FAQs About Somatic Therapy San Francisco

Introduction: What is Somatic Therapy San Francisco?

Somatic therapy refers to any therapy that uses the body in a capacity to help heal the mind. Therapeutic modalities may include dance therapy, somatic experiencing, dynamic attachment repatterning . . ..to name a few. In San Francisco there is more interest in somatic therapy as people are looking for ways to heal besides traditional talk therapy.

1. How Does Somatic Therapy San Francisco Work?

By incorporating bodily sensations, including the ones that arise when we move, somatic therapy provides a way for us to process psychological trauma that stores in the body. Somatic therapists don’t just use counseling techniques: they used a variety of different techniques e.g. dance therapists analyze movements and provide suggestions for different ways to move that may help change movement patterns. These movement patterns, when changed, can change how a person feels and how they think.

2. Who Can Benefit from Somatic Therapy San Francisco?

Somatic therapy San Francisco can many individuals, including trauma survivors, those who feel disconnected from or uncomfortable in their bodies, or people who have anxiety and depression. Many people may find that just talking about the things that they are experiencing in their lives is not enough. Somatic therapy, whether is it is dance therapy, somatic experiencing, or dynamic attachment repatterning offers a different way to approach psychological health than talk therapy alone.

3. What to Expect in a Somatic Therapy San Francisco Session?

Clients typically call and receive a free 15 minute consultation to help the therapist find out what their goals are for therapy and if the potential client feels like the therapist is a good fit. This is also when the client and therapist decide what modality might work best. If a client chooses dance therapy, then the client and therapist would meet in person in a studio space. They would do a movement warm-up to music and then move on to the main theme of the session based on what the goals are. Towards the end of the session, the client and therapist verbally process together and make meaning of the movement that took place.

Before the initial session, the therapist asks questions to help understand what is important to the client. What identities are important to the client and must be considered when providing therapy? What has the client done previously to help cope with their situation? What have they tried and/or are open to trying? What other health care providers are involved in their care?

4. Why Choose Somatic Therapy San Francisco?

San Francisco is a city filled with many open-minded people who seek different solutions to problems, health conditions included. Since there are many mental health professionals who are innovative and seeking the newest and best ways to care for mental health.

5. How Do I Find a Somatic Therapist in San Francisco?

In a city full of options for somatic therapy providers, it may feel overwhelming to try and choose a qualified professional. There are several things to consider when picking a somatic therapist. The first is to find someone who is licensed mental health provider such as a licensed professional clinical counselor, licensed clinical social worker, or licensed marriage and family therapist. The second is to find a licensed mental health provider who also has training as a somatic therapist, whether that is dance therapy, somatic experiencing, dynamic attachment repatterning, or any other method. Makes sure to ask what specific trainings the therapist has taken and from whom.

Here are several directories of somatic therapists:

Board Certified Dance Therapists: https://www.adta.org/find-a-dmt#/

Dynamic Attachment Repatterning: https://traumasolutions.com/find-a-dare-practitioner-directory/

Conclusion: Is Somatic Therapy San Francisco Right for You

In short, there are many potential benefits of somatic therapy San Francisco for those seeking emotional healing including less stress, better emotional regulation, an increased awareness of your body and emotions, and feeling lighter and less burdened.

If you are ready to take the next step towards improving your mental health and learn more about somatic therapy, please email me at lisa@lisamanca.com.