Somatic Experiencing® (SE™) is a body-oriented therapeutic approach designed to help people heal from trauma by releasing trapped stress from the nervous system. The body-oriented therapeutic approach Somatic Experiencing® (SE) treats post-traumatic symptoms by changing the interoceptive and proprioceptive sensations associated with the traumatic experience. Filling a gap in the landscape of trauma treatments, SE has attracted growing interest in research and therapeutic practice recently. Recent research shows that mixed model linear regression analysis showed significant intervention effects for posttraumatic symptom severity (Cohen's d = 0.94 to 1.26) and depression (Cohen's d = 0.7 to 1.08). This randomized controlled study of SE shows positive results indicating SE may be an effective therapy method for PTSD.

Developed by Peter A. Levine, PhD, this innovative approach recognizes that trauma affects not just the mind, but becomes stored in the body's physiological responses. Unlike traditional talk therapy, SE works directly with the body's sensations and nervous system responses to help people move past traumatic experiences and restore their natural capacity for self-regulation.

Table of Contents

  • Understanding the Body's Response to Trauma
  • The Science Behind Somatic Experiencing
  • How Somatic Experiencing Works
  • Key Techniques and Methods
  • Research and Effectiveness
  • Conditions Treated with SE
  • What to Expect in SE Sessions
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • How Therapy Can Help

Understanding the Body's Response to Trauma

When we experience a traumatic event, our bodies activate a natural survival response through the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Research has emphasized the importance of addressing a wide spectrum of autonomic responses in trauma, supporting methods that directly target interoceptive and proprioceptive processes to regulate the nervous system and restore safety. This system includes three branches:

  • Sympathetic nervous system (SNS) – triggers the fight-or-flight response
  • Parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) – promotes rest and recovery
  • Enteric nervous system (ENS) – manages gut functions

During trauma, these systems can become dysregulated. STs emphasize interoception (sensing and interpreting signals from within the body), proprioception (sensing and interpreting body position), and kinesthesis (sensing and interpreting body movement). These sensations are the primary entry point for intervention, and the practitioner helps the patient to actively notice them (i.e., interoception) before engaging the meaning or emotions which may be attached to the sensations.

The Science Behind Somatic Experiencing

SE is based on observations of how animals in the wild naturally recover from life-threatening situations. Somatic Experiencing® is a biopsychological model developed by Levine (1998). The term "soma" refers to the living, sensing body, while "experiencing" emphasizes being present in the here and now. Key scientific principles include:

Nervous System Regulation

SE® facilitates completion of defensive body reactions (biological survival responses), stabilizes dysregulated nervous system activity, and enhances resilience through titrated exposure to body-based cues of trauma. SE® targets core physiological regulation by engaging the autonomic nervous system—both the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches through interoception (visceral sensations), proprioception (body awareness), and kinesthetic feedback.

The Trauma Response Cycle

When the natural cycle of activation and discharge is interrupted, traumatic stress can become "stuck" in the body. This leads to symptoms such as:

  • Hypervigilance and anxiety
  • Depression and mood changes
  • Physical pain and tension
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Immune system dysfunction

Evidence-Based Foundation

Findings provide preliminary evidence for positive effects of SE on PTSD-related symptoms. Moreover, initial evidence suggests that SE has a positive impact on affective and somatic symptoms and measures of well-being in both traumatized and non-traumatized samples. Practitioners and clients identified resource-orientation and use of touch as method-specific key factors of SE.

How Somatic Experiencing Works

SE helps people develop greater awareness of their body sensations and learn to regulate their nervous system responses. The process involves several key elements:

Tracking Sensations

Practitioners guide clients to notice and track physical sensations in their bodies. Patients also described the body as a site for emotional states, often using images or other metaphors to do so. One patient described a somatic response to a trauma-related trigger including tears and physical arousal.

Titration

Working with small, manageable amounts of activation helps prevent overwhelming the nervous system. This gentle approach allows for gradual integration of traumatic experiences.

Pendulation

While cognitive behavioral approaches to trauma treatment aim to modify "automatic thoughts" and underlying beliefs, somatic therapists support patients to "track" pleasant and unpleasant sensations within their window of tolerance. This involves moving attention between areas of comfort and discomfort in the body.

