May 2026
PHASE THREE – Working with the Continuum of Movement
This phase focuses on what occurs when we consistently obstruct movement, whether it be physical, emotional, mental or spiritual. Chronically held back movement creates a sense of lack. That can become intolerable, leaving us vulnerable to addiction.
Addiction is defined broadly and we look to the body to help restore a sense of fullness, mindfulness – that is our birthright. This phase offers an experiential and theoretical understanding of the continuum from stimulus bound, constrained movement to creative and free movement – the Mobility Gradient. Trainees will learn a somatically centered theory of addiction and addiction recovery via understanding and working with movement stereotypy. They will learn to identify subtle and small movement “tags,” also called micro-movements, and use them as signals for movement sequencing.
We explore our relationship to natural and un-natural pleasure in the body, and how to commit to natural pleasure. Trauma is understood from the perspective of the Mobility Gradient and micro-movements. This phase also includes initial skill-building in identifying and working with resistance, also seen as obstructing movement, and in helping clients complete movement sequences, called body narratives.
Taught by Rachelle Janssen.
PHASE FOUR – Attachment and the Use of Touch in the Moving Cycle
Keeping a focus on completing movement sequences, and looking through the lens of attachment theory, we will work with the details of developmental movements, early childhood imprints, and how imprinted interruptions of developmental movements can harm adult functioning. By committing to accurate, detailed and creative recovery of these movements, within a context of a secure therapeutic relationship, we can set the stage for healthy adult behavior. Because developmental movements are often from pre-verbal or non-verbal times, touch more than words often becomes the treatment of choice. Trainees will learn the basic principles and practices of proper use of touch in body-centered psychotherapy. Special attention will be placed on ethics, indications and contra-indications, types of touch and when to use them, and basic clinical strategies.
Taught by Kira Cords.
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