Emotional Release During Therapy: A Purposeful Session
In the realm of therapy, emotional release plays a significant role, often leading to profound healing and transformation. However, certain techniques can elicit unexpected and powerful emotional responses, challenging both the therapist and the client. In this article, I will delve into a personal account of how intentional emotional release was achieved through Myofascial Release (MFR) and explore the rationale behind this therapeutic approach. This experience offers valuable insights for both therapists and clients navigating the complexities of emotional healing.
The Unusual Yet Purposeful Crying
It was during a Myofascial Release session that my therapist triggered an emotional response that didn't align with the initial objective of the therapy session. Unlike previous experiences where the emotional release was accidental, this time the crying was intentional and aimed at facilitating a deeper level of healing and relaxation.
Understanding the Emotional Release
The first time it happened, I was confused and embarrassed. My therapist, a seasoned professional, had never seen such an emotional response during the MFR technique. He gently asked, 'Alissa, are you okay? Do you want me to stop?' My response, 'No, I'm fine. Deep breath, keep going,' indicated my willingness to continue with the session. This episode marked the beginning of a new approach to my therapy sessions, one that was more intentional and purposeful in nature.
The Therapeutic Reasoning
My therapist explained that the emotional release during Myofascial Release was achieved through targeted pressure on specific areas of the body. When stress and tension are released in these areas, it often triggers a cascade of emotional responses. This release isn't just a byproduct of the physical therapy; it's a targeted approach to mental and emotional well-being.
Consistency and Intention
The therapist intentionally worked on my neck every week to trigger this emotional release. At times, no additional intervention was needed, as the release would occur naturally. Other times, he would extend the duration of his hands on my neck and experiment with different techniques to ensure the emotional release. This consistency and intentionality were crucial in establishing a pattern of healing and relaxation.
Lessons from Unexpected Symptoms
Every session was marked by an emotional release that led to a profound sense of relief and relaxation. It was a time when the physical release of tension translated into a psychological one, leading to an overall improvement in well-being. The relief often lasted throughout the night and continued into the following day, significantly reducing my physical pain.
Communication and Trust
While the therapist initially mentioned the emotional release as part of the session, he didn't draw excessive attention to it. Instead, he would say, 'There's that emotional release,' or 'That's what I was looking for.' This nonchalant approach helped maintain a sense of normalcy, ensuring that I felt relaxed and supported.
Emotional Support
During these sessions, the therapist also provided emotional support by gently wiping tears away with his thumb or offering a comforting embrace. These small gestures were crucial in facilitating a safe and supportive environment, allowing for a deeper level of emotional processing.
Client Consent and Comfort
Initially, the therapist would ask me if I was comfortable with the Myofascial Release session. Over time, this became less frequent as I consistently expressed my willingness to continue. However, the therapist always respected my wishes, ensuring that the sessions were always in line with my comfort and consent.
Comparison with Previous Experiences
This experience stands in contrast to a previous therapist who would make me cry but without a purposeful intention. Instead of trying to understand the emotional release, he would simply comment on it, which often left me feeling uncomfortable and frustrated. The contrast highlights the importance of a therapist's approach in creating a healing environment.
Conclusion
Emotional release during therapy, especially through techniques like Myofascial Release, can be a powerful tool for healing. However, it requires a thoughtful and intentional approach to ensure that the client feels supported and understood. This case study demonstrates the potential for triggering and managing emotional release in a therapeutic setting, ultimately leading to a more holistic and effective healing process.