Last updated on September 29th, 2023.
Are you looking to expand your trauma healing skills with somatic therapy? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Somatic experiencing therapy (SET) is an innovative psycho-therapeutic, body-centered, therapy that aims to help individuals treat and heal trauma and stress-related symptoms. This form of therapy is an evidence-based approach based on the principle that traumatic experiences can become “stuck” in the body, leading to anxiety, depression, and physical pain. The somatic experiencing modality leads you into “somatic learning” – the idea that the body is capable of learning and processing experiences in order to promote healing and well-being, allowing individuals to regulate their nervous system and release these stuck experiences.
Somatic experiencing therapy is a highly effective approach to resolving trauma and stress-related conditions. Unlike most traditional talk therapy, SET recognizes the connection between the body and the mind, and addresses the physiological impact of traumatic events. It has been shown to be more effective than traditional approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). It addresses the root cause of trauma, rather than just symptoms. Somatic experiencing works by regulating the nervous system and processing traumatic memories and experiences in a safe and controlled environment. This not only reduces the symptoms of trauma, but also helps individuals to regain a sense of control over their physical bodies and lives.
Somatic experiencing training programs offer the opportunity to learn how to incorporate these principles and techniques into professional practices or personal lives, making Somatic experiencing therapy a powerful tool for deep, nervous system healing and lifelong growth. As such, many mental health professionals are interested in learning more about this approach and taking advantage of the somatic therapy training opportunities available. If you’re ready to take your client experience to a whole new level by integrating somatic experiencing therapy, you’re in the right place to find the best training program.
Which somatic experiencing training is best for what I need?
When choosing a somatic experiencing (SE) training, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you receive high-quality training that meets your expectations. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:
- Credentials & accreditation. It is important to research the credentials of the program to ensure that the trainers are experienced, qualified, and recognized within the SE community. Look for trainers who have completed advanced SE trainings and who have received certifications from recognized organizations. It’s also important to take into account the accreditation of the program. Certifying boards like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB), for example.
- Format of the training. SE training programs are available in a variety of formats, including in-person, online, and hybrid formats. Consider the format that best fits your learning style, schedule, and location.
- Curriculum. Ensure that the training program covers the fundamentals of SE and provides hands-on training in the application of somatic experiencing techniques. A comprehensive curriculum that covers the theory, principles, and techniques of somatic experiencing therapy is important to ensure that you receive a thorough understanding of the approach.
- Length & cost. SE training programs vary in length, from brief weekend workshops to multi-year, $9,000 certification trainings programs. Consider the amount of time and financial investment you’re willing to commit.
By considering these factors, you can choose a somatic experiencing therapy training program that is a good fit for your needs, goals, and budget.
Our Top Picks:
- The Aura Institute: Integrative Trauma Practitioner™ Training
- My Vinyasa Practice: Somatic Therapy Certification
- Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute (SETI), founded by the developer of SE therapy, Dr. Peter Levine
- Heal Others with Somatic Healing, from the Somatic Therapy Center
- The Embody Lab’s Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy Certificate
- Antioch University’s Certificate in Somatic Psychotherapy and Practices
- The Integrative Somatic Therapy Practice (ISTP)™ based in Vancouver, Canada
1. The Aura Institute – Integrative Trauma Practitioner™ Training
The Aura Institute’s training program is a body-based approach that infuses science, spirit and energetic components. The curriculum brings you through a comprehensive understanding of somatic therapy, embodied movement, nervous system regulation, mindfulness, emotional healing, trauma-informed breathwork, and more. The Aura Institute’s Integrative Trauma Practitioner training provides a holistic approach to trauma healing that recognizes the connection between the body, mind, and spirit to encompass the full human experience. This training facilitates a deep understanding of somatic, as well as other incredibly powerful and unique modalities.
Within the Aura Institute’s Level-1, ten-week, training, you will be guided through live classes and lectures, break-out rooms, practices, and real-time demonstrations. Learn the most integrative, body-based approaches including:
- Trauma-informed breathwork
- Somatic therapy
- Body Trauma Liberation™ method
You’ll be inspired to create your own relationship with these modalities and embody these teachings to be a living example for your clients.
The program is designed to be interactive and experiential, providing you with the opportunity to practice and apply the techniques you learn. It will deepen your understanding of trauma, and its impact on the body and mind, so you graduate ready to implement applicable skills, tools, and practices in a client setting. You will develop your skills as a practitioner inside the Aura Institute’s supportive and engaging learning environment and connect with peers to share experiences and perspectives.
