Body Oriented Therapy, which is considered a branch of somatic psychology, is based on the concept that people experience the world not only through their thoughts and emotions but also simultaneously through their bodies. This approach to treatment is considered to be more experiential than traditional forms of therapy.
When a person begins body psychotherapy, the first session might follow a format similar to a talk therapy session. The therapist will typically first conduct assessments to gather information about presenting concerns, interpersonal relationships, and the person’s experiences with loss, trauma, and abuse. The therapist will also utilize body reading, an assessment technique that helps identify how a person’s body might be communicating crucial information.
Once the presenting concerns have been identified and the goals for treatment established, the therapist will employ various techniques designed to bring about a heightened awareness of both the body and mind. These chosen techniques are tailored to meet each person’s unique set of needs based upon the presenting mental health concerns, observations of the body, and the person’s capacity for insight and awareness.
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