Somatic therapy is a holistic approach to mental health that revolves around the body.
Basically, it’s based on principles that establish a tight connection between the mind and body.
Its primary goal is to clear stress, trauma and even emotional pain.
Now, what is exposure therapy? While both terms are used interchangeably because they both
heal trauma, the truth is that you’ll find quite a few differences between them. All in all, this
article will clear out everything about somatic therapy, how it works and what you should
expect from it. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right approach for
your healing journey.
So, What Is Exposure Therapy?
Exposure therapy implies confronting all the memories responsible for traumas. Those who
get somatic therapy training will realize that there are a few differences between them. After
all, somatic therapy is mainly about body sensations that can regulate the nervous system. Both therapies are used interchangeably. And while they have different approaches, they can
also be used in a tight connection to help patients.
When it comes to somatic therapy, it goes beyond classic therapy that involves talking. It also
includes techniques like certain movements, breathing exercises and even mindfulness. It can
help against pain, PTSD and even anxiety or depression. These physical techniques are designed
to release stored tension and promote emotional healing.
The approach between these two different forms of therapy also varies. In somatic therapy,
specialists work from the bottom up. They check the body’s responses in order to find ways to
alter how the brain might process trauma.
Now, what is exposure therapy in terms of approach? It usually goes from the top down. It
addresses emotions, fears, traumas and thoughts directly.
Main Principles behind Somatic Therapy
Somatic therapy can embrace a few different forms, but at the end of the day, there are only a
few principles that define how it works.
First, the mind and body connection dominate everything. According to this principle, all sorts
of unresolved conflicts and traumas are trapped inside the body. They lead to physical issues if
not addressed, such as unpleasant sensations, tension and so on. This perspective empowers
individuals to trust their own bodily wisdom.
Second, the body is seen as a primary resource. While the body contains all the unresolved
issues and problems, it also hosts some solutions. It’s believed that the body is the pathway to
feeling better. Once a patient is able to access those experiences, they can also release them.
How Somatic Therapy Works
To succeed in somatic therapy, one must focus on sensations before anything else. A therapist
will guide the patients to notice all kinds of feelings and physical experiences. From muscular
tension to slight movements, all these things make the patient more aware of the surroundings.
Furthermore, breathing exercises are also included in the process.
Now, there are more types of techniques out there. In theory, patients will have to release and
regulate. Basically, they learn how to get rid of the negative energy and let it go. As for
regulation, they calm the nervous system down, but also process all kinds of responses to
different emotions.
Last, but not least, somatic therapy requires integration as well. It goes beyond classic talk
therapy, but that’s what it starts with. However, it also implements physical solutions, such as:
· Breathing exercises
· All kinds of gentle movements
· Mindfulness and awareness
· Body sensations
Integrating these practices into daily life can enhance the effects of therapy and promote long-
term healing.
Who’s Somatic Therapy For?
Somatic therapy is a more holistic alternative to classic talk therapy. It mainly relates to
thoughts, feelings and emotions, as well as traumas triggered by their negativity. It’s not for
everyone, but it can certainly help a few categories of people:
· Patients suffering from PTSD, regardless of the cause
· Anxiety and associated issues
· Depression and associated issues
· Chronic stress
· Chronic painful sensations
· Grief and other forms of emotional trauma
Anyone struggling with such issues will most likely benefit from somatic therapy if performed
by a professional, yet exposure therapy may also be useful in the process. It depends on what’s
more suitable for the patient.
What to Expect from Somatic Therapy
A first session will usually introduce you to the connection between the mind and body. You’ll
also learn more about different responses to the nervous system. Furthermore, since such
treatments are individualized, the patient will also share relevant history or issues from the
past.
Physical experiences will become more and more intense with every new session, so don’t be
surprised to experience warmth, boosts of energy or tingling sensations. As the tension comes
out, you’ll have your muscles twitching at times, let alone shaking sensations. These physical
responses are normal and part of the healing process.
However, as you go through such exercises, you’ll also feel much calmer and more grounded.
It’s a process that takes time, but as you become more aware of your body, you’ll realize how
easy it is to heal yourself.
Other things to expect from somatic therapy sessions include:
· Body awareness. You’ll feel sensations in a more recognizable manner.
· Grounding. You’ll feel like you’re grounded into the present, so the past can go.
· Tolerant. You’ll learn how to build tolerance by moving between calm and difficult
sensations.
· Guidance. Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with somatic therapy, everything is guided
by a professional, from deep breathing exercises to movements. Having a supportive
therapist can make a big difference in your comfort and progress.
On top of all these, you’ll also feel a nice connection between your body and mind.
In the end, what is somatic therapy? What is exposure therapy? While they can go hand in
hand, the truth is that each form of therapy is unique and offers a different approach, yet the
final goal is to stimulate a natural healing process.
