Clearfork Academy logo
(888) 594-8699open 24/7

Somatic Therapy

Plus signs

Somatic Therapy, also referred to as ‘somatic counseling’ is a type of therapy that focuses on the connection of the body and the mind. This type of therapy includes Somatic Experiencing and Hakomi Therapy, and it helps people suffering from psychological trauma to recover and live a trauma-free life. Derived from the Greek word “soma,” meaning “living body,” somatic therapy focuses on the mind-body connection to recover from stress, anxiety, grief and even addiction.

What is Somatic Therapy?

As a body-centered therapy, somatic therapy examines the mind-body connection, combining psychotherapy and physical therapies to promote holistic healing. Thus, practitioners use mind-body connection exercises and other physical techniques, including somatic trauma therapy and Hakomi therapy. These techniques help people release repressed tension that is negatively affecting their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. As a result, somatic therapy has proven to be particularly useful in treating trauma.

Somatic Counseling

By combining traditional talk therapy with body-based therapy through a somatic counseling program, it can greatly help heal and aid in the recovery of traumatic impact. Somatic Experiencing assists trauma survivors to be more aware of trauma’s impact on the body. Subsequently, techniques like deep breathing and meditation help to relieve these tough symptoms. Thus, somatic counseling being a viable solution for trauma victims trying to fully heal and lead a happy life.

Research by Peter A. Levine, PhD, led to the Somatic Experiencing approach to trauma therapy. Hakomi therapy was founded in 1981 by Ron Kurtz and incorporates many of Levine’s techniques to explore the mind-body connection. By helping people achieve deeper insight, somatic trauma therapy leads to self-awareness and self-regulation. Moreover, somatic therapy emphasizes safety and offers access to the inner self, leading to positive change.

Sources: Hakomi Institute, Frontiers of Psychology (National Institutes of Health), US National Library of Medicine (National Institutes of Health)

It's Time to Make a Change

We Can Help You on Your Path to Mental Wellness

Call Today (888) 594-8699

Blog

Read More
Three young men sit outdoors in a park simultaneously drinking from beer bottles
Teen Substance Abuse

Can a Teenager Be an Alcoholic? 6 Signs to Look For

Key Takeaways Teens can develop Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Early drinking affects brain development, decision-making, and impulse control, so dismissing it as a phase can delay crucial help. Around 16%–24%

March 28, 2026
A man in a pink polo places a comforting hand on the back of a distressed teenager

How to Help a Teenager with Drug Addiction: Tips & Treatment Options

March 27, 2026

Key Takeaways Act early and take any signs of teen substance use seriously, as addiction can escalate quickly, and early intervention greatly improves recovery outcomes. Approach conversations calmly with curiosity and empathy, focusing on listening and keeping communication open rather

What Is Smiling Depression

What Is Smiling Depression? Hidden Struggles in Teens

March 25, 2026

Depression affects about 4% of people worldwide, nearly around 332 million people.[source] But it is not always easy to spot. In adolescents, depression can show up in ways that are easy to miss.   Some teens hide their emotional pain behind