Somatic Therapy 101: The Nervous System Basics Behind Trauma Healing

If you've ever wondered why insight alone hasn't been enough to heal your trauma, this episode is your answer. We're going all the way back to fundamentals with a real somatic therapy 101, covering what somatic therapy actually is, how the nervous system holds onto trauma, and why healing from CPTSD requires more than just understanding your story. **In this episode, we cover:** - Why trauma is a biological response, not just a psychological one (and what that means for your healing) - The actual definition of somatic therapy, and the myths the internet keeps getting wrong - A quick look at nervous system states: ventral vagal, sympathetic, and dorsal vagal, and why they matter for complex trauma specifically - What your window of tolerance is, and why it can narrow over time - Titration and pendulation: how somatic therapists help your body approach painful material safely - How parts work (Internal Family Systems) connects directly to your nervous system states - Why EMDR is a somatic therapy, not just "the eye movement thing" - A nuanced conversation about The Body Keeps the Score and where current research agrees and pushes back Whether you're a trauma survivor trying to understand your own healing, or a fellow therapist looking for a clear, clinically grounded refresher, this episode is built to meet you where you are. **Mentioned in this episode:** Fawning as a Trauma Response episode Inner Child Healing and Reparenting episode **Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast!** Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw  Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Remember, I'm a therapist, *but I'm not your therapist*. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER. The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.