Somatic Psycotherapy & Dance Movement Therapy NYC
It’s time to sense, move, and listen closely to the language of the body.
This is the space to sense what’s been living in your body, move it gently into awareness, and recalibrate the patterns that no longer serve you.
Becoming whole isn’t the absence of pain, it's the shift in how it lives in you.
It means feeling what your body has been trying to tell you about your needs, limits, patterns, and truth.
Recalibrating after trauma, shame, or relational pain means reshaping your responses and grounding your attention where it actually supports you.
When you shift your focus from old survival patterns to possibilities for growth, you begin to reclaim your power. The pain doesn’t disappear, but it becomes something you can endure, transform, and rise through.
Recalibrating is learning to pause, choosing new ways of being, and meeting yourself with compassion as you remember who you are and allow the fullness of who you’re becoming.
The women drawn to this space are most likely:
- The high-functioning caretaker quietly holding it all together while burning out inside.
- The deep feeler who overthinks everything and still questions her own worth.
- The one rebuilding after life unraveled, by choice or by force.
- The creative who’s lost touch with her voice (and her body).
- The recovering people-pleaser, still afraid of letting others down.
- The one navigating dating, identity, and who she wants to become.
- The one who loses herself in relationships and is ready to stop abandoning her own needs.
And if you’re tired of
- Saying yes when you’re already stretched thin..
- Feeling guilty for needing rest or pleasure, like you have to “earn” it first…
- Silencing your needs to avoid conflict and ending up invisible in your own relationships…
- Needing the TV on in the background just to quiet your thoughts and feel ok…
It makes sense.
You didn’t choose these patterns; they were shaped by what your body needed to get you through. And the good news is, your system can learn in a different way. This work is about slowly remembering the pulse of your truest self.
You deserve to go from
Replaying every interaction in your head to trusting yourself and moving on with ease.
Feeling like you have to care and support everyone else’s experience to feeling grounded in your own body and clear about your boundaries.
Escaping into TV, scrolling, or busyness to actually resting, moving, and enjoying time that feels nourishing.
This is a space where your body can soften, your voice can be heard, and your confidence takes shape.
Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is healing. I know what it’s like to be told “this should work for everyone” and realize it was never made with me in mind.
That’s exactly what therapy with Stefanie is about: being in a space where you can slow down, make sense of what you’re holding, and rebuild your trust and confidence to show up in your life and relationships with more honesty, grace, and power.
How to get started
Initial consultation
We’ll connect for a free consultation to see if we’re a good fit. Here we’ll briefly talk through what you’re needing, my approach and address any logistical questions.
Getting started
You’ll get access to my secure client portal, where you’ll be able to schedule your first appointment and complete intake paperwork so I can understand your history, context, and needs a little more.
Building our foundation
We’ll begin with at least four consecutive sessions. This gives us time to establish our working relationship, identify your goals, and see the full picture of what it’s like to be you. During this phase, we’ll also explore whether EMDR could be a good fit for your healing process, or if other somatic and movement-based approaches might better support your needs. From there, we can adjust frequency together, and if I think less often isn’t in your best interest, I’ll let you know with a clear clinical recommendation.
Therapeutic Modalities
Somatic Psychotherapy
BOOK A CONSULTATION“The only way the mind is made real is through the actions of the body it is embedded in”- Christine Caldwell.
Somatic psychotherapy is a body-based approach to healing that recognizes the deep connection between mind, body, and nervous system regulation. My work is informed by polyvagal theory, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Hakomi, Contemplative Psychology, Gestalt Therapy, and human-centered psychotherapy, integrating multiple perspectives on how we heal.
Rather than relying solely on talking and analyzing, we engage the body directly through movement, breath, sensation, and awareness to access and process emotions, patterns, and trauma responses stored in the nervous system. By working with the body’s innate intelligence, we shift survival-based reactions into more regulated states, allowing for healing that is felt, not just understood.
Trained in The Moving Cycle by Christine Caldwell at Naropa University, I help clients reconnect with their bodies, release old patterns, and build resilience from the inside out. Somatic psychotherapy works alongside traditional talk therapy and CBT approaches by engaging the body’s wisdom, allowing for a deeper, more lasting transformation than cognitive insight alone.
Dance / Movement Therapy
BOOK A CONSULTATIONDance/Movement Therapy (D/MT) is a body-based therapeutic approach that uses movement as a tool for emotional healing, self-discovery, and nervous system regulation. Movement and emotion are deeply connected our bodies hold experiences, express what words often can’t, and shape how we feel. DMT helps you tap into this connection, using movement to process emotions, shift stuck patterns, and build a deeper relationship with yourself.
“The primary objective is to develop greater expressive capacity through expansion of movement repertoire.”