Training Length: Level-1 (50 hours). Level-2 (65 hours).
Price: Level One Training Program tuition is $2,450. If you enroll in both Level-1 and Level-2, the total is $4,250 for both (saving you $1,000).
Great for: Someone who is currently in the wellness/mental health field or looking to start a career in the field. This is a great training if you’re ready to get your feet wet with powerful, applicable and practical somatic tools.
2. My Vinyasa Practice: Somatic Therapy Certification
Welcome to the Somatic Therapy Certification program by My Vinyasa Practice, a transformative journey for those seeking to deepen their understanding of somatic practices and become certified somatic therapists.
This comprehensive program offers a well-rounded curriculum that explores the principles and techniques of somatic therapy. Whether you are a yoga practitioner, healthcare professional, or anyone passionate about mind-body wellness, this certification program equips you with the knowledge to facilitate healing and promote well-being through somatic approaches.
Key features
- Comprehensive curriculum. The Somatic Therapy Certification program covers somatic principles, embodiment practices, trauma-informed care, and more.
- Expert faculty. Learn from experienced and knowledgeable instructors who are experts in the field of somatic therapy and are committed to guiding you in your learning journey.
- Flexible learning. The program offers a flexible online format, allowing you to study at your own pace and integrate your learning into your schedule.
- Practical training. Gain hands-on experience through practical training and case studies, enabling you to apply somatic therapy techniques in real-world settings.
Somatic healing techniques and practices
- Breath centric somatic techniques
- Movement based somatic techniques
- Cognitive somatic techniques
Who is this for
This certification is designed for people who want a deep understanding of somatic practices and to become certified somatic therapists. The program is suitable for yoga practitioners, massage therapists, coaches, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in wellness and healing.
Why we love it
This program provides the tools and support you need to thrive in the wellness field, and the opportunity to facilitate healing and transformation through somatic approaches. This certification is recognized by Yoga Alliance as continuing education and IAYT, the International Association of Yoga Therapists.
Course length and fee
100 hours and $850 one-time payment or 4 monthly payments of $212.
3. The Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute (SETI)
The Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute (SETI) was founded by the innovator of SE therapy, Dr. Peter Levine. SETI is a recognized organization that offers training in the somatic experiencing (SE) approach to resolving trauma and stress-related conditions. SETI’s training programs aim to provide you with a great depth of knowledge in somatic experiencing as you learn the skills to apply SE principles and techniques in your professional practice or personal life. The Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute has taught over 9,000 professionals worldwide, making it one of the leading somatic schools in the world.
SETI’s programs are taught by experienced and qualified trainers who are recognized within the SE community:
- Basic Principles of SE
- SE Professional Training Program (Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced)
- Ongoing SE Training & Development
The programs are designed to be:
- Interactive
- Hands-on
- Experiential
- Accessible
The Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute’s training program is specifically for practitioners who want to increase their comprehensive understanding of the impact of trauma on the mind and body. It is an incredible choice if you’re committed to becoming a somatic experiencing practitioner and bringing somatic experiencing into the world!
Training Length: 2 ½ year-3 year
Price: The total price for all three levels is $9,130. They do have scholarship options available.
Great for: Someone who is looking for a very thorough, reputable, training program.
4. Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy Certificate
The Embody Lab’s somatic certification program is focused on the integration of somatic approaches in mental health and wellness practices. The program aims to provide an exacting understanding of the mind and body connection, and to equip students with the skills and techniques necessary to incorporate somatic interventions in their work. The curriculum covers topics such as mindfulness, movement, body-centered therapies, trauma-informed practices, and more.
This 3-month, online, program is taught by highly experienced instructors and therapists, who are dedicated to sharing their expertise and helping participants develop their skills in somatic therapy.
Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate in somatic psychotherapy, demonstrating their proficiency in the field. The Embody Lab’s somatic certification program is divided into four main sections:
- Befriending the body
- Trauma reprocessing
- Applications
- Integration
This carefully designed, educational somatic program will provide you with a thorough grounding in somatic techniques and approaches to support lasting, healing changes.
Training Length: 3 months
Price: Sliding scale pricing structure starting from $947 to $1447. Scholarships are available.
