Being with the Body in Depth Psychology

‘Being with the Body in Depth Psychology: Development, Trauma, and Transformation in the Unspoken Realm, offers us exceptional wisdom for healing trauma. Barbara Holifield’s gift of this book broadens and deepens our conceptualization and understanding of healing from psychological and physical trauma—intergenerational and contemporary. Holifield’s book is rich, profoundly intimate, and deserves to become a classic of Jungian Psychology literature.’ Fanny Brewster, Ph.D., M.F.A., LP Author of The Racial Complex ‘It is a blessing to see Jungian wisdom include the sacredness of the body.’ Jack Kornfield, author of A Path With Heart ‘In giving the body its due, this book serves as an important, and relevant dialogue between Depth Psychology and those working in the fields of Body Psychotherapy. It is a rich tapestry, an artistically woven fabric, of these two vital strands of comprehending the human condition. This volume will enrich each of these contributions for clinicians in both of these previously disparate fields, particularly with regard to healing the wounds of trauma and abuse.’ Peter A Levine, PhD Author of In an Unspoken Voice; How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness ‘A powerful, experience-based, highly integrative guide to healing from trauma by a pioneer in the field of Somatic Psychology. The poetics of embodiment finds its mature voice in this remarkable exploration of pathways to recovery drawing on the combined wisdoms of depth psychology, infant research, neuroscience, and a host of approaches to cultivating somatic consciousness. Weaving in the skillful use of the interactive field of the therapeutic encounter, Holifield reveals a multidimensional sensibility that will help orient and guide clinicians working with trauma survivors.’ Joseph Cambray, Ph.D., IAAP, past president/CEO, Pacifica Graduate Institute ‘Holifield guides us through a profound exploration of the intricate interplay between the psyche and the body—an introspective journey that delves into the nuanced cultivation of embodiment and the sanctity inherent in inner experiences. Her prose emanates from a non-dualistic perspective, seamlessly weaving together interdisciplinary insights from affective neuroscience, infant development, and trauma research. Through the lens of compassionate vignettes and case studies, she illuminates her mythopoetic approach to navigating the bodily foundations of the psyche's unfolding process, a transformative odyssey toward the healing of that which was once fragmented and broken. This exquisitely crafted and meticulously researched work stands as a luminous testament, making a profound and insightful contribution to the field.’ Ursula Wirtz, Ph.D., author of Trauma and Beyond 'Barbara Holifield's groundbreaking book is a must-read for therapists and anyone interested in the profound connection between body and mind. She reveals powerful ways to tap into our bodily-based awareness, offering practical guidance for both therapists and clients alike. The emphasis placed upon on patience and presence transforms the therapeutic process into a dynamic and personalized journey. This book is an invaluable resource for fostering integral approaches to embodied psychoanalysis, making it an essential addition to any bookshelf.' Christopher G. Walling, PsyD, is Associate Professor of Research Psychology at the California Institute for Integral Studies current Research Chair & Past-President of the United States Association of Body Psychotherapy and a Fellow of three American Board of Psychoanalysis