Creativity & the Arts in Healing

Learn arts-based tools for facilitating communication, building connection, promoting positive emotions, fostering engagement, reducing stress, and managing the impact of trauma in our inaugural experiential training conference.

Choose from 125+ workshops delivered by leading national experts in art, dance, drama, drumming, music, and writing integrated with mental health practices.

Friday, March 31, 2017 from 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm

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.

Eligible for 3.0 Credit Hours: ATCB; ASWB, APA, MFT, Nursing
Eligible for 3.0 Clock Hours: NBCC

Not eligible for APT credits