What is Body Psychotherapy?

Body Psychotherapy is a holistic form of talk therapy that recognises the deep and complex connection between the body and the mind. It’s based on the understanding that our physical body holds emotional memory — and that unresolved emotional issues often manifest not just in our thoughts and feelings, but in our posture, breath, muscle tension, and overall bodily experience.

In this approach, your body is not viewed as separate from your psychological experience — but as a vital part of the healing process.

How Body Psychotherapy Works

Body Psychotherapy brings gentle attention to the signals and patterns of your body. You and your therapist may explore how certain thoughts or emotions show up physically — perhaps as tension in your chest, a tight jaw, shallow breathing, or chronic fatigue.

Sessions might involve:

• Awareness of posture, movement, and physical sensations
• Breathing techniques or grounding exercises
• Exploring trauma or emotion stored in the body
• Encouraging embodied presence and regulation

The therapist works with sensitivity and consent — there is no physical contact unless explicitly agreed upon, and many sessions remain entirely verbal while focusing on body-based awareness.

What Body Psychotherapy Can Help With

Body Psychotherapy is particularly helpful for:

• Chronic stress or anxiety
• Emotional overwhelm or numbness
• Trauma (especially where verbal processing alone feels insufficient)
• Somatic symptoms (such as headaches, stomach issues, or fatigue)
• Feeling disconnected from one’s body or emotions
• Difficulties with boundaries, safety, or physical presence

This approach can be especially beneficial when emotions feel “stuck” or inaccessible through words alone.

What to Expect in a Session

Each session is shaped around your comfort and needs. Your therapist may begin by simply exploring how you’re feeling — physically and emotionally — in the moment. Over time, you may work with grounding techniques, breath awareness, or notice how you hold yourself during difficult conversations.

This isn’t about “fixing” the body — it’s about listening to it.

For some clients, the shift into bodily awareness brings powerful insight and relief. For others, it’s a slow and subtle unfolding. Either way, the aim is to bring more integration between your inner world and your physical experience, promoting long-term healing and resilience.

Body Psychotherapy at LifeChange, Dublin 2

At LifeChange, our Body Psychotherapists are specially trained to support this form of deep, embodied work. Whether you’re dealing with the effects of trauma, stress, or emotional disconnection, we offer a calm, grounded environment where you can explore the wisdom of your body at your own pace.

Sessions are available in-person in Dublin 2 or online, depending on the nature of the work and your preference.

Is Body Psychotherapy Right for Me?

If you’ve ever felt that “talking about it” only gets you so far — or if you find it hard to connect with your emotions or body — Body Psychotherapy can offer a safe, holistic path forward.