what is somatic therapy?

Somatic therapy is a body-based approach to psychotherapy that recognizes the connection between the nervous system, trauma, emotions, and physical symptoms. The word somatic comes from the Greek word sōma, meaning “body.”

In somatic, polyvagal-informed, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, we work with physical sensations, breath, and nervous system regulation alongside talk therapy. This approach is especially helpful for anxiety, trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, stress-related symptoms, and relational patterns that feel stuck in the body.

Rather than analyzing experiences from a distance, somatic therapy supports you in gently noticing and integrating what is held in the nervous system.

How is somatic therapy different from traditional talk therapy?

Traditional talk therapy primarily works through language, reflection, and insight. While this can be deeply valuable, some patterns–especially those rooted in trauma, chronic stress, attachment wounds, or chronic pain–also live in the body.

Somatic psychotherapy integrates conversation with real-time awareness of breath, sensation, movement, and nervous system responses. By working with both cognitive insight and embodied experience, we support more sustainable regulation and integration.

Many clients seek this approach after finding that talk therapy alone did not fully resolve anxiety, trauma responses, or relational reactivity.

do you accept insurance?

I currently accept California-based insurance plans through Aetna, Cigna, and Optum for psychotherapy sessions.

For out-of-network plans, I partner with Mentaya to help streamline reimbursement and submit superbills on your behalf. Because coverage varies by plan, I encourage you to confirm your specific benefits before beginning.

I also offer a limited number of sliding scale spots (currently full as of February 2026).

do you offer longer sessions?

Yes. I offer both 60-minute and 75-minute sessions. Extended sessions can be especially helpful for trauma processing, chronic pain work, or deeper somatic integration where a slower pace supports nervous system regulation.

Have another question not listed here?

I welcome all of your questions and curiosities. Reach out or book a free 25-minute consultation here!