Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing (SE™) is a neurobiological, body-oriented therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Peter Levine to help people heal from trauma and other stress disorders. It focuses on how our bodies process and recover from overwhelming events and challenging experiences, addressing the biological and physiological imprints of trauma.
Most of us are familiar with the “Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawn” responses—natural reactions of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) to threats. These responses are essential for survival, helping us navigate danger. However, trauma occurs when these automatic responses become habitual or we get “stuck” in some of these survival states. This dysregulation in the nervous system can manifest as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, constant overwhelm, or a general sense of being “off” or disconnected. Even when unnoticed, these patterns can deeply affect how we feel, relate to others, and respond to life’s challenges.
SE works on deep physiological levels, directly influencing the nervous system to release stuck energy, restore balance, and cultivate a felt sense of safety in the body. We work to gently complete unresolved survival responses and let go of trauma from our bodies and other levels of our being. Through our work with the nervous system, this process supports the restoration of our natural resilience, so we can more flexibly respond to life and reclaim greater self-trust and agency.
Learn more about Somatic Experiencing at www.traumahealing.org.
My Approach
Informed by Somatic Experiencing® (SE), my approach to healing emphasizes safety, resourcing, and empowerment to support the body's natural ability to resolve and integrate experiences.
Regulation of the Nervous System
At the core of SE is the belief that the nervous system, when properly supported, can naturally return to a state of balance and resilience. Sessions focus on helping clients identify and move through physical sensations, emotions, and experiences to bring the nervous system back to equilibrium.
Resourcing & Safety
In SE, we focus on developing resources—both internal and external—that help you feel more grounded, safe, and supported. These resources can be anything that brings you comfort, calm, or a sense of strength. By cultivating these throughout our work, you’ll feel more equipped to navigate challenges and regulate your nervous system outside of our sessions.
Empowerment
While I will offer insights and informed suggestions during our sessions, you are the expert of your experience. You are empowered and encouraged to make choices throughout our sessions. You are in control of what to focus on, how deeply to explore a particular sensation, or when to pause. The process is guided by your needs and comfort.
Pacing and Titration
Somatic healing is a gentle (yet powerful) process. I follow the principle of titration, which means we take small, manageable steps rather than diving into intense or overwhelming experiences all at once. This approach helps you stay present in your body and avoid feeling re-traumatized or flooded.
Curiosity & Non-Judgement
I aim to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space that welcomes all parts of your experience. While some patterns or feelings may feel challenging or shame-inducing, they often developed for a good reason. I find that curiosity and warmth tend to help deepen understanding and integration.
Please note that Somatic Experiencing and Therapeutic Coaching does not diagnose or treat mental health conditions, nor should it replace treatment or therapy from a licensed medical or mental health provider.