Somatic Experiencing® (SE) is a gentle yet powerful body-based approach to healing trauma, chronic stress, and emotional dysregulation. Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, SE is rooted in the understanding that trauma is not only stored in the mind, but also held within the body. Rather than focusing solely on memories or talk therapy, this method supports clients in tuning into their bodily sensations to process and release stuck survival energy—especially the “freeze” response commonly associated with trauma.
How Somatic Experiencing Works
Somatic Experiencing uses a bottom-up approach to healing. This means therapy starts with bodily sensations, not thoughts or verbal narratives. Many individuals who’ve experienced trauma may feel overwhelmed or shut down when trying to talk about what happened. Somatic Experiencing instead helps clients safely reconnect with their physical selves first, which naturally leads to emotional integration over time.
One key concept in Somatic Experiencing is pendulation—the therapist guides the client’s awareness gently back and forth between areas of discomfort (activation) and safety (calm or neutrality). This creates a sense of internal balance and prevents re-traumatization. Alongside this is titration, where trauma is processed in small, manageable doses. Instead of diving into overwhelming emotions, Somatic Experiencing allows for gradual exploration and healing.
Another essential tool in Somatic Experiencing is the SIBAM framework. Practitioners track and support healing by observing:
Sensation (what the body physically feels),
Imagery (internal pictures or mental visuals),
Behavior (movements, impulses),
Affect (emotions),
and Meaning (thoughts or beliefs).
This holistic model helps clients become more aware of how trauma impacts them across multiple layers of experience.
Key Benefits of Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing is recognized for its ability to help people:
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Release trauma stored in the nervous system by completing unfinished fight, flight, or freeze responses.
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Reduce PTSD symptoms, such as hypervigilance, anxiety, or emotional numbing.
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Regulate emotions more effectively, thanks to increased body awareness and nervous system flexibility.
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Rebuild resilience, making it easier to handle everyday stress and future challenges without becoming overwhelmed.
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Alleviate physical symptoms that often accompany trauma, such as chronic pain, fatigue, digestive issues, or tension.
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Enhance the mind–body connection, allowing for greater self-awareness, self-compassion, and emotional integration—especially for those healing from complex or developmental trauma.
According to studies and client experiences, Somatic Experiencing can also ease symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and dissociation by helping clients reconnect with their bodies in safe and empowering ways.
Techniques Used in Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing incorporates a variety of gentle and grounding practices to help clients reconnect with their felt sense—the body’s way of signaling what’s happening inside. Common techniques include:
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Guided body scans to identify areas of tension, numbness, or comfort
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Tracking physical sensations and shifts as they arise in real time
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Grounding exercises to increase present-moment awareness and safety
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Breathwork and mindful movement to support nervous system regulation
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Visualization and pendulation exercises that explore the body’s natural rhythm of activation and settling
All of these techniques are used in a non-invasive, client-led way. The therapist ensures the client remains within a “window of tolerance” where they feel safe, supported, and empowered—not overwhelmed.
Who Is SE Best Suited For?
Somatic Experiencing is beneficial for anyone who:
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Has experienced trauma (including PTSD or early developmental trauma)
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Lives with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or emotional dysregulation
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Suffers from chronic pain, tension, or unexplained physical symptoms
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Struggles with dissociation or feeling disconnected from the body
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Seeks a gentle, body-centered, and trauma-informed therapeutic approach
It can be especially effective when used alongside other therapies, such as EMDR, CBT, or mindfulness-based practices.
Why Choose Somatic Experiencing at Linanna Therapy?
At Linanna Therapy, we offer affordable, trauma-informed therapy with a strong foundation in somatic work. Our trained SE practitioners support clients in Coquitlam, Cloverdale, and online across British Columbia, helping them reconnect with their bodies and begin the path toward integrated healing.
We specialize in helping clients move through:
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Anxiety, depression, and emotional overwhelm
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Physical pain or body-based symptoms related to trauma
Our approach is compassionate, client-centered, and paced according to your nervous system’s readiness. We believe that healing is not about pushing through, but about gently unfolding the layers of experience with care and respect.
Getting Started with SE Therapy
When you begin Somatic Experiencing therapy at Linanna, you’ll work with a practitioner who will:
Guide you through safe body awareness exercises
Help you build internal resources for calm and resilience
Support you as you slowly process trauma-related sensations and patterns
Honor your pace and autonomy at every step
While SE is not a “quick fix,” it offers a deep, sustainable pathway to transformation when practiced with care and skill. If you’re looking for therapy that goes beyond talk and helps you reconnect with your body, Somatic Experiencing could be the right fit.
Book a free 15-minute consultation today to see if this gentle, body-centered approach can support your healing journey.
