Somatic Experiencing in Phoenix
Trauma Healing that Lasts
I offer somatic experiencing in Phoenix for those seeking relief from lingering stress, overwhelm, unexplained tension, or trauma. Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a gentle, body-based approach, somewhere between talk and massage therapy, to help you feel home in your body again.
This work may be a good fit if you experience:
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Chronic anxiety or overwhelm
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Unexplained physical tension or pain
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Feeling stuck, even after trying therapy
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Feel disconnected from your body
Relieve unexplained chronic tension & pain.
Reduce persistent anxiety, panic, & overwhelm.
Heal from trauma
& PTSD.
Build resilience, presence, & self-awareness.
What Happens in a Session
Here is a general picture of an SE session in Phoenix:
Check-In & Safety
We start seated across from one another. In your first session, we’ll set goals and go over expectations.
Grounding & Orientation
Through breath, gentle centering, and awareness of posture and movement, we guide you into present-moment safety in your body. This helps your nervous system feel safe enough to begin exploring.
Body Awareness
Rather than diving into the story of what happened, we gently bring attention to your internal experience: subtle sensations, tension patterns, temperature, breath, and impulses. This awareness can sometimes bring up emotional or physical responses in a natural way.
Tools
Depending on the session, we might incorporate movement, guided touch, or time on the massage table. Sometimes we stay seated or move around the room. Not every session includes hands-on work, especially in the beginning.
Release & Integration
Through small movements, guided touch, or natural responses (like tears or subtle physical shifts), I support your body in releasing stored tension or “stuck energy,” while making sure it never becomes overwhelming.
Return to Balance
We always take time to settle back into a grounded, regulated state before ending. Occasionally, sessions may run a few minutes over to ensure you feel fully present and safe.
What Is Somatic Experiencing?
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a type of somatic therapy oiginally developed by Peter Levine, PhD. It’s grounded in the understanding that overwhelming or traumatic experiences can cause our body and nervous system to become “stuck” in a survival response (like fight, flight, or freeze).
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which focuses on thoughts, beliefs, or emotions, SE works from the “bottom up.” It starts with awareness of internal sensations and subtle physical responses in the body, helping your nervous system gradually release stored stress. For many people, this is the first time they begin to feel safe in their bodies again.
Session Details
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Sessions are 60 or 90 minutes.
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They are held in central Phoenix:
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Athleticwear is preferred, but not required
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Virtual sessions available
Frequently Asked Questions
