Somatic Experiencing
“Before there are words, there is the wordless communication of the body”.
Michael Changaris, Psy.D
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnection between the mind and body and seeks to restore balance and resilience to the nervous system, promoting healing and recovery from trauma.
SE was developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine, a psychologist and biologist, to address and heal the effects of trauma and stress on the body and nervous system. SE is based on the understanding that trauma, whether it be from a single overwhelming event or chronic stress, can become "stuck" in the body, leading to a range of physical and psychological symptoms. The focus of Somatic Experiencing is to help individuals release and resolve the stored trauma in their bodies, thereby promoting healing and restoring a sense of well-being.
Somatic Experiencing has been used successfully to treat a wide range of trauma-related issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. It is often used in combination with other therapeutic approaches to optimize healing and should be administered by trained Somatic Experiencing practitioners.
“Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence.”