Working with internalised oppression through body psychotherapy

Abstract

Internalised oppression, which occurs within individuals and groups of people experiencing oppression, is defined as the internalisation of the ideology of inferiority that is directed at the oppressed group by the dominant group. Internalised oppression can contribute to anxiety, depression, identity confusion, and feelings of inferiority, among other mental health concerns. While the field of body psychotherapy offers models for using somatic approaches to address the traumatic impact of oppression, there is a gap in understanding and addressing the embodied experience of internalised oppression. This paper will explore, discuss, and offer ideas for how the somatic psychotherapy interventions of body awareness, sensation tracking, and somatic resourcing can address internalised oppression and support clients in developing increased capacity for regulation, self-love, and empowerment in the face of ongoing oppression. Composite cases are used to illustrate this clinical approach.

Keywords:

• Internalised oppression
• resilience
• somatic
• embodiment
• anti-oppression

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rebecca Holohan

Rebecca Holohan, M.A., LPCC (she/her), is a somatic psychotherapist in Boulder, CO focussing on the intersections of culture, identity, and social justice in mental health. Rebecca works with a community mental health organisation and has a private practice. She holds a MA in Somatic Counselling from Naropa University.