Somatic experiencing

Somatic Experiencing is a form of alternative therapy aimed at relieving the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental and physical trauma-related health problems by focusing on the client's perceived body sensations (or somatic experiences).

Overview

Somatic Experiencing (SE) was developed by Dr. Peter Levine following his observation that animals in the wild often do not exhibit symptoms of trauma, even after life-threatening events. He concluded that the symptoms of trauma are the result of a biological response that can be addressed through the use of SE techniques.

SE is a body-oriented approach to the healing of trauma and other stress disorders. It is the life’s work of Dr. Peter A. Levine, resulting from his multidisciplinary study of stress physiology, psychology, ethology, biology, neuroscience, indigenous healing practices, and medical biophysics, together with over 45 years of successful clinical application.

Methodology

The SE approach releases traumatic shock, which is key to transforming PTSD and the wounds of emotional and early developmental attachment trauma. It provides effective skills appropriate to a variety of healing professions including mental health, medicine, physical and occupational therapies, bodywork, addiction treatment, first response, education, and others.

Criticism and Controversy

While some practitioners and patients have reported positive effects from the use of Somatic Experiencing, the method has also been criticized. Critics argue that there is a lack of empirical evidence supporting the effectiveness of SE, and that the underlying theories are not consistent with contemporary understanding of neuroscience and trauma.

See Also

• Alternative Therapy
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Peter Levine

References

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