Find a Nervous System Regulation Therapist

Nervous system regulation refers to the body's ability to move between states of activation (fight-or-flight) and rest (calm and connected). A well-regulated nervous system can respond appropriately to stress and return to baseline relatively easily. When regulation is impaired—often due to trauma, chronic stress, or early life experiences—you may find yourself feeling constantly on edge, emotionally numb, or swinging between extremes. Therapists who focus on nervous system regulation help you understand these patterns and develop skills to support greater stability and resilience.

Therapy can help you understand how your nervous system responds to stress and provide tools for building greater regulation. This may include somatic (body-based) techniques, breathwork, mindfulness practices, and approaches that help you recognize and respond to your body's signals. A therapist can also help you identify triggers that activate your nervous system and develop personalized strategies for returning to a calmer state. Over time, many people find they feel more grounded, present, and able to navigate challenging situations.

Sessions often involve a combination of conversation and body-awareness practices. Your therapist may guide you through exercises to notice sensations in your body, teach breathing techniques, or help you explore how past experiences have shaped your nervous system responses. The pace is typically gentle and guided by what feels manageable for you. Many therapists incorporate elements from approaches like Somatic Experiencing, polyvagal-informed therapy, or EMDR, depending on your needs and preferences.

First Session's directory allows you to browse therapists across Canada who specialize in nervous system regulation and related approaches. Each therapist has a profile with an intro video, so you can get a sense of their personality and style before reaching out. You can filter by location, session format, and other preferences. All therapists on First Session have their credentials verified during onboarding, giving you confidence in your search.

This approach may be helpful if you often feel overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from your body. It can also support those who have experienced trauma, struggle with emotional regulation, or notice physical symptoms related to stress (like tension, fatigue, or sleep difficulties). If talk therapy alone hasn't felt like enough, or if you're drawn to approaches that involve the body, nervous system-focused work may be worth exploring. A therapist can help you determine whether this approach fits your goals.

Start by browsing therapist profiles on First Session. Watch intro videos to find someone whose approach resonates with you, then book a session directly through their profile. Many therapists offer a brief consultation to discuss your goals and answer questions before committing to ongoing work. If you're unsure about therapy costs or what to look for, our resources can help you prepare. Taking this first step is an important part of supporting your well-being.