There are moments in life that change you forever, and for me, one of those moments happened during my time at Beg II. I had the opportunity to volunteer for a demo focused on completing the Flight/Fight response, a powerful part of the Somatic Experiencing (SE™) process. Francine Kelley, with her calm and graceful guidance, led me through it, and what followed was something I could never have predicted.
As we worked together, something profound began to shift within me. And then, it happened—some unexpected discharge, a release. Instead of feeling lost or overwhelmed, I felt a sense of clarity and peace. It was as if a door inside of me opened, and what I had been holding onto for so long began to unravel. I continued to work with my SEP through the process, and slowly but surely, I felt a deep transformation taking place.
The changes I’ve experienced in my life since then are nothing short of miraculous. Years of anxiety, restlessness, and internal chaos began to lift. I felt lighter, more at ease, and for the first time in a long time, truly present in my own body. I was in awe of how SE™ had unlocked something so profound within me, something I had never imagined was possible.
This training wasn’t just an educational experience—it was a rebirth. I learned not only about the technical aspects of SE but also about myself. I discovered new layers of my own being, and in doing so, I gained a deeper understanding of how I can bring this powerful practice into my work with clients. It was as if the pieces of a puzzle clicked into place, and I walked away feeling renewed, inspired, and ready to carry this work forward, both for myself and for others.
Somatic Experiencing has touched my life in a way that words can barely capture. It has allowed me to reconnect with myself on a level I never thought possible, to heal old wounds, and to feel more aligned with who I truly am. It has shifted not only how I experience myself but also how I interact with the world around me.
I am deeply grateful for SE and the incredible transformation it has brought into my life. It’s a gift that continues to unfold, and I can’t wait to see where this journey leads.
Testimonial from Beginning III Student
St. Louis, MO BIPOC Cohort with Francine Kelley