Somatic Therapy
CALIFORNIA AND ONLINE
Somatic therapy is a nervous-system-centered approach to psychotherapy that is scientifically validated.
Somatic therapy heals dysfunctional patterns at the body-level by increasing awareness, self-regulation and emotional tolerance.
What is Somatic Therapy??
Somatic symptoms involve ongoing discomfort including:
Physical symptoms: migraines, chronic pain, chronic tension, fatigue, IBS, back pain, pelvic pain, CRPS, fibromyalgia, autoimmune syndromes, etc.
Mental and emotional symptoms: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, anger, reactivity, impulsivity, avoidance, addiction. self-doubt, eating disorders, etc.
There is a centralized process to these conditions that relates to defensive physiological patterning and activated states that have not yet experienced enough safety to process and unwind.
Somatic Experiencing is widely considered the oldest and largest training program that provides somatic therapy. It was developed by Dr. Peter Levine in the early 1970s based on the idea that the body keeps the score, i.e., psychological distress lives at a body level and that’s where it needs to be shifted.
“No matter how much insight and understanding we develop, the rational brain is basically impotent to talk the emotional brain out of its own reality.” - Bessel van der Kolk
Somatic work focuses on processing traumatic memories and widening the window of tolerance, or our capacity for feeling.
While somatic work can be challenging at times, when you heal at the body-level, it tends to stay healed. You create safety in the body which resolves symptoms and forms a foundation for post-traumatic growth.
How does Somatic Therapy really work?
Somatic therapy is famously hard to describe. You really have to experience it to fully get it. But learning is also an important part of healing, so let’s dive in!
Let’s start with the river of life metaphor. The water represents our internal state and the terrain represents external events. Our traumas are the boulders and cliffs that disrupt the flow and create turbulence. This turbulence refers to both the original emotional pain and the patterns we use to cope with it.
Importantly, the water can only settle once it reaches enough level ground. Somatic therapy provides this level ground, i.e. enough safety and containment to process the pain and its traumatic patternings.
Let’s say something overwhelming happens to you. Maybe a single event, like an accident, a medical crisis, or a loss. Or maybe it’s a thousand cuts from a childhood where safety and support were lacking or parents were consumed by their own anxieties and concerns.
Either way, whenever life threw more at you than you could handle, your brain was overwhelmed and filed away unprocessed raw sensory information for later integration.
This created what is known as a trauma vortex of triggering, unintegrated, unresolved, or “bottled-up” material. We all have this!
Unfortunately, that raw material doesn't just stay filed.
Something reminds you of it, and your body drops back into the survival physiology of the original traumatic event. This happens even though the event itself is long over and the body has technically "recovered."
As a result, at any time, your nervous system is always in one of three activation zones:
The Blue Zone, where we are within our window of tolerance, meaning we are calm, present, “dropped in”, at ease, creative and available for emotional connection. Our energy is flowing, our brain is fully online, and our digestion and immune functions are active. There are no deferred symptoms. We are processing information real-time and we feel alive and human.
The Red Zone, above the window, where too much energy is running through our system and we feel triggered, anxious, angry, tense, reactive, or stressed. If we stay in this zone too long, we deplete our resources and build up underground symptoms that we will only discover later.
The Grey Zone, below the window, where our system can’t fight back or flee and so shuts down to conserve energy. We feel numb, frozen, dissociated, withdrawn, powerless and exhausted. The deeper we go into this zone, the harder it can be to come out of it.
In our modern society, we don’t create the space for this triggering unprocessed material to integrate.
This leaves the nervous system stuck and dysregulated. The survival energy that should have discharged gets bound up in tension, bracing or shutdown. Our stress no longer clears and instead compounds as our allostatic load, or stress load.
You might feel this as a low hum of anxiety, a sense of "off-ness" or flatness, not feeling yourself, relentless rumination, guilt, shame, doubt, depression, exhaustion, obsession on a particular symptom, or actual physical pain.
We each have our own place where our system breaks down.
The thinking brain works overtime to try fix things, but really it just makes matters worse, not better. The overthinking is itself a symptom of the dysregulation that keeps you from healing.
The trouble lives at a deeper, embodied level, from which the mind is cut off.
So, what can be done?
Somatic therapy goes right to where the trouble still originates: the body. Through a gentle, guided awareness process, you gradually reconnect and integrate the difficult feelings that drive your symptoms.
You can think of it as interactive mindfulness, or better bodyfulness, with a second nervous system in the room to provide safety and support.
Each session we put another stitch between body and mind. We go at the speed your nervous system can handle, slowly rebuilding a solid foundation of self, connection and acceptance.
The work compounds as you become more connected to your emotions and source energy, which upgrades your responses and builds new positive feedback loops.
