How Somatic Therapy Can Help Treat Addiction

If you’ve ever felt so nervous that your stomach ached, you’re familiar with the mind-body connection. One treatment that taps into this connection is somatic (or body-and-movement–based) therapy, which can have mental health benefits. Dr Lauren Weinand says somatic therapy is helpful because it involves both body and mind. Here, she reveals how it can be used to treat addiction.

So, what is somatic therapy?

Also called somatic experiencing therapy, it’s an integrative body-focused therapy that uses techniques to heal mental and physical issues. It’s most often used to treat people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but it can also help with addiction, chronic pain, depression, and more. It might involve meditation, body movement, and a range of other techniques that stimulate both mind and body.

What happens during a session?

First you may explain some physical and mental issues you’re facing. Your therapist may watch your body language, note your responses, and ask about the sensations in your body as you recount a memory. Some therapists may alternate between discussing positive and negative memories to help you move between states of tension and calm. You might try breath work or meditation to ground you as well as physical techniques like dance, massage, and postures.

OK, how does somatic therapy help with addiction?

Somatic therapy creates better mind-body awareness so those with addictions can learn to recognise unhealthy thought patterns that may lead to cravings, substance use, or relapse. When a traumatic memory or a craving occurs, it helps to focus on how your body responds and what thoughts arise. Then you can use the methods of the therapy to ground yourself in the present, coming back out of the intrusive thought and into your body and your surroundings.

Does research show that it works?

Studies indicate that somatic therapy can reduce symptoms of physical and emotional discomfort for people with mental health concerns, specifically PTSD. Research has also found that it can be beneficial for refugee women and people suffering from chronic pain. Since somatic therapy is relatively new, its effects on those struggling with addiction are still being studied, but anecdotal evidence supports it as a treatment method.

How long does it take to see results?

This largely depends on the person. You might see an improvement after just one session, or it may take several weeks of therapy to feel a difference.

How can someone find a practitioner?

Because somatic therapy is popular among licensed clinical therapists, you can find a specialist in most Australian cities. Search for therapists near you and review their treatment areas of expertise. It’s best to choose one who is experienced in treating substance abuse.