As a psychotherapist, I found Somatic Experiencing (SE) to be incredibly beneficial in alleviating my anxiety symptoms. Previously, the modalities I was trained in seemed limited, particularly in addressing the nervous system and body. SE immediately felt like the missing link, and the training reinforced what I already suspected: profound healing occurs when we allow our body and nervous system to be heard. I am deeply grateful for the skills I've acquired and the additional insights into polyvagal theory. SE has not only transformed my personal experience by relieving my anxiety but is also profoundly enhancing my psychotherapy practice, benefiting both my clients and myself.
For nearly six years, I have been a client of a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), experiencing dramatic improvements. SE has enabled me to move out of a state of freeze and into a more embodied, resilient state, fostering significant personal growth.
With over two decades of studying somatic psychology, I found the SE Beginning (BEG) 1 program to be an invaluable and comprehensive refresher on essential principles of nervous system health and resilience. Attending this program was a rewarding experience, reminiscent of the old martial arts adage: “You're only as good as your basics!”
In my work with cultures and teams—often under significant stress, anxiety, and trauma—SE has great potential. Many workplaces, driven by constant productivity, provide little opportunity for processing trauma. SE can foster a greater sense of safety and belonging, leading to healthier, happier, and more productive work environments.
The information I gained about the nervous system and high activation has been beneficial both personally and professionally. Learning to meet clients in their current nervous system state has enhanced my professional practice and personal relationships.
I've realized that while I have a strong capacity for dealing with difficult emotions, I can sometimes get caught in a drama vortex. Learning about orienting and reversed vortexes has been life-changing. I've experienced increased pleasure, warmth, and relaxation during and after the training. My nervous system feels more regulated, and I have a greater capacity for self-regulation. SE is now an integral part of all my sessions, making a significant impact. I am truly enthusiastic about this training and its benefits—thank you!
Three years ago, during marriage counseling with my now ex-husband, our counselor observed that I was stuck in a trauma response. She briefly guided me through some exercises, and I felt like a completely different person afterward. She referred to it as “parts work,” a component of the Somatic approach. Although the marriage ended, my passion for exploring and experiencing the freedom this approach offered grew stronger. I continued my journey by taking classes with an SEP (Sarah Baldwin), and it became clear that this modality was pivotal in my liberation. My commitment to sharing this transformative experience with others drives my work today.
I discovered SE as a crucial next step in my personal healing journey and a remedy for the stagnation I experienced with clients suffering from complex PTSD. Even after completing only Beginning 1, my practice has become more effective, nuanced, dynamic, and playful. I am committed to completing the entire program and am eager to delve deeper into this work as the trainings progress.