Somatic Experiencing®
Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, Somatic Experiencing® is a body-focused therapy designed to help release trauma stored in the nervous system.
Our bodies and nervous systems have an amazing capacity to heal and regulate themselves. Sometimes, the trauma we experience overwhelms our capacity in a moment, leaving us feeling frozen in time—stuck in the same fight/flight/freeze process as if we were reliving the trauma in our bodies today. Somatic Experiencing® is a body-based approach that supports your nervous system to process the “residue” trauma has left in our bodies.
Instead of traditional talk therapy that asks that you tell and process the narrative of your trauma, Somatic Experiencing® helps your body find a deep sense of safety by resolving its activated (fight/flight) or deactivated (freeze) states so that you can get back to the natural rhythms of nervous system regulation—protecting you when necessary, and enjoying both activity and rest when not.
Many people experience meaningful improvements, which may include:
A restored sense of balance and calm in their nervous system
Greater comfort and ease when experiencing strong emotions or physical sensations
Relief from feeling constantly on edge, overwhelmed, or disconnected
A healthier ability to process and move past physical responses to stress and trauma
Somatic Experiencing® is a highly individualized process that you will work with your practitioner to set the pace and goals.
For additional information about Somatic Experiencing®, refer to Somatic Experiencing® International's website at https://traumahealing.org/se-101/
Somatic Experiencing® is by Emma Jones, LCSW. She is an intermediate student of Somatic Experiencing® with plans to complete her advanced training in 2027. Please reach out with any questions about these modalities at emma@chicagotherapyworkinggroup.com.
