The program seeks highly motivated, creative, and mature students who have demonstrated a strong interest in work focused on the human body. While this includes work in literature, humanities, and the social sciences, it is useful for prospective students to have some experience with somatic methods, such as Feldenkrais, Alexander, bioenergetics, Rolfing, Rosen work, massage, shiatsu, acupuncture, martial arts, dance, yoga, or meditation. Nurses, physicians, physical therapists, and chiropractors also make successful candidates.

Given the experiential dimension of the program, it is necessary that applicants be emotionally stable. Students must be able to cope with both the strong feelings that often emerge from somatics and the rigors of intellectual work.

Application to the Somatic Psychology program also requires the following:

• State certification in massage or an equivalent, and a demonstrated introductory familiarity with the field of somatics.
• An autobiographical statement: In four to six pages (typed, double-spaced), discuss childhood and early family experiences, and significant educational, sociocultural, or personally meaningful experiences in your later development. Describe the life experiences that led to your decision to apply to the program.
• A professional goal statement: A one-page (typed, double-spaced) statement of your educational and professional objectives.
• Transcripts: Official, sealed transcripts from each accredited academic institution you have attended.
• Two letters of recommendation: Letters of recommendation will be accepted from academic advisors, professors, professional supervisors, or someone able to attest to your ability to undertake the work required for your program. (Standard business letter format preferred.)
• An interview.