Titration: Small Doses of Sensation
A somatic titration practice log alternating brief contact with difficult sensations and returning to a resource, with intensity ratings.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Somatic experiencing-informed
- Approach / concern
- Somatic
- Technique
- Somatic experiencing-informed
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Titration: Small Doses of Sensation?
Titration is a somatic experiencing principle of approaching activation in small amounts, paired with resources, to support integration without overwhelm.
Why it works
Levine (2010) describes titration and pendulation in somatic experiencing. Somatic experiencing uses interoception and proprioception to regulate the nervous system (Payne et al., 2015).
When to use it
- Trauma processing (with trained clinicians)
- Anxiety with strong body sensations
- Dissociation-prone clients
- Somatic therapy
How to use it in session
- Establish a resource.
- Touch briefly into difficulty.
- Return to resource.
- Repeat in rounds.
- Note body state.
Clinician tips
- Keep doses very small.
- Stop if intensity rises above 5-6.
- Pair with orienting.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Why small doses?
Small doses let your nervous system process without becoming overwhelmed.
Can I do this alone?
Simple versions can be practised alone; trauma-related work is best with a trained therapist.
References
Levine, P. A. (2010). In an unspoken voice: How the body releases trauma and restores goodness. North Atlantic Books.
Payne, P., Levine, P. A., & Crane-Godreau, M. A. (2015). Somatic experiencing: Using interoception and proprioception as core elements of trauma therapy. Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 93.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
