Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-oriented therapy developed by Dr. Peter Levine, which focuses on healing trauma by working with the physical sensations that trauma has stored in the body. Dr. Levine discovered that trauma is not only stored in our minds or memories, but also in our bodies, which can manifest as tension, pain, or other physical complaints. SE helps clients process this trapped energy in the body, paving the way for healing and recovery.

The approach is based on the idea that trauma occurs when the nervous system is unable to complete a normal “fight or flight” response. This causes energy to become stuck in the body, which can cause physical and emotional symptoms. Somatic Experiencing helps regulate the nervous system and discharge unconscious responses to stress and trauma, allowing the body to heal itself.

When can Somatic Experiencing be helpful?

Somatic Experiencing is effective for a wide range of traumatic experiences, both acute and chronic traumas. Somatic Experiencing can help in the following situations, for example:

• Accidents, falls, or surgeries
• Serious medical procedures
• Sexual violence or physical assaults
• Grief, loss, or divorce
• Burnout, chronic stress, or anxiety
• Attachment trauma or early emotional neglect
• Unexplained stress symptoms or overstimulation

Even if you cannot identify a clear ‘trauma’, but notice that you quickly become tense, anxious, numb, or exhausted, SE can offer support.

What does a Somatic Experiencing session look like?

Each session begins with a moment of attunement: how do you feel, what is going on inside you? From there, I guide you with gentle attention and focused questions to slow down and bring your attention to what you are observing. You don’t have to force anything or talk at length — your pace and boundaries are leading.

During the session, we take the time to patiently observe what you notice about yourself. We may work with movement, breathing, or touch (in consultation). Together, we recognize the (often) subtle signals from your nervous system and build resilience.

This form of trauma therapy is gentle, attuned, and respectful. We work in small steps so that your system does not become overwhelmed (again).