Somatic Trauma Release And PTSD Study Results

By Brenda Cooper


When it comes to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder also known as PTSD, there are a number of alternative and holistic therapies which can help. In the case of somatic trauma release, the process is somewhat complex. For, the therapy focuses on relieving symptoms of PTSD and other conditions by focusing on the perceived sensations of the body by a client.

Sessions are often provided in person and involve tracking client experiences on an ongoing basis. Most often, practitioners are mental health professionals. Individuals working in this area often include clergy, chaplains, physical therapists, bodyworkers, physicians, nurses, psychotherapists, marriage and family therapists, psychologists and social workers.

While anyone can assist others with somatic experiencing, certified practitioners must go through a three year training process with additional work in the field to become certified. For, different types of trauma, including developmental and shock oriented require specific applications when it comes to treatment. As such, this training is useful in teaching individuals how to react to various symptoms of PTSD and associated conditions with the best methods possible.

In most cases, the practice is used to create a better sense of awareness of the present while helping release tension after a major or minor traumatic event. Pendulation, a part of the practice can often be used to move an individual from a dysregulated state, such as being frozen and not being able to move, to a regulated state in which the individual can once again function without assistance.

Resources in this area, while limited can often be anything which can assist the nervous system return to a regulated state. In some cases, showing an individual photographs or publications can work to guide clients back to a regulated state. After which, once the individual returns to a regulated state, bodily function can often return within a matter of minutes.

While re-regulating, the client will most likely go through a process which can include the ability to breathe easily again, unconscious movement, a warm sensation, tears or other responses which indicate the nervous system is returning to a baseline presence. The intention of re-regulation is intended to reinforce a client's inherent ability to self-regulate. After which, clients can more easily identify when in an unhealthy state of mind and automatically shift to a healthier one.

Shock and developmental trauma while similar do share differences. For example, shock trauma often occurs after a single traumatic event such as a physical attack, battlefield incident, earthquake, flood, hurricane or car accident. Whereas, developmental trauma occurs during child development when a child does not have sufficient, or experiences detrimental attention from primary caregivers such as parents and teachers. In addition, there can also be other traumas such as brain injuries or concussions in which the individual may need ongoing therapy in this area.

Two separate and randomized studies of somatic experiencing as a PTSD treatment were completed and published in 2017. The results of both studies suggested positive results as an effective therapy method for PTSD. Whereas, the studies also concluded that in order to understand those whom will benefit most from the treatment, further research studies are the best way to do so.




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