Resuscitating bodies: On deadness, trauma, and intersubjectivity

In this clinical paper, the author considers the phenomenon of deadness as it applies to disruptions in both artistic and clinical processes. Deadness is examined as a byproduct of traumatic experiences that leads to breaks in intersubjectivity in the form of dissociative enactments that cause impasse within therapy. Enactments are defined using relational psychodynamic theory and clinical vignettes. The process through which therapists work through these enactments is described and is linked to treatment effectiveness. Implications for creative arts therapy practices with trauma are provided.