As painful body memories get processed and unburdened, the energetic charge drains out of them and your your window of tolerance, or range of feeling and behavior expands.
In a healed nervous system, new stress waves can rise, fall, and complete without disrupting you. You no longer need to fear your body or emotions and can deeply trust yourself.
You spend more time in the blue zone, and when you tip into the red or grey zones, you now notice it and have a way to come back into blue.
Best of all, story follows state, meaning the regulated state of your nervous system now leads to new stories of hope and optimism. This all happens naturally with little effort or force.
This is what we call self-regulation.
Beyond sessions are usually a 50/50 mix of somatic awareness work and regular talk therapy. This builds a relational container of safety and helps to contextualize and integrate what has surfaced from the body.
Before somatic work, talking may be used to lay a foundation of safety and shared understanding.
Following somatic work, talking may be used to cement important meanings and insights and to create a practical implementation plan to bring the work into daily life.
Key principles of Somatic Therapy:
Titration: Trauma is processed emotional pain in manageable doses, a pace that is comfortable for the client and prevents retraumatization.
Pendulation: Clients learn to move from activation and distress through to deactivation, discharge, and relaxation.
Completion: Traumatic experiences that were once interrupted or unprocessed can be revisited and brought to a natural resolution, freeing the mind and body from their lingering effects.
Meet Peter Levine, founder of Somatic Experiencing
Peter Levine demonstrating Somatic Experiencing with Ray, a veteran who experienced combat trauma.
FAQs
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Somatic therapy works from the position that the body keeps the score. Like thinking, talking can circle endlessly without shifting underlying patterns. Somatic Therapy slows things down and surfaces information that the deeper nervous system is trying to communicate. This information comes in the form of pain and sensation, emotions, anxiety and energetic shifts, body language, facial expressions, tensions, bracing patterns, and micro changes in breathing, heart rate and other physiological markers. With a good somatic therapist, you feel deeply felt and attuned to and absent parts of the nervous system come online. It can feel like coming back to life or getting your bounce back or being high on life. Often the work is slow, meditative, and uncomfortable at first, but the changes are undeniable and soon your body looks forward to it.
We usually provide a mix of both talk and somatic therapy and find that they complement and support each other. Often the talk therapy contextualizes and maps out your situation and allows you to feel deeply understood. Then at the right point, somatic work helps to shift and transform your nervous system to reach a new more vital, secure, and resilient equilibrium. This transformation in turn feeds back into talk therapy, where new insights and new meanings emerge.
Book a free consult, and we can discuss your situation.
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Yes! Here is a summary of the research on Somatic Experiencing.
"An RCT conducted by Brom and colleagues (2017) indicated that after participating in 15 weekly sessions of SE®, participants reported a significant decrease in the severity of PTSD symptoms and depression."
And here is a metastudy of the research on EMDR.
"Twenty-four randomized controlled trials support the positive effects of EMDR therapy in the treatment of emotional trauma and other adverse life experiences relevant to clinical practice. Seven of 10 studies reported EMDR therapy to be more rapid and/or more effective than trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. Twelve randomized studies of the eye movement component noted rapid decreases in negative emotions and/or vividness of disturbing images, with an additional 8 reporting a variety of other memory effects. Numerous other evaluations document that EMDR therapy provides relief from a variety of somatic complaints."
And here is a summary of the research on IFS.
“As a clinical treatment, IFS has been rated effective for improving general functioning and well-being. In addition, it has been rated promising for each of: improving phobia, panic, and generalized anxiety disorders and symptoms; physical health conditions and symptoms; personal resilience/self-concept; and depression and depressive symptoms.”
“The longitudinal randomized clinical study, which involved 70- some patients in an IFS treatment during 36 weeks with periodic follow-ups including 12 months post- intervention, was published in August 2013 in the peer-reviewed Journal of Rheumatology.”
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Sometimes we just need a little nudge to get onto a better track and we're not that far off coping a lot better and flowing with life. In that case, 6 - 12 sessions may be enough to gain a new piece of insight, have a different experience, and apply this to living in a different way and shifting things onto a better track. Often in these cases, clients find therapy so helpful and enjoyable that they continue even after they've resolved what they came for.
Other times, due to life adversity, we have become very set in our ways and our personality structure now blocks what we desire most (love, success, happiness, etc). In these cases we may need to work from 6 months to several years to make a fundamental shift in order to turn things around. In these cases, the work usually takes longer than we would like, but the change is more significant than we anticipate. The benefits from long term work reach into every area of life and compound over the years that follow.
Book a free consult, and we can discuss your situation
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We think the gold standard for somatic-focused work has to be in-person, given the greater amount of information available and the increased potential for somatic resonance and micro-attunements.
