Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Peter Levine to address and heal trauma and stress disorders. It is grounded in the idea that trauma can be trapped in the body, manifesting as physical sensations and symptoms. SE focuses on the body's responses rather than the traumatic event itself and uses awareness of bodily sensations to help release stored trauma.

Through gentle and gradual exposure to these bodily sensations, SE aims to help individuals renegotiate and heal their trauma rather than relive it. This method encourages a natural balance between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) states of the nervous system, facilitating resilience and regulation. By observing and responding to body signals, individuals learn to disrupt trauma patterns and move toward healing and stability.

"Somatic Experiencing (SE) offers a unique approach compared to traditional talk therapy by focusing primarily on your body's responses rather than just discussing your thoughts and emotions. While talk therapy often revolves around exploring and making sense of your thoughts and life experiences, SE concentrates on the physiological aspects of trauma and stress. It is based on the understanding that trauma symptoms are the effects of instability in the autonomic nervous system (ANS), and SE provides tools to address these symptoms at the physical level.

SE helps you develop an increased awareness of your body's sensations (or somatic experiences) and teaches you how to release tension, reduce stress, and increase resilience. This method allows for trauma to be processed not through talking alone, but by cultivating a deep connection to the body that traditional talk therapies might not focus on.

A typical SE session begins with creating a safe and comfortable environment where you can explore your body's sensations without judgment. Here’s what a session generally involves:

• Grounding and Centering: We start by focusing on your immediate sensations and experiences, helping you become present in your body. This might involve simple exercises like noticing your breath or the sensations of sitting or standing.

• Tracking Sensations: I'll guide you to 'track' bodily sensations that arise during the session. This involves observing and describing any physical responses, like tension, warmth, or movement. It’s about connecting with how your body responds to specific thoughts, images, or memories.

• Pendulation and Titration: We work with the concept of 'pendulation,' noticing how your body naturally fluctuates between states of tension and relaxation. 'Titration' involves exposing you to small amounts of distress at a time, ensuring it’s manageable and does not overwhelm your system.

• Discharge and Regulation: You'll learn to release pent-up survival energy and regulate your ANS. This discharge may manifest as shaking, crying, or other forms of physical release, which are natural and healthy ways to restore balance to your body.

• Integration: We end the session by integrating the experience, helping you understand how the sensations and reactions relate to your healing process. This might involve discussing any insights gained during the session and exploring ways to incorporate these into your daily life.

The investment for the three-month Somatic Experiencing Program is $1,500. This includes 12 weekly 1-on-1 Somatic Experiencing sessions, plus priority complimentary access to upcoming special events, workshops, and yoga classes.

Payment plans are available at $500/month.