Somatic Experiencing

What is Somatic Experiencing Therapy?

Somatic Experiencing (SE) therapy is a body-centered approach originally developed by Dr. Peter Levine that supports restoring balance to the nervous system. This therapeutic approach emphasizes the awareness of bodily sensations to address the effects of stress and trauma. By helping clients recognize their physiological responses, this therapy deepens understanding of how the autonomic nervous system (ANS) shapes the body’s reaction to stressors, and how its’ different branches are linked to distinct physiological responses.

How Does It Work?

SE is grounded on the understanding that trauma and chronic stress can interrupt the body’s natural ability to regulate itself, making it harder to process or respond to future events in a healthy way.

By working directly with the autonomic nervous system, this therapy helps release emotional and cognitive patterns that may be holding you back - creating space for healing, growth and greater resilience.

Who Can Benefit?

This therapy is particularly helpful for individuals struggling with:

  • Anxiety and panic disorders

  • Depression

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Chronic stress

  • Trauma

  • Grief and loss

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Experiencing persistent physical pain without clear medical cause

Core Principles of Somatic Experiencing:

  • The body has an innate ability to heal, but trauma can interrupt this process

  • Trauma is stored in the body and the mind

  • By gently guiding individuals to notice and process bodily sensations, the nervous system can complete its natural responses (like fight, flight, or freeze) and return to balance

Through this process, you may learn to build practical tools for healing and resilience

  • Increase bodily awareness by tuning into internal sensations and signals to inform you of your boundaries and needs

  • Work gently with trauma through titration, introducing small pieces of difficult material without overwhelming one’s self

  • Strengthen your capacity to recover by finding balance in pendulating between states of distress and calm

  • Draw on resources, both internal strengths and external supports, that foster safety and stability

  • Process experiences holistically using the SIBAM model (Sensation, Imagery, Behavior, Affect, Meaning)

  • Practice self-regulation to manage emotions and physiological responses more effectively

  • Recognize triggers so you can respond with greater awareness and choice rather than reactivity