5 Common Myths About Somatic Psychotherapy

From A Licensed Therapist in Fort Collins, Colorado

I often hear the same misconceptions about somatic psychotherapy, and I want to clear them up so you can see how body-based therapy might fit into your mental health journey.

Myth 1: Somatic therapy means I’ll have to be touched

Truth: Somatic psychotherapy is an experiential therapy that focuses on bodily sensations, nervous system regulation, and emotional processing. Hands-on techniques are almost never used in session. For example, you might notice tension in your neck and learn that taking a deep breath and relaxing your shoulders can help reduce stress, or you might learn that after an especially triggering day it feels good to invite shaking in your muscles, all without anyone needing to physically touch you.

Myth 2: Somatic therapy is only for trauma survivors

Truth: While somatic therapy is highly effective for trauma, it also supports stress management, anxiety, depression, burnout, and emotional regulation. Anyone looking to strengthen the mind-body connection can benefit.

Myth 3: You don’t need to talk in somatic therapy

Truth: In my practice somatic therapy complements talk therapy -it’s not a replacement. In session, we often reflect on thoughts, feelings, and experiences while noticing bodily sensations. This integration of mind and body is what makes somatic work powerful.

Myth 4: Somatic therapy is “woo-woo” or unscientific

Truth: Somatic psychotherapy is supported by research in neurobiology, autonomic nervous system regulation, and trauma-informed clinical practice. At the same time, this approach has deep roots in indigenous and traditional healing practices, where body-based awareness has been central for centuries. Somatic therapy is not a recent invention; it is a time-honored practice that western mental health care increasingly integrates alongside cognitive and relational therapies. Acknowledging this history honors the lineage of the work while applying it in evidence-informed ways today.

Myth 5: Somatic therapy will make me relive my trauma

Truth: My job as a therapist is to guide clients safely and gradually. The work focuses on noticing sensations and regulating the nervous system, not forcing painful memories. Somatic practices can also support other trauma treatments—for example, after an EMDR session, we might practice gentle body movements to bring steadiness and grounding back to the nervous system.

Learn More About Somatic Therapy in Fort Collins, Colorado

If you’re curious about how somatic psychotherapy can support your mental health, I invite you to schedule a consultation call. We’ll discuss your goals, answer questions, and determine whether this integrative, evidence-informed approach is right for you.

Schedule a consultation call today to begin exploring mind-body healing with me.