Somatic Experiencing Speakers

A somatic experiencing speaker is someone who specializes in communicating the principles and practices of Somatic Experiencing (SE) to a live or virtual audience. SE is a body-based approach to healing trauma, developed by Dr. Peter Levine, that focuses on regulating the nervous system and resolving stuck survival responses.

Unlike general wellness speakers, somatic experiencing speakers are trained in how the body holds and releases trauma. They often have backgrounds in psychology, bodywork, or trauma-informed coaching, and they use that knowledge to educate, inspire, and guide audiences through topics like stress regulation, embodied resilience, and trauma recovery.

These speakers don't just explain theory-they often demonstrate techniques, guide short experiential exercises, or share case studies that illustrate how SE works in real life. For example, a speaker might walk an audience through a grounding technique to help them feel more present, or explain how freeze responses show up in high-stress work environments.

Somatic experiencing speakers are increasingly in demand across industries. In corporate wellness programs, they help teams manage burnout. In parenting communities, they teach how to co-regulate with children. In healthcare, they support trauma-informed care. Their role is to make complex neurobiological concepts accessible and actionable.

So, when you hear the term 'somatic experiencing speaker,' think of someone who bridges science, embodiment, and communication to help people reconnect with their bodies and heal from the inside out.

When the conversation turns to healing, regulation, and trauma-informed leadership, a somatic experiencing speaker brings something most experts don't: embodied wisdom. They don't just talk about stress-they help people feel safer in their own skin.

In today's fast-paced, hyper-digital world, people are overwhelmed. Entrepreneurs are burning out. Educators are managing dysregulated classrooms. Healthcare workers are navigating vicarious trauma. A somatic experiencing speaker offers tools that go beyond mindset shifts-they offer nervous system shifts.

Their importance lies in their ability to translate complex physiological processes into relatable, practical guidance. For example, instead of saying 'reduce stress,' they might explain how to recognize a fight-or-flight response and guide a simple orienting exercise to bring the body back to safety. That kind of experiential learning sticks.

They also create safer spaces for transformation. Whether it's a virtual summit or a corporate workshop, these speakers are trained to recognize signs of overwhelm and adjust their delivery accordingly. That's especially crucial when dealing with sensitive topics like trauma, anxiety, or chronic stress.

Ultimately, a somatic experiencing speaker is important because they help people reconnect with their bodies in a world that constantly pulls them into their heads. And that reconnection? It's often the first step toward real, lasting change.

Somatic experiencing speakers educate, guide, and inspire audiences by sharing the principles of Somatic Experiencing in accessible, engaging ways. Their work blends science, storytelling, and somatic practice to help people understand and regulate their nervous systems.

Here's a breakdown of what they typically do:

- Educate on Nervous System Functioning. They explain how trauma impacts the body, what the fight-flight-freeze responses look like, and how regulation works. This might include visual aids, metaphors, or real-life examples.

- Demonstrate Somatic Tools. Many speakers guide audiences through short practices like grounding, orienting, or pendulation. These are designed to help people feel more present and safe in their bodies.

- Tailor Content to the Audience. A speaker addressing a group of startup founders might focus on stress cycles and burnout, while one speaking to educators might highlight co-regulation with students. Context matters.

- Bridge Theory and Practice. They often share case studies or personal stories to show how somatic tools work in real life. This helps audiences move from intellectual understanding to embodied experience.

- Create Trauma-Informed Spaces. They're trained to recognize signs of overwhelm and adjust their tone, pacing, or content accordingly. This ensures that even sensitive topics are handled with care.

In essence, somatic experiencing speakers are facilitators of embodied learning. They don't just talk at people-they engage with them, helping them feel safer, more aware, and more empowered in their own bodies.

If you're looking to become a somatic experiencing speaker, here's a step-by-step roadmap to get you started and seen.

1. Learn the Foundations of Somatic Experiencing.
- First, complete a certified Somatic Experiencing (SE) training program. These typically span over 3 years and are offered by organizations like the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute.
- Supplement your training with related modalities like polyvagal theory, trauma-informed coaching, or mindfulness-based stress reduction.

