“That Part of the Body is Just Gone”: Understanding and Responding to Dissociation and Physical Health

Abstract

The past 2 decades have brought a significant surge in interest and research regarding the ways in which psychological trauma relates to the physical body. Researchers now understand a great deal about how the brain and the body process traumatic experiences, as well as the increased likelihood of an array of physical health consequences associated with both childhood and adult trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder. Experts are increasingly challenging mind–body dualism through solid theoretical and clinical bases for the central importance of listening to and communicating with trauma clients' bodies as part of reducing the suffering and long-lasting consequences of trauma. This article integrates this growing body of knowledge through a particular focus on trauma-induced dissociation and the implications of the physical and neurological processes and consequences of dissociation on clients' ability to participate in caring for their own bodies. The author utilizes an in-depth clinical example of expanding relational trauma psychotherapy to include a focus on working directly with trauma-related sensorimotor and physiological sensations and patterns.

KEYWORDS:

• trauma
• PTSD
• dissociation
• psychological trauma and health
• psychological health and the body
• relational trauma psychotherapy
• sensorimotor psychotherapy

Notes

1. The identity of the client discussed in this article has been disguised by omission and alteration of non-crucial information. I express my sincere gratitude for the client's consent for use within the article of the material that is specific to his or her experience.