Somatic Experiencing (SE)® presents a captivating approach to addressing trauma, pioneered by Dr. Peter A. Levine. This therapeutic method draws inspiration from the observation of wild prey animals, which, despite frequent threats, rarely succumb to lasting trauma. These animals employ innate mechanisms to regulate and discharge the intense energy associated with survival behaviors.

While humans are born with nearly identical regulatory mechanisms, they are often overridden or inhibited. Our reluctance to surrender to instinctual responses hinders the complete discharge of survival energies. This trapped energy can linger in the body and nervous system, potentially manifesting as physical symptoms or discomfort.

By merging the highest cerebral functions of refined awareness with primitive animal instincts, SE™ allows us to “model” the built-in trauma resilience observed in animals. Through SE™, we can transform and discharge these trapped survival energies, thereby facilitating a return to equilibrium in the aftermath of overwhelming experiences like fear, rage, helplessness, or loss. This process empowers us to develop our innate ability to rebound after extreme events, transforming trauma in a way that enables us to become more fully human.