Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing (SE™) is a neurobiological, body-oriented therapeutic modality developed by Dr. Peter Levine for healing trauma and other stress disorders. SE focuses on the biological and physiological ways our bodies process and heal from trauma and overwhelming events.
Many people have heard of “Fight, Flight, Freeze” as ways that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) responds to overwhelming events. We want our ANS to be able to respond to threats and kick into these states when needed - that’s its job! However, trauma occurs when these automatic responses become patterns or we get “stuck” in some of these survival states; this dysregulation in the nervous system can take the form of depression, anxiety, chronic pain or syndromes, constant overwhelm, or a sense that you aren’t functioning optimally. While these states may go unseen or unrecognized, they can profoundly impact how we feel on a day-to-day basis, our relationships, how we respond to life and the decisions we make.
SE works on deep physiological levels, directly influencing the nervous system to release stuck energy and restore a sense of safety in the body. We work together to complete unresolved nervous system responses and release trauma from your body and other levels of your being. Through our work with the nervous system we are able to restore our natural resilience so we can more flexibly respond to life and reclaim greater self-trust and agency.
To learn more please visit: 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.