Frequently Asked Questions

  • Description In a somatic experiencing session with me, we initiate a journey of healing and self-discovery. It's a safe and nurturing space where we work together to address the unique needs of your body, mind, and spirit.

    During your sessions, we begin by establishing safety within your nervous system. This is crucial because healing from trauma involves helping your body feel safe.

    Once we've created a safe space, we gently guide your nervous system to explore and process the emotions and sensations that may be stored within your body. This can involve various techniques and practices that I guide you through, all designed to help you reconnect with your inner world.

    We work at a pace that feels comfortable for you, ensuring that you have the time and support needed to process and release any trapped or stuck energy.

    The goal of your somatic therapy sessions is to help you move from a state of dysregulation or imbalance towards a place of regulation and wholeness. It's about reclaiming your power, setting healthy boundaries, and becoming more present with yourself and those around you.

    Each session is tailored to your unique needs and goals, and I'm here to support you every step.text goes here

  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Somatic Experiencing are both powerful therapeutic approaches for healing trauma and other emotional challenges, but they differ in their methods and focus.

    EMDR focuses on specific traumatic memories and their negative beliefs, feelings, and sensations. The goal is to reprocess these memories so that they no longer trigger emotional reactions.

    Somatic Experiencing focuses on helping individuals reconnect with their body's sensations, release stored tension, and complete the body's natural response to trauma (fight, flight, or freeze). It aims to restore the body's ability to self-regulate.

  • Some people question the backing and the limited scientific data of somatic therapy, thousands of therapists and renowned doctors worldwide have fully embraced and integrated this approach into their practice. Over the years, they have witnessed remarkable transformations in their clients' lives.

    These professionals, often considered pioneers in the field, have consistently reported improvements in the well-being of those in somatic therapy. Their experiences and success stories serve as a testament to the effectiveness of this approach, even in the absence of scientific validation.

  • Yes, in somatic therapy, there can be a form of touch involved, but it is always conducted within strict ethical and professional boundaries, with the client's informed consent, and in a way that prioritizes their comfort and safety. The use of touch can vary depending on the therapist's training and the client's preferences and needs.

  • Somatic Experiencing Therapy sessions with Erin Doumert are $150 per single session. A sliding scale based on availability.

  • 1. Greeting and Check-In

    2. Establishing Safety

    3. Setting Intentions

    4. Body Awareness

    7. Exploring Emotions

    8. Dialogue and Reflection

    9. Grounding and Integration

    10. Closing and Homework

    11. Scheduling Next Session

  • Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Peter Levine that focuses on healing trauma and stress by addressing the way the body stores and processes these experiences.

    SE begins with the understanding that trauma is not just a mental or emotional issue but also a physical one. Trauma can become "stuck" in the body, affecting the nervous system's functioning.

    SE places an emphasis on nervous system regulation. You will learn to identify and manage your autonomic nervous system responses, including the fight, flight, freeze, and collapse responses

    You are encouraged to develop a greater body awareness. This involves paying attention to bodily sensations and learning to trust your body's innate ability to heal.

    I create a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your internal landscape to start to process emotions and traumatic events. The process is gentle and client-centered, and it respects each individual's unique pace and readiness for healing.

  • The length of each session can vary, most sessions lasting 50-minute sessions and sometimes longer sessions, such as 75 - 85 minutes may be necessary.

  • A somatic release can manifest in various ways, and the experience can vary from person to person. It's important to understand that a somatic release is the body's natural way of processing and letting go of stored tension or emotional energy. Here are some common sensations and experiences that you may experience.

    Physical Sensations:

    Tingling or warmth

    Muscle movement or twitches

    Shaking or trembling

    Deep sighs or yawning

    Emotional Release: Crying, Laughter, Screaming or other vocalization

    Sensations of lightness or relief

    Increased Energy or Vitality

    Insight or Clarity

    Catharsis