Introduction
Trauma is not just stored in our minds—it lives in our bodies too. Traditional talk therapy can be incredibly effective, but some individuals require deeper, body-centered approaches to process traumatic experiences. This is where a somatic trauma therapist can be transformative. By focusing on the body-mind connection, somatic therapy offers holistic healing that allows trauma to be released in both emotional and physical ways.
In this article, we’ll explore what somatic therapy is, how it differs from other practices, popular somatic trauma release techniques, and whether practices like Reiki fall under the somatic therapy umbrella.
What Is Somatic Therapy for Trauma?
Somatic therapy is a body-based therapeutic approach that helps individuals process and release trauma that is stored in the body. Unlike traditional therapy that focuses primarily on thoughts and emotions, somatic therapy incorporates physical sensations, movements, breathing techniques, and mindfulness to address the physiological imprint of trauma.
When someone experiences trauma, the body can hold onto the stress through tension, dissociation, and even chronic pain. A somatic trauma therapist guides clients in becoming aware of bodily sensations that correspond to unresolved trauma and helps them process these sensations safely and gradually.
Key aspects of somatic trauma therapy include:
Body awareness: Observing and interpreting physical sensations
Grounding techniques: Reconnecting to the present moment
Movement and touch: Gently accessing areas where trauma is stored
Nervous system regulation: Supporting the body in returning to a balanced state
What Is the Difference Between a Somatic Practitioner and a Therapist?
A somatic trauma therapist is usually a licensed mental health professional who incorporates somatic practices into their clinical work. This means they are trained in psychotherapy and also specialize in body-based trauma interventions.
A somatic practitioner, on the other hand, may not be a licensed therapist. They often focus more on the physical or energetic aspects of healing and may use modalities like massage, breathwork, or movement therapy without offering psychological counseling.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Aspect | Somatic Trauma Therapist | Somatic Practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Licensed in psychotherapy (e.g., LMFT, LCSW, Ph.D.) | May not be licensed; often trained in alternative modalities |
| Approach | Combines talk therapy with body-based techniques | Primarily uses body-based or energetic methods |
| Focus | Mental, emotional, and physical trauma recovery | Physical or energetic release of stress and trauma |
For those dealing with complex trauma, PTSD, or deep emotional wounds, working with a licensed somatic trauma therapist is typically recommended.
What Are the Somatic Trauma Release Techniques?
There are several effective techniques that somatic trauma therapists use to help clients release stored trauma. These include:
Somatic Experiencing (SE): Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, this method involves tracking physical sensations to release trapped survival energy and rebalance the nervous system.
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Combines somatic techniques with cognitive and emotional processing to treat trauma and attachment issues.
TRE (Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercises): A series of exercises that help the body naturally release deep muscular patterns of stress and tension.
Breathwork: Conscious breathing exercises help release emotional blockages and increase body awareness.
Mindfulness and grounding: Techniques that keep the client in the present moment and allow them to feel safe while processing past trauma.
Touch therapy (where appropriate): Gentle physical contact, with consent, to support regulation and healing.
Each technique is tailored to the individual’s comfort level and readiness, ensuring that healing happens gradually and safely.
Is Reiki a Somatic Therapy?
Reiki is not technically a form of somatic therapy, but it can complement somatic healing. Reiki is a Japanese energy healing practice where the practitioner channels universal life force energy to the client, often through light touch or hand hovering.
While Reiki focuses on energetic balance, it may also promote relaxation, emotional release, and a greater connection to bodily sensations—all of which align with the goals of somatic therapy. However, Reiki is not a clinical intervention and should not replace therapy for individuals dealing with trauma or mental health concerns.
If you're interested in combining approaches, some somatic trauma therapists may incorporate Reiki or refer clients to Reiki practitioners as part of a holistic treatment plan.
Final Thoughts
Trauma affects every part of our being—mind, body, and spirit. A somatic trauma therapist provides a compassionate, body-centered approach to help individuals reconnect with themselves, release past pain, and regain a sense of safety and control. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, PTSD, chronic stress, or emotional numbness, somatic therapy can be a powerful path to healing.
If you’re considering somatic therapy, be sure to look for a licensed professional trained specifically in trauma-informed care and somatic techniques. Healing is possible—and your body can guide the way.
