Somatic Therapy

Notice the connection between your body and your emotions

Stress and difficult feelings can show up as tension, restlessness or changes in breathing. You may notice these sensations before you can explain what you are feeling. Somatic therapy explores these responses alongside your thoughts, emotions and everyday experiences.

Somatic means relating to the body. This approach pays attention to bodily sensations as part of understanding your emotional experience. It brings awareness of the body into therapeutic conversation. Different somatic approaches use different methods; we can discuss what the approach involves and whether it fits your needs.

The HSE’s guide to understanding stress offers general information about stress and the body.

Flowing earth-toned illustration connecting a human form with a winding river and landscape.

What we might explore

Noticing how stress and emotions show up as physical sensations.
Exploring connections between bodily responses, feelings and situations in your life.
Recognising what helps you feel more settled and what feels manageable to explore.

What sessions may involve

We begin with what has brought you to counselling and what you want help with. As we talk, we may explore sensations you notice, such as tension or changes in breathing, and what they mean to you. Any proposed activity is explained first and based on your consent. You can pause, decline an exercise or ask to focus on talking.

For another perspective on the connections between thoughts, feelings and actions, you can read about CBT.

What if paying attention to my body feels uncomfortable?

Tell me. We can slow down, pause or focus on conversation. You do not have to force yourself to stay with a sensation or try an activity that does not feel manageable.

Ask about somatic therapy

Get in touch to discuss your concerns and whether this approach may suit you. I’m Alan Jones, a qualified counsellor. Learn more about me and my approach on the About Alan page.

Enquire about counselling Get to know Alan

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