Somatic Experiencing (SE) was developed by Dr Peter Levine and is based on the observation that animals in the wild rarely develop lasting trauma responses because they complete the physiological cycles that threatening experiences activate. In humans, these cycles are often interrupted, leaving the nervous system stuck in patterns of chronic activation or shutdown. SE works gently with these physiological patterns, using body awareness and titrated exposure to help the nervous system complete its natural healing process. It is particularly valuable for trauma that has not responded to purely verbal approaches, and for people who find it difficult to access their experience through words.
The Body Keeps the Score
Trauma is stored in the body as much as the mind. SE works directly with the physiological patterns, sensations and impulses that trauma leaves behind in the nervous system, gently completing the cycles that were interrupted at the time of the traumatic experience.
Titration and Safety
SE works in small, carefully managed doses, never overwhelming your system. Your therapist works with the edges of your experience rather than diving into the centre of it, building your nervous system's capacity gradually and ensuring that healing happens within a window of tolerance.
How Somatic Experiencing Can Help You
Specialised support for a wide range of modern mental health challenges.
Anxiety and Chronic Stress
SE helps regulate the chronic stress and hyperarousal that anxiety creates in the body.
Chronic Pain and Physical Symptoms
SE addresses the physiological patterns of chronic pain that are linked to trauma and stress.
NI Counselling
SE-Trained Practitioners
Our Somatic Experiencing therapists have completed accredited training in the SE approach and work within the framework established by the Somatic Experiencing International training programme. You will be matched with a practitioner who has genuine experience with body-based trauma work.
Local NI Expertise
Born and bred in Northern Ireland, we understand the specific cultural context of our communities and how that shapes people's relationship with their mental health and wellbeing.
No GP Referral Required
We believe mental health support should be accessible. We offer appointments within 7 days of referral, with no GP letter or waiting list required to get started.