Mental Health

How and Why Somatic Experiencing Works for Trauma Treatment

February 18, 2025

Trauma is not just a psychological condition—it is a whole-body experience that impacts the nervous system, emotions, and even physical health. While traditional talk therapy is beneficial for many, some individuals with trauma struggle to process their experiences solely through conversation. This is where Somatic Experiencing (SE) comes in—an innovative, body-focused therapy designed to help individuals regulate their nervous systems and heal from trauma at a deeper level.

At Foundations Group Behavioral Health, we specialize in Trauma Disorder Treatment Programs, integrating Somatic Experiencing alongside evidence-based therapies to help individuals find relief from trauma symptoms. Whether through Psychiatric Day Treatment, Half-Day Treatment Programs, or Outpatient Mental Health Programs, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment that acknowledges the mind-body connection.

This article explores how and why Somatic Experiencing works for trauma treatment, its benefits, and how it can be integrated into Mental Health Treatment Programs for long-term healing.

What is Somatic Experiencing (SE)?

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-oriented trauma therapy developed by Dr. Peter Levine. It is based on the understanding that trauma is stored in the body, not just in the mind, and that releasing pent-up survival energy can help restore balance to the nervous system.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, SE does not require individuals to recount or relive their trauma. Instead, it gently guides them to track bodily sensations and release stored tension. This approach helps rebuild a sense of safety and resilience, allowing individuals to heal from trauma without feeling overwhelmed.

How Trauma Affects the Body and Mind

When an individual experiences trauma—whether from abuse, accidents, natural disasters, or chronic stress—the nervous system can become stuck in a survival state.

Trauma and the Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates our response to danger through:

Fight – Feeling angry, hypervigilant, or aggressive.
Flight – Experiencing anxiety, restlessness, or panic.
Freeze – Feeling numb, disconnected, or unable to take action.

For individuals with unresolved trauma, the body remains trapped in these stress responses, even when the danger has passed. This can lead to chronic anxiety, depression, dissociation, and physical symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and digestive issues.

How Somatic Experiencing Helps

SE gently unwinds the trauma response by helping individuals recognize and release stored tension. It teaches the body and mind how to return to a state of balance, leading to reduced anxiety, improved mood, and greater emotional regulation.

Why Somatic Experiencing Works for Trauma Treatment

1. SE Works with the Body, Not Just the Mind

Trauma is not just a memory—it is stored in muscles, nerves, and the autonomic nervous system.
SE helps individuals become aware of bodily sensations, allowing them to gradually release tension and stored survival energy.

2. SE Regulates the Nervous System

Many trauma survivors feel stuck in hyperarousal (panic, anxiety) or hypoarousal (numbness, depression).
SE helps the nervous system move from dysregulation to regulation, promoting a sense of calm and control.

3. SE Reduces PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression Symptoms

SE addresses root causes of trauma-related symptoms by working at a physiological level.
Research suggests that Somatic Experiencing reduces PTSD symptoms by 80%, making it an effective alternative for individuals who struggle with traditional talk therapy.

4. SE Helps Individuals Reconnect with Their Bodies

Trauma can cause dissociation, making individuals feel disconnected from their emotions and physical sensations.
SE rebuilds body awareness and emotional resilience, helping individuals feel safer in their own skin.

5. SE Provides a Gentle Approach to Healing

Some trauma survivors find talk therapy too overwhelming, as discussing trauma in-depth may trigger distressing emotions.
SE works at a slower, controlled pace, ensuring individuals feel safe and supported throughout the process.

How Somatic Experiencing is Used in Mental Health Treatment Programs

At Foundations Group Behavioral Health, we integrate Somatic Experiencing into various trauma-informed mental health programs to support long-term healing.

1. Psychiatric Day Treatment for Trauma Recovery

Provides intensive, structured therapy for individuals with severe PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
Includes Somatic Experiencing, talk therapy, and holistic interventions to restore emotional balance.
Helps individuals develop emotional regulation skills in a safe, supervised setting.

2. Half-Day Treatment Program for Trauma and Co-Occurring Disorders

Designed for individuals who need structured therapy but require flexibility.
Combines Somatic Experiencing with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques.
Supports individuals with co-occurring anxiety, ADHD, and depressive disorders.

3. Outpatient Mental Health Program for Ongoing Trauma Support

Ideal for individuals transitioning from intensive programs to outpatient care.
Focuses on Somatic Experiencing, emotional regulation, and body-based mindfulness techniques.
Helps trauma survivors build resilience and coping skills while integrating treatment into daily life.

4. Trauma Disorder Treatment Program for PTSD and Emotional Healing

A specialized program that targets trauma symptoms through Somatic Experiencing and other therapeutic modalities.
Helps individuals process trauma without re-traumatization, focusing on body awareness, safety, and healing.
Reduces symptoms of flashbacks, dissociation, and emotional dysregulation.

