The approach known as Somatic Experiencing (SE) was developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine to aid those who experience trauma and chronic stress. This therapy technique involves processing trauma through one's nervous system, rather than discussing the trauma verbally.
What it helps with
How it works
Early on
You and your counsellor slow down and notice what happens in your body, like a tight chest or warm hands. You also find what helps you feel safe and steady.
As you go
Your counsellor guides you to touch a small piece of a hard experience, then return to calm, so your nervous system can settle at a pace you choose.
Over time
You practise simple ways to ground yourself at home, like feeling your feet on the floor. You and your counsellor decide together how long to keep going.
Not sure? A free consultation can help you choose.
Where
About
The approach known as Somatic Experiencing (SE) was developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine to aid those who experience trauma and chronic stress. This therapy technique involves processing trauma through one's nervous system, rather than discussing the trauma verbally. The treatment of trauma, regulation of emotions, and reestablishment of a greater degree of relaxation, safety, and wellness at No Fear Counselling takes place through Somatic Experiencing (SE).
In general, the Somatic Experiencing (SE) theory suggests that trauma tends to get 'trapped' in one's nervous system. In spite of the end of an actual stressful event, one's body reacts as though one is still experiencing the threat. It results in a variety of symptoms, such as anxiety, panic attacks, emotional flooding, insomnia, and constant feelings of being on guard.
Instead of concentrating solely on traumatic memories, SE allows clients to focus on the physical manifestations of their stress and trauma. Thus, it enables them to discharge the stored energy of survival.
Over time, the nervous system learns that the threat has passed. As a result, clients often experience greater emotional balance, reduced stress, and an increased sense of safety in everyday life.
Somatic Experiencing (SE) utilizes soft somatic skills for effective treatment of psychological conditions. Practitioners help their clients become aware of bodily sensations, breathing, muscle tensions, and many other bodily experiences without experiencing any trauma.
The sessions are conducted in a relaxed manner without clients being asked to re-experience painful events again and again. With the help of practitioners, clients are able to work through difficult experiences slowly and develop emotional regulation and resilience skills.
Somatic Experiencing (SE) can help people:
Somatic Experiencing (SE) may be beneficial for people experiencing:
It can also help individuals who want to improve emotional regulation, recover from difficult experiences, and reconnect with their bodies in a safe and healthy way.
Somatic Experiencing (SE) treatment at No Fear Counselling is used by our skilled therapists to assist you in overcoming trauma and balancing your nervous system. Treatment is always customized according to your individual experience and goals.
Based on what you need, Somatic Experiencing (SE) can be paired with other scientifically proven approaches, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness, or Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. We provide in-person and online counselling services all across Canada.
Healing is possible when you have the proper treatment and support around you. Somatic Experiencing (SE) may be able to help you find safety in your body, manage stress, and adopt healthier coping mechanisms.
Somatic Experiencing Therapy Services are provided by No Fear Counselling in Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, Langley, Victoria, Kelowna, Penticton, as well as throughout Canada through our online counselling services.
Contact us to schedule your free consultation today.
Levine, P. A. (2010). In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness. North Atlantic Books.
Ogden, P., Minton, K., & Pain, C. (2006). Trauma and the Body: A Sensorimotor Approach to Psychotherapy. W. W. Norton & Company.
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In a Somatic Experiencing (SE) session, you and your counsellor talk a little and notice your body a lot. Your counsellor may ask what you feel right now, such as tightness in your shoulders or a flutter in your stomach, and help you stay with it gently. You may also notice what feels calm, like your breath or your feet on the floor, and move between the two.
No, you do not have to retell what happened in detail. SE focuses on how your body responds now, so you can share as much or as little as you like. Your counsellor moves at your pace and helps you feel steady before any deeper work. If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8, call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433), or call 911 if you are in danger.
SE can often be done by video, and you can meet in person or online from anywhere in BC. Some people find body-focused work easier in the same room, while others feel safer at home. Our intake team can suggest counsellors who fit what you need and where you want to meet.
SE starts with the body, while cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) starts with thoughts and actions. In CBT you might write down a worried thought and look for other ways to see it. In SE you might notice where the worry sits in your body and help it settle. Each approach suits different people, and some people use ideas from both.
It may be, depending on your plan and your counsellor's credentials. Many extended health plans cover Registered Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Certified Counsellors (RCC/CCC), so check your own plan for details. Our team includes RCCs, and we offer sliding scale rates for eligible people. You can learn more on our fees and funding page.
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