How Does Sensorimotor Therapy Heal Trauma?
Sensorimotor Therapy- Research has shown that people who have been diagnosed with PTSD, have experienced child or adult sexual abuse and those who suffer from anxiety, depression and other trauma-related symptoms benefit from Sensorimotor Therapy. It was first discovered by Dr. Pat Ogden in the 1970s and is meant to re-establish the connection between mental health and the sensorimotor skills of patients at the psychiatric hospital where she worked. It works on the theory that when we experience trauma or a traumatic event, memory of the experience can become trapped in the body. Affected persons may not even be aware that the energy of unresolved trauma is what is causing pain and problems in their body. It can affect the nervous system, mood and numerous other secondary symptoms.
Normal survival responses to trauma are fight, flight, freeze, flop or friend. The freeze response shuts us down in a paralysis, thus our attempts to physically protect ourselves may not have been completed for several reasons, we may have been overpowered by the assailant. Situations where we are unable to protect ourselves can lead to mannerisms like shaking, clenching or nervous ticks. It can also lead to anxiety, hopelessness and depression.
In Sensorimotor Therapy, the incomplete actions are played out in a safe environment which can give the person a sense of closure. The playact is performed in a state of mindful awareness or mindfulness in order for the experience to reach directly into the subconscious. Mindfulness helps the closure experience reach the old trauma memories to augment them into a better state of wholeness.
Benefits of Sensorimotor Therapy are:
· Reduction in physical and emotional pain
· Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms
· Reduction in anxiety-related symptoms
· Mood disorders and emotional regulation
· Improved physical coordination
· Increased capacity for intimacy
· Improved ability to set boundaries
· Substance abuse and addictive behavior
· Self harm and suicidal behavior
The Three Phases of Sensorimotor Therapy
Phase 1: Safety and Stabilization– This is a gentle exploration of thoughts, emotions, memories and sensations. Mindfulness is cultivated throughout the investigation.
Phase 2: Processing– This is an exploration of memories that are attached to physical sensations and movements in the body. The person learns and practices movements that empower them to defend themselves that they may not have been able to use during the time of the trauma. This stimulates a triumphant response to the original threat.
Phase 3: Integration– This is where the client is empowered with a strong sense of self, improve relationships and to cultivate an ability to pursue pleasant, playful activities to feel joy and contentment.
Conclusion
In Sensorimotor Therapy, people become aware of their awareness, thus remaining cognizant while being able to observe mind and body. People are taught how to regulate their nervous system and emotions. This enables them to remain calm despite the intrusion of traumatic memories. It can reduce fight or flight or freeze reactions to stressful situations.
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