Somatic Experiencing

"Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence." — Dr. Peter Levine

What is Somatic Therapy?

Somatic Therapy is an innovative form of therapeutic treatment that emphasizes the significant role of the body in the recovery process. This approach is grounded in the understanding that the mind and body are intricately connected and that physical sensations can profoundly influence our emotions and mental states. Through somatic therapy, individuals learn to recognize, release, and manage the somatic energy associated with past traumas and stress. The mind-body connection is a fundamental concept in somatic therapy. It refers to the continuous interaction between our mental processes, such as thoughts and emotions, and our physical body. This connection suggests that emotional distress can manifest as physical symptoms and vice versa. By addressing the physical symptoms and learning to interpret bodily signals, individuals can achieve better emotional regulation, leading to improved mental health and wellbeing.

Understanding Somatic Experiencing

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a therapeutic technique developed by Dr. Peter Levine, designed to alleviate the symptoms of trauma through body awareness. Somatic Experiencing operates on the premise that trauma symptoms are the effects of dysregulation in the autonomic nervous system (ANS). It utilizes gentle and gradual exposure to traumatic memories coupled with guided physical exercises to help individuals renegotiate their experiences and release trapped energy from their bodies. Somatic Experiencing aids trauma recovery by restoring the body's natural balance and resilience. It teaches clients to track their bodily sensations and to pendulate between regulation and dysregulation. This process allows them to safely explore trauma-related sensations and emotions without becoming overwhelmed. By enabling individuals to move through the physical responses associated with trauma, Somatic Experiencing promotes a natural return to equilibrium and healing. This heightened awareness is particularly beneficial in providing relief from PTSD symptoms such as flashbacks, anxiety, and hypervigilance.

A typical somatic therapy session begins with the therapist helping the client to become present and grounded in their body through mindfulness and relaxation techniques. The therapist then guides the client through various exercises that focus on sensing internal bodily sensations and movements. This might involve tracking sensations, exploring posture and gestures, and performing movements that amplify or explore these sensations.

If you’re ready to explore how somatic therapy can support your path to recovery and personal growth, contact us today to arrange a free initial consultation. Your body has stories to tell and strengths to uncover; let us help you listen and grow through them.