Embodied Healing: Integrating Somatic Experiencing and Art Therapy for Trauma Recovery

Ellen Smithey, ATR-BC, LPC

This presentation explores the powerful integration of art therapy and somatic experiencing in trauma healing, emphasizing how creative expression and body-based awareness can support nervous system regulation and emotional processing. Participants will learn how trauma is stored in the body and how engaging in art-making alongside somatic techniques can facilitate deep healing beyond verbal expression. Through discussion, case examples, and experiential exercises, this session will provide practical tools for clinicians, therapists, and anyone interested in a holistic, embodied approach to trauma recovery.