How to Integrate Somatic Techniques into Your Existing Practice
Somatic psychotherapy techniques can be seamlessly woven into the therapy you’re already practicing. For clinicians with a mindfulness-based orientation, the transition to incorporating somatic tools is especially smooth, as both approaches emphasize awareness and presence.
The key is to involve clients in the process. Rather than prescribing techniques, frame them as collaborative experiments. Simple invitations such as “Would you like to try an experiment?” or “How about we try this exercise?” not only show respect but also help establish a mindset of curiosity and openness. In this way, somatic interventions become opportunities for clients to discover what resonates, what can be adjusted, and what truly supports their growth.
This experimental frame empowers clients by fostering both self-advocacy and self-awareness. It also ensures they feel safe, informed, and engaged. Always explain what an exercise involves before beginning, and follow up afterward to process the results together. When clients participate actively rather than being directed, they are more likely to integrate the insights and changes into their lives.
Collaboration is central. Encourage clients to adapt practices to fit their needs and preferences. Like a good scientist, track the starting point, suggest the experiment, and then explore what shifted. Most somatic techniques aim to heighten self-awareness and invite the client to recognize what they can do differently. Sustainable, long-term change often arises when clients discover these insights themselves.
A Simple Framework for Introducing Somatic Techniques in Sessions
- Suggest the exercise in clear, simple language.
- Gain the client’s buy-in by asking for permission to try something new.
- Guide them through the practice, offering safety and flexibility.
- Summarize the outcome by reflecting on what they noticed or experienced.
Sample Invitations You Can Use with Clients to Use Somatic Techniques
- “Would you like to try this exercise?”
- “How about we try this practice?”
- “Let’s find out if we can help you do _____ with this next experience.”
- “Are you interested in trying the following exploration?”
By integrating somatic techniques in this collaborative, experimental way, clinicians can support clients in reconnecting with their bodies, cultivating deeper self-awareness, and discovering change that feels both authentic and lasting.
Adapted from Somatic Psychotherapy Toolbox. Copyright © 2018 Manuela Mischke-Reeds, Somatic Psychotherapy Toolbox. All rights reserved.
Want practical tools you can start using right away? Download these free somatic worksheets to support your clients’ healing.
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Manuela Mischke-Reeds, MA, LMFT, CHT, is a somatic psychotherapist, international teacher of Somatic Psychology, author and consultant. She is the founder of Embodywise and co-director of Hakomi California. She trains and consults professionals in varied fields, including health professionals and business leaders. Her trainings in the United States, Australia, Germany, China and Israel bring together 25 years in-depth clinical practice and teaching. She integrates Hakomi Mindful somatic Psychotherapy, Somatic trauma therapies, embodied mindfulness practices and movement therapies.
Manuela is the founder of ISITTA trauma training. Her trauma teachings are grounded in an inside-out approach that utilizes the depth of the body’s innate healing capacity.
Manuela is the author of several books, including 125 Somatic Psychotherapy tools for Trauma and Stress (PESI 2018), 8 Keys to Practicing Mindfulness: Practical Strategies for Emotional Health and Well Being (W.W. Norton 2015). Visit Manuela’s website to find out more about her work: www.embodywise.com.
Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Manuela Mischke-Reeds is the founder of Embodywise and has an employment relationship with Embodylab. She receives compensation as a consultant and royalties as a published author. She receives a speaking honorarium, recording, and book royalties from PESI, Inc. She has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Manuel Mischke-Reeds has no relevant non-financial relationships.
