Trauma and disturbing events, as well as phobias, can diminish the quality of our daily lives without us even being aware of it. In the somatic therapy process, we work on unraveling these phobias, traumas, or disturbing events in a way that they can no longer affect you in your current life. This work is incredibly liberating and releases a lot of tension in body and mind.
We will use techniques like EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and inner parts work. Well-known and effective for the treatment of (complex) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), panic attacks, eating disorders, addictions, and anxiety by dissolving the power of emotionally charged memories of past events.
How does somatic experiencing work? Somatic experiencing increases awareness of the physical sensations and bodily responses associated with emotions and experiences. The goal is to release physical tension, process and integrate traumatic experiences, and develop a better understanding of their emotional and psychological states.
Can somatic therapy help with stress and anxiety? Yes, somatic therapy can effectively assist individuals in managing stress and anxiety. Clients can regulate their emotional responses and reduce the impact of stress and anxiety by learning to tune into bodily sensations and reduce physical tension.
What is the difference between somatic therapy and traditional talk therapy? The primary distinction is that somatic therapy incorporates the body's physical sensations and responses as a central part of the therapeutic process. Traditional talk therapy primarily relies on the mental process. Somatic therapy considers the body and mind as an integrated whole.
How does somatic therapy address physical and emotional trauma? Somatic therapy addresses trauma by gently and gradually processing and releasing the stored trauma and tension associated with traumatic memories.
What are the benefits of somatic therapy for emotional healing and regulation? Somatic therapy aids in processing and healing from emotional wounds, enhancing emotional regulation, and improving self-awareness.
How can somatic therapy improve self-awareness and self-acceptance? Somatic therapy fosters self-awareness by helping you become more in touch with the sensations in your body and your emotions, leading to greater self-acceptance and choice.
What conditions or issues can somatic therapy address? Somatic therapy can address a wide range of issues, including trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and body image concerns.
How does somatic therapy contribute to better relationships and emotional well-being? Somatic therapy helps to improve relationships by releasing pent-up emotional tensions, increasing self-awareness and regulation, and the ability to be with others with compassion and calm.
Are there any books or resources that provide further information on somatic therapy? Books such as "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk and "In an Unspoken Voice" by Peter A. Levine offer in-depth information on somatic therapy and its applications. For parts work, I recommend the books "No Bad Parts" and "You Are the One You've Been Waiting for" by Richard Schwartz.
How does somatic therapy promote personal growth and resilience? Somatic therapy fosters personal growth by helping you develop a deeper understanding of yourself, it increases self-acceptance, and improves emotional regulation, leading to greater resilience and well-being.