SOMATIC EXPERIENCING (SE)
Somatic Experiencing is a psychobiological method that uses body awareness to restore nervous system regulation following traumatic experiences or periods of cumulative stress. First developed in the 1970s by psychologist Dr. Peter Levine, SE works with the place where trauma is most deeply held: the body.
SE recognizes that trauma isn’t defined by a particular event, but rather by how that event impacts our nervous system. We may become stuck in physiological patterns of fight/flight or freeze, resulting in autonomic nervous system dysregulation and associated symptoms such as anxiety, ill health, and chronic pain. These and other symptoms of trauma may occur immediately or emerge over time as our mind and body attempt to cope with and resolve the disruption to our system.
SE helps bring the nervous system back to a place of regulation, where it flexibly responds to the present moment by moving through different states of safety and connection, as well as survival states like fight/flight and freeze. One way SE facilitates this shift is by growing a person’s capacity to notice and be with emotions and physical sensations as they arise in the body. We will work both with resourcing — identifying sources of comfort and strength — and gradually contacting more challenging material. This intentional process supports your system to incrementally meet and complete self-protective responses that have become “stuck” in the body, allowing survival energy to be experienced and discharged while avoiding retraumatization.
Clients may ultimately expand their capacity to be with difficult bodily sensations and emotions, as well as with joy and ease.
WHO MIGHT BENEFIT?
Somatic Experiencing may be useful for individuals healing from trauma and those who would like to (re)grow their connection between mind and body.
SE addresses nervous system dysregulation resulting from a wide variety of stressors, including: car accidents; physical, verbal, or emotional abuse; sexual or physical assault; social and historical oppression; neglect; accidents and falls; medical procedures; natural disasters; loss; pre-/peri-/post-natal challenges; cumulative stress; and adverse childhood experiences.
HOW WILL WE WORK TOGETHER?
Sessions are collaborative, and we will work at your pace with the topics and goals you bring to our time together. There is no requirement to share the details of your story.
In sessions, you’ll be invited to verbally track physical sensations, as well as any images, emotions, and thoughts that arise. We will integrate talking, tools for self-regulation, somatic exercises, and gentle movement to help restore your nervous system’s equilibrium and support you in exploring a fuller range of embodiment and expression.
I offer 45-minute individual sessions over Zoom. If you’re ready to get started, please email me to schedule a complimentary 15-minute chat (by phone or on Zoom).
MY QUALIFICATIONS
I have completed all required coursework for my Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) certification and am working toward completing my remaining case consultation/supervision requirements. Thus, I currently offer the practice as an advanced-level SE student. SEP certification is earned through the Somatic Experiencing Institute following three years of training (216 contact hours), individual and group supervision, and personal session hours. I anticipate meeting the requirements for SEP certification by early 2024.
I am not a licensed mental health therapist and will not make diagnoses or provide medical or psychological treatment. I am open to collaborating with other healing professionals on your support team.