ABSTRACT
Touch therapies are a ritual that facilitates an overarching state of consciousness called somatic empathy. Bodywork therapies extend the therapeutic range of interpersonal synchrony through talk by cultivating intentional somatic empathy. This form of interpersonal attunement helps the client to heal. Entrainment of psychophysiological rhythms results in a shared state of consciousness between practitioner and client. Our professional attitudes about touch are culturally and historically determined and should be understood in the context of present-day taboos and resistance. Body therapies may serve at every stage of PTSD and complex trauma treatment. They may serve as exposure therapy, integrate body image into body dysmorphia, and reduce dissociation and pain. Attitudes about touch are culturally and historically determined and occur in the context of present-day taboos and resistance. Touch therapies include polarity therapy, massage cranial-sacral therapy, and visceral manipulation. Somatic psychotherapies include somatic experiencing and sensorimotor therapy that facilitates interoception and self-awareness. Clinicians can teach clients and their families self-care methods like rocking. Animal companions, in particular dogs, play an essential role as co-practitioners in animal-assisted therapy for trauma treatment; they can facilitate safe touch and trust, and they help to restore attachment behaviors.