—Dr. Amber Gray
Tenets of Dance/Movement Therapy
- The Body and Mind Are Inseparable
- Body Movement Reflects Inner Emotional States
- Changes in Movement Can Lead to Changes in the Psyche (Amber Gray, from Fran Levy, 1992, Dance/Movement Therapy)
In my practice, I draw from Laban Movement Analysis (LMA) and Feldenkrais-based principles to deepen the work of Dance/Movement Therapy. Laban’s framework helps explore how movement patterns and spatial awareness reflect psychological and emotional states, while Feldenkrais-informed approaches focus on refining movement efficiency, increasing adaptability, and supporting nervous system regulation.
Instead of only talking through challenges, we bring awareness to how your body moves, holds tension, and responds to emotions. This might look like subtle shifts in posture, breath, and gestures or more expressive movement explorations. There’s no choreography, no expectation to perform just an opportunity to explore and move in a way that feels natural to you.
What It Does
- Regulates the nervous system, shifting from survival states into ease and presence.
- Uncovers and reshapes movement patterns that reflect emotional and relational habits.
- Helps process emotions non-verbally, especially when talking feels overwhelming or limiting.
- Builds self-trust, confidence, and connection by integrating mind and body.
- Encourages freedom, expression, and play in a way that feels authentic to you.
Whether it’s through small embodied shifts or full-body movement, Dance/Movement Therapy helps you reconnect with yourself and create lasting change from the inside out.
EMDR
BOOK A CONSULTATION“Go with that”
In EMDR there are 8 phases which are designed to help you process traumatic or disturbing experiences that are stuck and stored in the brain and body. We use the language stuck and stored because when unprocessed, the memory of these events can cause the distressing and confusing symptoms you are experiencing presently. We recognize trauma to include any event that you perceive to have been threatening and remains disturbing and upsetting to you.
EMDR is an integrated trauma treatment modality that compliments Somatic modalities and adds a slightly different structure and integration of other schools of thought including: psychodynamic (exploring childhood experiences); cognitive therapy (working with thoughts), and behaviorism (focus on changing behaviors). Furthermore, this modality heightens the body-based experiential aspect of work we are already doing because it integrates BLS. BLS is bilateral dual attention stimulation which can look like eye movements or tapping. This mechanism really supports the body and brain to do what it naturally does.
Stefanie is certified with EMDRIA and is currently a EMDR- Consultant In Training.
Hello, I’m Stefanie Raccuglia - Somatic Psychotherapist and Embodiment Specialist
Working with me, we don’t just talk about the surface stressors, we go deeper. Coping strategies can get you through the day, but they don’t always get to the roots of why you feel tense, unseen, or stuck in old patterns. Together, we’ll do the kind of embodied therapy that helps you repair , grow, and actually move forward.
I don’t sit above you with all the answers, I walk alongside you. Our work blends somatic psychotherapy, EMDR, and Dance/Movement Therapy with a deep understanding of how trauma, family dynamics, culture, and societal pressures have shaped your body and your story. Because knowing why you’re stuck is only part of it. The real shift comes from learning how to move through what’s held you back, with tools that are steady, creative, and tailored to you.
Whether we meet virtually or in person at my NYC office, this is a space where you can exhale, try things out, and slowly rebuild the trust you have in yourself.
It’s time to land in what’s true for you with Somatic Psychotherapy in Colorado and New York - Pricing
Individual Therapy
- 55–60 minute sessions — ongoing weekly or biweekly therapy.
- 85–90 minute sessions — extra time for EMDR or when you want more room to process and integrate.
- Half-day intensives — immersive, extended sessions where you can experience, move, and process at a deeper embodied pace, then circle back to integrate. These offer a reset that weekly therapy alone can’t always reach.
*Rates vary by state. We’ll go over exact rates during your free initial consultation, along with any options for sliding scale (limited spots) and out-of-network reimbursement.
Professional Consultation & Supervision
For therapists, coaches, and providers who want to deepen their clinical work.
- EMDR Consultation — As an EMDRIA Consultant-in-Training, I provide consultation hours that count toward EMDRIA certification. Together we’ll refine your skills, strengthen case conceptualization, and grow your confidence with this modality.
- Embodied Professional Consultation — For providers who want to integrate a somatic lens into their work. We’ll explore interventions, case material, and professional presence from an embodied perspective, helping you expand beyond cognitive approaches and bring the body more fully into the room.
Investment: $225 per session
Testimonials
“You have changed a lot for me in such a short period of time and left me with so much wisdom and hopefully new ways of dealing with hardships”
Anonymous
“Stefanie Raccuglia is a warm vibrant soul. She worked with my son for many years using movement to facilitate his own self-expression. In the process, she helped him experience himself as beautiful & talented, and supported me as the parent of a talented neuro-atypical child. She’s made a huge difference in our family’s life.“
LFR, Minister, Group Leader
“Your care and compassion for people– you are passionate about what you do and a very comforting and kind person. I am thinking you are a born Dia Madre, I love being in your presence”
Anonymous
"The manner in which all things came to a screeching halt in Covid shutdown for my student was mind blowing. She is a TAG, 2E empathic who feels so deeply when in most situations especially given crisis situations. Stefanie's weekly Zoom group meeting to support my student and others alike, was an incredibly helpful experience! She took time for each student, had mindful convos and fun exercises!”
