E39 - Embracing Multimodality in Somatic Therapy ft. Brian Tierney, PhD

Red Beard Embodiment Podcast

In this new podcast episode, we dive deep into the realms of somatic psychotherapy, interdisciplinary practices, and the art of embodying multi-modality in therapy with our distinguished guest, Dr. Brian Tierney. Known as the Somatic Doctor, Brian brings a unique blend of expertise in somatic psychotherapy, dance, and bodywork, shining a light on the intricate connections between the body, mind, and spirit.

Throughout our conversation, Brian shares his journey from a business student with a budding interest in somatic practices to becoming a leader in the field of integrative therapy. His eclectic approach, combining talk therapy, dance, and structural integration bodywork, offers a fresh perspective on therapeutic practices. Brian's work emphasizes the importance of navigating multiple therapeutic angles, including trauma resolution, dance and movement, and the integration of various bodywork modalities, to support human development and well-being.

A highlight of our discussion revolves around Brian's deep commitment to interdisciplinary practice and research. He challenges the trend towards excessive specialization in therapy, advocating for a broader, more holistic approach to understanding and treating the human psyche. Brian's insights into the role of dance, movement, and body awareness in therapy provide valuable lessons on the power of embodying multi-modality to foster healing and personal growth.

Listeners are invited to explore the full episode to delve into Brian's profound insights and experiences. For more information on Dr. Brian Tierney's work, visit his website at somaticdoctor.com and follow him on Instagram. Engage with his teachings and join us in exploring the vast potential of integrative and somatic therapies to enrich our lives and therapeutic practices.

Key Highlights:

• 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Brian Tierney
• 02:12 Interdisciplinary practice and research
• 02:54 Origin story and path to somatic psychotherapy
• 04:26 The transformative power of bodywork and dance
• 06:23 The journey through graduate studies and beyond
• 08:30 The significance of men's work in therapy
• 11:59 An integrative approach to psychology
• 17:01 The tension between opposites in therapy
• 21:51 The future of multimodal therapeutic practices
• 25:39 Self-regulation and the role of dynamic experiences
• 29:04 Embracing playfulness in therapy
• 33:01 The challenge of othering in therapeutic communities
• :37:06 Brian's clinical practice and teaching philosophy
• 41:27 The importance of facial work in therapy
• 46:18 Polyvagal theory and its place in modern therapy
• 50:43 The evolving landscape of somatic psychotherapy

For those interested in the intersection of somatic practices, dance, and psychotherapy, this episode is a must-listen. Dive into the full conversation to uncover the depths of Dr. Brian Tierney's work and the transformative potential of integrating multiple modalities into therapeutic practice.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Website: https://somaticdoctor.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SomaticDoctor/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesomaticdoctor