Somatic Experiencing® (SE) Therapy — Heal Trauma Through the Body
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a therapeutic approach designed by Dr. Peter Levine to help individuals release and recover from trauma by focusing on the body’s sensations (bottom-up). As a client preparing for a Somatic Experiencing session, here’s what you can expect:
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Before the Session
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Initial Consultation: Your first session will likely include a discussion of your history, your reasons for seeking SE therapy, and your goals. This helps the therapist understand your needs and tailor the therapy accordingly.
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Comfortable Environment: SE sessions are conducted in a safe and calming environment to help you feel relaxed and secure.
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During the Session
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Focus on Body Awareness: SE emphasizes awareness of bodily sensations rather than intense emotional or cognitive processing. You’ll be guided to notice and describe physical sensations in your body.
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Gentle Guidance: The therapist will gently guide you to focus on particular sensations or areas of tension. They may ask questions like, "What do you notice in your body right now?" or "Can you describe that sensation?"
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Tracking Sensations: You’ll learn to track sensations as they arise, change, and resolve. This process helps discharge the energy associated with trauma.
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Movement and Expression: The therapist may encourage small, spontaneous movements or expressions (like shaking, sighing, or stretching) to help release stored trauma.
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Pacing and Resourcing: The therapist will ensure the pace is manageable for you, often incorporating grounding techniques or positive resources (pleasant memories, soothing imagery) to keep you anchored and comfortable.
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Pendulation: You may experience a technique called pendulation, which involves shifting your attention between uncomfortable sensations and neutral or pleasant sensations to help regulate your nervous system.
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After the Session
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Processing Time: You might feel a range of emotions or sensations after a session. This is part of the process of your body integrating the work done during the session.
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Self-Care: Your therapist may recommend self-care practices such as gentle movement, hydration, rest, or journaling to help you process and integrate your experience.
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Follow-Up: Regular sessions are often recommended to build upon progress and continue the healing process. The frequency and duration of sessions will depend on your individual needs and progress.
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Expectations
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Non-Intrusive Approach: SE is designed to be non-intrusive and respects your pace and comfort level. The focus is on creating a sense of safety and empowerment.
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Body-Centered Therapy: Unlike some forms of therapy that focus on talking about traumatic events, SE emphasizes bodily sensations and physical experiences.
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Gradual Progress: Healing from trauma is a gradual process. SE aims to incrementally release the trauma stored in the body, reducing symptoms over time.
By understanding these aspects, you can enter your Somatic Experiencing session with a sense of preparedness and openness to the process, enhancing the potential for healing and growth.
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More Information
If you are interested in learning more about Somatic Experiencing and his creator Dr. Peter Levine, here are some further links and book recommendations:
Books:
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Walking the Tiger, Peter Levine
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Healing Trauma, Peter Levine