What are the different types of somatic therapy? Several approaches fall under this form of therapy, each with a different focus.
The three most common types are somatic experiencing, sensorimotor psychotherapy, and the Hakomi method. While each works differently, all three focus on the connection between physical sensations, emotions, and the nervous system.
Let’s take a closer look at each one and how it helps support your healing.
What are the 3 types of somatic therapy?
The three most common types of somatic therapy are somatic experiencing, sensorimotor psychotherapy, and the Hakomi method. Each approach works with the mind-body connection in a different way.
Somatic experiencing
Somatic Experiencing is a body-oriented approach that focuses on the nervous system’s response to trauma. Rather than asking you to revisit every detail of a painful experience, it brings attention to physical sensations that may arise in the present moment.
Sensorimotor psychotherapy
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy combines traditional talk therapy with awareness of the body’s responses. It explores things like posture, breathing, movement, and physical reactions that may be connected to past experiences.
Hakomi method
The Hakomi Method is a mindfulness-based approach that encourages curiosity toward your inner experience. By slowing down and noticing thoughts, emotions, and body sensations as they arise, it becomes easier to recognize beliefs and patterns that may be shaping your life.
This process is gentle, reflective, and grounded in self-compassion.
How somatic therapy helps trauma and anxiety
Somatic therapy helps trauma and anxiety by helping people notice and work through physical responses to stress, fear, and past experiences.
Trauma can affect more than thoughts and emotions. It can also show up as muscle tension, a racing heart, difficulty sleeping, or a constant feeling of being on edge.
Rather than focusing only on talking about what happened, somatic therapy invites gentle awareness of physical sensations and nervous system responses.
Through somatic practices such as body awareness, grounding, and breathwork, many people begin to feel more present, connected, and at ease within themselves.
Are somatic therapy and EMDR the same?
Somatic therapy and EMDR are not the same. Both are trauma-focused approaches, but they support healing in different ways.
EMDR focuses on helping the brain process memories that may still feel overwhelming. Somatic therapy focuses on the physical responses to trauma, stress, and emotional experiences that can remain in the body.
Trauma can leave an impact on both the mind and body, which is why EMDR and somatic therapy are often combined.
What happens in a somatic therapy session?
A somatic therapy session often includes talking about your experiences, noticing physical sensations, and practicing techniques that support nervous system regulation.
With the guidance of a therapist, you will begin noticing how tension, emotions, or memories are showing up physically. This can include changes in breathing, areas of tension, a tight chest, or other sensations that arise as you share your experience.
Grounding, mindfulness, breathwork, or gentle movement will be used to help you stay connected to the present moment and create a greater sense of safety and support.
Who is somatic therapy best for?
Somatic therapy can be helpful for people who feel the effects of stress, trauma, or anxiety not only emotionally, but physically as well.
It is often used to support healing from:
- PTSD and complex trauma
- Childhood trauma
- Anxiety and panic symptoms
- Chronic stress
- Attachment wounds
- Emotional overwhelm
Start somatic-informed trauma therapy in Denver
Trauma can continue affecting emotions, relationships, and physical well-being long after a difficult experience has passed.
Somatic-informed trauma therapy helps bring awareness to how those experiences may still be showing up today. As awareness grows, it becomes easier to recognize old patterns and respond to them with greater intention and care.
Get a Free Consultation to learn if somatic-informed trauma therapy is right for you.
Frequently asked questions
What is another name for somatic therapy?
Somatic therapy is also called somatic psychotherapy, body psychotherapy, or body-centered therapy. Some people also use the term Somatic Experiencing, although it is a specific type of somatic therapy rather than a general term.
What are somatic healing techniques?
Somatic healing techniques include grounding, mindful breathing, body awareness, and gentle movement. These practices help people notice physical responses to stress and develop a greater sense of calm and presence.
What does a somatic release feel like?
A somatic release can feel like a deep breath, reduced tension, emotional relief, or a sense of calm. Physical sensations such as tears, shaking, warmth, or fatigue can also occur.
What are the negative effects of somatic therapy?
Somatic therapy can sometimes bring uncomfortable emotions, memories, or physical sensations to the surface. Sessions are typically paced carefully to help prevent feelings of overwhelm.
Can I do somatic therapy on my own?
You can practice simple somatic techniques on your own, including grounding, breathing exercises, and body awareness. However, working with a therapist is often the safest way to navigate trauma, anxiety, or difficult emotional experiences.
