Connecting body and mind to support integration
Body psychotherapy is a powerful way to delve deep into both the mind and body, unlocking hidden traumas and emotions for complete healing and transformation.
Welcome!
Dr Alison Clancy Phd, MSC, RGN, BNS
I started my working life as a nurse, then moved into the academic world where I still hold an academic position in University College Dublin. I have trained in many lineages of yoga and other holistic practices and I then completed my body psychotherapy training and feel very privileged to take my seat as a body psychotherapist. I am very excited and honoured to be in this space and feel a deep sense of gratitude for the universe supporting me to arrive here.
I offer body psychotherapy sessions and biodynamic massage sessions, as I recognise the interdependent relationship between physical experience and emotional health. Body psychotherapy and the modalities associated, emphasise the innate intelligence and healing capacity of the body. I believe in deeply listening to the body and to learn how to trust our inner wisdom to support healing and integration.
I will try to understand the struggles you are going through and I am here to help you find your way back to yourself through Body Psychotherapy.
What is Body Psychotherapy?
Body psychotherapy is a powerful way to delve deep into both the body and mind, unlocking hidden traumas and emotions for complete healing and transformation. Body psychotherapy is a branch of psychotherapy that invites a deep connection between the mind and the body and bases itself on the principle that the body and the mind need to work together as a functional unit. It draws on several branches of science and psychology. This form of Therapy supports the interplay between the body and the mind through the establishment of a number of body orientated psychotherapeutic modalities, concepts and techniques. The foundational concept of this approach that the body mind represent the embodied integration of thoughts, feelings, emotions and physical bodily sensations and experiences. When a person begins body psychotherapy, the first session is about information gathering, presenting concerns and developing the relational field so that trust can be established. A number of different techniques can be employed to support Mindbody integration.
The Benefits of Body Psychotherapy
One of the main benefits of body psychotherapy is that it helps individuals become more aware of their bodies' sensations, emotions, and movements. This heightened sense of awareness can help individuals identify and process unresolved emotional traumas and prevent a repeated cycle of those emotions. The therapist and the individual can work together to identify the underlying causes of physical pain, such as emotions or repressed memories. Through this, the individual can learn to listen to their body, release pent-up emotions and find healing.
Another significant advantage of body psychotherapy is that it supports individuals in developing a better sense of self. With a profound understanding of how their bodies behave and the link between physical and emotional experiences, an individual can gain greater self-awareness. Body psychotherapy empowers individuals to reconnect with their internal sensations, attune to their body, and gain a deeper understanding of their behaviours, patterns, and beliefs. This can lead to a deeper sense of self-esteem and connection to oneself, others, and the world in general.
Moreover, body psychotherapy can help individuals improve their relationships. By understanding one's body responses to other people, particularly in stressful or triggering situations, individuals can learn to respond more effectively and compassionately to others. Body psychotherapy can support individuals in developing better coping skills and communication strategies, leading to healthier relationships.
Working with couples
. When working with couples, I incorporate body psychotherapy techniques to help them deepen their connection, improve communication, and address underlying issues. By focusing on the body's physical sensations, movements, and expressions, I help couples explore and understand their emotions, patterns, and dynamics in a non-verbal way. Through body psychotherapy, couples can gain insights into their relationship dynamics, enhance empathy and understanding, and develop healthier ways of relating to each other. I create a safe and supportive environment for couples to explore their emotions, physical sensations, and relational patterns, leading to a deeper level of connection and growth in their relationship.
My Approach
My approach emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection, and how physical sensations can be a powerful tool in healing emotional wounds. Our Body Psychotherapy sessions work to explore and support the ways that you hold emotions in your body. Through focused attention on your physical experiences, you will develop greater awareness of these sensations and learn how to release them.
I attempt to offer a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your feelings, and find new ways to cope with whatever is going on for you.
Through many different modalities that can be used in body psychotherapy, there can be body work in the form of biodynamic massage that uses nurturing touch to calm your nervous system, release pent-up tension, and address emotional blockages.