That said, a surprising amount is conveyed through the screen. We have seen many telehealth somatic sessions get to a deeply transformational space. Virtual sessions are also more convenient and it's easier to maintain a weekly rhythm, which counts for a lot. We do like it when virtual clients are able to come in occasionally for an in-person session. The connection seems to carry over to on-screen work. We would say try whatever works best for your schedule and see how you find it.
You're welcome to call and do a free consultation to discuss your situation.
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Some part of you must disagree or you wouldn't be here reading about therapy! That part just needs more support. We become the champion of that part of you that wants things to be a lot better. We've seen many times how getting into the rhythm of therapy and putting an action-reflection loop into place is absolutely transformational. Perhaps the conditions have not been conducive until now. Perhaps the voices of doubt and judgment have just been a little too strong. Perhaps everything you've done up to this point can become the foundation and launchpad for finally breaking through. There's only one way to find out.
Book a free consult, and we can discuss your situation. There is no ongoing commitment and we'll be honest about what we think could be possible for you.
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We offer a range of fees based on clinician and modality. You can see our fee ranges here. Our fees are competitive against many private practices in California, particularly for somatic offerings. Many of our clinicians have a few sliding scale spots that can lower the fee somewhat in cases of financial need.
If you need a substantially reduced fee, we can recommend low-fee training clinics such as Maple Counseling Center, Antioch University Counseling Center, Southern California Counseling Center, Valley Community Counseling Clinic, Airport Marina Counseling Center, or Counseling West. These can be great options to get started. The main issue tends to be therapist turnover, as therapists complete their training and move into private practice. There is also a high variance between therapists, so you may need to go through several before you find a good fit and then you may lose them after several months. There can also be long waitlists depending on the time of year.
If you would like to discuss your situation and what you can afford at this time, please schedule a free consultation.
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Yes, we accept insurance as an out-of-network provider for all PPO plans, including: Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Blue Card, HealthNet, United Healthcare, Cigna, Optum, Magellan, Value Plus and many others, depending on your coverage. We are not in-network or included within HMO plans for any providers.
With PPO, you pay the full fee upfront and your insurance company reimburses you directly.
Beyond can call your insurance on your behalf in order to find out what your coverage would be.
If you schedule a free consult, we can discuss how this would work and any other questions you have about insurance.
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We have a matching process where you first do a free consultation with an intake coordinator. The coordinator listens to your story, provides some information, and helps to select the best therapist for you. You then get another free consultation with the therapist you select.
Match is based on personality, location, in person or virtual and the approach best suited to your issue. All of our therapists have a foundation in somatic and depth psychologies. Likely you will connect with one more than the others.
We look forward to hearing from you. Book a free consultation now!
Hear what clients are saying
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Christina, Data Analyst, San Francisco
“From our first session I felt that we uncovered the root of my issues and that I was in good hands. Over the next year, I transformed completely. I went from having chronic pain that prevented me from continuing my career, to now entering that career path again. Look no further!”
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David, Somatic Therapist, Kent
“My coach is a highly attuned listener, and processor. The way he holds 'space' is a splendid mix of wisdom, learning, guiding (to the outer edges of the comfort zone, and a little beyond) and support. He helps to shift my awareness and perspective in the most profound way. “
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Declan, Software Engineer, London
“I've made actual progress rather than being stuck. Sor far, it’s the only therapist or coach I've had who's been able to talk about literature and art and all of the beautiful things that make up this world in a way that feels genuine. Our work has been very iterative and incremental. I got something in every session.”
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Devon, Jewelry Designer, San Francisco
“My therapist is very open and very kind. He's really perceptive and good at listening and honoring where a person is at or what they're feeling and what they might need in that moment. He makes people feel comfortable and safe and fosters a space that felt open and comfortable.”
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Faisal, Incoming MD Candidate, DC
“My therapist was instrumental to my growth and coming of age in college, and he has continued to follow-up with me ever since. This is not a business for him. This is his life's calling, and you can feel it. Our sessions have been transformative and lasting.“
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Jacob, Scientist, Boston
“I found my coach engaging and curious. He's very unique and he's up to something, I think good! I feel less isolated and more heart-open and connected. I can really see myself in others. I am more in tune now, not just with people but also with animals and trees.”
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James, Creative Director, Grand Rapids
“I'm better equipped to handle circumstances and better see how things work. Techniques are sticking. If you look at my brain before we started the work and now, I think there are some new neural pathways, and others that are less entrenched. Our relationship has made a big difference in my life.“
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Jorge, Psychology Student, LA
“I met my therapist on a whim at one of the lowest points of my life and have since reached heights of peace, stability and self-advocacy I didn't think possible. Through Beyond, I’ve changed in resounding and permanent ways. I'm ever grateful and can't recommend the care I've received enough.”
