Somatic therapy is a holistic approach to psychotherapy that emphasizes the connection between the mind and body. It focuses on how psychological trauma, stress, and emotions are stored and experienced in the body, and it uses body-centered techniques to promote healing and self-awareness.

Key Aspects of Somatic Therapy:

1. Mind-Body Connection

   • Recognizes that mental and emotional experiences can manifest as physical sensations, tension, or discomfort in the body.

   • Aims to release stored trauma and improve overall well-being by addressing both physical and emotional aspects of the self.

2. Techniques Used in Somatic Therapy

   • Body Awareness: Encourages clients to notice physical sensations and their connection to emotions.

   • Breathwork: Uses controlled breathing to help regulate the nervous system and release tension.

   • Movement and Posture: Involves guided movements or adjustments in posture to release stress or trauma.

   • Touch Therapy (in some cases): May include gentle physical touch to assist in releasing physical or emotional tension (always with informed consent).

   • Visualization: Helps clients imagine a sense of safety, healing, or resolution to process emotions.

3. Goals of Somatic Therapy

   • Alleviate the physical and emotional effects of trauma.

   • Enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation.

   • Promote a sense of safety, grounding, and integration between mind and body.

Common Applications:

• Trauma Recovery: Helps individuals recover from PTSD or other trauma-related disorders by addressing how trauma impacts the body.

• Anxiety and Stress: Supports regulation of the nervous system to reduce chronic stress or anxiety.

• Chronic Pain: Assists in understanding and relieving pain that may be exacerbated by emotional factors.

• Depression: Encourages reconnection with bodily sensations to support emotional healing.

Somatic therapy is often used as a standalone treatment or integrated with other therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, or mindfulness practices. It’s particularly effective for those who feel disconnected from their bodies or who experience physical symptoms alongside emotional distress.

Somatic Therapy Includes:

• Energy Medicine

• Crystal Work and Metaphysical Products

• Supplements and Herbs

• Meditation training

• EMDR

• Dance therapy

• Vibration Therapy

• Yoga

License no. 180.013175 - IL and 39004205A - IN

Usui lineage Master Reiki Practitioner

Bio

Erica has a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Governors State University. Erica has worked in the field of mental health and trauma since 2013, began as a licensed therapist in 2016, and is currently studying traditional holistic medicine. Erica specializes in trauma, anxiety, PTSD, Mindfulness, and holistic practices including Reiki, Crystal work, Shadow work, and somatic therapy. Erica is a Master Reiki Practitioner of Usui Reiki and identifies as a Black healer. Erica specializes in working with the LGBTQ+ , Poly/kink, and Wiccan/Spiritualist/Healer populations. When working with Erica, please note that this is not traditional therapy. There is a lot of physical and energetic movement and you will need to wear loose fitting clothing. For talk therapy, you will be paired with an additional therapist.

Erica helps to develop the programming for Obsidian Institute of Integrative Medicine, keeping it culturally relevant and trauma informed. Erica develops and presents the continuing education curriculum for mental health therapists in the state of Illinois.

Somatic therapy is covered by insurance.