Summary

Somatically-oriented prenatal and perinatal therapy done within the context of a group is, in my experience, one of the most potent modalities we have of engendering health, experiencing wholeness and shifting life patterns. While the principles mentioned here apply to any form of prenatal and perinatal work, the primary focus has been on the group process intensive. Here, six to eight clients are encouraged to explore and heal early imprints, core beliefs and life decisions, understand and change long-standing patterns and open to greater intimacy. Typically, we gather on a Friday evening within the context of a safe, supportive small group environment to review basic skills of creating safety, empathy, contact and boundaries, enabling participants to effectively give and receive support. During the weekend, each participant receives a 1.5 to 2.5 hour session with the primary therapist in which the client works from a stated intention and explores emotional and physical patterns that have their origin in the prenatal and perinatal period. The group is actively involved in each session, giving every participant many opportunities for self-discovery and healing. The sessions are followed by time for integration and discussion. Clients are encouraged to follow-up with integration activities and contact with someone from the group and professional therapy as needed.

References and Resources

Association for Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology and Health, website: www.birthpsychology.com  Contains a wealth of professional articles and resources; has a searchable database.

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            See also: http://webpages.charter.net/jspeyrer/lake.htm

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