Somatic Parts Work

An integrative approach that combines body-based awareness with parts work to help individuals heal trauma, release tension, and reconnect with their inner self.

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Somatic Trauma Therapy

A body-based therapeutic approach that helps individuals release tension, regulate the nervous system, and heal trauma through mindful awareness and movement.

Best for

Trauma, PTSD, dissociation, anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, attachment wounds.

Session format

Individual or Group · In person or Virtual.

Typical cadence

Weekly · Session length: 50–75 minutes.

Duration

Varies · Short-term (10–15 sessions) or longer for complex trauma.

Often combined with

Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, mindfulness.

Evidence base

Draws from somatic psychology, IFS, and trauma-informed practices with growing clinical use.

What Is Somatic Parts Work?

Somatic Parts Work blends body-based practices with parts-oriented therapy (like Internal Family Systems). It acknowledges that trauma and emotions live both in the body and
within distinct inner “parts” of the self.

This approach helps clients:

Body Awareness

Recognize where parts “live” in the body

Emotional Expression

Express unspoken emotions through movement or sensation

Creating Safety

Create safety for vulnerable parts to heal

Self-Compassion

Build self-compassion and inner harmony

How Somatic Parts Work Helps in Recovery

Healing through body awareness, self-compassion, and inner connection.

Supports trauma healing

Releases memories and emotions stored in body-based parts

Reduces dissociation

Helps clients stay present while engaging with protective or wounded parts

Strengthens self-compassion

The body becomes a pathway for connecting with the Self

Integrates mind and body

Creates alignment between inner parts and physical awareness

What to Expect in Each Format

Somatic Parts Work is experiential and collaborative. A session may include:

Body awareness scans

Locating sensations tied to specific emotions or parts.

Mindful inquiry

Inviting parts to express themselves through sensations, images, or words

Dialogue with parts

Creating space for protective and vulnerable parts to be heard

Integration

Strengthening the compassionate Self as leader and healer

Who Benefits from Somatic Parts Work?

For Individuals Seeking Deeper Balance and Inner Understanding

Somatic Parts Work supports people who feel pulled in different emotional directions or who want to understand the deeper layers of their internal world. This approach helps individuals build harmony between conflicting parts, reduce overwhelm, and reconnect with a grounded sense of self.

Trauma Survivors

Survivors of abuse, neglect, or trauma

PTSD, Anxiety & Depression

Individuals with PTSD, anxiety, or depression

Dissociation & Fragmentation

People struggling with dissociation or feeling fragmented

Relationship Wounds

Those with attachment wounds or relational difficulties

Body-Centered Healing

Anyone seeking a compassionate, body-centered approach to healing

Why TruPaths Highlights Somatic Parts Work

A Compassionate Approach to Reconnecting with Every Part of the Self

TruPaths highlights Somatic Parts Work because it bridges the wisdom of the body with the healing of inner parts. For many, it provides a powerful way to address trauma, reduce inner conflict, and build self-trust.

FAQs about Somatic Parts Work

Is this the same as IFS?

It is inspired by IFS but integrates body awareness and somatic practices.

How is this different from Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Parts Work includes body awareness and gentle dialogue with inner parts, while Somatic Experiencing focuses mainly on nervous system regulation.

Do I have to relive my trauma?

No—healing happens through present-moment awareness, not by re-experiencing painful memories.

Is it covered by insurance?

Coverage depends on your provider’s credentials and insurance policies; many sessions are self-pay.

Is this good for dissociation?

Yes, it can help you gently reconnect with your body and parts at a safe, comfortable pace.

Is touch involved in Somatic Parts Work?

Somatic Parts Work generally does not involve touch. The work focuses on internal experience, body awareness, and dialogue with parts. If touch is ever used, it is rare, optional, and only done with clear consent and professional boundaries.

Find Recovery Options Offering Somatic Parts Work

Every part of you deserves healing. Somatic Parts Work helps people reconnect with their bodies, integrate inner parts, and build compassionate self-leadership.

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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.