When EMDR Isn’t the Right Fit: Somatic Experiencing May Help
At Turn the Mind, we help people heal from trauma using a few different approaches. One of the most well-known is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)—a therapy that helps the brain process upsetting memories and experiences.
But EMDR isn’t the only option, and it’s not always the right first step. That’s why we also offer Somatic Experiencing (SE)—a gentle, body-focused therapy that helps people feel calmer and more connected to themselves, especially when talking about trauma feels overwhelming.
What Is EMDR?
EMDR helps the brain process stuck or overwhelming experiences so they no longer feel so upsetting. It doesn’t require you to talk in detail or remember everything clearly. It can still work even if your memories are blurry or hard to access.
In EMDR, the therapist guides you through slow eye movements or tapping while you think about parts of the trauma. This helps your brain sort through the experience in a way that feels safer and more manageable.
EMDR may be helpful when:
You want to reduce the emotional intensity of past experiences
You’ve tried talk therapy but still feel stuck
You want a more structured, focused trauma approach
What Is Somatic Experiencing?
Somatic Experiencing (SE) focuses on how trauma lives in the body. Trauma isn’t just mental—it also shows up as tension, tightness, numbness, or feeling frozen.
SE helps you notice your body’s signals and gently release built-up stress. You don’t have to tell your whole story or relive painful moments. The focus is on helping your body feel safer and more regulated.
SE may be helpful when:
You feel disconnected from your body or emotions
You get overwhelmed or shut down easily
You don’t want to talk about trauma right away
You’ve experienced long-term or early-life trauma
Why We Offer Both
Everyone’s nervous system is different. Some people feel ready for EMDR, while others need to build a sense of safety in the body first. Many benefit from both approaches.
At Turn the Mind, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. We listen to you and tailor our approach to your story, goals, and comfort level.
Want to talk it through?
We offer free consultations to help you figure out which trauma therapy might be right for you. Click here to set up your free trauma consultation.
