“Trauma is not what happens to us. But what we hold inside in the absence of an empathetic witness.”

— Dr Levine 

Trauma is not just in the event, it’s held in the nervous system. Somatic Experiencing (SE ™️) works with our physiology to release stored survival stress, process emotion and memory via bodily sensation.

This process is about slowing down and titrating (taking one small piece at a time) in order to feel into the nuance and wisdom of the nervous system. There is an emphasis on cultivating a felt sense of safety and sufficient resourcing to support this deep work.

For many people the relationship with their bodily senses may have been compromised by a lack of attunement on the part of caregivers and/or by cultural messages, particularly if belonging to a marginalised group.

I have been a participatory artist, arts for health practitioner and community worker for over 20 years, working specifically in LGBTQ+ community spaces for the last 5 years and also integrate SE into groupwork. I have recently developed sessions around touch and intimacy with nature for groups of autistic adults and children, asylum seekers and for people experiencing climate grief.

Alongside my one to one SE practise I offer individuals ecosomatics which combines ecotherapy with SE, inviting the aliveness of all that’s around and within us as a resource. I offer sessions both online and in person. Instagram: @interpl8. Email: clare@clareplumley.co.uk