If you’ve found that traditional talk therapy hasn’t brought you the level of transformation you’re seeking, you’re not alone. Many people reach a point in their healing journey where they crave a more embodied, integrative approach—one that addresses not only thoughts and behaviors, but also the nervous system, trauma responses, and internal patterns of self-protection.

Somatic Parts Work is a powerful therapeutic method that combines the principles of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with somatic trauma healing. This integrative approach supports deeper emotional healing by working directly with the mind-body system and the inner “parts” or subpersonalities that shape our experiences.

What Is Somatic Parts Work?

Somatic Parts Work is a gentle, yet effective method for treating trauma, emotional distress, and chronic internal conflict. It is rooted in the belief—central to IFS—that the human psyche is made up of multiple parts, each with its own perspective, emotion, and role. Some of these parts carry burdens from the past, while others try to protect us from emotional pain by suppressing vulnerability, controlling our environment, or avoiding risk.

Through somatic therapy, we can tune into these parts not just cognitively, but felt-sense-wise—through bodily awareness, nervous system cues, and physical sensation. This embodied access allows for profound healing and integration.

How Does Somatic Parts Therapy Work?

In a typical session, your therapist will guide you in cultivating a deeper connection to your Core Self—the wise, compassionate, and calm inner presence that exists beneath your protective parts. From this grounded place, you'll begin to gently explore the parts of you that may be:woman

As a psychotherapist with advanced training in neuroscience and mind-body medicine, I often hear from my New York City clients that they’re struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or insomnia. Many of them have already tried everything—from melatonin and prescription medications to meditation apps—but continue to feel stuck in the same frustrating cycle: they can’t sleep, they can’t relax, and they feel chronically depleted.

The long-term impact of disrupted sleep and chronic stress is well documented in both neuroscience and mental health research. And what many of my clients don’t realize is this: the nervous system itself holds the key to deep restoration—and it starts with something as simple and profound as your breath.

What Is Psychophysiologic Insomnia?

You might be surprised to learn that many people suffer from what's called psychophysiologic insomnia, also known as "learned insomnia." This type of sleep disruption often begins with a few stressful nights but soon becomes a habitual pattern where the body starts to anticipate stress at bedtime. The result? Heightened arousal, anxiety, and conditioned sleeplessness.

Many clients turn to medication, and while this can help in the short term, it’s often not a sustainable long-term strategy. In therapy, I focus on evidence-based lifestyle changes to regulate your nervous system and restore the brain’s natural sleep cycles—without dependence on medication.