Anonymous
“You have changed a lot for me in such a short period of time and left me with so much wisdom and hopefully new ways of dealing with hardships”
Anonymous
“You have changed a lot for me in such a short period of time and left me with so much wisdom and hopefully new ways of dealing with hardships”
Anonymous
“Stefanie Raccuglia is a warm vibrant soul. She worked with my son for many years using movement to facilitate his own self-expression. In the process, she helped him experience himself as beautiful & talented, and supported me as the parent of a talented neuro-atypical child. She’s made a huge difference in our family’s life.“
LFR, Minister, Group Leader
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if we’re a good fit?
Therapy works best when you feel safe, seen, and understood. If you're curious about working together, I offer a free 20-minute consultation where we can discuss your needs, my approach, and whether it feels like the right fit for you.
How often do we meet?
Most clients meet weekly or biweekly, depending on their needs and goals. We can discuss what frequency feels best for your process.
How long should I expect to be in therapy?
There is no standard timeline for therapy; it depends entirely on you and what you hope to gain.
At the beginning, we’ll establish goals and check in on progress over time. Healing is not just about “checking off” goals but about feeling confident in your ability to navigate challenges and growth without therapy.
Some people find 3 months helpful for gaining awareness and new tools. Others find that around 6 months, they begin making meaningful changes. Some continue therapy as a space for ongoing self-growth, while others work toward a specific outcome and end when they feel complete. I will never expect you to be in therapy longer than you need.
What’s your cancellation policy?
I require 48 hours' notice for cancellations. Late cancellations or missed sessions may be subject to a fee. This is explained more fully in my intake paperwork.
How does virtual therapy work?
Virtual therapy sessions are held over a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. All you need is a private space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone. And yes, somatic and movement work can be done virtually!
Can I use my insurance for virtual therapy?
I currently do not accept insurance payments. I can support you in seeking out of network reimbursement if your insurance plans has those benefits.
I’m not comfortable dancing in front of people. Am I going to have to do that?
NO and YES. I am a Dance/Movement Therapist, and I believe movement is a valuable tool for healing. But this is not about dance performance or dance education. Every session is unique to you and where you are in the present moment. I have a very broad definition of movement. It can be as small as a shift in posture, a breath, or subtle gestures or as big as full-bodied movement.
I may challenge you to step outside of your comfort zone, AND we will always work at your pace and with respect to your resistance and limits. Ultimately, my goal is to support you in expression and connection with yourself especially when words or logic don’t fully capture what you’re feeling.
What’s the difference between a therapist and a coach?
Therapy and coaching can have similarities, but the key difference is in treatment and focus. Simply put, therapy addresses mental health concerns (anxiety, depression, trauma, etc.) and focuses on emotional healing, deep self-exploration, and building resilience. It helps you understand why certain patterns exist and gives you the skills to navigate and create the life you desire.
Coaching on the other hand, is goal-oriented and focused on actionable steps for achieving a specific outcome or goal. I do offer Embodied and Somatic Coaching, which is distinct from both therapy and movement-based work. This approach is designed for those who want to explore personal growth, embodiment, and nervous system regulation while working towards a specific goal or need.
Common coaching goals I work with:
- Confidence in public presence and expression
- Preparing for an audition or adjunct support to performance or training
- Navigating creative blocks
- leadership presence and interpersonal skills development
- Wanting to improve body awareness and ease of movement
- Burnout and work-life balance
Can gifted and highly intelligent women still make use of therapy?
YES! Therapy is not about being told who you are or receiving advice on how to be. It’s about deepening self-awareness, emotional processing, and nervous system regulation no matter how intellectually advanced you are.
Gifted, creative, and highly intelligent people often experience:
- Emotional intensity & sensitivity – Feeling things deeply, leading to overwhelm or difficulty relating to others.
- Feelings of isolation or not belonging – Experiencing the world differently can create awkwardness or social disconnect.
- Perfectionism & impossibly high self-standards – Leading to shame, self-doubt, procrastination, or burnout.
Therapy can help you regulate your emotions, build self-trust, and create balance so you can fully engage with your gifts without getting in your own way.
Good Faith Estimate
Beginning January 1, 2022, you have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost.
Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.
Colorado- For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call the Colorado Division of Insurance at 303-894-7490 or 1-800-930-3745
New York- For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or 212-480-6400.
Every body tells a story. I’m here to help yours remember how to move with trust, honesty, and connection.
Let’s begin where the mind and thinking soften and the body leads the way.