Body Psychotherapy
Body Psychotherapy (also known as Somatic Psychotherapy) is a holistic approach to healing that recognizes the profound connection between the mind, body, and emotions. It is based on the idea that unresolved emotional issues and trauma are not only stored in our thoughts but also deeply embedded in our bodies. Over time, these emotions can become blocked energy or muscular tension, leading to physical discomfort, emotional numbness, or behavioral patterns that limit our potential.
In Body Psychotherapy, we understand that the body doesn’t just reflect emotional states—it actively participates in the process of healing. The aim is to work through the physical manifestations of emotional wounds, release repressed emotions, and restore the flow of energy in the body. By helping you to connect to their bodily sensations, release old emotional patterns, and become more self-aware, Body Psychotherapy fosters healing that integrates physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
This therapeutic approach utilizes a variety of methods, including breathwork, movement, touch, expressive exercises, and dialogue to help individuals access and release energy stored in the body, transforming both emotional and physical tension. Through this work, you can develop a deeper understanding of how mental and emotional experiences have been held in your body and begin to create new, healthier patterns of behavior and perception.
Body Psychotherapy, Core Energetics, and Bioenergetics
Core Energetics and Bioenergetics are both integral modalities within the broader field of Body Psychotherapy. These two approaches share a body-centered foundation, but each offers unique techniques and philosophies to support healing.
Bioenergetics – Developed by Alexander Lowen, Bioenergetics focuses on releasing physical and emotional blocks through bodywork, movement, and breathing exercises. It works with the understanding that emotional pain and trauma are often held in chronic tension within the body. The goal is to help individuals break down physical defenses and restore energy flow, improving overall health, vitality, and emotional balance.
Core Energetics – A further evolution of Wilhelm Reich’s work, Core Energetics integrates psychotherapy and spiritual principles to heal emotional and energetic blocks. Dr. John Pierrakos, who developed Core Energetics, expanded on Lowen’s concepts by incorporating a deeper focus on the energy body and its connection to spirituality. It aims to bring individuals in touch with their core essence—the center of love, power, and creativity—and restore the flow of life energy in a way that enhances emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being.
The Synergy of Body Psychotherapy, Core Energetics, and Bioenergetics
In my practice, I integrate the core principles of Body Psychotherapy, Core Energetics, and Bioenergetics to offer a comprehensive, transformative healing experience. This integration creates a multi-faceted approach that addresses mind-body connection, emotional blocks, and spiritual growth.
Releasing emotional blocks: Both Core Energetics and Bioenergetics emphasize that trauma and emotional pain are stored in the body and need to be released through movement, breath, and expression.
Deepening body awareness: Core Energetics and Bioenergetics utilize bodywork and breathwork to help you reconnect to your body’s natural rhythms, feelings, and sensations, unlocking a deeper sense of aliveness and vitality.
Integrating the spiritual and emotional: Core Energetics goes beyond just physical release, helping clients access their core energy and restore alignment with their deeper spiritual essence. Bioenergetics, while focused on physical healing, can also help clear the energetic blocks that prevent emotional and spiritual growth.
Empowering transformation: Whether you’re working with emotional wounds, chronic tension, or personal growth, these approaches offer a pathway to greater freedom, self-expression, and inner peace.
What to Expect in a Session
In a Body Psychotherapy session, including elements from both Core Energetics and Bioenergetics, you can expect:
Physical exercises designed to release muscular tension and activate energy flow.
Breathwork techniques to help you access deep emotions and release stored trauma.
Movement and expressive work that invite the body to communicate and release unexpressed emotions.
Energetic awareness practices that connect you to your core self, aligning body, mind, and spirit.
Safe emotional expression in a supportive environment where you can process feelings like anger, sadness, fear, or joy.
Why This Integrated Approach Works
By combining Bioenergetics and Core Energetics within the context of Body Psychotherapy, we are addressing the body’s role in healing from every angle—physical, emotional, and spiritual. This integrated approach helps you not only release emotional blocks but also reconnect with your authentic self in a powerful, lasting way.
Whether you’re looking to release old patterns, heal from trauma, or simply live more fully, this work offers profound, holistic transformation that touches all areas of your life.
