In a world where our lives are increasingly moving online, it’s no surprise that therapeutic practices are also adapting to this shift. One of the approaches seeing a significant transition to the digital space is somatic experiencing. Many people who are new to somatic therapy or even seasoned practitioners often ask, “Can somatic experiencing be done online?” The answer is a resounding yes.
Explore how somatic experiencing (SE) can be effectively practiced online, the benefits of doing so, and why online somatic therapy might be the best choice for those seeking healing and growth from trauma or stress-related challenges.
To book an online appointment, visit Embodied Life Therapy Booking and schedule your first online somatic experiencing session.
What is Somatic Experiencing?
Somatic experiencing (SE) is a body-centered approach to healing trauma, stress, and emotional pain. Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, SE is grounded in the idea that traumatic experiences become stuck in the body, affecting our physical and emotional well-being. The method focuses on helping individuals become more aware of bodily sensations as a way to process and release stored trauma.
Rather than revisiting and verbalizing past trauma as in traditional talk therapy, SE focuses on the body’s response to the traumatic experience. Practitioners guide clients to tune into their physical sensations and slowly release tension, allowing the body to complete its natural healing process.
The goals of somatic experiencing are to:
Restore balance to the nervous system
Release stored trauma
Help individuals develop greater self-regulation
Improve emotional resilience and overall well-being
Can Somatic Experiencing Be Done Online?
Yes, somatic experiencing can be done online, and it can be just as effective as in-person sessions. Thanks to video conferencing platforms and secure virtual meeting rooms, therapists can work with clients in real-time from anywhere in the world.
While somatic experiencing was traditionally done in person, many therapists have successfully adapted their practice to the online format. Online SE sessions use the same core principles and techniques as in-person sessions, but they are tailored to the virtual environment. Here’s how online SE works:
Real-Time Guidance: Just as in an in-person session, the therapist will guide you through the process of tracking physical sensations and emotions. The therapist’s real-time observations and instructions can help you stay present and grounded.
Use of Video and Audio: By using a video call, the therapist can still observe your body language, facial expressions, and other nonverbal cues that are important in somatic experiencing. Many clients find that video conferencing provides enough intimacy and connection to feel supported.
A Comfortable Space: One of the key advantages of online therapy is the ability to engage in sessions from the comfort of your own home. For some clients, being in a familiar environment can make them feel safer, allowing them to explore their emotions and sensations more freely.
Adaptability of Techniques: Experienced somatic therapists are skilled at adapting SE techniques to suit the online setting. For instance, if touch-based interventions are necessary, they can be replaced with self-touch exercises, or the therapist may guide you to focus on certain movements or breathing patterns.
Benefits of Online Somatic Experiencing
The move to online somatic experiencing brings several unique advantages. For those who are hesitant about whether virtual SE can work, consider these key benefits:
1. Greater Accessibility
One of the greatest benefits of online therapy is its accessibility. Geographic location is no longer a barrier to receiving high-quality somatic therapy. Whether you live in a remote area without nearby specialists or simply have a busy schedule that doesn’t allow for travel to a therapist’s office, online therapy opens the door to healing from wherever you are.
With online SE, you can choose the best therapist for your needs, regardless of where they are located. This means you can work with highly specialized practitioners, like those at Embodied Life Therapy, who may not have an office near you but are available to offer expert care online.
2. Flexibility and Convenience
Online therapy provides the flexibility to schedule sessions at times that suit your lifestyle. Without the need to commute, online therapy reduces the time commitment of in-person appointments. You can have your sessions during lunch breaks, before work, or even late in the evening, allowing therapy to fit into your life more seamlessly.
Additionally, virtual sessions can take place from the privacy of your own home. This is particularly important in somatic experiencing, where feeling safe and comfortable is key to fully engaging with the therapeutic process.
3. Continuity of Care
Life changes can sometimes interrupt the continuity of in-person therapy, such as moving to a new city or country. With online SE, you can continue working with the same therapist, no matter where you are. Maintaining a consistent therapeutic relationship is important for long-term healing, and online therapy makes it easier to continue your journey without disruption.
4. Enhanced Focus on Body Awareness
In the online setting, clients often find themselves more focused on their own bodily sensations because they are not physically in the same room as the therapist. This increased focus can make it easier to tune into subtle physical sensations, leading to deeper insights and more profound healing.
5. Cost-Effective
Online therapy can sometimes be more cost-effective than in-person therapy. Clients save on transportation costs, and some therapists may charge slightly lower rates for online services. It’s also easier to fit into a budget since sessions can be done at home, eliminating additional expenses related to commuting or childcare.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Online Somatic Experiencing?
While there are numerous benefits to online somatic experiencing, it’s important to consider any potential drawbacks. These can vary from person to person and depend largely on individual preferences and circumstances.
Technology Barriers: One potential challenge is the reliance on technology. If you have poor internet connectivity or are not comfortable using video conferencing tools, online SE may feel more difficult. However, many therapists are willing to work with clients to ensure that technological issues don’t interfere with the therapeutic process.
Lack of Physical Presence: For some, the absence of the therapist’s physical presence can feel like a disadvantage, especially for those who rely on the therapist's nonverbal cues or find comfort in being in the same room. While this can be overcome with strong rapport and effective communication, it’s a personal preference that some may find challenging.
How to Make the Most of Your Online Somatic Experiencing Sessions
To get the most out of your online SE sessions, consider the following tips:
Create a Safe Space: Ensure that the environment where you take your sessions is quiet, private, and free from distractions. This will allow you to focus fully on the therapeutic process.
Use Comfortable Devices: Make sure your video conferencing setup is comfortable. You might want to use a larger screen, wear headphones for better audio, and ensure your camera is positioned correctly for both you and the therapist to maintain eye contact and connection.
Communicate Openly: Let your therapist know how you’re feeling about the online format. If you have any concerns or if certain elements of the session are not working for you, bring them up so your therapist can adjust accordingly.
How to Start Online Somatic Experiencing with Embodied Life Therapy
Embodied Life Therapy is a trusted provider of online somatic experiencing services. Whether you're dealing with stress, trauma, or are simply looking to improve your emotional resilience, our skilled therapists are here to help you along your healing journey.
At Embodied Life Therapy, we prioritize creating a safe, supportive, and personalized therapeutic experience, even in the virtual space. Our approach is deeply rooted in the belief that healing can happen anywhere, and we are committed to helping our clients find peace, balance, and resilience through somatic experiencing.
Ready to begin your healing journey? Book an online somatic experiencing session with Embodied Life Therapy today and take the first step toward releasing trauma and restoring balance to your life.