Somatic Therapy vs Talking Therapy: What Is the Difference?
Talking therapies and somatic therapy are different ways in to the same experience. Neither is better for everyone, and some people use both. This page explains how they differ so you can decide what to ask about.
The short version
Talking therapies such as counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) mainly work through thoughts, beliefs, behaviour and the story of what happened. Somatic therapy works through the body's physical sensations and the nervous system. Rather than describing "I feel anxious", we locate the feeling, such as a knot in your stomach or a tight jaw, and gently support your body to settle.
Side by side
Talking therapy (counselling, CBT) | Somatic therapy | |
Main focus | Thoughts, beliefs, behaviour, the story | Body sensations and the nervous system |
Do I need to tell my story? | Usually part of the work | No. You decide how much, if anything, you tell me |
What a session involves | Conversation | Guided body awareness, breath and pacing, with conversation |
Physical touch | None | None online. Touch-based work is a separate therapy (myofascial release, in person only) |
Online | Yes | Yes |
I am a somatic therapist, not a counsellor or CBT practitioner, so I can only speak for my own way of working.
Who tends to look at somatic therapy?
Many people look at somatic therapy when they have already tried talking things through and feel that the stress or tension is still held in the body, or when telling the story feels like too much. That is a common reason, not a rule.
Do I have to choose?
No. Some people work with a counsellor or their GP alongside somatic therapy. I would never ask you to stop other care, and I would encourage you to keep it if it is helping.
Working with me
I see clients online by video anywhere in the UK, and in person around Bristol and North Somerset. A 60-minute session costs £80, the first 15-minute consultation is free, and there is an introductory offer of 10 sessions for £650. Read more about somatic therapy and my fees.
Frequently asked questions
Is somatic therapy a form of CBT?
No. CBT works mainly with thoughts and behaviour. Somatic therapy works mainly with body sensations and the nervous system.
Can I do somatic therapy and counselling together?
Many people do. It is worth telling both practitioners, and it is your choice.
Do I need a diagnosis to start?
No. You do not need a diagnosis to book a free consultation.
Is somatic therapy a replacement for medical or psychiatric care?
No. It is a supportive therapy. If you are in crisis, please contact your GP, NHS 111 or Samaritans on 116 123.
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