What is Somatic Experiencing? | Katrina Moore Petter

What is Somatic Experiencing®?

Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a gentle, body-centered approach to healing trauma (relational and single-event/shock trauma) and supporting emotional/nervous system regulation. SE emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body, recognizing that trauma can become stored in the body. It supports the healing of trauma by using a bottom-up approach, working with our physiology/nervous system first and then moving towards thoughts and emotions. Unlike traditional talk therapy that focuses on cognitive or emotional processing,

SE avoids direct and intense evocation of traumatic memories, instead approaching them indirectly and gradually, facilitating new, corrective experiences in the body. As we change our physiology/nervous system patterns, and experience the felt sense of safety and presence, our thoughts, core beliefs and worldviews also tend to change, without us needing to "do" anything.

Whether you’re navigating past trauma or seeking greater emotional well-being, Somatic Experiencing offers a nurturing space to heal, restoring harmony between mind, body, and spirit.

How does it work?

After establishing a felt sense of safety and presence through teaching and practicing various grounding strategies, the therapist helps the individual identify patterns of stress and trauma that are "stuck" in the body, such as fight, flight, or freeze response.

Facilitating Release:

Through gentle, non-intrusive techniques, the therapist helps the individual release these stuck patterns and move towards a state of greater balance and regulation.

Developing New Experiences:

SE aims to help individuals create new, positive experiences in their bodies, which can help to counteract the negative experiences associated with trauma.

The goal of SE is to help individuals regain their ability to regulate their nervous system and respond to life's challenges with greater resilience.

If you're keen to learn more, feel free to watch this video, and/or reach out to book a free consultation.