I believe that your body has the power to heal, and I am dedicated to helping you strengthen your connection with yourself and the world around you. I understand that it can be difficult to take the first steps towards healing. However, I encourage you to take that step of faith, and let me guide you to a healthier and happier you. I care deeply about helping you find your way and regain your sense of hope. Allow me to provide you with the tools you need to move towards a brighter future
What is Biodynamic Massage
Biodynamic massage is a holistic therapeutic treatment that aims to promote balance and well-being by addressing both physical and emotional aspects of the body. This type of massage is based on the principles of biodynamic psychology, a therapeutic approach that emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection in healing.
The main goal of biodynamic massage is to help individuals release tension and stress, which can be caused by a range of factors such as injury, illness, trauma, or emotional strain. This is achieved through a series of gentle yet powerful massage techniques that work to release blockages within the muscles and promote a free flow of energy throughout the body.
Unlike other forms of massage, biodynamic massage takes a deeply personal and individualized approach to treatment. I will work closely with you to understand your unique needs and tailor the massage accordingly. This may involve a range of techniques, such as gentle touch, deep pressure, stretching, and movement exercises.
Yoga
I am a yoga teacher and a body psychotherapist and often attempt to bring these two worlds together, during sessions or in a workshops format.
The mind and body are intricately linked, and each exerts a powerful influence on the other. Physical wellness naturally translates to mental well-being and vice versa. Bespoke yoga aims to integrate this connection by designing a personalized practice that considers an individual's physical and mental capabilities. A bespoke yoga practice is tailored to an individual's specific needs, goals, and preferences, ensuring a more holistic approach to wellness.
The practice of bespoke yoga allows individuals to tune into their body's physical sensations and connect with their thoughts and emotions, ultimately cultivating an increased level of self-awareness. Through intentional movement and breathwork, bespoke yoga creates a safe and comfortable space for individuals to explore their sensations and emotions, resulting in reduced stress and anxiety.
Moreover, bespoke yoga allows for modifications and variations to traditional poses, ensuring individuals feel supported throughout their practice. This personalized approach enables individuals to work at their own pace, avoiding strain or injury. Tailoring the practice to the individual can also enable them to build confidence and self-efficacy.
Classes & Workshops
Workshops
18th May BODY-MIND-NOURISH DAY RETREAT this will be a 2.5 hour yoga class and aspects of body psychotherapy in the afternoon. This will be in person an held in oscalit in Pembroke road
Calling all therapists and individuals interested in exploring the fascinating world of body psychotherapy!
We are thrilled to invite you to a transformative 4-day Introduction to Body Psychotherapy, where we will delve into the powerful integration of the body and the mind to support integration.
What is Body Psychotherapy? Body psychotherapy is an innovative approach that recognizes the profound connection between our minds and bodies. It explores how our physical sensations, emotions, and past experiences are all interconnected, influencing our overall well-being. By incorporating the body into therapy, we can unlock deeper insights, promote healing, and enhance personal growth.
Who is this workshop for? This workshop is designed for existing therapists who wish to expand their therapeutic toolkit and for individuals who are curious about self-exploration and personal development. Whether you're a psychologist, psychotherapist, social worker, or simply someone interested in learning more about yourself, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of the mind-body connection.
What can you expect? Over the course of four immersive days, you will be guided by experienced body psychotherapists who will introduce you to various techniques and theories. Through experiential exercises including yoga and group discussions, you will gain practical skills and insights that can be immediately applied in your therapeutic practice or personal life.
Topics covered include:
Understanding the mind-body connection and its impact on mental health Exploring somatic awareness and the language of the body Techniques for working with trauma and releasing stored emotions Integrating body-based interventions into traditional therapeutic approaches Cultivating self-care and resilience as a therapist and as human being.
Why should you attend? By attending this workshop, you will: Expand your therapeutic repertoire and enhance your effectiveness as a therapist Deepen your understanding of your own body and emotions Gain valuable tools for working with trauma and emotional release Connect with like-minded professionals and build a supportive network
Save the Date: [28thNovember-1st December 2024] Location- Huntington UK
Price- 450 pounds
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to bring the body into the therapy room and embark on a journey of self-discovery and professional growth.
Get in touch
Contact me if you would like to have a chat about what I offer or to book a session.
© Alison Clancy
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