Got Questions?
Answers to common questions about somatic experiencing sessions.
What is Somatic Experiencing®?
Somatic Experiencing® is a gentle, body-oriented approach that helps people become more aware of their nervous system and how it responds to stress and trauma. Rather than focusing solely on talking, it supports the gradual restoration of safety, resilience, and a greater sense of ease within the body.
How is Somatic Experiencing different from counselling?
While counselling often focuses on thoughts, emotions, and life experiences, Somatic Experiencing also pays attention to the body's responses. By gently noticing physical sensations alongside emotions, it aims to support nervous system regulation without requiring you to relive or repeatedly describe difficult experiences.
How long is each session?
Sessions usually last about 50 minutes, allowing time to tune into your body. We will also spend 10 additional minutes debriefing the session leaving you more regulated and resourced.
Do I have to talk about my trauma?
No. Many people find Somatic Experiencing helpful because there is no expectation to recount traumatic events in detail. Sessions are guided by your comfort, with the focus placed on building safety, awareness, and regulation at a pace that feels manageable for you.
What happens during a session?
Each session begins with a conversation about how you're feeling and what has brought you here. Together, we'll gently explore physical sensations, emotions, and nervous system responses using a consent-led approach that prioritises safety, curiosity, and your own pace throughout.
Will I be touched during a session?
No. Sessions are primarily conversational and experiential. Any form of touch would only ever be considered if appropriate, clearly discussed beforehand, and undertaken with your fully informed consent. You are always free to decline or change your mind at any point.
Do I remain fully clothed?
Yes. Somatic Experiencing sessions are carried out with clients fully clothed in a comfortable, relaxed environment. There is no massage or physical treatment involved, allowing you to focus entirely on your own experience in a way that feels safe and respectful.
What is nervous system regulation?
Nervous system regulation refers to your body's ability to respond to life's challenges and then return to a state of balance. When our nervous system becomes more regulated, many people experience greater calm, resilience, emotional flexibility, and an increased capacity to cope with everyday life.
What do fight, flight and freeze mean?
Fight, flight and freeze are natural survival responses designed to protect us from danger. Sometimes these responses remain activated long after the threat has passed. Somatic Experiencing aims to help your nervous system gradually recognise safety again and restore greater balance.
Can trauma remain in the body?
Traumatic experiences can sometimes leave the nervous system feeling as though a threat is still present, even when life has moved on. Somatic Experiencing works with these ongoing physiological responses, helping the body gradually complete and integrate unresolved survival patterns.
Can Somatic Experiencing help with anxiety?
Many people experiencing anxiety seek Somatic Experiencing because it focuses on understanding how the nervous system responds to stress. Rather than trying to suppress symptoms, sessions aim to support greater regulation and resilience. Individual experiences vary, and no specific outcomes can be guaranteed.
Can Somatic Experiencing help with burnout?
Burnout often affects both body and mind, leaving people feeling exhausted, disconnected, or overwhelmed. Somatic Experiencing provides a gentle way of exploring how your nervous system has adapted to prolonged stress while supporting greater regulation and helping you reconnect with your own resources.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no set number of sessions, as everyone's experiences and goals are unique. Some people attend for a short period to explore a specific issue, while others choose longer-term support. Together, we will regularly review your progress and decide what feels right.
Is everything confidential?
Yes. Everything discussed during your sessions is treated as confidential, except where I have a legal or ethical duty of care, such as if there is a serious risk of harm. Full details are provided in my privacy policy and client agreement.
Are you fully qualified?
I am currently training to become a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner and have completed the first half of the three-year professional training programme. Alongside this, I have received professional training in Bioenergetics and Massage Therapy and undertake regular clinical supervision to support a safe and ethical practice.
Are you insured?
Yes. I hold professional insurance appropriate to the services I provide and am a full professional member of both the Association of Somatic Integrative Sexologists (ASIS) and the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT), adhering to the ethical standards of both organisations.
What is Bioenergetics?
Bioenergetics is a body-oriented approach that explores the relationship between physical tension, breathing, movement, emotions, and overall wellbeing. It can complement Somatic Experiencing by increasing awareness of habitual patterns held within the body and supporting greater vitality and self-awareness.
Do you combine Bioenergetics with Somatic Experiencing?
Where appropriate, I may draw on principles from both approaches. Every session is tailored to the individual, and any exercises or explorations are introduced gradually, always guided by your consent, safety, and your nervous system's capacity in the present moment.
Where are you based?
Serenity Embodiment is based in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, within easy reach of Leeds, Bradford, Halifax, Huddersfield, Wakefield, and the surrounding areas. The practice offers a calm, private space with convenient access and nearby parking.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes. Online sessions are available for clients who are unable to attend in person or who prefer the comfort of their own home. We can discuss whether online or face-to-face sessions are likely to be the most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
How do I book?
You can book an appointment by using the contact form on the website or by getting in touch directly by email, text message, WhatsApp or telephone. If you're unsure whether Somatic Experiencing is right for you, you're welcome to contact me with any questions before arranging a session.
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Questions? Reach out anytime for support.