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Touch- or Body-Oriented Somatic Therapy

A trauma-informed approach that uses safe, therapeutic touch or guided bodywork to release tension, restore nervous system balance, and support emotional healing.

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Quick Overview

Best for

Trauma, PTSD, chronic stress, anxiety, dissociation, chronic pain, mind-body disconnection.

Session format

Individual · In person (hands-on work requires physical presence).

Typical cadence

Individual · In person (hands-on work requires physical presence).

Duration

Varies · Short-term (8-12 sessions) or ongoing for complex trauma.

Often combined with

Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, mindfulness, yoga therapy, EMDR.

Evidence base

Rooted in somatic psychology and trauma research; informed by pioneers like Peter Levine, Pat Ogden, and bodywork traditions.

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What Is Touch- or Body-Oriented Somatic Therapy?

Touch- or Body-Oriented Somatic Therapy integrates gentle, therapeutic touch and bodywork into trauma healing. Many trauma survivors store pain, fear, or emotional wounds in their bodies, leading to chronic tension, dysregulation, or disconnection.

This approach uses safe, consent-based touch (or guided self-touch) to:

How Touch- or Body-Oriented Somatic Therapy Helps in Recovery

Restores safety, connection, and balance

Release stored trauma

Release stored trauma

Unwinds patterns of tension and stress in the body

Restores safety

Restores safety

Helps clients feel at home in their own bodies again

Reduces dissociation

Reduces dissociation

Grounding through body awareness and contact

Supports resilience

Supports resilience

Encourages long-term nervous system stability and balance

What to Expect in Each Format

Sessions are consent-driven and client-led. They may include:

Grounding practices

Breathwork, guided awareness, or body scans.

Therapeutic touch

Light, safe connect to support nervous system regulation.

Release techniques

Gentle shaking, stretching, or body unwinding.

Integration

Reflection and grounding before ending the session.

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Who Benefits from This Therapy?

Helps those healing from trauma, stress, or disconnection

Trauma and Abuse Survivors

Trauma and Abuse Survivors

Survivors of trauma, abuse, or neglect

Chronic Stress and Anxiety Relief

Chronic Stress and Anxiety Relief

Individuals with chronic stress, PTSD, or anxiety

Overcoming Dissociation

Overcoming Dissociation

People with dissociation or difficulty feeling present

Chronic Pain and Psychosomatic Healing

Chronic Pain and Psychosomatic Healing

Those experiencing chronic pain or psychosomatic symptoms

Gentle Body-Based Healing

Gentle Body-Based Healing

Anyone seeking a gentle, body-based approach to healing

Why TruPaths Highlights Touch- or Body-Oriented Somatic Therapy

Encourages healing through touch and awareness

TruPaths highlights this approach because trauma often creates physical disconnection. For many, healing requires more than talk it requires more than talk it requires rebuilding trust in the body. Touch-based somatic therapy offers a safe, trauma-informed path to that reconnection.

FAQs about Somatic Yoga & Mindfulness

No. Sessions are designed for all levels, with a focus on healing, not performance.
Yes. Somatic Yoga helps improve body awareness release muscle tension, and calm the nervous system. Many people with chronic pain find relief as they learn to notice and gently change patterns of holding and stress that contribute to discomfort.
Absolutely. Somatic Yoga and Mindfulness practices are trauma-sensitive and can be safely adapted for individuals with a history of trauma. Sessions emphasize personal choice, grounding, and self-regulation, allowing participants to move at their own pace.
Generally, Somatic Yoga and Mindfulness classes are not covered by insurance, as they are considered wellness or complementary practices. However, some wellness programs, health savings accounts (HSAs), or integrative health centers may offer reimbursement option.
No. Somatic Yoga and Mindfulness are supportive practices that complement, but do not replace, therapy or medical treatment. They can enhance healing by helping you connect more deeply with your body and emotions while working alongside professional care.

Find Recovery Options Offering Somatic Yoga & Mindfulness

Healing can be gentle. Somatic Yoga & Mindfulness Approaches help people reconnect with their bodies, release trauma, and restore emotional balance through safe, mindful movement.

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About TruPath's Recommendations

Recommendations are based on your location and recovery needs, including the programs you've explored, the services you've saved, and the filters you've used. We use this information to highlight similar treatment options so you never miss a trusted path forward.