Neuroaffective Touch Therapy

NeuroAffective Touch Therapy (NTT) is a form of therapy that integrates touch and psychotherapy, it focuses on the mind-body connection and helps individuals who have experienced trauma to heal on a deep, embodied level. NTT integrates principles from body-centred therapy and somatic therapy to promote emotional regulation and embodied healing. It also addresses emotional, relational and developmental deficits that cannot be reached through verbal communication alone.

Neuroaffective Touch Therapy origins:

NeuroAffective Touch Therapy was created by Dr. Aline LaPierre who is the director of The NeuroAffective Touch Institute. She noticed after many years of being in clinic that many clients were disconnected to their mind and body and often mistreated it. This mind-body disconnection usually arises in early childhood, where the caregivers were mistuned, or neglected the infant’s needs or brought fear upon the child. The developing mind tries to make sense of the situation, and years later that can override the deeper level of the body’s experience.

How Does NeuroAffective Touch Therapy Work?

NeuroAffective Touch Therapy works by using touch to regulate the nervous system and promote safety and relaxation. Touch can help to soothe the fight, flight, or freeze response that often accompanies trauma and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and digestion. Through touch, individuals can learn to develop a sense of safety and trust in their own bodies and in the world around them. A NATouch-trained therapist is able to help clients become consciously aware to their neuroception by focusing on particular layers of the body, including as the skin, connective tissue, muscle, nervous system, and organs, as well as by adhering to preexisting rhythms and lines of force. This shows how to cultivate a caring, conscious relationship between the mind and body. 

How can I Benefit from NeuroAffective Touch Therapy?

The benefits of NeuroAffective Touch Therapy are numerous. NTT can help individuals to:

• Help repair developmental trauma

• Develop a greater sense of safety and trust in their own bodies

• Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression

• Decrease the intensity and frequency of traumatic memories

• Improve emotional regulation and resilience

• Increase self-awareness and self-acceptance

• Enhance interpersonal relationships

How can Touch therapy Help with Emotional Regulation and Healing in the body and mind?

Touch can help with emotional regulation and healing by providing a physical connection to the body and promoting feelings of safety and relaxation. When individuals experience trauma, they may disconnect from their bodies in order to cope with overwhelming emotions or sensations. Touch can help to bridge this gap and facilitate a sense of wholeness and integration.

What Are Some of the Principles of Body-Centred Therapy and How Can They be Applied in this Therapy?

Body-centred therapy is a form of therapy that recognizes the mind-body connection and seeks to promote healing through embodied awareness. In NeuroAffective Touch Therapy, the principles of body-centred therapy are applied by using touch to connect individuals with their bodies and promote a sense of safety and trust in their own physical experiences.

Can NeuroAffective Touch Therapy Work in Conjunction with Other Forms of Therapy?

Yes, NeuroAffective Touch Therapy can be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as talk therapy or cognitive-behavioural therapy. It is important to work with a qualified practitioner who can help to integrate touch therapy with other therapeutic modalities in a safe and effective way.

How is NeuroAffective Touch Therapy different from Other Touch Therapies like Massage or Acupuncture?

NeuroAffective Touch Therapy differs from other touch therapies like massage or acupuncture in that it is specifically designed to promote emotional regulation and healing for individuals who have experienced trauma. NTT practitioners are trained to use touch to promote safety and relaxation and to help individuals connect with their bodies in a deeper, more embodied way.

What Kind of Training and Certifications are needed to Become a NeuroAffective Touch Therapy Practitioner?

To become a NeuroAffective Touch Therapy practitioner, individuals must complete a rigorous training program that includes both theoretical and experiential components. Certification is offered through the NeuroAffective Touch Institute, which provides a comprehensive training program for individuals seeking to become NTT practitioners.

What can I expect in a NeuroAffective Touch Therapy Session?

A typical NeuroAffective Touch Therapy session will involve a combination of touch, talk, and somatic awareness exercises. The practitioner will work with the individual to create a safe and supportive environment and will use touch to promote relaxation and emotional regulation. Neuroaffective Touch therapy is often done on a massage table, the client is fully clothed, and the practitioner will use warm small pillows or use a gentle touch to calm and communicate with the body’s systems to slowly activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Sessions typically last for 60 minutes. 

Are There Any Potential Risks or Side Effects Associated with NeuroAffective Touch Therapy that I should be aware of?

As with any form of therapy, there are potential risks and side effects associated with NeuroAffective Touch Therapy. It is important to work with a qualified practitioner who is trained to work with individuals who have experienced trauma and who can help to ensure that the therapy is conducted in a safe and supportive environment. It is also important for individuals to communicate any discomfort or concerns they may have during the therapy session.

Is there scientific research supporting the effectiveness of NeuroAffective Touch Therapy?

While NeuroAffective Touch Therapy is a relatively new form of therapy, there is a growing body of scientific research that supports its effectiveness in promoting emotional regulation and healing for individuals who have experienced trauma. Studies have shown that touch can have a positive impact on the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting feelings of safety and relaxation.

Where Can I Find More Information and Practitioners near me?

If you are interested in learning more about NeuroAffective Touch Therapy or finding a practitioner in Australia, there are several resources available. 

• Organisations such as Totally Alive offer information about NTT and training opportunities for practitioners.

• Bodhi Holistic Hub provides options for NeuroAffective Touch Therapy practitioners, all carefully vetted and verified, giving you peace of mind you’ll be in good hands