Resource Building

Before addressing trauma directly, SE practitioners help clients identify and strengthen internal resources – places in the body that feel calm, strong, or neutral.

Key Techniques and Methods

SE employs various body-based techniques to support healing:

Body Awareness Exercises

  • Body scanning to identify areas of tension or ease
  • Breath awareness without forcing specific breathing patterns
  • Gentle movement to release trapped energy

Grounding Techniques

  • Orienting to the present environment through the senses
  • Finding support through physical contact with chair or floor
  • Noticing safety in the current moment

Discharge and Integration

  • Allowing natural movements like trembling or shaking
  • Supporting the completion of interrupted defensive responses
  • Integrating new patterns of nervous system regulation

Research and Effectiveness

Recent studies demonstrate SE's effectiveness for trauma treatment:

Clinical Trial Results

This study presents the first known randomized controlled study evaluating the effectiveness of somatic experiencing (SE), an integrative body-focused therapy for treating people with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). There were 63 participants meeting DSM-IV-TR full criteria for PTSD included. Baseline clinical interviews and self-report measures were completed by all participants, who were then randomly assigned to study (n = 33) or waitlist (n = 30) groups.

Meta-Analysis Findings

A 2021 scoping literature review found that results provide preliminary evidence for positive effects of SE on PTSD-related symptoms. Moreover, initial evidence suggests that SE has a positive impact on affective and somatic symptoms and measures of well-being in both traumatized and non-traumatized samples.

Acceptability Research

ST was congruent with many patients' lived experiences and their beliefs about mental health. Challenges faced in seeking care for PTSD, including negative past therapy experiences and poor access, promoted openness to ST. Patients with PTSD and staff found ST acceptable. Further work is needed to develop somatic interventions for PTSD.

Conditions Treated with SE

While SE was developed specifically for trauma, research shows it may help with:

Primary Applications

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Complex trauma and developmental trauma
  • Acute stress responses
  • Chronic pain with trauma components

Additional Benefits Reported

At the 8-month follow-up, 90% of participants reported significant improvement or being completely free of PTSD symptoms. Studies also show improvements in:

  • Anxiety and panic disorders
  • Depression symptoms
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Chronic pain conditions
  • Stress-related physical symptoms

Special Populations

Recent research explores SE's effectiveness with:

  • Combat veterans
  • Sexual assault survivors
  • Natural disaster survivors
  • Healthcare workers with secondary trauma

What to Expect in SE Sessions

SE sessions differ from traditional talk therapy in several important ways:

Initial Assessment

The practitioner will:

  • Discuss your trauma history gently
  • Assess your current symptoms and concerns
  • Explain how SE works with the nervous system
  • Establish safety and trust

During Sessions

The 18-question interview guide elicited patients' past experiences with trauma therapy, physical PTSD symptoms, beliefs about the relationship between mind and body, exposure to mind and body practices, and their responses to a short description of ST.

A typical SE session involves:

  • Sitting comfortably in a chair or on a couch
  • Noticing body sensations with guidance
  • Tracking changes in sensations, emotions, and thoughts
  • Moving slowly through activation and settling
  • Building capacity for self-regulation

Session Structure

  • Sessions typically last 50-60 minutes
  • Treatment often involves 15-20 sessions
  • Frequency varies based on individual needs
  • Progress is monitored throughout

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SE different from other trauma therapies?

Yes, SE focuses primarily on body sensations rather than cognitive processing or prolonged exposure to traumatic memories. The creation of a safe therapeutic space, the maintenance of a close and attuned relationship and the importance of the corrective nature of the relationship, which can be identified in participants' experiences, is in coherence with the centrality of connection within the SE therapeutic approach.

Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?

No, SE doesn't require detailed verbal processing of traumatic events. The focus is on current body sensations and nervous system responses rather than narrative recall.

Can SE be combined with other treatments?

Yes, SE can complement other therapeutic approaches. Many intensive and massed treatment approaches for PTSD use combinations of psychological and functional treatments and the integration of somatic, EMDR or psychedelic approaches with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) treatments has become more common, especially with complex PTSD presentations.

How quickly will I see results?

Individual experiences vary, but many people report feeling some relief within the first few sessions. Significant improvements typically occur over several months of treatment.

Is SE safe for everyone?

SE is generally considered safe when practiced by trained professionals. However, it's important to work with a certified SE practitioner who can assess your individual needs and ensure appropriate pacing.

What if I can't feel body sensations?

Many trauma survivors have difficulty sensing their bodies initially. SE practitioners are trained to work with this and help gradually rebuild body awareness in a safe, supportive way.

How Therapy Can Help

If you're struggling with the effects of trauma, working with a trained Somatic Experiencing practitioner can help you:

  • Restore nervous system balance and reduce hypervigilance
  • Complete interrupted stress responses safely
  • Develop body awareness and self-regulation skills
  • Build resilience for handling future stress
  • Reduce trauma-related symptoms naturally

Somatic Experiencing offers a gentle, body-based path to healing that honors your body's innate wisdom and capacity for recovery. By working with the nervous system directly, SE can help you move beyond survival mode and reclaim a sense of safety, vitality, and connection in your life.

Find a Therapist

Ready to explore how Somatic Experiencing might help you? Search our directory to find qualified SE practitioners in your area who can support your healing journey. Many therapists offer initial consultations to help you determine if SE is the right approach for your needs.

References:

  1. Almeida, A. K., Macêdo, S. C. G. D. M., & Sousa, M. B. C. D. (2020). A systematic review of somatic intervention treatments in PTSD: Does Somatic Experiencing® (SE®) have the potential to be a suitable choice? Estudos de Psicologia (Campinas), 37, e190122. https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-0275202037e190122
  2. American Psychological Association. (2025). Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Adults – 2025 Update. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline
  3. Andersen, T. E., Lahav, Y., Ellegaard, H., & Manniche, C. (2017). A randomized controlled trial of brief somatic experiencing for chronic low back pain and comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. European Journal of Pain, 21(8), 1373-1383. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.1070
  4. Ayudia, L., Purba, F. D., Samuels, A., & Iskandarsyah, A. (2025). A pilot feasibility mixed-method study of group-based somatic experiencing® for Indonesian women survivors of sexual assault with PTSD symptoms. PLoS One, 20(12), e0336956. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0336956
  5. Brom, D., Stokar, Y., Lawi, C., Nuriel-Porat, V., Ziv, Y., Lerner, K., & Ross, G. (2017). Somatic experiencing for posttraumatic stress disorder: A randomized controlled outcome study. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 30(3), 304-312. https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.22189
  6. Goldsmith, R. E., Gerhart, J. I., Chesney, S. A., Burns, J. W., Kleinman, B., & Hood, M. M. (2025). The body can balance the score: Using a somatic self-care intervention to support well-being and promote healing. Healthcare, 13(6), 885. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13060885
  7. Harwood‐Gross, A., Lambez, B., Feldman, R., Zagoory‐Sharon, O., & Rassovsky, Y. (2025). Veterans' experiences of somatic experiencing and prolonged exposure therapies for post‐traumatic stress disorder: A qualitative analysis. Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice, 98(1), e12570. https://doi.org/10.1111/papt.12570
  8. Kuhfuß, M., Maldei, T., Hetmanek, A., & Baumann, N. (2021). Somatic experiencing – effectiveness and key factors of a body-oriented trauma therapy: A scoping literature review. European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 12(1), Article 1929023. https://doi.org/10.1080/20008198.2021.1929023
  9. Sariahmed, K., Alshabani, N., & Morone, N. (2025). The acceptability of somatic therapy for PTSD among patients at an urban safety net primary care clinic. Global Advances in Integrative Medicine and Health, 14. https://doi.org/10.1177/27536130251366942
  10. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023). Understanding Child Trauma. Rockville (MD): SAMHSA. Available from: https://www.samhsa.gov/child-trauma/understanding-child-trauma
  11. Vagnini, D., Grassi, M. M., & Saita, E. (2023). Evaluating somatic experiencing® to heal cancer trauma: First evidence with breast cancer survivors. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(14), 6412. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20146412
  12. Winblad, N. E., Changaris, M., & Stein, P. K. (2018). Effect of somatic experiencing resiliency-based trauma treatment training on quality of life and psychological health as potential markers of resilience in treating professionals. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 12, 70. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2018.00070