Great for: Someone who is excited to be around like minded people, developing somatic therapy skills for personal use or as complementary techniques in an existing health field career.
5. Somatic Therapy Center’s Heal Others with Somatic Healing Program
The Somatic Therapy Center presents the Heal Others program. This program provides individuals with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of their own body and mind, and to learn new techniques for managing stress and resolving trauma. Concurrently, they learn the skills and knowledge to work in the field of somatic healing as a practitioner, coach, or therapist.
The Heal Others program, approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB), covers a range of topics, including:
- Foundations of somatic healing
- Anatomy of trauma
- Techniques for resolving trauma and managing stress
The program is designed to be interactive and hands-on, providing participants with the opportunity to practice and apply theses techniques. This is a great complementary program if you’re already working as a counselor, bodyworker, therapist or coach.
Heal Others with Somatic Healing will guide you. Whether for personal growth, career development, or to help others, the program provides a comprehensive and practical understanding of somatic healing.
Training Length: 8 months
Price: Level One Membership is $4,400. Level Two Membership is $4,700. Level Three Membership is $4,800.
Great for: Someone who is looking to enhance their ability to support clients and gain personal healing and career development.
6. Somatic Psychotherapy and Practices program
Antioch University’s Certificate in Somatic Psychotherapy and Practices program is incredibly impactful for understanding holistic mind and body connection and approaches. You will learn how to incorporate somatic intervention tools into your therapeutic work and practical application.
This well rounded curriculum covers topics such as mindfulness, movement, body-centered therapies, trauma-informed practices, and more. The program is designed for mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychologists, as well as individuals looking to deepen their understanding of somatic psychotherapy. You will learn practical applications for children, adolescents, adults, veterans, and more, who have experienced trauma or abuse.
Students also develop effective clinical and consultative skills and learn to effectively collaborate with clients to promote physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. Upon completion, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide quality, compassionate care to clients.
Training Length: 3 months
Price: $1,950. Financial aid is not available.
Great for: Great for existing mental health professionals looking to deepen their client experience by integrating a holistic scope of body-based practices.
7. Integrative Somatic Therapy Practice (ISTP)™
The Integrative Somatic Therapy Practice (ISTP)™ based out of Vancouver, Canada brings a unique flavor to the somatic therapy training options. This soul-based, experiential psychotherapy training program is an online and in-person hybrid program, and beautifully blends body-based approaches to support clients in emotional regulation, trauma healing, and managing psychological symptoms. This program welcomes practicing mental health professionals (psychotherapists, psychologists, counselors), healing practitioners (yoga teachers, massage therapists, bodyworkers), and healthcare professionals (nurses and doctors).
Integrative Somatic Therapy Practice offers three levels of training: Level 1 (beginning), Level 2 (intermediate) with a Body Adjunction Program, and Level 3 (advanced). Each training level is 3-6 months long including topics like mindfulness, embodied resilience, restorative yoga, Bodywork, sound, movement, and breathwork. The program is known for its unique integrative approach, which combines elements of various somatic modalities and draws on a range of theoretical perspectives. ISTP™ aims to provide participants with a flexible and adaptable set of skills and techniques that can be applied in a variety of therapeutic settings.
This intimate training program, taught by experienced therapists and instructors with a deep understanding of somatic psychotherapy, limits the group size to 12-20 students. The Integrative Somatic Therapy Practice (ISTP)™ program infuses ceremony into all that they do, as the body and spirit together are what bring deep healing. As a student of the program, this unique and powerful approach will be experienced.
Training Length: 3-6 months (each level)
Price: Level 1 $497 CAD. Level 2 $1,700 CAD with the Bodywork adjunction program $3, 702.15 CAD. Level 3 $3000. CAD.
Great for: Someone who values intimate spaces and is already practicing as a professional in the mental health field who wants a spiritual approach to somatic therapy.
Concluding the Best Somatic Experiencing Training
These top somatic experience training programs represent a significant opportunity for personal and professional growth. With their diverse approaches, expert guidance, and commitment to holistic well-being, they offer a valuable gateway to understanding and harnessing the body-mind connection. Whether you’re a therapist, practitioner, or simply someone interested in improving your life through somatic practices, these programs provide a solid foundation and a wealth of knowledge. Investing in one of these programs can be a huge step toward a more mindful, connected, and enriched life.
