Skip to content

Somatic Experiencing

woman laying on sofa in a therapy session

What is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing (SE™) is a powerful body-oriented therapy designed to heal trauma and stress disorders. Used in various fields such as psychotherapy, medicine, coaching, and physical therapy, SE offers a holistic approach to wellness. Developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine, this method has been clinically applied for over 40 years.

The SE technique focuses on releasing traumatic shock, which is essential for transforming PTSD and emotional attachment wounds. It helps identify where individuals feel “stuck” in fight, flight, or freeze responses. Moreover, SE provides effective tools to resolve these trapped physiological states.

This therapeutic approach is beneficial across many healing professions, including mental health, addiction treatment, bodywork, and education. By integrating insights from physiology, psychology, and indigenous healing practices, Somatic Experiencing fosters deep healing.

Discover how SE can transform your approach to trauma recovery and emotional well-being. For more information, visit Trauma Healing.

Somatic Experiencing in Parent Coaching

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is particularly beneficial in parent coaching, as it helps parents address their own emotional triggers and responses. Many parents carry unresolved trauma from their childhood, which can affect their parenting styles and interactions with their children. By integrating SE into parent coaching, practitioners can assist parents in recognizing their physical and emotional responses, allowing them to break unhealthy cycles.

Through SE techniques, parents learn to manage stress and cultivate a sense of calm, creating a more nurturing environment for their children. This process not only enhances the parent-child relationship but also models emotional regulation for kids. As parents develop greater self-awareness, they become better equipped to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Ultimately, this approach empowers parents to foster healthier family dynamics while supporting their personal healing journey.

 

What happens in a somatic experiencing session?

Somatic Experiencing (SE) sessions focus on gently introducing small amounts of traumatic material while observing the client’s physical reactions. Clients may exhibit shallow breathing or shifts in posture, and the therapist regularly checks in to note subtle sensations, like heaviness or dizziness. Practitioners proceed with caution to prevent retraumatization and support clients in developing self-regulating strategies.

A crucial aspect of SE is “pendulating,” which involves alternating between trauma-related sensations and those that evoke strength and comfort. This technique helps clients manage their emotional responses effectively.

Additionally, SE practitioners guide clients to identify safe spaces—both within their bodies and in their minds. By experiencing trauma sensations in a controlled environment, clients can process their trauma more fully. This practice enhances awareness of physical stress responses, equipping individuals with valuable skills for everyday life.

For more insights, explore Somatic Experiencing at Good Therapy.

Woman giving herself a self hug method by peter levine

Somatic experiencing sessions

All sessions are through audio video calls on Zoom. This means that I work with clients world wide given our time zones work. I am in Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and have worked with clients in England, America, Dubai, Singapore, Canada, Australia, Peru.. amongst others.

* If you struggle with tech – no problem, some parents do their sessions via whats app calls. I will do my best to accommodate your requests.

Ready to Transform Your Healing Journey?

Book your Somatic Experiencing session today and take the first step toward emotional well-being and deeper connections.

Click Here