Somatic Therapy in Santa Barbara

Room to notice what you feel.

You may understand what is happening in your life and still find yourself tense, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Sometimes it is hard to put an experience into words. We can make room for what you notice in your body as well as what you think and feel.

I offer somatic-informed therapy in Santa Barbara, with online sessions throughout California. We can begin with your experience, without needing a clear explanation or a particular method in mind.

What is somatic therapy?

Somatic therapy brings attention to the relationship between physical sensations, emotions, and thoughts. A tight chest, a clenched jaw, or a change in breathing can offer a starting point for understanding how you respond to stress or connection.

We approach these sensations with curiosity. They do not have one fixed meaning, and you do not need to interpret them perfectly.

What sessions can look like

As we talk, I may invite you to notice your feet on the floor, look around the room, or describe a sensation that comes with an emotion. We might explore a small movement or a comfortable change in breathing, then check how it feels to you.

These are invitations. You can decline, pause, or return to conversation at any time. You do not have to revisit a painful memory or push through discomfort to participate.

Part of the work we build together

Body awareness can sit alongside conversation, practical coping tools, and attention to your relationships. We will keep checking what feels useful and adjust the pace together.

If it feels supportive to you, animal-assisted therapy with Sophie can also be part of our work. The aim is to help you notice your responses and find more choice in how you meet them.

A few questions you might have

Do I need to be comfortable noticing my body?

No. We can start with what feels accessible, including simply noticing the room around you. Feeling numb, uncertain, or reluctant is something we can talk about.

Is this only for trauma?

No. Somatic awareness can be part of exploring anxiety, everyday stress, grief, or relationship patterns. If we are working with trauma, your choices and pace remain central.

Does somatic therapy involve touch?

Body awareness does not require touch. We can work through conversation, noticing sensations, and optional grounding exercises. Your boundaries matter.

Can we do this online?

Yes. We can explore body awareness during online therapy while adapting the work to your space and comfort. Online sessions are available to clients located in California.

A place to begin

You are welcome to bring questions or simply describe what has been difficult. We can talk about whether this way of working feels like a fit for you.

Let’s talk → · What to expect, rates, and payment →

More about individual therapy →

Jamie Fortin, LMFT · California LMFT #136703. In-person therapy in Santa Barbara and online sessions throughout California.