What Happens in Your First Somatic Therapy Session? A Simple Guide

Introduction

Starting something new like therapy can feel uncertain. If you are wondering about somatic therapy, here’s what your first session might look like. At Sunrise Counseling Services in Clarksville, TN, we believe knowing what to expect helps you feel safer and more ready to heal.

What Is the First Session Like?

When you come to your first somatic therapy session, here’s what often happens:

1. Talking about your history
   Your therapist will ask about your experiences — trauma, anxiety, stress, or anything you want healing from. They want to know what led you here.

2. Explaining how somatic therapy works
   The therapist will explain how the mind and body are connected. They’ll describe how bodily sensations (tightness, heaviness, restlessness) can hold emotions or pain.

3. Checking in with what you feel in your body
   The therapist might ask: “What do you notice in your body right now?” This could be tension, warmth, or maybe no strong sensation. That’s okay.

4. Beginning small work
   You will try gentle techniques. Maybe simple breathing, noticing your posture, maybe movement or grounding exercises. Everything will be at your pace.

5. Setting goals together
   You and your therapist will talk about what you want this therapy to help you do — reduce anxiety, feel safer, let go of past pain, improve sleep, etc.

How Somatic Therapy Helps From Day One

• You may feel more relaxed just by having someone listen.

• You might notice you are more aware of your body.

• You could begin to feel more calm, less “stuck,” or more hopeful.

What If I’m Nervous?

It’s totally normal to be nervous. You don’t have to share everything at once. Your therapist will work with you where you feel safe. It’s okay to slow down, ask questions, or pause.

Where & When

At Sunrise Counseling Services, your first session can be in-person in Clarksville, TN or online using telehealth. Frequency of sessions depends on what you want to work on.

Conclusion

Your first somatic therapy session is a chance to begin healing. You don’t need to have everything figured out. Just showing up is a brave step. If you want to explore whether somatic therapy is right for you, we’re here to guide you. Contact Sunrise Counseling Services to schedule your first visit.