Trauma doesn’t just affect the mind—it lives in the body. Somatic Experiencing® (SE) is a gentle, body-oriented therapy that helps release stored stress and restore a sense of safety and balance. At Holistic Psychotherapy NYC, we integrate SE into our trauma-informed approach to support deep, embodied healing.
How Somatic Experiencing Works
Somatic Experiencing, developed by Dr. Peter Levine, is based on the understanding that trauma can become “stuck” in the nervous system, often resulting in chronic anxiety, tension, dissociation, or emotional overwhelm. Rather than focusing solely on the story of what happened, SE helps clients notice and shift their physical sensations to gently release stored trauma.
Key Principles of SE:
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Bottom-up healing: Starts with the body, not just the mind.
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Resourcing: Builds internal feelings of safety and ease.
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Titration: Processes difficult emotions in small, manageable pieces.
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Pendulation: Moves gently between activation and calm to restore nervous system regulation.
What Is Pendulation in Somatic Experiencing?
Healing in Waves
In SE, pendulation refers to the rhythmic movement between states of discomfort and ease. This natural process helps your nervous system release trauma without becoming overwhelmed.
How Pendulation Supports Healing:
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Encourages you to notice sensations of tension without getting stuck.
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Shifts your focus to a place of safety or calm in your body.
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Builds emotional resilience by expanding your ability to stay present with both pain and peace.
By learning how to ride the waves of sensation, you create space for real transformation and nervous system healing.
Benefits of Somatic Experiencing Therapy
Somatic Experiencing is a powerful modality for:
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Trauma recovery (including complex trauma and PTSD)
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Anxiety and stress-related disorders
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Dissociation and freeze responses
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Chronic tension or pain
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Nervous system dysregulation
Clients often report feeling more grounded, connected to their bodies, and able to navigate emotional triggers with greater ease.
Is Somatic Experiencing Right for You?
You might benefit from Somatic Experiencing if:
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Talk therapy alone hasn’t helped you move through trauma.
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You feel “stuck” in old emotional patterns.
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You struggle with physical symptoms like fatigue, tension, or shutdown.
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You want a deeper connection to your body and inner resources.
At Holistic Psychotherapy NYC, our therapists are trained in utilize Somatic Experiencing and other integrative, trauma-informed approaches. Whether you’re just beginning your healing journey or looking to go deeper, we are here to help you find safety, strength, and restoration—within.
