Psychotherapy Modalities
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR is recognized as one of the most effective treatments for trauma. The short answer to the process of EMDR is that it stimulates both sides of the brain simultaneously through bilateral stimulation. Bilateral stimulation is the stimulating of both sides of the body at the same time through either eye movements, tapping on the legs, auditory sounds, or pulsating hand sensors.
Each client chooses which stimulation is best for them. Lighting up both sides of the brain at the same time while processing through a traumatic or difficult event helps that event become fully integrated. This is similar to what happens in REM sleep. During REM our brains try to heal and integrate the memories or thoughts that are bothering us though often we are woken up before this process finishes. EMDR helps the brain experience REM like activity while being fully awake. The therapist guides you through the issue or event, that is causing pain, to help you complete and integrate the memory. This helps alleviate painful triggers caused by the event by getting the brain, nervous system and body all on the same page.
What are Somatic techniques?
Somatic comes from the Greek word "Soma" which means body. Somatic psychology is the understanding of how the mind and body work together. Somatic techniques are body focused techniques such as breath work, meditation, visualization, touch and movement.
I tend to use a somatic approach in every session. I might simply use a breathing/visualization exercise at the beginning or end of a session, or spend a whole session focused primarily on body sensations and feelings.
My use of techniques and modalities are client centered and present moment. Having received my degree with an emphasis in Somatic Psychology, I have been introduced to various somatic techniques which are at the core of the work I do.
I have received in depth training and certification specifically in NeuroAffective Touch and Three Fold Way: Relational Somatic Pscyhotherapy which are described in more detail below:
NeuroAffective Touch
NeuroAffective Touch is a modality developed by Dr. Aline LaPierre defined as "a polyvagal-informed somatic approach that integrates relational and psychodynamic psychotherapy with the therapeutic use of touch and bodywork." This modality specifically helps those who have experienced developmental trauma. Our early trauma is not remembered in the conscious mind but in the body and nervous system. This is why we often have certain reactions that we don't always understand or feel that we can control. These actions or behaviors often come from trauma responses in our nervous system.
Through touch we are able to access the nervous system and brain which allows the body to "speak". This helps to release trauma responses and bracing so the body and mind can connect. When the two are integrated we are then able to have more control over our reactions and behaviors.
The work is often done while laying face up on a massage table (fully clothed) with the use of blankets and warm pillows to provide a sense of safety and nurturing. The therapist uses light touch on the head, neck, back and feet. The area of touch and the pressure are determine through consistent communication between therapist and client. The touch is guided by the clients experience of where sensations, pains and/or tensions are felt in the body.
Three Fold Way: Relational Somatic Psychotherapy
This approach was developed by Dr. Michael Sieck. The Three Fold Way is an integration of various schools of psychology and an incorporation of the mind, body and spirit. "All of this is woven into an integrated process of support, exploration, discovery and embodiment of the lived experience with ourselves and others". The focus is on relationships that begin as early as childhood through the present.
The relationship and connection between the therapist and client is key to revealing the unconscious needs and attachment wounds. Feeling accepted, seen and loved is what many of us are seeking. Through exploring fixed ways of seeing oneself and the world, we are able to shift these feeling states and beliefs that hold us back from experiencing our deeper truths and authentic self.
