Creating Safety Within the Therapeutic Relationship: Somatic and Shamanic Approaches to Assist in Healing Sexual Trauma
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Authors
Gelmon, Carrine
Issue Date
2022-11
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) , dissociation , embodiment , holistic , interoception , intimacy , psychedelic , set and setting , sexual abuse/sexual violence , sexual assault , sexual trauma , shaman , shamanism , somatic therapy , soul , soul loss , soul retrieval , spirituality , trauma , window of tolerance
Alternative Title
Abstract
This capstone will explore several somatic and shamanic approaches to navigating sexual trauma and the importance of building safety within the therapeutic relationship to support this kind of healing. Sexual trauma is significant in that it is a violation of one's body, mind and soul. Survivors commonly report a sense of dissociation from their bodies, which is understood to be a coping mechanism that separates the person from their painful experience of their trauma. This dissociation also emphasizes the importance of the body in experiencing sexual trauma and its impact. Traumatic experiences may create an armoring of the body as a form of defense and protection against vulnerability as well as an emotional response, which creates a somatic connection to the psychological wounds endured from sexual trauma. Somatic practices can support individuals to develop tools that promote safety in their bodies, thereby allowing emotions to be processed. Shamanic practices contribute to healing the concept of the fragmented soul, enabling individuals to become more whole and embodied. Psychedelics will also be addressed in its potential to support individuals in navigating challenging emotions, as well as providing a means for growth and deeper connection to one's self, others, and their environment.