Exploring the Best Breathwork Certifications and Courses for Trauma Healing in the US

While there may not be a single course that specifically combines breathwork and trauma healing, there are numerous programs and organizations offering specialized training in both fields. Below, we'll explore some of the leading breathwork programs and trauma healing certifications that can help you or your clients find healing and relief.

Breathwork Programs

Breathwork is a powerful tool for reducing stress, enhancing focus, and promoting overall well-being. Here are a few respected programs that focus on breathwork:

Herbert Benson MD: Harvard Health's Relaxation Response Program by Herbert Benson MD is well-respected and widely used in US hospitals and clinics. This program teaches techniques based on Benson's research on the 'relaxation response,' which is very similar to meditation. Benson's approach has been shown to be effective for individuals with serious medical conditions, although not specifically for trauma. John Kabat-Zinn's Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): MBSR, which originated at the University of Massachusetts, focuses on integrating mindfulness practices to help individuals manage stress and difficult emotions. While not specifically focused on trauma, it can be a valuable complement to other trauma healing methods. The Search for the Wild Divine: This innovative computer program/game teaches users how to regulate their breathing to complete tasks. It can be a fun and engaging way to learn and practice breathwork skills. However, it may not be as widely recognized or validated as some of the other programs listed.

Trauma Healing Certification Programs

Healing from trauma requires specialized knowledge and training. Here are some organizations you can consider for further study:

NICABM National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine: Offers a variety of courses on trauma healing. Notably, these include a course by Bessel van der Kolk MD and Peter Levine Ph.D. The courses are available online and are not cheap, but are highly regarded. NICABM also covers topics like Polyvagal theory, which is essential for understanding the physiological basis of trauma. PESI: Provides extensive trauma healing courses that are often on sale due to their high cost. One of their offerings includes a course by Catherine Pittman on treating trauma through desensitization and exposure therapy. PESI has a wide range of courses, many of which are relevant to trauma healing, and can be found online. Organizations like Psychotherapy Networker frequently advertise their courses. Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute: Founded by Pat Ogden, this institute offers training in sensorimotor psychotherapy, a unique approach to treating trauma that engages the body's immediate responses to trauma. While Ogden is well-known in the field, specific details about her methods are not widely publicized.

Conclusion

The journey towards healing from trauma is complex, and combining breathwork with trauma healing can provide a multifaceted approach. While there may not be a single program that addresses both areas comprehensively, exploring options from reputable organizations and programs can lead to significant improvements in mental and emotional well-being.

For those interested in learning more, consider reaching out to these organizations or exploring the detailed curricula they offer. Whether you're a therapist or someone seeking personal healing, the combination of breathwork and trauma healing can be a transformative process.