Comparison of Somatic Experiencing® (SE™) with other therapeutic approaches

Traditional cognitive-emotional “talk therapies” are considered top-down approaches. They focus on cognition and emotions first, addressing bodily responses to trauma only at a later stage. However, talking about trauma too soon can overwhelm the nervous system, triggering a flood of intense emotions and reactions, potentially leading to retraumatization if self-regulation mechanisms are not in place.

SE™, on the other hand, is a bottom-up approach. It targets the brainstem, which is the part of the brain responsible for automatic, instinctive functions beyond conscious control. SE™ accesses the body’s innate action and arousal systems through physical sensations, imagery, and movement patterns. While cognitive and emotional insights may emerge during the process, they arise naturally as secondary responses to the work done with bodily sensations, rather than being the initial focus.

SE™ employs techniques and interventions that work directly and gently with the body’s neurophysiology. This helps to avoid the risks associated with catharsis, forced reliving of trauma, or overanalyzing the traumatic story, which are all factors that could lead to retraumatization or emotional overload, potentially hindering the healing process.