Unlocking Healing: What is Somatic Trauma Therapy and Its Benefits

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.

what is somatic trauma therapy

Unlocking the Pathway to Recovery: Decoding Somatic Trauma Therapy and Its Advantages

Demystifying Somatic Trauma Therapy: Unleashing Healing and Empowerment

This article journey will take us along the pathway of understanding somatic trauma therapy. Answering the prime question: What is somatic trauma therapy? We will delve into its workings, the benefits, and how it can be a factor of transformation for those grappling with trauma.

Aura Institute is committed to shedding light on trauma therapy techniques and benefiting both individuals seeking to manage their mental health and those desiring to equip themselves as mental health professionals.

Key Points

  • Understanding Somatic Trauma Therapy
  • Science and Mechanism of Somatic Trauma Therapy
  • Benefits of Somatic Trauma Therapy
  • Training and Certification
  • FAQs about Somatic Trauma Therapy

Understanding Somatic Trauma Therapy

So what is somatic trauma therapy? In essence, somatic trauma therapy is a body-oriented approach to unraveling and healing trauma. It is based on the understanding that trauma is not just stored in our minds but also in our bodies. This form of therapy incorporates bodywork to unlock the stories our bodies hold, facilitating healing from within.

Science and Mechanism of Somatic Trauma Therapy

Different theories and techniques underpin somatic trauma therapy, but most hinge on the understanding of the nervous system’s role in experiencing and storing trauma. When confronted with traumatic incidents, our bodies react- we either fight, flight or freeze.

These physiological responses, when not processed or discharged properly, get ‘stuck’ in our bodies leading to various forms of mental and physical distress. Somatic trauma therapy helps in releasing these stuck trauma responses, allowing the nervous system to return to its natural state.

"Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence." - Peter A. Levine, Founder of Somatic Experiencing.

Benefits of Somatic Trauma Therapy

Somatic trauma therapy can serve as a non-verbal pathway to exploring the trauma experience, while simultaneously building resilience and restoring balance to lives that have been overshadowed by past traumatic experiences.

  1. Physical Release: Therapy sessions can lead to a physical release, often seen as reduced muscle tension and improved overall body awareness.
  2. Emotional Release: Through embodied techniques, hidden emotions often surface, leading to increased emotional intelligence and better stress management.
  3. Empowerment: As somatic therapy unravels the stories your body holds, it often yields a sense of empowerment, control and increased self-esteem.
  4. Better Interpersonal Relationships: By improving emotional intelligence and stress management, relationships tend to improve.

Training and Certification

For those seeking to empower others through somatic trauma therapy, we offer comprehensive training and hands-on learning experiences. Find out more about our somatic trauma therapy certification program.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What does a typical session look like?A: Each therapy session is unique but usually combines talking therapy and bodywork. The therapist may follow up with sensory or movement exercises.

Q: Who can benefit from Somatic Trauma Therapy?A: Anyone who’s experienced trauma, stress or emotional challenges can benefit from this approach. It’s especially beneficial for individuals with experiences of shock trauma or persistent stress.

Q: Can I practice somatic trauma therapy on my own?A: While certain techniques can be used for self-care, initial guidance from a certified professional is recommended to ensure safe practice.

Q: How can I become a somatic trauma therapy practitioner?A: Aura Institute offers somatic trauma therapy training which comprises advanced courses designed by industry experts.


The path to understanding and overcoming trauma is personal and unique to each individual. Understanding "what is somatic trauma therapy?" is the first step on this journey. Empower yourself and others with the knowledge of this healing modality.

Aura Institute is here to support you on this path. You can browse our library of mental health resources or contact us to learn more about somatic trauma therapy and how it can benefit you.



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.

Previous
Previous

Unveiling the Power of Somatic Work: A Trauma-Informed Approach for Education and Training

Next
Next

The Ultimate Holotropic Breathwork Guide: Everything You Need to Know