What Is Somatic Therapy?
It all begins with an idea.
(A Gentle Guide for Beginners)
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck in your head, or disconnected from your body, you’re not alone — and somatic therapy might be a good place to begin.
Somatic therapy is a body-based approach to healing that recognizes that our thoughts, emotions, and nervous systems are deeply interconnected. Rather than focusing only on “talking it out,” somatic work invites us to listen to our bodies, attend to sensation, and move at the pace of safety.
What Does "Somatic" Mean?
The word “somatic” comes from the Greek word soma, meaning “body.” In therapy, this means we pay attention to more than just your thoughts — we tune into your breath, posture, muscle tension, body temperature, and what’s happening inside, even if you don’t have words for it yet.
Why Work with the Body?
When we experience stress, trauma, or overwhelm, our bodies hold the imprint — even long after the moment has passed
You might notice:
Chronic tension or pain
Shutting down or numbing out
Feeling “too much” or “not enough”
Getting stuck in survival patterns like people-pleasing, perfectionism, or freeze responses
Somatic therapy helps us gently rebuild connection with the body, regulate the nervous system, and create new patterns that feel safer, softer, and more supportive.
How Does It Work?
In my practice, I blend polyvagal theory, interpersonal neurobiology, and humanistic counselling with somatic tools to help you feel more grounded, connected, and choiceful.
This might include:
Guided breathwork or grounding exercises
Noticing and naming internal cues (e.g., “my chest feels tight”)
Tracking nervous system states like fight, flight, or freeze
Creating rituals of safety, movement, or stillness
Learning how to listen to your “felt sense” and trust your body's signals
We always move at your pace, and you’re always in control of what we explore.
Who Is It For?
Somatic therapy can be especially supportive for people who:
Struggle with anxiety, panic, or overwhelm
Have experienced trauma or complex relational wounds
Feel disconnected from their bodies or emotions
Want to move from survival into greater ease and embodiment
Identify as sensitive, highly empathetic, or neurodivergent
Final Thoughts
Somatic therapy isn’t about “fixing” you — it’s about reconnecting with your inner wisdom, learning how to listen inward, and creating space for healing that includes your whole self. If this feels like a curious next step for you, you’re warmly invited to reach out.
Ready to begin?
I offer somatic and trauma-informed therapy in Okotoks and virtually across Alberta.
You can book a free 15-minute consult here or get in touch if you have questions.