A Mindful, Somatic Approach to Healing
Sometimes, talk therapy just isn’t enough. Often, the most profound healing happens in silence—when we listen deeply to the body’s wisdom. At Somatic Psychotherapy, we believe in therapy that goes beyond words, guiding you into a deeper relationship with yourself through mindfulness-based somatic modalities like Hakomi.
What is Hakomi Therapy?
Developed by Ron Kurtz in the late 1970s, Hakomi Therapy is a gentle, mindfulness-based, body-centered psychotherapy that supports us in uncovering the unconscious beliefs and emotional patterns we carry—many of which originate in early life experiences.
Rather than focusing on problem-solving or analysis like many traditional therapies, Hakomi invites present-moment awareness and honors the body as a gateway to the unconscious.
Let’s say, for example, you’ve spent your life feeling unseen. In a Hakomi session, your therapist may invite you to notice what happens in your body as you speak about this feeling. You might realize there’s a tightness in your chest—a subtle constriction you’ve carried for years. Upon noticing this, we might get curious. What does that tightness want to tell us? Through mindful listening, we might learn that this tension is holding an old story. Perhaps a belief formed in childhood—something like, “My needs don’t matter.” By slowing down and bringing mindfulness to the experience, we begin to gently explore the roots of these embodied patterns and create the conditions for new ways of being to emerge.
The Principles of Hakomi
Hakomi is grounded in five foundational principles that guide the therapeutic process:
- Mindfulness – Cultivating inner awareness through curiosity and presence.
- Nonviolence – Trusting that transformation happens through gentleness, not force.
- Unity – Recognizing the interconnection of all aspects of experience—body, mind, and spirit.
- Organicity – Honoring each person’s unique unfolding and innate healing intelligence.
- Mind-Body Integration – Understanding that our lived experiences are stored in the body, not just in thoughts or stories.
These principles mirror the values behind our individual somatic psychotherapy and IFS therapy work, and they guide every session we hold.
Who is Hakomi Therapy For?
Hakomi can be particularly supportive for those who might describe themselves as “intellectualizers” or “over-analyzers.” (And if you’re reading this post, there’s a good chance you might qualify.) People in this category are often highly successful in many areas of life—but struggle to touch into their underlying emotions. Even when they feel like they understand their issues, they often feel disconnected from any deeper sense of healing.
For example, someone might understand that they’re an “anxious person who struggles with rest.” But no matter how many yoga retreats they go on, rest still feels hard. That may be because, somewhere deep inside, a part of them knows that rest isn’t safe. And until we make contact with that part—and support it toward healing—rest will always feel like something to force or chase, rather than something to receive.
Remember… healing doesn’t always come through effort. Sometimes it begins with stillness, presence, and the simple act of paying attention.
Whether you’re in Brooklyn, Midtown Manhattan, or seeking virtual therapy in NYC, we offer a space to slow down, feel, and listen.
FAQs
What does a Hakomi session actually look like?
Sessions are slow, mindful, and body-centered. Rather than talking about problems, your therapist might invite you to notice sensations or respond to gentle “experiments” that surface unconscious beliefs. It’s subtle, but often profound. Learn more about how Hakomi experiments work.
Can I do Hakomi Therapy alongside other modalities?
Yes. Many of our clients combine Hakomi with IFS, EMDR, or Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for deeper integrative work. We’ll collaborate with you to create a plan that meets your needs.
Is Hakomi available virtually?
Absolutely. We offer Hakomi sessions via secure telehealth throughout New York State. Reach out to find a therapist who’s a good fit for online work.
Ready to Begin?
If you’re feeling the pull toward something slower, gentler, and more embodied—we’re here. Whether you’re new to therapy or returning to the work with a desire to go deeper, we invite you to reach out to us here.
Let’s listen to what your body has been trying to say.