2. Define Your Niche and Message.
- Are you focusing on trauma recovery in veterans, stress management for corporate teams, or emotional regulation for teens? Get specific.
- Craft a signature talk that blends your personal expertise with actionable takeaways. Think: 'How Somatic Experiencing Helps Leaders Navigate Burnout'.

3. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile. Include a bio, headshot, video clips, and your talk topics.
- Make it easy for event hosts to contact you. Add a booking form or direct email.

4. Start Small and Practice Often.
- Offer free talks at local wellness centers, yoga studios, or online summits. Record these sessions to build your reel.
- Use feedback to refine your delivery, timing, and audience engagement.

5. Connect with Hosts and Get Booked.
- Reach out to podcast hosts, virtual summit organizers, and wellness event planners. Use your Talks.co profile as your calling card.
- Join speaker directories and Facebook groups where event hosts look for experts.

6. Scale and Monetize.
- Once you've got a few gigs under your belt, start charging. Package your talk with a workshop or coaching offer.
- Consider hosting your own virtual events or partnering with platforms that connect speakers with global audiences.

Becoming a somatic experiencing speaker isn't just about talking on stage. It's about building trust, sharing tools, and creating transformation through your voice and presence.

To be a somatic experiencing speaker, you need more than just a good story or a stage presence. You need a mix of credentials, clarity, and communication skills that resonate with both trauma-informed audiences and event hosts.

First, let's talk credentials. While you don't legally need a license to speak about somatic experiencing, credibility matters. Most respected speakers in this space have completed the official Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) training. This multi-year program includes hands-on practice, case consultations, and a deep dive into the neurobiology of trauma.

Next, you need a clear message. Somatic experiencing is a nuanced topic. Your audience might include therapists, HR professionals, or everyday folks dealing with stress. You'll need to translate complex concepts into relatable language. Think: 'How your body stores stress' instead of 'autonomic nervous system dysregulation'.

Then there's the platform. Having a professional speaker page-like the ones you can create on Talks.co-makes a huge difference. It shows you're serious, gives hosts everything they need in one place, and helps you stand out in a crowded field. Include a short bio, your speaking topics, testimonials, and a video clip if possible.

Finally, you need to be a connector. The best somatic experiencing speakers don't just talk-they engage. They connect with their audience, with event organizers, and with other professionals in the field. Whether you're speaking at a virtual summit or a corporate wellness event, your ability to build trust and offer value is what sets you apart.

Yes, somatic experiencing speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, audience size, and event type.

Let's break it down:

- Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs. Many new speakers start with unpaid opportunities to build credibility and a portfolio. Think podcasts, community events, or virtual summits. As your reputation grows, you can transition to paid gigs.

- Types of Paid Events. Corporate wellness programs, mental health conferences, and continuing education workshops often offer speaker fees. These can range from $500 to $5,000 depending on your profile and the event budget.

- Virtual vs. In-Person. Virtual events typically pay less but offer more frequent opportunities. In-person events may cover travel and accommodation in addition to a speaking fee.

- Package Deals. Some speakers bundle their talk with a workshop, coaching session, or course access. This can significantly increase your earnings per event.

According to data from speaker platforms like Talks.co, trauma-informed wellness speakers tend to earn between $1,000 and $3,000 per keynote once they're established. However, those with a strong brand, book, or media presence can command much higher fees.

Bottom line: Yes, somatic experiencing speakers get paid-but like any speaking niche, it takes time, strategy, and visibility to reach consistent income.

Somatic experiencing speakers generate income through a variety of channels, and the most successful ones diversify their revenue streams. Here's how they do it:

- Speaking Fees. This is the most direct method. Speakers charge for keynotes, panels, or workshops at events ranging from wellness retreats to corporate trainings. Fees vary based on experience and audience size.

- Online Summits and Webinars. Many speakers participate in virtual events where they either get a flat fee or promote their own offers to attendees. Talks.co, for example, connects speakers with hosts looking for experts in trauma healing and nervous system regulation.

