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Somatic Therapy for Navigating Our Traumatic Times

by | Nov 20, 2024

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Somatic Therapy For Trauma | Tips from a Trauma Therapist

It’s become increasingly evident that we’re living through complex and difficult times. Many people are calling this “The Age of Polycrisis”, as we’re facing multiple, interconnected crises at once — the climate crisis, state violence and genocides happening around the world, and ongoing threats to democracy. We’re constantly taking in threatening messages and trauma in our communities and online.

In this context, many of us are experiencing significant disconnection from our minds and bodies. More than ever, people are seeking somatic therapy to better support their emotional regulation and resilience.

Somatic Therapy And The Window of Tolerance

Somatic therapy can be an invitation to get to know our bodies and nervous systems better. We learn to understand where our symptoms are coming from, and how to greet them with compassion and care.

One of the tools that supports fostering the mind-body connection is the concept of the Window of Tolerance (WoT). Developed in the 1990s by Dr. Dan Siegel, this model can help us understand how our emotional states and physiological responses are connected.

When we are within our Window of Tolerance, we are in a state of homeostasis. We’re capable of thoughtful decision-making and we’re able to be responsive, rather than reactive. Within this window, we may be experiencing a wide range of emotions, but we aren’t overwhelmed or dysregulated by them.

However, when faced with triggers—whether conscious or subconscious—we may slip outside our WoT. Our nervous system goes into survival

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mode, becoming “hyperaroused” or “hypoaroused.” We might find ourselves panicked or overwhelmed with anxiety, or dissociated and numb. Effective coping becomes challenging. As we survive polycrisis, chronic stress, and trauma, our WoT may shrink over time. This may look like an increase in emotional dysregulation, mental health symptoms, and disconnection from the body or chronic pain.
An image of the Window of Tolerance

Working with a somatic therapist, you can map your own Window of Tolerance and cultivate awareness of bodily sensations. A therapist can provide tailored tools to support your mind-body connection. In my own work, I take a dynamic approach, incorporating techniques like grounding exercises, mindfulness practices, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy to help individuals reconnect with their WoT. 

Ultimately, you’ll be empowered to navigate stressors and triggers with greater ease.

The aim isn’t merely to remain within this window, but to foster a sense of self-trust and resilience. Ideally, a trauma-informed, intersectional approach allows us to build resilience, while also acknowledging the impact of oppressive structures on individual wellbeing. 

Can somatic therapy for trauma be practiced virtually?

The pandemic transformed access to therapy, with telehealth making support widely accessible. Somatic therapy has also continued to adapt, and can absolutely be delivered online. As an associate clinical social worker at Stella Nova Psychology, I specialize in integrating telehealth with somatic therapy. My virtual clients often experience symptoms linked to chronic stress, anxiety, and trauma. Their symptoms manifest in various ways, influenced by each person’s unique coping strategies.
The somatic approach that I use doesn’t involve hands-on bodywork, so online sessions work just as well as in-person for most people. Some clients even find that practicing the tools in their home environment can help them feel more grounded and safe. We might make some small adjustments, to allow us to observe your body language together. 

In these uncertain times, online somatic therapy offers a pathway to reconnect with ourselves—emotionally and physically—allowing us to build the resilience we need to thrive amidst the challenges we face.

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About the Author

Sage Swiatek, ACSW is a somatic therapist specializing in trauma at Stella Nova Psychology. She supports clients around a variety of concerns including PTSD, chronic pain, stress, and anxiety. Many of her clients identify as queer, disabled, non-monogamous, or women in STEM. She has specialized experience in supporting survivors of sexual or interpersonal violence.

If you’re interested in connecting with Sage, or any of the therapists at Stella Nova, we’re ready to speak with you! Reach out to schedule a free, 20-minute phone consultation to get started today.

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SAGE SWIATEK, ACSW

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