Somatic Psychotherapy
Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology | Menai and Sutherland Shire
Somatic Psychotherapy is an evidence based, body-oriented approach that recognises the connection between the mind and body in shaping our emotional experiences and behavioural responses. At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in the Sutherland Shire, our clinicians draw on Somatic Psychotherapy to support clients to safely reconnect with their bodies.
Emotional experiences, particularly those related to trauma or chronic stress, are not only stored in our memories but also in our nervous system. Somatic Psychotherapy acknowledges that the body can carry the imprint of unresolved stress, grief, or fear, manifesting in symptoms such as muscle tension, dissociation, chronic fatigue, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm. Rather than focusing solely on cognitive insight, this approach uses techniques that work directly with the body to support healing.
Clients are guided to build awareness of internal physical cues through practices such as breathwork, grounding, gentle movement, and the tracking of bodily sensations. This process can help release tension, regulate emotional states, and restore a greater sense of safety, agency, and integration. Somatic work can also support individuals to better understand how past experiences continue to influence present-day reactions and relationships.
Somatic Psychotherapy may be especially beneficial for individuals living with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, or chronic pain related to emotional distress. It is also used to support grief processing, emotional regulation, and recovery from relational trauma. By integrating body-based awareness with therapeutic dialogue, clients can develop more adaptive responses and strengthen their capacity to manage emotional challenges.
At Evolving Minds and Psychology, our clinicians are trained in trauma-informed somatic practices and provide a compassionate, client-centred environment that supports safe exploration and healing.
Somatic Psychotherapy may be integrated with other evidence-based treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), or Schema Therapy, depending on the person's needs.
Contact Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology on 02 8519 4197 or click the button below to request an appointment.