FAQs
What is the recommended session frequency?
The frequency of sessions is flexible and depends on your needs. Some clients prefer weekly sessions, while others find bi-weekly or even on-demand sessions sufficient. If you're working through a specific issue, I recommend at least two sessions per month to maintain momentum and familiarity with the process. We can always adjust the frequency as we go, based on what feels right for you.
Does somatic therapy work online?
Yes, Somatic Experiencing works very well online. While SE is a body-centered approach, it doesn’t require physical touch to be effective. Through guided awareness, tracking body sensations, and regulating the nervous system, we can work with stress, trauma, and emotional patterns just as effectively in an online session as in person. Many clients find online sessions even more comfortable because they can be in a familiar and safe environment.
What can I expect in a Somatic Experiencing session?
Each session is tailored to your needs, but in general, we will focus on increasing awareness of your body’s sensations, tracking nervous system responses, and exploring ways to release stored stress or trauma. You don’t need to relive past experiences—instead, we work gently with the present-moment experience to support healing. Sessions are conversational and guided at your pace.
Do I have to talk about my past experiences?
Not necessarily. Unlike traditional talk therapy, SE does not require you to revisit past events in detail. Instead, we focus on how your body is holding tension or energy related to past experiences and gently release it in a way that feels safe and manageable.
How do I know if Somatic Experiencing is right for me?
Somatic Experiencing is beneficial for anyone dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, or feeling stuck in recurring emotional patterns. It can help if you experience symptoms like chronic tension, overwhelm, difficulty relaxing, or a sense of disconnection from your body. SE is also a powerful tool for those on a spiritual journey, as it deepens body awareness, fosters inner stillness, and supports a more embodied presence.
Do I need any prior experience with body-based therapy or meditation?
Not at all. Somatic Experiencing is accessible to everyone, whether or not you have prior experience with body awareness practices. I will guide you through the process in a way that feels safe and comfortable for you.
How long does a session last?
A typical session lasts 60 minutes. This allows enough time to settle into the process, explore what’s arising, and integrate any shifts that happen during the session.
What should I do to prepare for an online session?
Find a quiet, private space where you feel comfortable and won’t be disturbed. You may want to have a glass of water, a blanket, or anything that helps you feel at ease. If possible, using a laptop or tablet rather than a phone provides a more stable experience.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your goals and personal process. Some people experience noticeable shifts within a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing support over a longer period. We will check in regularly to assess your progress and adjust based on what feels right for you.
Can Somatic Experiencing help with anxiety and stress?
Yes, Somatic Experiencing is highly effective for reducing anxiety and stress. By working with the body's natural ability to regulate the nervous system, SE helps you shift from states of overwhelm or tension into greater ease and resilience. Many clients report feeling more grounded, calm, and in control after sessions.
Is Somatic Experiencing only for trauma?
No, while SE is well-known for trauma healing, it is also helpful for anyone seeking greater emotional balance, nervous system regulation, or a deeper connection with their body. It can support personal growth, creativity, relationships, and overall well-being. SE can also be a profound part of a spiritual journey, helping you cultivate presence, deepen self-awareness, and experience a more embodied connection to life.
What if I feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed during a session?
Your comfort and safety are the priority. Somatic Experiencing is designed to be slow and gentle, meaning we work at your pace and always within what feels manageable for you. If anything feels overwhelming, we have tools to help you stay grounded and regulate your experience.
Can Somatic Experiencing be combined with other therapies?
Absolutely. SE works well alongside other therapeutic approaches, including talk therapy, EMDR, IFS, bodywork, and mindfulness practices. If you’re already working with another therapist, SE can complement and enhance your healing process.
If your question isn’t covered here, feel free to email me at dario@dariodroznes.com or send an SMS/WhatsApp to +1 (805) 204-1955—I’d be happy to help.