The purpose of this study is to examine and compare the effects of two body therapy approaches in women who have experienced child sexual abuse.

Women who have experienced child sexual abuse often display symptoms of dissociation and lack of bodily self-awareness which hinder the recovery process. Mind-body researchers have examined alternative therapeutic approaches to eliminating these factors. This study will compare a standardized therapeutic message to body-oriented therapy which involves a combination of hands-on bodywork and verbal therapy focused on somatic and emotional awareness.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Self-reported child sexual abuse
• In current psychotherapy for child sexual abuse recovery

Exclusion Criteria:

• Over 6 months of past experience with body-oriented therapy
• Diagnosis or medications for psychosis
• Drug or alcohol addiction
• Current abusive relationship
• Dissociative disorder
• In transition on psychotropic medication