Embedded relational mindfulness (ERM)© in child and adolescent treatment: A sensorimotor psychotherapy perspective

This paper illustrates sensorimotor psychotherapy's “embedded relational mindfulness©” to elucidate the wisdom of the body and the impact of the primary attachment relationships in the treatment of child and adolescent clients. Emphasizing the therapeutic alliance and the collaborative development of treatment goals. The method blends theory and technique from cognitive and psychodynamic therapies, and mindfulness practices incorporating both verbal and nonverbal communication. Movement interventions that promote empowerment and competency are introduced, and interventions are adjusted and a according to particular needs that arise during the session. Through clinical material elucidating principles of sensorimotor psychotherapy and embedded relational mindfulness©, this chapter describes a set of skills for using mindfulness embedded within what transpires between therapist and patient, and delineates interventions from sensorimotor psychotherapy (Ogden et al., 2006; Ogden, 2014) directly addressing the in-the-moment experience of implicit processes to treat traumatized patients.