FAQs
What is somatic trauma therapy?
Somatic trauma therapy focuses on how trauma is stored not just in thoughts and memories, but in the body and nervous system. Instead of focusing only on what happened, we pay attention to body sensations, movement, breathing, and physical responses to help the body feel safe again. Often we don't even need to talk about what happened; we just focus on how you feel now in your body and what trauma symptoms are bothering you.
How is this different from regular talk therapy?
Talk therapy mainly works with thoughts and emotions. Somatic therapy includes those, but also works bottom-up—starting with the body. This can be helpful when trauma feels overwhelming, confusing, or hard to put into words.
Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
No. Somatic trauma therapy does not require retelling or reliving traumatic events. The focus is on present-moment sensations and building safety, not forcing memories.
What happens in a typical session?
Sessions might include:
Talking briefly about what’s coming up for you
Noticing body sensations (like tension or warmth)
Gentle grounding exercises
Slow movements or breathing
Learning to recognize signs of stress or calm in your body
Everything happens at your pace, and you’re always in control.
Will this make me feel worse before I feel better?
Somatic trauma therapy focuses on how trauma is stored not just in thoughts and memories, but in the body and nervous system. Instead of focusing only on what happened, we pay attention to body sensations, movement, breathing, and physical responses to help the body feel safe again. Often we don't even need to talk about what happened; we just focus on how you feel now in your body and what trauma symptoms are bothering you.
What if I feel disconnected or numb?
That’s very common with trauma. Somatic therapy is actually well-suited for numbness or dissociation because it gently helps reconnect awareness to the body without forcing emotions.
Is this evidence-based?
Yes! I'm a big fan of research and consider myself a neuroscience-informed therapist above all else. All my approaches, including Brainspotting, Equine-assisted Psychotherapy, and other trauma-responsive body-based methods, are supported by growing research on trauma and the nervous system.
How long does therapy last?
It varies. Some people come for a few sessions to work on a specific issue, while others continue longer, sometimes for years, for deeper or ongoing support. Progress is reviewed regularly. Research continually shows that the most important component of any therapy is the relationship between the therapist and their clients.
What is equine-assisted psychotherapy?
Equine-assisted psychotherapy is a form of therapy where clients work with a licensed mental health professional and one or more horses. The horses are part of the therapeutic process, helping people become aware of emotions, patterns, and reactions in real time.
How do horses help with therapy?
Horses are highly sensitive to body language, emotions, and nervous-system states. They respond honestly and immediately, which can help people notice things like boundaries, stress responses, confidence, and communication patterns.
What kinds of issues can equine-assisted psychotherapy help with?
It’s commonly used for:
Trauma and stress
Anxiety
Emotional regulation
Confidence and self-esteem
Relationship and communication challenges
Grief or major life changes
It can be especially helpful for people who struggle with talk-only therapy.