Somatic Experiencing.

What it is

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-based approach to trauma developed by Dr. Peter Levine. Instead of retelling what happened, it works with the sensations and survival responses that trauma leaves in the body. The idea comes partly from watching animals in the wild, which shake off a threat and recover, while people often hold that stress response in.

A practitioner helps you notice body sensations and move gently between activation and calm, at your own pace. The aim is to help the nervous system settle and build resilience without having to relive the trauma.

What happens at a visit

1. Attention on what you feel in your body now, not the full story.
2. Gentle guidance to notice and track sensations.
3. Room for natural responses such as shaking, warmth or deep breaths.
4. Moving back and forth between comfortable and harder sensations.
5. Small steps that build your capacity to handle stress.
6. Sessions paced by you, so you stay within what feels manageable.
7. Time to let your body settle before you leave.

Who it is for

• People with PTSD or complex trauma
• People who haven't found enough help in talk therapy alone
• People with chronic pain or physical symptoms linked to trauma
• People who feel stuck in fight, flight or freeze
• People who experience dissociation or shutdown
• Anyone who wants a gentle, body-based approach to trauma

Evidence and safety

Research on Somatic Experiencing is promising but still early: a small number of randomized trials and clinical studies show reductions in PTSD symptoms and anxiety. It is designed to be gentle and to stay within what you can tolerate. Look for a certified SE practitioner. People with severe PTSD, dissociation or another serious mental health condition should work with a licensed therapist trained in SE, alongside their usual care.

How Gabriel helps