Somatic Experiencing (SE)

“Only when we are in a calm physiological state can we convey cues of safety.”

— Stephen W. Proges

The Body and Trauma

Traumatic events are experienced rapidly and often in isolation, making it difficult for individuals to process and respond adaptively. Likewise, chronic stress has similar effects as our bodies and brains become conditioned to react with fight, flight, or freeze responses, even in the absence of immediate threats.

Over time, these physiological responses can lead to persistent mental and physical symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, chronic illnesses and pains, compromised immune system, substance overuse, and feelings of disconnection and dissociation.

The body constantly communicates through sensations, expressions, postures, gestures, and fidgets, conveying the non-verbal and sometimes unconscious aspects of stress and trauma. By learning to interpret the body language and listening to its unspoken memories, individuals can begin focusing on repairing the subcortical (below awareness) and physiological aspects of their wounds.

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What is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing (SE) focuses on restoring well-being by addressing the ways in which stress, shock, or trauma affect the body and the nervous system. SE helps individuals release, recover, and build resilience from maladaptive patterns of fight, flight, or freeze. It aids in resolving PTSD and developmental attachment trauma by assessing and addressing stuck physiological states, offering tools to rewire mind-body reactions to stress in a naturally adaptive way. By expanding therapy to include the bodily energy created by trauma, SE aims to complete the body's natural cycle of release. This approach enhances awareness, coherence, and self-regulation, leading to a deeper understanding of the body-mind connection and improved ability to manage and regulate emotions.

We apply our expert understanding of complex developmental trauma and dissociation to Somatic Experiencing (SE) with our clients. Our expertise in complex trauma, combined with our relational model, ensures that clients feel supported and guided through their healing process. We help clients process their wounds at a pace that is manageable and integrated, allowing for a more embodied and lasting healing experience.