What to Expect in a Somatic Experiencing Session

If you are considering Somatic Experiencing as part of your trauma recovery journey, here’s what a typical session might look like:

Grounding Techniques – The therapist will guide you through breathing exercises, mindfulness, or light movement to establish safety.
Body Awareness Exploration – You will be encouraged to notice bodily sensations, such as tightness, warmth, or tension, without judgment.
Tracking Sensory Changes – As emotions or memories arise, the therapist will help you observe physical responses and gently release built-up energy.
Pendulation (Shifting Between Calm and Activation) – The therapist will guide you between mild discomfort and relaxation, allowing your nervous system to gradually reset.
Integration and Closure – The session ends with a sense of resolution, reinforcing emotional stability and grounding.

Sessions are non-invasive, gentle, and highly personalized, making them a great option for individuals who may feel overwhelmed by traditional trauma therapy.

Is Somatic Experiencing Right for You?

Somatic Experiencing may be beneficial if you:

Struggle with chronic anxiety, PTSD, or panic attacks
Feel disconnected from your emotions or body
Experience unexplained physical pain or tension
Have difficulty processing trauma through talk therapy alone
Want a body-based approach to healing

At Foundations Group Behavioral Health, our Trauma Disorder Treatment Program integrates Somatic Experiencing with comprehensive therapy options to help individuals regain a sense of control and emotional stability.

Prevalence of Trauma and PTSD in the United States

Why Choose Us?

At Foundations Group Behavioral Health, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based mental health treatment for individuals seeking trauma recovery, emotional well-being, and long-term healing. Our Trauma Disorder Treatment Program, along with our specialized Psychiatric Day Treatment, Half-Day Treatment Programs, and Outpatient Mental Health Programs, offers the highest level of care for those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and co-occurring disorders.

1. Trauma-Informed and Holistic Approach

We understand that healing from trauma requires more than just talk therapy. Our programs integrate:

Somatic Experiencing (SE) to help regulate the nervous system and release stored trauma.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for emotional regulation and coping strategies.
Mindfulness-Based Interventions to improve self-awareness, relaxation, and resilience.
Nutritional and Lifestyle Guidance to support the gut-brain connection and overall mental well-being.

2. Individualized Treatment Plans

Each person’s mental health journey is unique, which is why we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to:

The severity of symptoms and trauma history
Personal goals for healing and emotional growth
Co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD

Whether you need intensive daily support through our Psychiatric Day Treatment or a more flexible approach with our Outpatient Mental Health Program, we will create a plan that fits your needs.

3. Highly Trained Trauma Specialists

Our team consists of licensed therapists, psychologists, and trauma recovery specialists who have extensive experience treating:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Complex trauma and childhood trauma
Anxiety and panic disorders
Depression and emotional dysregulation
Co-occurring mental health conditions

We use evidence-based and alternative therapies to ensure comprehensive care and long-term recovery.

4. Safe and Supportive Environment

Healing from trauma requires a safe, compassionate, and structured setting where individuals can rebuild trust in themselves and others. Our programs provide:

A judgment-free space for self-exploration and healing
A team of supportive professionals dedicated to your well-being
A balance of structured therapy and self-paced recovery

We strive to help individuals reclaim their lives, build resilience, and develop the skills necessary for long-term mental health stability.

5. Flexible Program Options

We offer multiple levels of care to fit different lifestyles and recovery needs, including:

Psychiatric Day Treatment – Intensive, full-day support for individuals needing structured care.
Half-Day Treatment Program – A flexible option for those who require focused therapy while maintaining daily responsibilities.
Outpatient Mental Health Program – Ideal for individuals who need ongoing support while balancing work, school, or family life.

With these options, we ensure that everyone can receive the right level of care at the right time in their recovery journey.

6. Commitment to Lasting Healing

Our goal is not just short-term symptom relief but long-term recovery and resilience. We equip individuals with:

Practical coping skills to manage stress and emotional triggers.
Tools for self-regulation to maintain stability beyond therapy.
Ongoing support and aftercare planning to promote lasting mental well-being.

Conclusion

Trauma is stored in the body, and true healing requires more than just talking about it. Somatic Experiencing is a powerful, body-based therapy that helps individuals process trauma in a safe, regulated way. By working with the nervous system, SE can reduce PTSD symptoms, improve emotional regulation, and restore a sense of safety and well-being.

At Foundations Group Behavioral Health, we provide Psychiatric Day Treatment, Half-Day Treatment Programs, and Outpatient Mental Health Programs to integrate Somatic Experiencing into trauma recovery plans.

If you or a loved one is struggling with trauma, call us today at 888.685.9730 to learn more about our Trauma Disorder Treatment Program and begin the journey toward healing. Your body holds the key to recovery—let’s unlock it together.

FAQ on Somatic Experiencing Works for Trauma Treatment

What is Somatic Experiencing (SE)?

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-based trauma therapy that helps individuals release stored trauma energy, regulate their nervous system, and restore emotional balance without reliving distressing memories.

How does trauma affect the body and mind?

Trauma can cause the nervous system to become stuck in survival mode, leading to anxiety, depression, chronic stress, and physical symptoms such as tension and fatigue. SE helps the body return to a regulated, balanced state.

How is Somatic Experiencing different from traditional talk therapy?

Unlike traditional talk therapy, SE focuses on bodily sensations, nervous system regulation, and movement-based healing rather than just verbal processing. This makes it ideal for individuals who struggle to discuss their trauma.