Presenters:
- Ryan Hassan, Co-founder at the Centre for Healing and Co-creator of Embodied Processing
- Gemma Carroll, Holistic Counsellor and Embodied Processing Practitioner
Key Points:
1. Importance of Holding Space
- Holding a safe, attuned, present space is crucial, regardless of modality or techniques used
- The therapeutic relationship and alliance is the most healing aspect
2. What is Holding Space?
- Creating a "healing bubble" - a non-judgmental, regulated, attuned space
- Establishing safety, trust and confidentiality
3. The Practitioner's Role
- Regulating your own nervous system before and after sessions
- Developing rituals and practices to enter and exit the space
- Meeting the client halfway, reducing effort
4. Elements of Holding Space
- Deep listening and observation
- Constant checking in and permission-seeking
- Validation and normalization of the client's experience
5. Barriers to Holding Space
- Agenda over intention
- Practitioner's own triggers and biases
- Lack of self-knowledge and perfectionism
6. Orientation for Holding Space
- "All is welcome here"
- "I'm not here to fix you; you're not broken"
- Curiosity and compassion towards uncomfortable emotions/sensations
7. Developing Resources
- Internal regulation practices
- External support systems and mentors
- Keeping client notes and debriefing
Key Takeaways:
- Safety and trust are foundational for healing
- Holding space is an ongoing practice for the practitioner
- Less effort, more presence and attunement is key
- Continuous self-work and resource-building is essential
Connect with Gemma Carroll:
📸 Instagram: @gemmacarrollnz
👍 Facebook: The MindBody Guru
💼 LinkedIn: Gemma Carroll
📰 Substack: The MindBody Guru
