Somatic Therapy in Amsterdam: Discover Yourself with Hakomi
Explore how Hakomi, a mindfulness-based, somatic therapy in Amsterdam, helps uncover unconscious patterns through gentle body awareness. Discover Tessa’s journey and what’s possible for you.
At the heart of Hakomi Therapy is the understanding that unconscious core beliefs—many formed in early childhood—quietly shape how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. This mindfulness-based, somatic approach gently brings these inner patterns into awareness—not through effort or analysis, but by entering a receptive, curious state where the body and emotions can begin to speak for themselves.
In this mindful unfolding of present experience, deeper meaning arises organically—not imposed from the outside, but discovered from within. Over time, through attuned support and embodied presence, the process can bring clarity, regulation, and a sense of wholeness.
Hakomi is subtle in its methods, yet its impact can be profound. Rather than “fixing” or overriding our internal habits, it invites a space of curiosity and compassion—where even long-held beliefs and protective strategies can begin to soften. This is body-oriented therapy at its most gentle and attuned: listening rather than solving, unfolding rather than pushing.
A Journey Into Core Beliefs: Tessa's Story
To understand how somatic therapy in Amsterdam can unfold over time, consider the journey of Tessa. Over the course of several sessions, she explored a deeply rooted core belief: “I must handle everything on my own; I’m not allowed to ask for help.” This belief had quietly shaped much of her adult life and was rooted in early memories of being left alone when upset—where staying calm felt like the only way to be acknowledged.
Through ongoing mindful, body-centered exploration, Tessa gradually began to welcome emotions she had long learned to suppress. In one session, a warm, grounding sensation arose in her pelvis—a “safe bowl” where she could hold her feelings without being overwhelmed. This helped her observe anxious or critical thoughts with a new kind of tenderness, recognizing even these inner voices as protective in their own way.
As our work continued, more memories emerged: the discomfort of childhood illness, the tension of needing to sit “just right” at the dinner table, and the deep sadness of feeling unseen. Together, we met these experiences with compassion and presence. With time, the grip of these old patterns loosened, and she found herself relaxing into a more natural, embodied flow.
Finding a Safe Container: The Body as a Gateway
Tessa’s process revealed how the body can act as a gateway to deeper self-awareness. That warm, grounding presence in her pelvis offered a new way to relate to difficult emotions—allowing fear and self-criticism to be held rather than suppressed.
In body-oriented therapy, we trust the body’s intelligence. It carries imprints of our past—often unconscious ones—and holds the key to integration. By turning toward sensation, posture, breath, and subtle impulses, we begin to uncover what words alone may not reveal. This is the essence of somatic therapy: bringing awareness to the body not just as a vehicle of experience, but as a doorway to healing.
Meeting Core Beliefs Through Mindful Presence
Tessa’s belief, “I must do it alone,” was shaped by early experiences of emotional isolation. Through the arc of our sessions, we approached it not with confrontation, but with mindful presence. She connected with the younger part of herself that had felt so alone, and we gave space for her to feel seen—perhaps for the first time in a deeply embodied way.
When she met the tension in her shoulders with curiosity instead of critique, a new possibility emerged. What was once a bracing against the world became a place where comfort and support could enter. This is what trauma-informed care looks like in practice—not pushing for change, but creating space for it to naturally unfold.
Embracing New Possibilities: The Path to Self-Compassion
Over time, Tessa began to respond to inner discomfort with curiosity rather than tightening. This shift in posture—both literally and metaphorically—marked the beginning of a new internal narrative: one that made room for support, connection, and self-compassion.
Hakomi Therapy, especially when practiced in a safe, attuned container, shows us that deep change doesn’t come through effort or analysis. It comes through slowing down, listening, and allowing our inner world to be met with care.
Ready to Begin Your Own Journey?
If you’re longing for a more embodied way to navigate life—one that honors your inner world and moves at the pace of your nervous system—somatic therapy may be the path for you. Hakomi offers a gentle, grounded alternative to more cognitive or directive approaches. It’s especially suited for those drawn to mindfulness-based therapy, trauma-informed care, and holistic mental wellness.
Curious to begin?
I offer sessions both in Amsterdam and online. Book your free introductory call here and explore what Hakomi might reveal for you.
