Trauma-Informed Principle 1:

We assume that our clients in integration sessions have experienced trauma, and we treat them with the care, attunement, sensitivity and therapeutic presence which is needed. 

Trauma-Informed Principle 2: 

We ALWAYS give clients choice and promote their sense of agency and inner wisdom and knowing. We do not, in any way, force an experience on them, or tell them what to do in the context of their integration process. 

Trauma-Informed Principle 3: 

We refrain from rigid, judgmental, dismissive, “spiritual bypassing” analysis & positive- sizing statements and unsolicited advice; instead, we listen more than we speak, using the language of inquiry, empathy, and reflection. We recognise participants as experts on their bodies and experiences and refrain from giving unsolicited advice which may belittle their experiences and feelings.

Trauma-Informed Principle 4: 

We use trauma-sensitive language which is attuned, strength-based, acknowledging, and empathic of the participant’s experience whilst listening for resources as it comes up in the person’s body language or experience.

Trauma-Informed Principle 5: 

We understand that trauma usually happens when things are too fast, too quick or too overwhelming for an individual, so in an integration session, we slow things right down to follow the principle of Titration. 

Trauma-Informed Principle 6: 

We understand that trauma is connected to the nervous system and we ensure that we, as integration practitioners, start the integration session with a calm, grounded and regulated nervous system.

We understand the importance of co-regulation and pay attention to our client’s nervous system when we start the session. We support them to regulate so that they can reap the benefits and experience of the session, and may start the session with grounding and stabilising practices to calm our client’s nervous system. 

Trauma-Informed Principle 7: 

We are aware of our professional role as an authority figure in somatic integration work and uphold professional, safe and healthy boundaries with our clients. We do not create dual relationships with our clients, nor do we engage in sexual activity with them.