About Terra Soma

Dr. Devin Garfinkle’s Story

My initiation into the realm of holistic medicine began, like many, when I faced the limitations of conventional practices firsthand. Despite seeking care from renowned specialists, I often felt dismissed, reduced to mere diagnoses, offered superficial treatments, and left with persistent symptoms. It was a frustrating cycle of brief consultations leading to band-aid solutions in the form of pharmaceuticals. Deep down I knew there had to be another way, and I finally found solace when I encountered a naturopathic doctor who approached my concerns with genuine empathy, taking the time to hear my story and offer holistic interventions. Through herbal remedies, counseling, nutritional guidance, biofeedback and somatic therapies, I experienced profound transformation and newfound empowerment, finally finding lasting relief.

Over the years, I continued to seek support from various holistic practitioners, further igniting my passion to bridge the gap between conventional and alternative medicine. This journey led me to become a truly integrative doctor, fluent in the language of both eastern and western medicines, recognizing their unique strengths and limitations within the healthcare system. Understanding when and where each form of medicine is most appropriate is a cornerstone of my practice.

My medical school experience and the personal journey I was on at that time revealed the glaring absence of trauma-informed care in medicine —a vicious cycle often leading to more harm and trauma. This coincided with my training in counseling, biofeedback, and mind-body medicine. I was deeply struck by the transformative potential of biofeedback, offering an intimate view into individuals' nervous systems and physiological responses. By addressing issues at the nervous system level, I witnessed not only symptom alleviation but also a profound enhancement of overall well-being and resilience. This revelation fueled my dedication to further education, leading me to specialize in trauma therapy as a somatic experiencing practitioner. Over the past 15 years, I've committed myself to the pursuit of understanding the intricate layers of our human existence - what causes suffering and pain and what helps us heal and thrive. What began as a personal quest to understand my own suffering has blossomed into my life's purpose— helping humans reclaim their vitality and feel empowered and at home in their bodies.