Somatic Experiencing® (SE) was developed by Dr. Peter Levine and is a gentle, body-based, psychobiological approach that helps to facilitate the natural re-balancing of your nervous system and mind. New brain science affirms that the integration of the brain through the use of the body is essential for healing any and all kinds of trauma. A somatic, body based approach is key.
Trauma: any overwhelming life experience(s) that leaves a lasting imprint on your body, heart and mind and affects your capacity to be both at ease with yourself and others.
How Somatic Experiencing Works:
Dr. Levine studied the biology of trauma in wild animals in order to create this unique therapy. The Somatic Experiencing method tracks sensations in the body that have been trapped by fear, and gently allows the release of energy (physical and emotional). There is no need to talk about or re-live the details of the event(s). You may experience body sensations such as heat, tingling, mild shaking, vibrations and tremors. Once the trauma is released, you may feel a sense of relief. Many people report an absence of constriction, release of fear and a sense of confidence and connection. Others report a sense of freedom, knowing that you can handle whatever life hands you.
I have trained in many modalities of healing over the years, and Somatic Experiencing® is the primary approach I use to help eliminate trauma symptoms. SE can help you release trauma that’s stored in the body and also restore the sense of connection and freedom that is your birthright.
Training for Trauma Therapist
I am a senior training assistant in the Somatic Experiencing Training Program at the advanced level. I am also one of the first Somatic Experiencing Practioner (SEP) to complete the Advanced 3-year training in the state of Missouri. Sessions with me count towards credit for all psychotherapists and body workers currently enrolled in the SETI program. Currently, I am assisting master faculty Ariel Giarretto, and Joshua Sylvae and others. I have assisted the first St Louis and Kansas City training programs and continue to assist throughout the U.S. Teachers that continue to inspire and inform my work include Kathy Kane’s Touch Skills Training for Trauma Therapists, Steven Terrell’s Transforming the Experience-Based Brain. Other Mentors include Stan Tatkin and his work with couples, and Dr Abi Blakeslee.
I continue to study various somatic approaches for healing developmental trauma and attachment.
Finally Getting Past Trauma:
People often come to me saying they understand that the origin of their symptoms is likely trauma. Typically they have tried a lot of healing methods over the years and are ready to be done with the trauma once and for all.
As I talk with them further, what emerges is that their mind and body are not on the same page, and their nervous system has been in a state of chaos for a long time.
So what I do is get the body, heart and brain in harmonious dialogue with each other again, and help them gradually reset their nervous system so that they can be free of the trauma for good.
Are you a Therapist or Body worker working in the Saint Louis Area?
If so, you may be interested in the upcoming Somatic Experiencing Training. Consider joining the growing community of somatic therapists who are using this cutting edge approach to treat trauma, right here in the Saint Louis area or anywhere in the world ! Here are some things you will learn:
- How to read your clients nervous system in order to stop trauma in its tracks.
- Apply latest findings of neuroscience research through hands on and experiential practice.
- Integrate talk, touch and body centered approaches
- Learn how to interpret your client’s unique somatic expression in order to give them what they need
- give even your most challenging clients the relief they desperately seek.
- revolutionize your practice.
If you are already an SE student or a practitioner looking for consultations or credit, please go to the Individual Consultations page to learn how we can work together!