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Joshua Horsley, Podcaster, Reno
“Beyond has made a huge impact in my life. I instantly connected with my coach and I look forward to our weekly sessions. Now, when I’m stuck or ruminating I often think “what would my coach say to me?” and it really helps me tackle problems on my own. Highly, highly, recommend Beyond!”
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Kim, London
“I find my coach to be a really calming and non-judgmental presence. He is very present for you when you're in a session, which I think is really important. I found it really useful and enriching to have more frameworks with which to understand myself and other people.”
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Kirby, Meditation Teacher, Vancouver
“Beyond is doing such significant and special work in the world that it is difficult to tame into words. My coach has the rare ability to walk with you down the darker trails of your psyche with warmth. He holds safe and generous space. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
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Kris, Documentary Filmmaker, LA
“I’m a huge fan of Steven and the team at Beyond Psychology! I had a super illuminating and impactful experience. It helped unlock some personal insights and healing that had otherwise been hard to access. I would definitely recommend working with them, and personally hope to do so again in the future!”
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Kuljit, Leadership Coach, DC
“I’ll be bold and say the modalities don’t matter as much as my coach’s presence. His calm and connected way of being facilitated my awareness and processing. It amplified my sense of safety and served as a mirror to reflect what was emerging within me. This allowed me to be more embodied in my experiences, which was the next step in my healing journey.”
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Kyle, Actor, Bay Area
“My therapist at Beyond is amazing, it’s been really easy for me to talk out my thoughts and have assistance whenever I’ve been in a rough patch or whenever I’ve just been unsure of what to do or what steps to take with a situation. He is also very fun to talk to and very funny!”
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Lisa, Psychologist and Researcher, Gothenburg
“My coach at Beyond is genuinely sincere and perceptive, and his deep passion for healing work is palpable. From our very first encounter, I sensed his non-judgmental nature. I wholeheartedly recommend working with him, as it has been an immensely positive experience.”
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Osiris, Yoga Therapist, LA
“I feel like I've made real progress in my healing journey. I'm so grateful to have found someone like my Beyond coach. I highly recommend Beyond to anyone who is struggling with stress, anxiety, or other nervous system issues. Thank you for all that you do!”
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Paula, Ocean Scientist, Honolulu
“My Beyond coach is deeply knowledgeable and passionate. His holistic and creative approach resonated with me and not only opened new ways of understanding, seeing and experiencing myself but also sparked my own creativity. I could relax into myself and feel connection with others without feeling judged.“
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Raquel, Personal Assistant, LA
“I had such a sense of holding, safety and support that let me feel comfortable, seen and held.. My words for him are: safe, connecting, caring, and understanding. I feel grateful now and that I'm still growing and discovering different parts of me. I now have some real tools in case I hit potholes out in the world.”
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Tom, Senior Product Manager, London
“My coach is really friendly and creates an open environment where it’s really easy to talk. I'm super grateful for all the work that I’ve done with him and can’t rate him highly enough. I definitely could not be where I am now without him. Thank you!”
Beyond practitioners
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Steven Bradshaw
PSYCHOTHERAPIST, FOUNDER
Somatic, EMDR, IFS,
Founder CoachingWest LA, Online
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Angie Bradshaw
PSYCHOTHERAPIST, FOUNDER
Somatic, EMDR, IFS, CPTSD, Highly Sensitive Person
West LA, Online
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Natalie Baker
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Somatic, EMDR, IFS, Parenting, Health & Survivorship
West LA, Beverly Hills, Online
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Stephanie Rotuno
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Somatic, EMDR, IFS, Brainspotting, Highly Sensitive People
West LA, Online
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Flavia MacMenamin
PSYCHOTHERAPIST ASSOCIATE
Somatic, IFS, Couples (EFT), Parenting, Depth Psychology
West LA, Online
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Matt van Onselen
PSYCHOTHERAPIST ASSOCIATE
Somatic, IFS, Jungian, Mindfulness
Los Feliz, Studio City, Online
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Megan McAllister
PSYCHOTHERAPIST ASSOCIATE
Somatic,
Attachment-Focused EMDRWest Los Angeles, Online
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Ulika Scout
PSYCHOTHERAPIST ASSOCIATE
Somatic, EMDR, Parts-Informed Psychotherapy
San Francisco, Online
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Sarah Dunn
PSYCHOTHERAPIST ASSOCIATE
Somatic, IFS, ADHD & Autism, Health Conditions
West LA, Studio City, Online
Embark on your healing journey
Contact us today to learn more about how Somatic Therapy can help you find true relief. We can answer your questions and support you as you take your first steps toward a more balanced and vibrant life.