Treatments / Psychological / Behavioural
Somatic experiencing
At Harbor, we understand the profound impact that trauma can have on both the mind and body. Our somatic experiencing approach provides a compassionate, evidence-based pathway to processing and releasing this psychological damage, empowering you to reclaim your innate sense of safety, resilience and wholeness.
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Healing trauma through somatic experiencing
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the hardest and most psychologically exhaustive conditions to live with. The feelings of anxiety that manifest can clog the mind, making it difficult to take part in day-to-day activities or hobbies once found enjoyable.
Somatic experiencing is a powerful mind-body therapy designed to help individuals heal from the lingering effects of trauma. By gently guiding clients to befriend their body’s innate wisdom, this transformative approach fosters the completion of self-protective responses left unresolved during traumatic events – allowing them to completely release any trauma from the body.
Our approach
What to expect from somatic experiencing
Somatic experiencing therapy is built on the idea that unprocessed trauma can lead to emotional dysregulation and the ‘freeze response. If left unaddressed, this can lead to physical and cognitive symptoms like confusion, detachment, and low heart rate.
During somatic experiencing sessions, your dedicated and highly skilled therapist will create a safe, nurturing space for you to explore how trauma has manifested within your bodily sensations, emotions, and behaviours. Following the SIBAM (Sensation, Imagery, Behaviour, Affect, and Meaning) framework, you’ll develop greater self-awareness and learn to self-regulate through mindful tracking of your physical and emotional experiences.
The process involves a gentle oscillation between revisiting traumatic memories and returning to a grounded, regulated state – a “pendulation” that allows your nervous system to gradually release trapped energy. It may become uncomfortable at times, but that’s the key for success throughout this process.
With patience and guidance, you’ll cultivate the ability to remain present during moments of activation, befriending your body’s instinctive responses. The aim is to provide you with a bank of tools that you can use when you’re feeling overwhelmed or triggered.
How it works
How somatic experiencing can help you
Coming face to face with your past traumatic experiences will no longer seem scary or foreign – you will develop a unique skillset required to overcome previously triggering or overwhelming situations. Our London-based somatic experiencing therapy offers a profound healing journey for those grappling with:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Depression and emotional dysregulation
- Chronic pain and tension
- Addictive behaviours and substance abuse
What to expect
Discover the transformative power of Somatic experiencing at Harbor
Locations
Therapy sessions are conducted in one of our carefully selected luxury residential properties throughout Central London, depending on your overarching treatment preferences. We can also offer at-home or online services depending on your personal circumstances and needs.
Facilities
Our range of highly discreet residential properties provide a serene and luxurious environment that is designed to promote healing and comfort. Every aspect of your treatment programme is tailored to ensure a fully curated, and truly transformative experience.
Specialised Staff
Our multidisciplinary team includes some of the UK’s leading psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists specialising in Somatic experiencing. Their combined expertise ensures you receive the highest standard of care.
One-at-a-time
Harbor’s pioneering ‘one client at a time’ treatment approach guarantees complete privacy, security and anonymity. It also means that your therapy is completely dedicated and personalised to your specific needs, ensuring focused support and lasting recovery.
After Harbor
Upon completing your therapy at Harbor, we provide robust aftercare programs to support your ongoing mental wellbeing and integration into everyday life. We remain committed to your long-term health and recovery.
Get in touch
Treatment fully tailored to your individual needs
At Harbor, we provide utter discretion in a safe and luxurious environment. Our world-class team integrates somatic experiencing with other evidence-based modalities, curating a multi-pronged approach to your care that accounts for the whole person – not just a set of symptoms. Get in touch to discuss somatic experiencing options today.