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Viva Center

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Body-based therapy at the Viva Center

Feel Better with Body-Based Therapy

Uncover deeper healing, self-discovery, and a more connected way of being

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Body-based therapies are typically nonverbal (or require minimal conversation) and focus on energy and emotions stored within the body. They are shown to be effective for concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, and more.

All of our clinicians use body-based therapeutic approaches and have studied a variety of somatically powerful interventions that leverage the science of healing. As Bessel van der Kolk stated in his groundbreaking book, The Body Keeps The Score, “Our bodies hold all the wisdom that we need to heal”.

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How have we helped?

Here are some experiences shared by our clients

I began working with Faith Ferber when my previous counselor identified that I needed a trauma-informed approach, and the work has been incredible. Faith has helped me get more grounded in my body, to make connections between physical ailments and emotional patterns that I'd never understood, and perhaps most importantly, to understand myself in deeper and core ways. Faith brings a special combination of practices -- including brainspotting and internal family systems IFS) -- and deep commitments to justice -- which have been critical for sorting through the always-complicated mix of personal and collective matters. I highly recommend working with Faith!


Beth - Individual Psychotherapy

Sonja Favaloro was wonderful. Our work together allowed me to experience deep, impactful healing. I would recommend her and the Viva Center to anyone.


E.W. - Individual Therapy

After two decades in and out of therapy, and on and off of drugs, I didn't believe in solutions. I believed in management. Aurena and Viva revealed to me that actual healing is still possible. For the right person, this these treatment modalities (EMDR and IFS) can feel miraculous in its their outcome, even as it they seem somewhat mystical in its their mechanisms. I feel unburdened. For now, I feel happy on a consistent basis -- unmediated by drugs, flow or hypomania -- for the first time in memory. It's improved my parenting, my thinking, my work, and my ability to be a partner to my wife. It may not, in the end, solve all my problems. Time will tell. But it solved one big one and made the others feel more manageable. Thanks to Viva and Aurena!


Anonymous - Individual Therapy

The process I went through with Viva Partnership was really something. I came here in a serious crisis. Through the individual and group support I received, I gradually shifted my outlook. This in turn changed how I experienced my life and relationships. Viva created a safe space where I got to heal and grow.


J - Individual and Group Psychotherapy

My experience at the Viva Center was extraordinary. I saw a therapist there for almost 2 years, who walked me through EMDR twice. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and thought that it was well run. I never encountered any issues, but if I had, I know that the staff would have addressed them immediately. I would not hesitate to reach out to their wonderful team of therapists for treatment.


A - Individual and Group Psychotherapy

My life was going at a fairly even pace but something was always missing. I felt like I had been groomed to do all the "right" things, but they weren't my things. I went through a significant transformation where I learned how to tolerate bigger risks. As a result, I am living the life that is right for me. I am so grateful that I found Viva!


L - Individual and Group Psychotherapy

An absolutely wonderful...center staffed with amazingly caring and involved people. Viva Center offers classes in wellness related to business, finances, relationships, and of course personal growth and mental health. The staff are committed to maintaining an unhurried, refuge-like atmosphere and every aspect of the Viva Center reflects this intention...the Viva Center is an amazing space to explore every aspect of your soul and being. I love the work they are doing here!

You know the saying...be the person your dog thinks you are? This place helps you do just that. AWESOME.


S - Individual Psychotherapy

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Want to know more?

Here are some frequently asked questions about body-based therapies

What is a body-based therapist?

Body-based or somatic therapists focus on the connection between the mind and body to work through emotional, physical, and psychological challenges. 

Ever feel stressed out and tense, all tied up in knots?  Body-based therapists believe that these physical feelings are connected to your emotions and experiences. They use movement, posture exercises, and sometimes even gentle massage to help you understand and deal with emotional issues.

What happens in body psychotherapy?

Body psychotherapy offers a unique path to healing. By working with a supportive therapist, you’ll explore the connection between your mind and body through movement, breathwork, and other exercises. This journey of self-discovery will help you understand and release past trauma and emotions trapped in your body, leading to a sense of wholeness, emotional well-being, and a deeper connection to yourself.

What are some types of body-based therapy?
  • Somatic experiencing – focuses on relieving symptoms of trauma and stress by working with an individual’s perceived body sensations. 
  • Sensorimotor Psychotherapy – A type of therapy that uses your body’s sensations and awareness to help you heal from past experiences. 
  • Yoga Therapy – Combines yoga postures and exercises to help your body and mind work together naturally for better health and happiness. 
  • Breathwork – uses controlled breathing techniques to encourage relaxation and emotional release. 
  • Movement Therapy – uses physical movements like dance, gentle exercises, or yoga poses to help you express and process emotions.

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