Trauma Healing that Lasts
Many of my clients find this page seeking relief from lingering stress, overwhelm, unexplained tension, or trauma. Things that conventional therapy or Western medicine haven’t been able to fully relieve. Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a gentle, body-based approach, somewhere between talk and massage therapy, to help your body release stored trauma and clear unresolved symptoms.
Somatic Experiencing
in Phoenix
What Is Somatic Experiencing?
Somatic Experiencing was originally developed by Peter Levine and is grounded in the neurobiological process in which overwhelming or traumatic events can cause our body and nervous system to become “stuck” in a survival response (like fight, flight, or freeze), even long after the event is over.
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Unlike traditional talk therapy (CTB, DBT, and psychoanalysis, which focus on thoughts, beliefs, or emotions), SE works from the “bottom up”: it starts with an awareness of internal sensations, body awareness, and subtle physical responses, helping your nervous system renegotiate and release stuck energy.
For many, this is the first time they relate to their body in this way.
Relieve unexplained chronic tension & pain.
Reduce persistent anxiety, panic, & overwhelm.
Heal from trauma
& PTSD.
Build resilience, presence, & self-awareness.
What Happens in a Session
Every session will be different. The need for intuition and presence is paramount. Many somatic practitioners describe sessions vaguely so as not to project or set expectations. While I subscribe to this, generally, I regularly hear that the lack of clarity causes some resistance.
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Here is a general picture of an SE session.
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Check-In & Safety: We will start seated across from one another. In your first session, we will set goals and go over any contraindications. Any following sessions will start with the practice.
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Grounding & Orientation: Through breath, gentle centering, and posture/movement awareness, we guide you into present-moment safety in your body. This helps your nervous system feel safe enough to begin exploring.
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Body Awareness/Sensing: Instead of diving into the story of what happened, we gently draw attention to the felt sense: subtle sensations, tension patterns, energy, temperature, breath, impulses. It’s often surprising what this awareness can bring up emotionally and energetically.
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Practices: We may move to the massage table. We may walk around the room, introduce touch, or try movement practices. Often, the first session does not incorporate the massage table/lying positions.
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Gentle Release & Integration: Through micro-movements, guided touch, gentle movement, or bodily release (tears, shakes, coughing, etc.), I will support your body in the discharge of stored tension or “stuck energy.” I will be there to ensure that it doesn’t become too much.
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Return to Balance: Tapping into comfortable sensations or positive emotions, we will ground back into the present moment. On occasion, sessions will go a few minutes over to ensure that you are fully present and feeling safe.
What can Somatic Experiencing Do for You
In short, clients leave SE sessions feeling more present, safe, and at ease in their bodies. Many clients report getting the best sleep of their lives and experiencing peace that they haven’t felt in a long time.
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People come to SE for many reasons. It can support you in healing from:
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Anxiety, panic, chronic stress, or overwhelm
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PTSD or past trauma (big or small, recent or long ago)
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Emotional numbness, dissociation, or difficulty connecting with self
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Chronic tension or pain, especially when medical tests show no clear cause
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Feelings of being “on edge,” unable to relax, or disconnected from your body
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A desire for deeper embodiment, resilience, and integration of mind and body
Who Benefits Most
SE is especially supportive for people who:
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Experience PTSD, trauma, or lingering traumatic stress
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Live with chronic anxiety, panic, stress, or overwhelm
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Have chronic physical tension or unexplained pain
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Feel disconnected, numb, or “out of my body” emotionally/physically
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Want deep connection to their body — more presence, calm, and resilience
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Want to integrate body-based healing with other therapies (psychotherapy, coaching, medical)
You May Want to Know Before Your Session
Healing with SE is unique for every person. Some of my clients notice shifts after the first session, while others benefit from ongoing work over time.
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Sessions often involve being present to subtle body sensations; sometimes, strong physical or emotional reactions may surface. I always bring clients back to a place of stability before ending the session.
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You don’t have to verbally relive traumatic memories; this is not a performative release session. We will respect your body’s pace and what feels safe to process.
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You are always in control; your comfort and consent guide the process. Sometimes saying “no” to a technique is the most powerful part of the practice.
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It helps to wear comfortable, loose clothing (like athletic wear) so you can move, breathe, and feel your body naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