- Courses and Digital Products. After a talk, speakers often funnel attendees into a paid course, ebook, or membership community. For instance, a speaker might offer a 6-week program on 'Healing Trauma Through the Body'.

- Coaching or Consulting. Some speakers offer 1-on-1 coaching or consult for organizations implementing trauma-informed practices. This can be a high-ticket service.

- Affiliate Marketing. If a speaker recommends tools, books, or programs during their talk, they can earn commissions through affiliate links.

- Books and Publications. Publishing a book on somatic experiencing not only builds authority but also creates passive income. It also opens doors to higher-paying speaking gigs.

In essence, somatic experiencing speakers make money by combining their expertise with smart business models. The key is to treat speaking not just as a gig, but as a gateway to a broader ecosystem of value-driven offers.

The income of somatic experiencing speakers varies widely depending on their experience, visibility, and business model. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect at different stages:

Experience Level	Typical Fee per Talk	Annual Income Range
Beginner (0-1 years)	$0 - $500	$0 - $10,000
Intermediate (1-3 years)	$500 - $2,000	$10,000 - $50,000
Established (3+ years)	$2,000 - $10,000	$50,000 - $200,000+

Several factors influence these numbers:
- Niche and Audience. Speakers targeting corporate wellness or healthcare professionals often earn more than those speaking to general audiences.
- Event Type. Keynotes at major conferences pay more than breakout sessions or community events.
- Additional Offers. Speakers who sell courses, books, or coaching often earn more than those who rely solely on speaking fees.
- Geography. Speakers in North America, Western Europe, and Australia typically command higher fees than those in emerging markets, though virtual speaking is leveling the field.
For example, a U.S.-based speaker with a strong online presence and a bestselling book might earn $5,000 per talk and do 20 talks a year, plus additional income from digital products. Meanwhile, a newer speaker in Southeast Asia might earn $300 per talk but supplement that with a thriving online course business.
So while there's no fixed salary, the potential is significant-especially if you treat speaking as part of a larger business strategy.

Hiring a somatic experiencing speaker can cost anywhere from $0 to over $10,000, depending on several key factors. Here's a breakdown to help event organizers or hosts budget accordingly:

- Emerging Speakers (Free - $500). These are newer speakers building their portfolio. They may speak at community events, podcasts, or online summits for free or a small honorarium. Great for grassroots or nonprofit events.

- Mid-Level Speakers ($500 - $2,500). These professionals have some experience, a speaker page (often on platforms like Talks.co), and a few testimonials. They're ideal for wellness retreats, HR trainings, or niche conferences.

- Top-Tier Speakers ($2,500 - $10,000+). These are well-known names in the trauma healing or wellness space. They may have authored books, appeared in media, or led large-scale trainings. Their talks are often part of larger packages that include workshops or consulting.

Other cost considerations:

- Travel and Accommodation. For in-person events, you'll likely need to cover flights, hotel, and meals.

- Customization Fees. If you want a speaker to tailor their talk to your audience or co-create content, expect an additional charge.

- Virtual Discounts. Virtual events often cost less since there's no travel involved. Some speakers offer lower rates for online-only engagements.

In short, the cost of a somatic experiencing speaker depends on their experience, the event format, and what you're asking them to deliver. But with the right speaker, the value they bring in terms of audience impact and engagement is often well worth the investment.

Peter Levine. Founder of Somatic Experiencing and author of 'Waking the Tiger'. His talks laid the foundation for the entire field.

Bessel van der Kolk. While not a pure SE speaker, his work on trauma and the body ('The Body Keeps the Score') has influenced countless SE practitioners.

Gabor Maté. Known for his deep insights on trauma and addiction, Maté often integrates somatic principles in his talks.

Diane Poole Heller. A leading voice in attachment theory and somatic healing, her presentations are both academic and accessible.

Kathy Kain. Co-author of 'Nurturing Resilience', she's known for blending SE with bodywork and neurobiology.

Stephen Porges. Creator of the Polyvagal Theory, his research is foundational to SE. His lectures are often cited by SE speakers.

Arielle Schwartz. A psychologist and yoga teacher, she bridges somatic work with embodied movement in her talks.

