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Somatic Experiencing Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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CBT, DBT, SE (Somatic Experiencing), or EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). * Prior experience working with clients who have experienced trauma is highly valued. * CAQH Registration ...

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Somatic Experiencing information

How do I become a Somatic Experiencing practitioner?

To become a Somatic Experiencing practitioner, you must complete a training program approved by the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute, which includes coursework, supervised practice, and mentorship. Certification typically requires a background in mental health, bodywork, or related fields, along with ongoing professional development. Practitioners often work in clinical, therapeutic, or wellness settings to help clients process trauma through body awareness techniques.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a Somatic Experiencing practitioner?

To thrive as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, you need a solid understanding of trauma resolution, psychophysiology, and body-based therapeutic techniques, typically acquired through completion of a certified Somatic Experiencing training program. Familiarity with client management systems, intake documentation, and ongoing professional development or licensure (such as counseling or psychotherapy credentials) is often required. Exceptional empathy, active listening, and the ability to create a safe, supportive environment are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills and qualifications are essential to effectively guide clients through trauma recovery and ensure ethical, effective therapeutic practices.

What challenges do Somatic Experiencing practitioners face when working with clients, and how can they be managed?

Somatic Experiencing practitioners often encounter challenges such as helping clients access and process deeply held trauma without overwhelming them. Building a strong therapeutic alliance and pacing sessions to ensure clients remain within their 'window of tolerance' is vital. Regular supervision, ongoing training, and self-care practices are commonly used to manage emotional fatigue and maintain effectiveness in the role. Collaboration with other mental health professionals can also provide additional support and resources when working with complex cases.

What is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing is a therapeutic approach designed to help people resolve trauma and stress-related disorders by focusing on bodily sensations. Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, this method emphasizes the body's natural ability to heal by gently guiding individuals to notice and release physical tension associated with past traumatic experiences. Rather than re-living the trauma, Somatic Experiencing supports clients in building awareness of their physical responses and gradually restoring balance to the nervous system. This technique can be helpful for people dealing with anxiety, PTSD, and other stress-related issues.

What is the difference between Somatic Experiencing vs Somatic Therapist?

AspectSomatic ExperiencingSomatic Therapist
CredentialsCertified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SE) certificationVaries; may include massage, bodywork, or mental health licenses
Work EnvironmentPrivate practice, clinics, trauma centersTherapy offices, wellness centers, hospitals
Industry UsageTrauma recovery, stress reduction, emotional regulationGeneral mental health, somatic therapies, holistic health

Somatic Experiencing is a specific trauma-focused modality requiring certification, primarily used for trauma recovery. A Somatic Therapist may employ various body-centered approaches and may not have the specialized SE certification. While both work with the body and emotions, Somatic Experiencing is more targeted towards trauma resolution, whereas Somatic Therapy can encompass broader holistic practices.

What are popular job titles related to Somatic Experiencing jobs in Oregon? For Somatic Experiencing jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Somatic Experiencing jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Somatic Experiencing job openings:
Infographic showing various Somatic Experiencing job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Licensed Mental Health Professional

CULTIVATING A NEW LIFE LLC

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

HYBRID, PART TIME OR FULL TIME

We are seeking a licensed professional counselor (LPC), licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) or licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) to join our team. Newly licensed, BIPOC-identifying therapists are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide individual, couple and/or family therapy to clients using your preferred modalities such as narrative therapy, Lifespan Integration Therapy, somatic approach, culturally affirming and GSD (Gender and Sexual Diversity) affirming treatment, trauma-informed treatment, and the minority stress model (historical trauma and generational trauma process)

  • Work collaboratively with other team members to provide holistic and culturally responsive care

  • Maintain accurate and timely client documentation and comply with OHP and Medicaid regulations

  • Attend team meetings as required

Qualifications:

  • Must be licensed in the state of Oregon to practice

  • Experience working with diverse populations particularly LGBTQ+, BIPOC, immigrant and refugee communities, as well as experience working with clients with diverse linguistic backgrounds

  • Strong communication, organizational and problem-solving skills

  • Experience with narrative therapy, Lifespan Integration Therapy, somatic approach, culturally affirming and GSD (Gender and Sexual Diversity) affirming treatment, trauma-informed treatment, and the minority stress model (historical trauma and generational trauma process) is a plus

We offer competitive compensation, flexible scheduling, and an inclusive and supportive work environment. If you are passionate about social justice and committed to providing culturally responsive care, we encourage you to apply.

Company Description

Our practice foundations are in narrative therapy, Lifespan Integration Therapy, somatic approach, culturally affirming and GSD (Gender and Sexual Diversity) affirming treatment, trauma-informed treatment, and the minority stress model (historical trauma and generational trauma process).

We also offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Somatic Experiencing Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and the Gottman Method.

We specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with the following challenges: addiction and mental health recovery, anger expression, grief, loss, relationships (intercultural, interracial, GSD), immigration/acculturation, racial identity, gender identity, transgender wellness, women’s wellness, body image, trauma, Ancestral/Intergenerational trauma combat veterans, veterans’ families, military sexual trauma, and performance anxiety for athletes.

We work with adults, teens (13 to 19), older adults, couples, and family. Veterans, BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color) and the LGBTQ+ community.