Somatic Therapy

Somatic experiencing is a form of alternative therapy aimed at treating trauma and stress-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder. The primary goal of SE is to modify the trauma-related stress response through bottom-up processing.

Somatic Experiencing (SE) works by helping your body release trauma and stress stuck in the nervous system through a "bottom-up" approach, focusing on internal bodily sensations (felt sense) rather than just thoughts. Therapists guide you to gently notice physical feelings (like tension, warmth, or energy) associated with past overwhelm, using techniques like titration (small, manageable doses) and resourcing (connecting to calming sensations) to gradually complete natural defense responses (fight/flight/freeze) that got interrupted, thereby regulating your nervous system and increasing resilience. 

Key Principles & How It Works

• Mind-Body Connection: 

  SE recognizes that trauma isn't just a memory; it's stored as physical tension and nervous system dysregulation (fight, flight, freeze). 

• Bottom-Up Processing: 

  Instead of talking about trauma (top-down), SE starts with your physical experience (bottom-up) to access and release it. 

• Nervous System Regulation: 

  The goal is to help your body complete its survival responses, allowing you to move out of a stuck "fight or flight" state and into a regulated, calm state. 

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What to Expect in a Session

You'll work with a therapist to:

1. Get Grounded: Start by feeling safe and stable in your body. 

2. Notice Sensations: Gently explore the physical feelings related to stress or trauma. 

3. Slowly Discharge: Allow the body to release trapped energy through small movements, twitches, or breaths, completing the interrupted response. 

4. Build Capacity: Learn to manage overwhelming feelings by staying connected to resources and returning to calm.