Resmaa Menakem. His work on racialized trauma and somatic healing ('My Grandmother's Hands') has made him a powerful speaker in social justice circles.

David Treleaven. Focuses on trauma-sensitive mindfulness, often speaking at the intersection of meditation and somatic awareness.

Pat Ogden. Founder of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, her talks often overlap with SE themes and are highly respected in the trauma field.

Peter Levine (USA). Still active in global trainings and summits, Levine remains the most recognized name in SE.

Diane Poole Heller (USA). Known for her engaging delivery and depth of knowledge, she speaks at international trauma conferences.

Gabor Maté (Canada). A global speaker whose talks on trauma, addiction, and somatic healing draw audiences across continents.

Arielle Schwartz (USA). Frequently featured in online summits and wellness podcasts, she brings a fresh, integrative voice.

Resmaa Menakem (USA). His global reach has expanded through his work on racialized trauma and somatic healing.

Dr. Abi Blakeslee (USA). A senior SE faculty member, she speaks at both clinical and public events worldwide.

Dr. Suzanne Scurlock (USA). Known for her work on embodied presence, she speaks internationally on somatic awareness.

Dr. Raja Selvam (India/USA). His Integral Somatic Psychology framework builds on SE principles and is taught globally.

Dr. Aline LaPierre (USA). Co-author of 'Healing Developmental Trauma', she's a sought-after speaker in Europe and North America.

Dr. Stephen Porges (USA). Though more of a researcher, his global lectures on polyvagal theory are essential listening for SE practitioners.

Let's get real about some of the misconceptions floating around about somatic experiencing speakers. Whether you're new to the field or considering stepping onto the stage yourself, it's easy to get tripped up by outdated beliefs or surface-level assumptions.

- Myth 1: Somatic experiencing speakers only talk about trauma.
This is a narrow view. While trauma recovery is a core application, somatic experiencing (SE) is used in leadership coaching, performance optimization, education, and even corporate wellness. For example, speakers like Dr. Peter Levine have addressed how SE principles apply to stress management in high-stakes professions, not just clinical therapy.

- Myth 2: You need to be a licensed therapist to become a somatic experiencing speaker.
Not true. While many SE speakers come from clinical backgrounds, others are certified practitioners, coaches, or educators who've completed SE training. The key is ethical practice and staying within your scope. Think of speakers like Irene Lyon, who combines nervous system education with online entrepreneurship-no therapy license required.

- Myth 3: SE is too complex to explain on stage.
Actually, the best SE speakers simplify complexity. They use metaphors, visuals, and somatic exercises to make nervous system science relatable. For instance, in corporate settings, speakers often use the 'window of tolerance' model to explain stress responses-no jargon, just clarity.

- Myth 4: There's no market for somatic experiencing talks.
This one's outdated. With rising interest in nervous system regulation, burnout recovery, and trauma-informed leadership, demand is growing across industries-from tech to education to healthcare. Just look at the surge in SE-related TEDx talks and wellness summits.

- Myth 5: SE speakers must avoid personal stories.
While ethical boundaries are essential, personal insight (when used responsibly) can be powerful. Many successful SE speakers share regulated, embodied stories to model resilience and nervous system awareness. It's not about oversharing-it's about connection.

When you look at the journeys of successful somatic experiencing speakers, one thing becomes clear: there's no single path to the stage. But there are patterns-moments of clarity, pivots, and a deep commitment to nervous system literacy.

Take Irene Lyon. She started with a background in exercise science and Feldenkrais, then trained in Somatic Experiencing. Her talks blend science, storytelling, and practical tools. What sets her apart? She built a global audience through YouTube and online programs before ever stepping onto big stages. Her message resonates because she makes complex nervous system concepts digestible.

Then there's Dr. Abi Blakeslee, who bridges academia and applied practice. With a PhD in Clinical Psychology and years of SE teaching, she speaks at conferences and universities, often integrating research with real-world application. Her talks are data-rich but grounded in human experience, making her a favorite among professionals in healthcare and education.

