What is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing is a healing modality developed by Peter Levine in the early 80´s as a way to help people heal from trauma and overwhelm. It is focused on the body and how our nervous system becomes dis-regulated when we don´t have a chance to process large amounts of stress. This may affect the way we relate to others, how we feel physically, the way we move, and even our sense of safety in the world. Many kinds of helping professionals incorporate SE, such as psychotherapists, bodyworkers, movement practitioners, teachers and nurses.

What does a session look like?

Some sessions might look a lot like a regular massage, except that you will be asked to have a more “active” role from the beginning to the end. By this I mean some level of awareness and verbal reporting is key for us to work with what is arising. You will be amazed at how much your body has to say once we give it a voice! There might be some bodily movements and opening of your eyes, noticing the room, and checking back in with your body as I offer guidance and supportive contact in different areas of your body. Sessions are lot more collaborative than a regular massage, I will be working with your nervous system instead of just on your body. Big difference! 

I also offer online, and hands-off sessions, (we would be sitting across from one another in person or virtually). This approach is often as powerful as regular table sessions with elements of self-touch and moving exercises.

What can we work with SE?

We will focus on the ways your body is struggling with overwhelm due to past experiences like falls and injuries including mild concussions, chronic pain, anxiety, sleeplessness, and physical and emotional difficulties that arise through the process of an ongoing illness, or even grief. And the list goes on… The range of what we can work on together is quite expansive and it will develop gradually as we build a common language and your nervous system becomes more regulated.

What is my Scope of Practice?

I am a Licensed Massage Therapist in the States of New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts.  I am licensed to work with your body and what is arising in your bodily experience, moment by moment. I will not analyze or interpret the origin of what is coming up. I will offer touch when appropriate, and verbal prompts to further your inquiry. When I speak of a bodily experience, this might include sensations of physical or emotional pain, such as as anxiety, or even lack of sensation. These experiences can happen when we are scared, shut off or don’t feel safe to notice what is happening in our bodies. Sessions tend to feel deeply personal; images, stories from the past, or difficult emotions might arise. We will find ways towards a sense of coherence with yourself and what you feel in your body. Deep, perhaps old structures can let go and we can restore a sense of ease in your self and your body. You might find it helpful to have a psychotherapist to further process what arises during a session and how it applies to your life, your relationships and your mental health. If for whatever reason we feel we are not a good fit I will refer you to another health professional that might better meet your needs. 

What my clients are saying…