Are you considering a career in somatic psychology? If so, you’ll want to start by finding the best program to meet your educational goals. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to even know where to start. Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you to bring you the top somatic psychology graduate programs available today.
What is Somatic Psychology?
Somatic psychology is a holistic approach to therapy that considers the interconnection between the mind, body, and spirit. Practitioners focus on the client’s physical and emotional experiences, encouraging them to develop awareness of their bodily sensations and how they relate to their emotional and psychological experiences. This can help clients address issues such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a somatic psychology graduate program, it’s important to consider factors such as curriculum, faculty, internship opportunities, and location. You’ll want to find a program that aligns with your career goals and provides you with the tools and training necessary to succeed as a practitioner.
Top Programs
Here are the best somatic psychology graduate programs available today:
1. Naropa University
Located in Boulder, Colorado, Naropa University is one of the top programs for somatic psychology. Their Master of Arts in Somatic Counseling degree emphasizes mindfulness, body awareness, and experiential learning. The program allows students to specialize in fields such as dance/movement therapy or trauma-informed bodywork.
2. California Institute of Integral Studies
The California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco offers a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Somatic Psychology. This program integrates traditional counseling methods with a somatic approach, emphasizing the mind-body connection and the importance of physical sensations.
3. Pacifica Graduate Institute
Pacifica Graduate Institute, located in Santa Barbara, California, offers a Ph.D. in Depth Psychology with a Somatic Studies specialization. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, helping them develop the skills necessary to support healing and transformation in their clients.
4. Saybrook University
Saybrook University in Pasadena, California offers a Master’s in Counseling with a specialization in Somatic Psychotherapy. This program emphasizes the importance of embodied practices in the healing process and provides students with the knowledge and training necessary to address a wide variety of mental health concerns.
5. Prescott College
Located in Prescott, Arizona, Prescott College offers a Master of Science in Counseling with a specialization in Somatic Psychology. This program emphasizes a holistic approach to healing, with courses focusing on areas such as body-centered mindfulness and the neurobiology of trauma.
Conclusion
Choosing a somatic psychology graduate program is an important decision, and it’s essential to find a program that aligns with your career goals and provides you with the tools and training necessary to succeed as a practitioner. Whether you’re interested in dance/movement therapy, trauma-informed bodywork, or another area of somatic psychology, there’s a program out there that’s right for you. With our list of the top programs available today, you’ll be well on your way to finding the right fit for your needs and goals.
