Somatic therapy helps you feel safe, grounded, and face trauma in healthy ways. It is a holistic approach to mental health that focuses on the connection between the mind and body. It combines traditional talk therapy with physical therapies to address the impacts of trauma, stress, and anxiety. Online somatic therapy is just as effective as in-person sessions.
The core idea behind somatic therapy is that the body holds onto past trauma, which can manifest as physical symptoms or emotional distress. Through various techniques, somatic therapy helps you to release these stored tensions and promotes healing.
It also incorporates mindfulness, body awareness, and physical exercises to promote your well-being and ability to have a deeper emotional healing. Somatic therapy is recommended to treat conditions like PTSD, chronic pain, and anxiety disorders.
3 Key Components of Somatic Therapy
Learning
In the initial phase of somatic therapy, your therapy will educate you about the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and its role in trauma. They’ll also talk about what somatic experiencing (SE) therapy is, how it works, and why understanding the ANS is important for addressing trauma.
Resourcing
Resourcing is a technique used to help clients access positive memories and experiences that bring them comfort and joy. It could be a cherished place, a loved one, or a memorable event. These positive resources act as a counterbalance to the distressing sensations experienced during therapy and calm your nerves.
Titration
Titration involves revisiting traumatic memories in a controlled and gradual manner. It is a slow and careful process that helps clients address the physical sensations tied to their trauma without becoming overwhelmed. Your therapist will observe your movements and physical reactions, such as changes in heart rate or sensations of numbness, and guide you through the process.
Pendulation
Pendulation refers to the natural rhythm of moving between states of tension and relaxation during therapy. As you revisit traumatic memories and experience the associated physical sensations, your therapist helps you transition to a more relaxed state using calming exercises and techniques.
How Does Online Somatic Therapy Work?
Online somatic therapy works just like traditional somatic therapy but in a virtual format. Therapy is conducted through a video call and makes it accessible to people who might not have local therapists available or who prefer the convenience of home sessions.
Therapists use secure video conferencing platforms to create a safe and confidential space for therapy sessions. They may start by discussing the client’s current state and identifying specific areas of tension or discomfort. Then, they guide the client through body awareness exercises, encouraging them to notice sensations and emotions as they arise.
For example, a therapist might ask a client to close their eyes and focus on their breathing, noticing any areas of tightness or discomfort. Your therapist can then provide real-time feedback and suggestions, which helps in releasing some tension instantly. It is just as effective online as in person, provided there is good communication and a strong therapeutic relationship.
What to Look for in an Online Somatic Therapist?
When seeking an online somatic therapist, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure a positive and effective therapeutic experience.
- Credentials and Experience: Look for a therapist with proper certifications, extensive experience in somatic therapy, and can legally practise in your province. Therapists should have specialised training in somatic practices and a solid understanding of how to adapt these techniques to an online format.
- Comfort with Technology: Since the therapy sessions will be conducted online, it’s important that the therapist is comfortable using video conferencing tools. They should be able to handle any technical issues and make sure therapy is conducted in a secure, confidential environment.
- Personal Connection: During an initial consultation, assess whether you feel comfortable and understood by the therapist. A good somatic therapist will listen actively, show empathy, and adapt their approach to your specific needs.
- Flexibility and Adaptability: Every client’s needs are different, and a skilled somatic therapist in Ontario will tailor their techniques to suit each person. Look for a therapist who is flexible in their approach and willing to adjust their methods as necessary.
- Client Testimonials and Reviews: Read reviews or testimonials from other clients to learn more about the therapist’s approach. You can also ask for references from past clients.
Frequently Asked Questions about Somatic Therapy
What if I freeze or shut down during an online session?
It is completely okay. Freezing is a natural trauma response, especially when dealing with complex emotions. You’re always in control of the session. As your therapist, I ensure that we move at a pace that makes you feel safe.
Can I still do somatic therapy if I struggle to feel anything in my body?
People tend to often feel disconnected from their body after trauma or chronic stress. Somatic therapy will help you gently rebuild a connection with your body over time.
What if talking about my trauma online makes me feel worse afterward?
This happens sometimes because difficult emotions resurface during therapy. But look at it like you’re healing, and not breaking. At the end of every virtual session, I provide them clients grounding tools and self-soothing exercises to feel steady in between sessions. And of course, if you feel overwhelmed please reach out via email.
Somatic therapy is a holistic approach to mental health and focuses on mind-body connection. Jennifer Pinto offers virtual therapy to clients across Ontario and is experienced in trauma and grief.
Ready to feel safe in your body again? Book your free online consultation to explore somatic therapy in Ontario today.
6 Somatic Therapy Techniques You Can Try On Your Own
These gentle somatic practices are designed to help you reconnect with your body and calm your nervous system. They work best as supportive tools between online sessions, but will also help you calm down nerves in everyday life.
1. Grounding through the Senses
Name five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This simple exercise tells your body it’s safe right now.
2. Gentle Body Scanning
Close your eyes and slowly move your attention from head to toe. Notice sensations like warmth, tightness, or tingling. You’re not trying to fix anything, but simply reconnect with your body.
3. Breath Awareness
Place a hand on your chest and another on your stomach. Inhale slowly through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Feel the movement under your hands. This helps release built-up tension.
4. Orienting to Safety
If you feel stuck in a freeze or shutdown state, look around your environment. Turn your head gently and notice colours, shapes, or light. It helps your brain recognize that you’re not in danger anymore.
5. Movement and Stretching
Small movements, like rolling your shoulders, shaking out your hands, or stretching your neck. They all signal safety to your body.
6. Self-Soothing Touch
Cross your arms and gently squeeze your upper arms or place a hand over your heart. Physical touch sends calming signals through the vagus nerve and helps regulate emotions.