Erotic Self-Expansion for Sexual Trauma Survivors

Traditional therapy for sexual trauma survivors leans into cognitive processing interventions adhering to a model of sexual dysfunction and challenging negative self and world narratives. However, trauma is a body and brain experience and including somatic practices is integral to the therapeutic process. Intentionally entering the erotic is also a fundamental step in healing sexual trauma as survivors often report feeling completely disconnected from their desires after a traumatic experience. This workshop will explore methods for increasing sexual embodiment and wellness through the erotic self-expansion model and a sex-positive, pleasure-centered framework.

Learning objectives

 ●      Discuss overlapping physio-somatic sexual and trauma responses.

●      Describe the impact that trauma has on the brain and body and how it impacts sexuality and sexual behavior.

●      Define and explain 2 benefits of “erotic self-expansion”.

●      Describe four (4) somatic, practical, pleasure-centered interventions to help clients explore eroticism.

Activity Schedule: 

9:00am-9:15: Introduction to MSTI and presenter and course purpose

9:15-11:00: Review trauma impact and responses

11:00-12:00pm: Review model of erotic self-expansion

12:00-12:45: Introduce somatic and practical interventions

12:45-1:00: Closing comments and Q & A