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Wildflower Center for Emotional Health

Body-Based Approaches

Discover the healing power of body-based therapies in Chicago, Oak Park, and Boulder. Experience our holistic treatments that integrate mind and body, offering a unique pathway to mental wellness and self-awareness.

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How To Get Started With Wildflower

Request a Free Consultation

Schedule a 15-minute call online or by phone. We’ll cover key details and make sure we’re the right fit for your needs. 

Complete New Client Paperwork

Receive registration forms pre-visit. Your therapist will review details, ensuring clarity on our policies and guidelines.

Attend Your First
Therapy Session

During a 60-minute intake session, you’ll get to know your therapist better and discuss your treatment needs. 

Feeling Overwhelmed?
We’ll Help You Find Your Calm. 

Everyone struggles with their mental health from time to time, and there are some challenges no one should face alone. Therapy can help you navigate these challenges with emotional clarity, resilience, and strength. 

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Tuning into the Body’s Wisdom

Body-based therapies tap into the profound connection between the body and mind. These therapeutic modalities recognize the body’s innate wisdom and its ability to store, process, and release emotional experiences. Techniques often incorporate mindful movement, grounding exercises, healing motions, and guided introspection.

By working holistically with physical sensations, movements, and memories, individuals can uncover deeper insights, heal from traumas, and cultivate a more harmonious balance within.

Body & Experience-Based Approaches We Utilize at Wildflower

At Wildflower, we embrace the synergy between the body and mind. Our tailored approaches help individuals harness the power of their physical experiences, fostering deeper self-awareness and healing.

Dance and Movement Therapy

Dance and movement therapy utilizes movement to promote the emotional, cognitive, and social well-being of individuals.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing 

EMDR is a form of psychotherapy developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro that uses eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to assist trauma survivors in processing distressing memories and beliefs.

Somatic Therapy

Somatic therapy is a scientifically-informed holistic approach in which therapists and clients resource the innate wisdom of the body. This is accomplished via awareness of physical sensations, mind-body activities, and talk therapy to address deep emotional issues, regulate the autonomic nervous system, and foster an embodied sense of self.

Trauma-informed Yoga Therapy

Trauma-informed yoga therapy is a body-based therapeutic method that utilizes intentional and gentle movements, breath work, and awareness of bodily sensations to increase a sense of physical and emotional safety in a compassionate and nonjudgmental atmosphere.

Brainspotting

Brainspotting is a form of brain-body therapy focused on identifying and releasing challenging emotions or traumatic experiences.

Flourish With Wildflower:
Discover. Heal. Grow. 

Dive into a transformative therapy experience with Wildflower. Uncover hidden strengths, embrace emotional growth and journey toward a renewed sense of self. 

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Core Tenets of Wildflower’s
Clinical Philosophy

Deeply Relational &
Personalized Therapy 

We recognize that you are the expert on your life. Therapy at Wildflower is a collaborative journey. Our caring, affirming therapists tailor sessions to your unique needs and experiences, emphasizing the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for growth.

Commitment to
Excellence & Learning

Every client deserves the best of our clinical skills and knowledge. Our team is a community of professionals who not only uphold shared values and clinical excellence but also engage in regular training and consultation to stay at the forefront of therapeutic practices.

Stigma-Free View on
Mental Health 

Mental health is a vital component of overall well-being, deserving of attention without any stigma or judgment. Everyone faces challenges, and seeking help is a sign of resilience and strength. Every person’s mental health journey is valid, and we aim to support that with the utmost respect.

Advocates of Social
Justice & Inclusivity 

We recognize that no one exists in a vacuum. Complex systems of oppression and privilege shape individuals’ lives. We believe that as mental health professionals, we have an obligation to promote social justice and contribute to a world that celebrates every person’s inherent worth. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Body-based therapies are a collection of therapeutic modalities that emphasize the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and emotional experiences. Rather than just focusing on thoughts or behaviors, these approaches delve into the physical sensations, movements, and stored emotions in the body. They offer a holistic perspective, recognizing that our bodily experiences can carry memories, traumas, and insights that can be crucial for healing and personal growth.

While traditional talk therapies often revolve around the conversational exploration of feelings, thoughts, and past events, body, and experience-based therapies integrate physical sensations and movements into the therapeutic process. This is based on the idea that our bodies hold onto experiences, sometimes manifesting as tension, pain, or other sensations. Through techniques like mindful movement, grounding exercises, and sensory exploration, these therapies aim to release stored traumas and emotions, offering a more embodied form of healing.

Individuals who feel disconnected from their bodies, those who have experienced trauma, or anyone finding it challenging to express emotions solely through words might find these therapies particularly beneficial. They’re also suitable for those who have physical manifestations of emotional distress, such as chronic tension or unexplained aches. Furthermore, individuals seeking a holistic approach that honors the deep connection between physical and emotional well-being may find these therapies align with their needs and goals.

Like any therapeutic approach, it’s essential to ensure that the chosen method resonates with the individual. Some people might initially feel uncomfortable or vulnerable when engaging in body-based exercises, especially if they’re not used to focusing on bodily sensations. It’s also vital to work with trained professionals familiar with these approaches, as delving into stored emotions and traumas without proper guidance can be overwhelming. However, with the right therapist and approach, many find these therapies to be deeply transformative and healing.

Absolutely. Many therapists integrate body-based techniques with other modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and more. The fusion of different approaches can offer clients a multifaceted and comprehensive therapeutic experience, tailored to their unique needs and goals.

Our Clients’ Growth Stories

Wildflower and my therapist provided a safe, warm, understanding, non-judgmental space, both literally and figuratively, to do meaningful work. I am so grateful for my therapist’s compassion and guidance.

I can’t thank [my Wildflower therapist] enough for getting me through the roughest times of my life, not only through my postpartum depression but through Covid. Therapy was never something that I thought I would ever need but it’s something that changed my life. If you are looking for something that will help you get through whatever you’re going through in life this is definitely the place for you. They will make sure that you find a therapist that fits your needs. (…) You guys are amazing for what you do!

Wildflower is such a warm space with incredibly caring therapists! I have grown so much during my years here and always recommend coming here to friends looking for a therapist.

My experience at Wildflower has been absolutely seamless. Starting therapy takes courage and Wildflower respects that by responding to inquiries quickly and in a straightforward manner. It became very obvious that my therapist had been matched with me thoughtfully. I have loved my time working with [my therapist], even working through difficult topics and situations. I recommend Wildflower to anyone looking to be pushed towards growth in a respectful and safe space.

Wildflower has been a breath of fresh air. I’ve gone to a few different offices over the years and this is by far the best experience I’ve had. From the space itself to the people you hire, you’ve made something that can be very intimidating to people easy and enjoyable.

The Wildflower team guided me through what I can only hope was the most difficult period of my life. During a nightmarish time of crisis, extreme grief and trauma, they matched me with an exceptional therapist who was genuine, caring, and attuned. Our weekly sessions were simultaneously the best and hardest parts of my week … and eventually the heaviness got lighter.

Blooming Insights:
The Latest from the Wildflower Blog 

All Posts

We believe that knowledge and learning are key aspects of helping you to grow and thrive on your mental health journey. Stay updated with our latest articles on emotional well-being, perinatal mental health, sexuality, and more on our blog. 

Blossom Into Your Best Self with Wildflower

Work with Wildflower to cultivate emotional strength and clarity. With expert support and a deeply personal touch, let’s nurture your growth and well-being. Ready to bloom? We’re here to guide you. 

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