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Somatic Therapy Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Somatic Therapy information

See Oregon salary details

$37.5K

$67.6K

$118.4K

How much do somatic therapy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for somatic therapy in Oregon is $67,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,700.00 and $73,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is somatic therapy?

Somatic therapy is a form of body-centered psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between the mind and body to promote healing. It incorporates techniques such as breath work, mindfulness, movement, and touch to help individuals process emotions and trauma stored in the body. Somatic therapy is often used to treat issues like anxiety, PTSD, and stress by helping clients become more aware of their physical sensations and emotional experiences. This approach aims to release tension and restore balance, leading to improved mental and physical well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a somatic therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Somatic Therapist, you need a solid background in psychology or counseling, specialized training in somatic therapy modalities, and appropriate state licensure or certification. Familiarity with therapeutic frameworks like Somatic Experiencing, sensorimotor psychotherapy, and tools for trauma-informed care is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, self-awareness, and the ability to create a safe, trusting environment help clients process emotions and bodily sensations effectively. These competencies are vital for supporting clients' holistic healing and ensuring ethical, effective therapeutic outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by somatic therapists when integrating body-based techniques into client sessions?

Somatic therapists often encounter challenges such as clients feeling uncomfortable or unfamiliar with body-focused interventions, especially if they are new to somatic work. Building trust and helping clients understand the value of connecting physical sensations to emotions is essential. Therapists must be skilled in pacing sessions and using trauma-informed approaches to ensure safety and consent. Collaboration with other mental health professionals may also be necessary to provide comprehensive care, particularly for clients with complex trauma.

What is the difference between Somatic Therapy vs Massage Therapist?

AspectSomatic TherapyMassage Therapist
CredentialsLicensed mental health professional, often with additional somatic therapy trainingLicensed massage therapist, with certification in massage techniques
Work EnvironmentTherapy offices, clinics, mental health settingsSpas, wellness centers, private practices
Industry UsageHealthcare, mental health, holistic therapyWellness, physical therapy, relaxation services

While both roles focus on physical and emotional well-being, Somatic Therapy is a mental health practice involving talk therapy and body awareness techniques, whereas Massage Therapy primarily involves physical manipulation of muscles for relaxation and pain relief.

Do you need a license to practice somatic therapy?

Practicing somatic therapy typically requires a license or certification, depending on the state or country, as it is considered a mental health or healthcare service. Licensing often involves completing specific training, supervised hours, and passing an exam. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, so practitioners should check local regulations to ensure compliance.

What does a somatic therapist do?

A somatic therapist helps clients process trauma and emotional issues through body-based techniques that focus on physical sensations, movement, and awareness. They often use methods such as breathwork, touch, and mindfulness to facilitate healing and improve emotional regulation. Certification and training in somatic practices are typically required for practice in this field.

What kind of degree do you need to be a somatic therapist?

To become a somatic therapist, a relevant bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field is typically required, often followed by specialized training or certification in somatic therapy techniques. Many practitioners pursue master's degrees or certifications to enhance their skills and credibility in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Somatic Therapy jobs in Oregon?

For Somatic Therapy jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Somatic Therapy jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Somatic Therapy job openings:

Infographic showing various Somatic Therapy job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,606 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Licensed Mental Health Professional

CULTIVATING A NEW LIFE LLC

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

HYBRID, PART TIME OR FULL TIME

We are seeking a licensed professional counselor (LPC), licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) or licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) to join our team. Newly licensed, BIPOC-identifying therapists are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide individual, couple and/or family therapy to clients using your preferred modalities such as narrative therapy, Lifespan Integration Therapy, somatic approach, culturally affirming and GSD (Gender and Sexual Diversity) affirming treatment, trauma-informed treatment, and the minority stress model (historical trauma and generational trauma process)

  • Work collaboratively with other team members to provide holistic and culturally responsive care

  • Maintain accurate and timely client documentation and comply with OHP and Medicaid regulations

  • Attend team meetings as required

Qualifications:

  • Must be licensed in the state of Oregon to practice

  • Experience working with diverse populations particularly LGBTQ+, BIPOC, immigrant and refugee communities, as well as experience working with clients with diverse linguistic backgrounds

  • Strong communication, organizational and problem-solving skills

  • Experience with narrative therapy, Lifespan Integration Therapy, somatic approach, culturally affirming and GSD (Gender and Sexual Diversity) affirming treatment, trauma-informed treatment, and the minority stress model (historical trauma and generational trauma process) is a plus

We offer competitive compensation, flexible scheduling, and an inclusive and supportive work environment. If you are passionate about social justice and committed to providing culturally responsive care, we encourage you to apply.

Company Description

Our practice foundations are in narrative therapy, Lifespan Integration Therapy, somatic approach, culturally affirming and GSD (Gender and Sexual Diversity) affirming treatment, trauma-informed treatment, and the minority stress model (historical trauma and generational trauma process).

We also offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Somatic Experiencing Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and the Gottman Method.

We specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with the following challenges: addiction and mental health recovery, anger expression, grief, loss, relationships (intercultural, interracial, GSD), immigration/acculturation, racial identity, gender identity, transgender wellness, women’s wellness, body image, trauma, Ancestral/Intergenerational trauma combat veterans, veterans’ families, military sexual trauma, and performance anxiety for athletes.

We work with adults, teens (13 to 19), older adults, couples, and family. Veterans, BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color) and the LGBTQ+ community.