE, you will likely become more aware of your physical sensations. You may learn to notice tension in your body and compare that to feelings of relaxation.

SE also uses a technique called resourcing. This helps put you in touch with more comfortable feelings in your body. The idea is that this will help you learn to balance feeling tense with feeling more relaxed. 

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Research on SE

Some limited studies show that SE may help with trauma and overall wellness. But most of the studies do not meet top scientific standards. More research is needed to better understand the benefits of SE. 

What is sensorimotor psychotherapy?

Sensorimotor psychotherapy is another type of somatic therapy. It combines talking about trauma with body awareness.

For example, during a session, a client might describe being attacked. The therapist may then ask them to notice what they feel in their body at the time. The client might notice that their hands are sweating or their heart is beating faster.

By working through both thoughts and physical feelings, therapists hope to help clients heal from their trauma. More research is needed to understand how well sensorimotor psychotherapy works. 

What are other mind-body techniques?

There are a variety of other mental health activities that combine mindfulness and body awareness. 

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is an effective and popular treatment used for depression. It includes a class that meets for 8 weeks and homework between each session.

MBCT techniques help you notice your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations without trying to change them. Over time, the act of accepting your uncomfortable feelings makes them easier to deal with. 

Yoga

Yoga is often used as an addition to therapy and medication. It may help with problems like depression, stress, and anxiety. Therapists may guide clients in yoga breathing practices or encourage them to take a class outside of sessions.

But you don’t need a therapist to try yoga. Local communities often offer yoga classes, or you can try a course online. 

Dance movement therapy

Dance movement therapy can help with depression. It may particularly help people who find it hard to talk about feelings. Many mental health programs include dance. You can also look for a certified therapist through the American Dance Therapy Association. 

Tai chi

Tai chi is a traditional Chinese practice that combines mindfulness and movement. It helps develop physical strength and may improve mental health. As with other mind-body techniques, it can help decrease depression and improve overall wellness. 

What to expect from a somatic therapist

Some therapists use somatic practices as their main approach. For example, SE therapists have special training on trauma and the body. They may help you explore physical sensations relating to your trauma.

In sensorimotor psychotherapy, a therapist may ask you about your trauma, as well as your physical sensations. They may use multiple techniques to help you work through your thoughts and feelings.

Other therapists use somatic techniques informally. For example, a traditional talk therapist might guide you in a mindfulness activity. Or they may occasionally ask what you’re feeling in your body. 

Can you practice somatic techniques on your own?

Many somatic techniques, such as yoga and tai chi, don’t require a therapist. If there are no classes in your area, you can find instructions through online videos or apps.

Some yoga instructors have extra training relating to trauma and mental health. But even everyday yoga classes can be helpful.

SE and sensorimotor psychotherapy are formal therapies with specially trained providers. To participate in such treatments, you’ll need a specialist. 

How do you find a psychotherapist offering somatic therapy?

Many mental health therapists take a special interest in mind-body practices. They may include this in their list of specialties. As you’re searching for a therapist, you can ask whether they use mind-body activities.

Here are some ways to find a somatic therapist: 

• Look for somatic or mind-body providers using online directories like Therapy Den or Psychology Today. Or use a search engine like Google to look in your local area. 

• To find an SE therapist, visit the SE practitioners listing, and browse therapists in your area. 

• To find a certified sensorimotor psychotherapist, use the online directory of providers. 

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Written by:

Jennie Bedsworth, LCSW

Jennie Bedsworth, MSW, LCSW, is a social worker and therapist with 20 years of experience in journalism, teaching, and mental health. Prior to getting her master's, she wrote for The Furrow and was editor of Missouri Ruralist magazine.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Mona Bapat, PhD, HSPP

Mona Bapat, PhD, HSPP, has 15 years of clinical experience providing therapy. She is a licensed clinical psychologist in Indiana and Illinois with treatment experience in individual, couples, family, and group therapy modalities.

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