Chronic Pain & Early Attachment: A Movement Process for Awareness and Healing
Suzi Tortora, EdD, BC-DMT, LCAT, LMHC
Approximately 1 in 4 American adults have chronic pain. Research has shown that the development of chronic pain is associated with “insecure” adult attachment styles, rooted in infancy and early childhood experiences with primary caregivers. These early experiences–initially registered on a somatic, kinesthetic and sensory level–shape how we make sense of the world, express our emotions and respond to threats throughout our lifetime. This 3-hour workshop will demonstrate nonverbal ways to explore early relationship patterns through moment-to-moment dance/movement explorations that metaphorically reveal old and new ways to engage with self and others. I will demonstrate their movement styles and provide descriptions for the participants to “try-on.” This workshop will include dyadic, small group, and whole group hands-on learning. Therapist participants will learn how to gain visceral insight into clients when moving with them and witnessing their affective and physical attunement during partnered movement explorations. Designed for participation by healthcare professionals of all disciplines and interested others.