Unlock Your Potential: How to Become a Somatic Therapist in 2021

Welcome to the Aura Institute, where we offer advanced trauma-informed training so that you can have the tools to transform the lives of those affected by trauma.

Our curriculum is accredited for continuing education by prestigious organizations like the APA and Board of Nurses, ensuring practitioners receive top-notch training and credentials.

Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.

H2: Embrace Your Healing Power: A Comprehensive Guide on Becoming a Somatic Therapist in 2021

In this definitive guide, we will explore the fascinating field of somatic therapy, discuss the primary steps on how to become a somatic therapist, and provide valuable insights into this rewarding career. You will find key information helpful whether you are a student researching possible career paths or a professional considering a career shift into mental health field.

Key Points Covered:

1. Understanding Somatic Therapy
2. The Journey of Becoming a Somatic Therapist
3. The Role of a Somatic Therapist
4. Necessary Skills and Qualifications
5. Career Opportunities in Somatic Therapy
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Introduction: Discovering Somatic Therapy

The field of mental health continues to evolve, broadening our understanding of how the mind and body connection impacts our overall health. Somatic therapy is a therapeutic approach that integrates the mind-body connection to help individuals heal from trauma and related mental health conditions. So, you might ask, how to become a somatic therapist?

Somatic therapy is a holistic approach that believes physical symptoms can originate from emotional distress. This groundbreaking therapy is becoming increasingly popular as it helps individuals interpret and manage physical manifestations of emotional distress.

Journey to Becoming a Somatic Therapist

Becoming a licensed somatic therapist involves detailed academic and practical training in psychotherapy and bodywork.

Here are the major steps involved:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: You should start by acquiring a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work or a related field.
2. Acquire a Master's Degree: After your BA, you'll need a master's degree in counseling or psychology, where you'll deepen your knowledge in somatic theory and practice.
3. Complete Supervised Clinical Hours: Postgraduate clinical hours under supervision form a crucial part of training.
4. Earn Certification: Once your degree and hands-on work are complete, pursue professional therapy licenses, and complete a certification program in Somatic Therapy.

The Role of a Somatic Therapist

A somatic therapist’s duties involve guiding individuals through body-centered therapies to enhance self-awareness and connection between the mind and the body. They also provide emotional support, helping patients to recover from trauma and stress-related conditions.

Somatic Therapists work closely with patients, helping them extensively in managing physical discomforts that stem from emotional stress.

Necessary Skills and Qualifications

Somatic therapists should have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. Empathy, patience, and the ability to build trust with patients are as important as an academic degree. A strong understanding of psychotherapy, physiology, and other somatic techniques form crucial parts of a somatic therapist's training.

Career Opportunities in Somatic Therapy

Career opportunities for somatic therapists are vast and varied. They can work in an array of settings, including private practices, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and mental health clinics. They might also choose to specialize in one or several somatic therapy techniques to enhance their practice.

FAQs on Becoming a Somatic Therapist

1. What are some popular somatic therapy techniques?Popular techniques include sensory awareness, grounding, and the Alexander technique, among others.

2. How long does it take to become a Somatic Therapist?Becoming a somatic therapist typically takes about six to eight years, including undergraduate study, postgraduate study, and supervised clinical hours.

3. What is the average salary for Somatic Therapists?According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, therapists, including somatic therapists, made a median annual wage of $46,240 as of May 2019, though this can vary depending on locale and specialties.

As you can see, becoming a somatic therapist requires a blend of academic study, hands-on training and personal development. However, for those with a passion for mental health and the desire to help others, the journey is one of continuous learning and immense personal reward.

Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.