Somatic Experiencing Treatment: Workouts and Scientific Studies
In the realm of mental health, a growing body of scientific evidence is increasingly supporting Somatic Experiencing (SE) as an effective treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Developed by Peter Levine in the 1970s, SE is a unique body-focused therapy that sets itself apart from traditional psychotherapy.
Somatic Experiencing primarily focuses on the body's internal sensations to regulate trauma responses through bottom-up processing. This approach differentiates it from cognitive and emotional therapies, which predominantly focus on thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Randomized controlled studies demonstrate significant PTSD symptom reduction, often measured by large effect sizes such as Cohen's d values. SE has shown benefits not only for PTSD symptoms but also for comorbid conditions such as depression, anxiety, somatic complaints, and insomnia, consistent with related somatic trauma therapies.
The American Psychological Association (APA) recommends trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD. However, SE offers a distinct alternative, practiced by a wide range of trained professionals.
While SE evidence is promising, it is important to note that other trauma-focused therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and exposure therapies have a more extensive body of rigorous clinical trials supporting their efficacy. Comparatively, SE evidence is promising but somewhat more limited in volume and scope.
Nonetheless, recent reviews and studies from 2025 indicate increasing scientific validation of SE's clinical utility for PTSD treatment. It's crucial to remember that each therapy may work differently for different individuals, and the choice should be made in consultation with a mental health professional.
One concern about SE is the use of touch, which could be triggering to some trauma survivors. In the wrong hands, it could be exploitative or interfere with the therapeutic relationship between a client and therapist. Therefore, individuals considering SE should ideally look for a practitioner with experience working as a psychotherapist, positive, unbiased reviews, accreditation from a professional medical association, and transparency about their methods and approach.
In SE, grounding exercises, touch or massage, education on the connection between physical sensations and emotions, and movement are some techniques used to treat trauma and related diagnoses, such as PTSD.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, seek support through the 988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, Befrienders Worldwide, or local emergency services. If you have mental or physical symptoms affecting your well-being, flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts, or if your symptoms are interfering with work or relationships, seek help from a doctor or mental health professional.
It's essential to remember that mental health is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. The key is to seek help, explore options, and find a treatment approach that resonates with you.
[1] Van der Kolk, B. A., & Fisler, R. (2018). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking. [2] Levine, P. A. (2010). In an unspoken voice: How the body releases trauma and restores good health. North Atlantic Books. [3] Foa, E. B., Hembree, E. C., & Rothbaum, B. O. (2007). Effective treatments for PTSD: Practice guidelines from the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies. Guilford Press. [4] Shapiro, F. (2001). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures. Guilford Press. [5] Levine, P. A. (2010). Trauma through a child's eyes: Awakening the ordinary miracles of healing. North Atlantic Books.
