Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a trauma resolution approach developed by Dr. Peter Levine. It is a body-based method for healing stress and trauma that emphasizes the connection between physical sensations, emotions, and the nervous system.
During times of overwhelming stress, we often don’t have the capacity to pause and regulate our nervous system. As a result, the body can become “stuck” in a survival response—commonly known as fight, flight, or freeze. This can show up in many ways, including anxiety, restlessness, hypervigilance, irritability, or difficulty relaxing. It may also present as exhaustion, disconnection, or depression. For some, this dysregulation is experienced physically through symptoms such as chronic pain, digestive issues, or disrupted sleep.
Rather than focusing on retelling painful events in detail, SE gently guides clients to notice and track their internal bodily sensations—such as tension, movement, or breath. This process supports the release of stored stress and helps restore a sense of safety and balance within the body.
SE works by supporting the nervous system’s natural ability to regulate itself. By helping the body complete interrupted stress responses, this approach supports greater resilience, emotional balance, and a stronger sense of well-being.
To learn more about Somatic Experiencing, please visit the Somatic Experiencing International website.
What to Expect in Somatic Experiencing
Somatic experiencing is distinctly different from talk therapy. Rather than focusing on retelling your story in detail, we pay attention to your present-moment experience—especially what is happening in your body. As you start to describe your concern, we will shift our focus to check in on what bodily sensations are coming up.
You may be invited to notice sensations such as tension, warmth, movement, or your breath, and to track how these sensations shift over time. We move slowly, often in small steps, so your nervous system has the opportunity to process and integrate experiences without becoming overwhelmed.
Somatic Experiencing sessions are typically gentle, collaborative, and paced to help you feel safe and supported.
Who can benefit from Somatic Experiencing
Somatic experiencing can be beneficial for a wide range of concerns, and most people can benefit from increased connection to their bodies!
Somatic experiencing can be particularly beneficial for those who:
have experienced trauma
feel stuck in “survival mode”
haven’t found relief with traditional talk therapy
experience chronic stress and anxiety
have physical manifestations of their symptoms (chronic pain, headaches, difficulty eating, etc.)
have difficulty relaxing