Counselling and Psychotherapy in Naarm/Melbourne Comprehensive Trauma Treatment through Somatic Experiencing and EMDR
I am Marisa Howard, a trauma-informed psychotherapist specialising in body-based healing.
Using Somatic Experiencing and EMDR therapy, I help people in Melbourne overcome trauma, anxiety, and overwhelming life experiences.
Many people carry unresolved trauma without realising it. You might experience anxiety, feel stuck in patterns you can't break, struggle with relationships, or notice persistent body tension or pain. These can all be signs that your nervous system is still holding onto difficult experiences from your past.
Therapy provides a safe, confidential space to process these experiences and heal. Through a person-centred, non-judgmental approach, we work together at your pace to help you find relief, develop better coping skills, and restore your sense of well-being. Whether you're dealing with a specific traumatic event or long-standing difficulties, therapy can help you move forward.
I specialise in evidence-based, body-informed therapies for trauma treatment. These approaches recognise that trauma isn't just stored in your mind—it lives in your body and nervous system too.
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a gentle, body-based approach to healing trauma. Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, SE helps release traumatic stress that's trapped in your body. Rather than retelling your story in detail, we work with body sensations and the nervous system's natural capacity to heal. This approach is particularly effective for trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, stress and burnout, and overwhelming experiences.
Learn more about Somatic Experiencing →Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a gold standard treatment for PTSD and trauma. Using bilateral stimulation like eye movements or tapping, EMDR helps your brain reprocess difficult memories so they no longer overwhelm you. It's highly effective for single-incident trauma (accidents, assaults, medical procedures) as well as complex trauma from childhood experiences.
Learn more about EMDR Therapy →In our sessions, you'll find a confidential, safe environment where you can explore your experiences without judgment. We work collaboratively to set goals that matter to you, and I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. Sessions are available both in-person at my Fitzroy North practice and online throughout Australia.
The initial consultation is an opportunity for you to ask questions, share what brings you to therapy, and see if we're a good fit. From there, we develop a plan together that honours your pace and supports your healing journey.
PACFA Registered Clinical Member | Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) | WorkSafe Victoria Provider
Beyond trauma therapy, I also offer career counselling, wellness coaching, rehabilitation counselling, and other support services.