Somatic Experiencing

Close-up of a woman's face in profile with closed eyes and light brown hair, against a plain, gray background.
Close-up of a woman's face in profile with closed eyes and light brown hair, against a plain, gray background.

Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, Somatic Experiencing is a body-focused modality that helps resolve trauma and re-calibrate the stress response such that one is no longer "stuck" in fight/flight/freeze, or not so easily triggered into these states. It can help with physical traumas (eg. motor vehicle accidents, falls, surgeries), anxiety, overwhelm, burnout, and chronic illness/pain. ​SE helps you move out of survival mode, and connect with your innate vitality. It's very different from (and often complementary to) standard mental health care.

A woman lying on a bed with eyes closed, facial expression peaceful, wearing a blue tank top, getting a massage or facial treatment.
A woman lying on a bed with eyes closed, facial expression peaceful, wearing a blue tank top, getting a massage or facial treatment.

Each session looks different

because they are tailored to the client and their nervous system state.

A session can involve sitting in a chair, lying on the massage table, sitting/lying on the floor, or moving around the room. Sessions often include touch, and the client stays clothed throughout (unlike massage).

A woman receiving a massage from a massage therapist who appears to be lying on a massage table near a window with curtains.
A woman receiving a massage from a massage therapist who appears to be lying on a massage table near a window with curtains.
Person receiving a massage or physical therapy, lying on a massage table with hands on their back, in a bright room with a plant and a painting on the wall.
Person receiving a massage or physical therapy, lying on a massage table with hands on their back, in a bright room with a plant and a painting on the wall.

“Sarah is a skillful practitioner and a warm-hearted soul.”

“She fosters an atmosphere of safety and spaciousness that allows my body to explore and express everything it’s been carrying. I find myself genuinely excited for our appointments and deeply nourished after our sessions. If you’re looking to deepen into yourself and experience the language or your body, Sarah is an exquisite guide and space holder.”

- KP