Working with the Body in Therapy

Somatic Therapy: Transforming Trauma

Trauma is a complex and deeply ingrained experience that can affect every aspect of a person's life. It can result from various experiences, including accidents, abuse, neglect, and combat, to name a few. It can manifest as physical, emotional, or psychological symptoms, often affecting one's daily life and relationships. Traumatic memories and emotions can become lodged in the body, leading to chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and other physical and mental health issues. In this blog post, we will explore how somatic work is invaluable in trauma therapy, offering a fresh perspective on healing and recovery.

Somatic work, developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine,  is a holistic therapeutic approach that acknowledges the mind-body connection and recognizes that trauma is stored not only in the mind but also in the body. By addressing the physical aspects of trauma and providing tools for self-regulation, it offers a more holistic path to healing. It empowers individuals to reclaim their bodies and move toward a brighter, more integrated future.

Using somatic work in trauma therapy is helpful for many reasons. First and foremost, it acknowledges the whole person. This allows them to embrace their wholeness as a complex human being. Second, a vast amount of research shows that trauma is stored within the body resulting in chronic pain, muscular tension, and other symptoms. Using somatic techniques can release the physical manifestation of trauma and create a sense of safety within the body. Third, because trauma often results in a disrupted ability to regulate stress, somatic tools can empower a person to regain control over their physiological responses, promoting emotional stability and resilience. Finally, somatic work can empower an individual to take an active role in their healing process because it fosters agency and self-compassion.

Examples of somatic work include:

• Guiding a client to pay attention to how their bodies react to stressors, triggers, or traumatic memories.

• Movement practices like yoga, Tai Chi, or dance to connect with their bodies deeper.

• Mindfulness and grounding techniques can support paying attention on purpose and feeling more grounded.

Somatic work is a valuable addition to the toolbox of trauma therapy. Its body-centered approach acknowledges the intricate relationship between physical and emotional well-being, offering individuals a path to heal deeply embedded trauma.