In a different lane, you have someone like Steven Hoskinson, founder of Organic Intelligence. His speaking style is less clinical, more philosophical. He's known for weaving in systems theory, mindfulness, and ecology. His talks often attract audiences from spiritual and ecological communities, showing how SE can span beyond therapy rooms.

And let's not forget regional voices. In South Africa, SE practitioner and speaker Nicky Rowbotham integrates SE principles into corporate wellness programs. Her talks focus on burnout recovery and nervous system resilience in high-pressure industries. She's proof that SE speakers can thrive outside the U.S. and Europe, adapting their message to local needs.

Each of these speakers carved a niche by combining their background, audience needs, and a clear message. They didn't wait for permission-they created platforms, refined their voice, and stayed grounded in the work.

What's next for somatic experiencing speakers? If you're paying attention to the shifts in wellness, leadership, and education, the writing's on the wall: this field is expanding, and fast. But it's not just about more talks-it's about new formats, new audiences, and new expectations.

First, there's a growing demand for trauma-informed leadership. More companies are realizing that nervous system regulation isn't just for therapy-it's essential for managing teams, navigating conflict, and avoiding burnout. SE speakers who can translate their message into the language of business and leadership will find new doors opening.

Second, hybrid and virtual speaking formats are here to stay. Post-2020, audiences are comfortable learning online. SE speakers who can engage through webinars, summits, and digital courses-without losing the somatic depth-will thrive. Think less PowerPoint, more embodiment practices on Zoom.

Third, expect a rise in cross-disciplinary collaborations. SE is being integrated into yoga, coaching, education, and even AI ethics. Speakers who can connect the dots between nervous system science and other sectors will stand out. For example:

- SE + DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion): Helping teams understand how trauma and nervous system responses affect communication and inclusion.
- SE + Tech: Addressing digital overwhelm and nervous system regulation in remote work environments.
- SE + Education: Training teachers to recognize dysregulation in students and respond with somatic tools.

Fourth, audiences are craving authenticity. The most impactful SE speakers will be those who model nervous system regulation in real time-through their tone, pacing, and presence. It's not just what you say, it's how you say it.

And finally, global expansion is on the horizon. As SE training becomes more accessible worldwide, expect to see more speakers emerging from Asia, Latin America, and Africa, bringing culturally nuanced perspectives to the stage.

If you're ready to step into the spotlight as a somatic experiencing speaker, you don't need to start from scratch. There's a growing ecosystem of tools and platforms to help you build your message, find your audience, and refine your delivery. Here's a curated list to get you moving:

1. Talks.co - A podcast guest matching platform that connects experts with podcast hosts. Great for getting your message out, especially if you're building visibility before landing keynote gigs. Tip: Create a compelling profile that highlights your SE expertise and unique angle.

2. Somatic Experiencing International - The official organization for SE training and practitioner directories. Use it to stay current with events, research, and continuing education. Bonus: Their events often feature speaker opportunities.

3. Zoom - Not just for meetings. Many SE speakers use Zoom to host live workshops, Q&A sessions, and even somatic practices. Tip: Use breakout rooms for guided partner exercises to keep your sessions interactive.

4. Canva - Design clean, professional slide decks or social media graphics that reflect your brand. SE talks often benefit from visual metaphors-use Canva to illustrate concepts like the 'window of tolerance' or 'polyvagal ladder'.

5. Descript - A powerful tool for editing video and audio content. Perfect for repurposing your talks into clips, reels, or podcast episodes. Tip: Use it to create audiograms with captions for Instagram or LinkedIn.

6. Insight Timer - A meditation and wellness app where many SE practitioners publish guided practices. Consider uploading short somatic exercises to build your audience and credibility.

7. LinkedIn - Still underrated for SE speakers. Use it to connect with HR leaders, educators, and wellness coordinators who book speakers. Post short insights or video clips to build thought leadership.

8. Notion - Organize your talk outlines, research, and client notes in one place. Especially helpful if you're juggling multiple formats like workshops, keynotes, and online courses.

Use these tools strategically. Don't just collect them-build systems around them. The more consistent your message and delivery, the more likely you'll be invited to speak again and again.