Dr. Pat Ogden

This article features an in-depth conversation with Dr. Pat Ogden, a pioneer in somatic therapy and founder of the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute. Dr. Ogden discusses her journey in psychotherapy, starting from her early influences and apprenticeship with Ron Kurtz, to her development of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, which integrates the body in treating trauma and attachment issues. She reflects on the evolution of the field, the challenges of integrating body-focused therapy into mainstream practice, and the importance of understanding cultural and systemic factors in trauma therapy. The conversation also touches on her upcoming book, "Sensorimotor Psychotherapy in Context," which addresses the socio-cultural dimensions of psychotherapy, emphasising the need to adapt therapeutic approaches to diverse populations.

  • Understand the origins and development of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and its focus on the body's role in trauma and attachment therapy.

  • Explore the influence of cultural and systemic factors on trauma and their implications for therapeutic practices.

  • Recognize the importance of integrating somatic experiences in psychotherapy to address trauma effectively.

  • Analyze the challenges and evolution of somatic therapy within the broader field of psychotherapy.

  • Reflect on the significance of therapist self-awareness and sensitivity to client cultural backgrounds in therapeutic interactions.

  • Gain insights into the practical applications of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, including the use of worksheets and body movement observation in treatment.

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