Somatic-Oriented Therapies

Somatic-Oriented Therapies The Book

Embodiment, Trauma, and Polyvagal Perspectives

An innovative collection of research and theory from leading voices in the fields of trauma and somatic therapies.

Somatic-Oriented Therapies represents a significant consolidation of innovative research and clinical approaches aimed at addressing trauma through various somatic modalities. In the past six decades, a multitude of therapeutic methods have emerged globally, revolutionizing trauma treatment and existential distress management. However, these approaches have often diverged, hindering the development of a cohesive, distinct field independent of traditional paradigms.

This volume of collected work from some of the world’s leading experts in trauma aims to delineate this novel domain of research and clinical intervention. It elucidates the common thread linking the contributing authors and introduces a new clinical perspective. Central to this perspective is the recognition of the profound significance of the body-to-body relationship between therapist and patient; the critical role of trust establishment within the clinical context as a prerequisite for deep transformation; and the possibility to “question” the body, finding “unthought-of” avenues of transformation.

[Chapter 23: SIMPLE Listening: A Program of Creating Safety and Connection in the Body, by Jane Shaw]

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Reviews

“Since it is now widely understood that ‘the body keeps the score’ in traumatic stress, a deeper understanding of the underlying mental and neurobiological processes, and their therapeutic implications, is essential. Somatic-Oriented Therapies delivers precisely that: a brilliant, state-of-the-art compilation of therapeutic interventions for traumatic stress, as well as the underlying science. Read this book!” Bessel van der Kolk, MD

“Imagine an in-depth, compassionate, and science-packed compendium of practical, clinically focused chapters that provide both an introduction and deep dive into the application of body-based awareness in psychotherapy. This magnificent volume has been created with a clinician in mind, offering clear descriptions of physiological processes, accessible scientific discussions of research, and fascinating descriptions of real-life therapeutic examples applying these somatic principles in everyday practice. What an exciting offering for the waiting field of mental health!” Daniel J. Siegel, MD

“During the past few decades, the Polyvagal Theory has contributed to a framework for several somatically-based therapies. The readers of this volume will be enriched in their understanding by this inclusive theory. In this comprehensive volume, many of the contributors pay homage to Stephen Porges’s breathtaking theory—a rare gift to a generation of practitioners and their clients” Peter A. Levine PhD

“Somatic-Oriented Therapies is a wonderful collection exploring the vital territory between mind, brain, body, and relationships. It is especially gratifying—years after I was both fascinated and moved by the writings of Wilhelm Reich and Ida Rolf—to see so many integrative ideas becoming part of the mainstream of psychotherapeutic thinking. This is a book that I will continue to read and reread in years to come. It will help all of us to deepen our understanding and appreciation of the indivisible unity of mind, brain, body, and relationships” Louis Cozolino, PhD