What Is Somatic Experiencing Therapy?

Ever feel stuck in your body after something stressful or scary happens? Like your heart’s racing, you can’t relax, or your chest feels tight—but nothing’s really "wrong" at the moment?

That’s your body remembering what your mind is trying to move on from.

This is where Somatic Experiencing Therapy comes in.

It’s not your typical talk therapy. It’s about working with your body—not just your thoughts.

What Is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-based therapy that helps people heal from trauma, stress, anxiety, and more. Instead of talking about everything that happened, you start by paying attention to what your body is feeling.

Why? Because your nervous system holds on to past experiences—even after your brain says, "I’m fine."

Somatic Experiencing helps your body release that stuck energy, so you can finally breathe again.

How Is It Different from Regular Therapy?

Good question.

Most therapy focuses on talking through your thoughts and feelings. That’s important! But sometimes talking isn’t enough—especially after trauma.

Your body might still be in "fight, flight, or freeze" mode. That means:

• You feel on edge, even when you’re safe
• You shut down or feel numb during stress
• You can’t fully relax, even when things are going okay

A Charlotte therapist trained in SE can guide you to gently notice body sensations, release stored tension, and reset your nervous system.

What Happens in a Somatic Experiencing Session?

Here’s what a session might look like with a certified counselor in Charlotte NC who practices SE:

1. You talk a bit—just enough to feel safe.
2. Your therapist asks you to notice body sensations (tightness, warmth, tingling).
3. You explore that feeling slowly, without diving into big stories or trauma.
4. Your body starts to release stored energy—sometimes through shaking, yawning, or just a deep breath.
5. You come back to calm and reflect on how it felt.

It’s gentle. It’s guided. And you’re always in control.

What Techniques Do They Use?

A few common tools in Somatic Experiencing include:

• Grounding: Using your senses to feel connected to the present moment
• Resourcing: Thinking of calming memories or people
• Titration: Exploring stress in small, manageable pieces
• Pendulation: Moving between stress and calm to teach your body balance
• Self-touch or breathwork: To calm the nervous system

You don’t have to do all of this alone. That’s why counseling services in Charlotte NC like Montgomery Counseling Group are here to help.

What Are the Benefits?

People who try Somatic Experiencing often say things like:

• "I didn’t even know I was holding so much tension."
• "I feel like I can breathe again."
• "I’m finally sleeping better."
• "I’m calmer, even when life is hard."

It helps with:

• Trauma and PTSD
• Anxiety and panic
• Chronic stress
• Feeling "stuck" emotionally or physically
• Burnout or compassion fatigue (especially for caregivers)

Who Is Somatic Experiencing For?

SE is great for anyone who:

• Has been through something traumatic
• Struggles with anxiety or overthinking
• Feels physical signs of stress (tight chest, tense shoulders, racing heart)
• Wants a different approach from regular talk therapy

Whether you’re dealing with something big or just trying to feel better in your body, an experienced Charlotte therapist can guide you gently through the process.

FAQs

1. Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?

Nope. SE focuses on body sensations, not retelling your story.

2. What if I get overwhelmed during the session?

Your counselor will guide you slowly. You can pause anytime. Safety is key.

3. How long does it take to work?

Some people feel changes in a few sessions. Others need more time. Everyone’s journey is different.

4. Is it weird to feel things like shaking or crying during SE?

Not at all! That’s your body letting go of tension it’s been holding. It’s part of the healing process.

5. Can I try SE if I’ve never done therapy before?

Absolutely. SE is gentle and beginner-friendly. You’ll be supported every step of the way.

6. Is SE offered through counseling services in Charlotte NC?

Yes! At Montgomery Counseling Group, we have trained professionals who offer SE as part of our holistic approach to healing.

Final Thoughts

Your body remembers what your mind forgets. That tension, that tightness, that buzzing feeling—it’s not "just stress." It’s your body asking for care.

You don’t have to carry it alone. And you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.

If you’re ready to reconnect with your body and feel more grounded, Somatic Experiencing Therapy might be just what you need.

Take the First Step Today

At Montgomery Counseling Group, our experienced team of counselors in Charlotte NC are here to walk with you—gently, compassionately, and with care.

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