What is Somatic Experiencing (SE)? It is a type of therapy geared towards helping people find healing from trauma. SE practitioners use framework known as SIBAM (Sensation, Imagery, Behavior, Affect, and Meaning) to assist clients in processing trauma. Most therapies use “top down” methods, as somatic experiencing uses a “bottom up” approach which focuses on bodily sensations and incorporating one’s own body in processing trauma. SE sessions involve the introduction of small amounts of traumatic material and the observation of a client’s physical responses to that material. A key component to enhancing one’s ability to self-regulate is the practice of alternating, or “pendulating,” between the sensations associated with trauma and those that are a source of strength and comfort. The sensations and experiences explored are described as: Interoceptive (internal awareness of the body), Proprioceptive (spatial orientation of the body), Kinesthetic (movement of the body). Unlike other trauma therapies SE does not directly evoke traumatic memories and instead uses the body as a way to explore gradually and indirectly.
Forward Counseling and Consultation’s (FCC) SE clinicians will work with you to determine an estimated amount of sessions required to work through individualized treatment goals and plans. If interested in scheduling an intake appointment select one of FCC’s SE therapists below, to read full bios go to team tab on webpage.
Ann Frisella, MS, LPC-IT, SAC-IT, SEP-IT, Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200)
afrisella@forward-counseling.com
Michelle Murray, LCSW, SUD, ICS, SEP-IT, EMDR I & II
mmurray@forward-counseling.com
For more information on SE therapy, research, publications and resources please visit Somatic Experiencing International.