The Science Behind the Healing — Our Research-Backed Modalities

Each modality we use at Embracing Me Retreats and workshops is based on Evidence — rooted in trauma science, nervous system regulation, and decades of therapeutic research and experience. Here’s why it works:

  • Disassembled vintage camera with parts laid out on a white surface.

    IFS (Internal Family Systems) – Parts Work

    Why we use it: IFS is a proven, evidence-based approach that helps people heal from trauma by connecting with and unburdening their inner parts. It’s especially powerful for survivors of childhood trauma and complex PTSD.
    Research says: Studies show IFS reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD by helping people develop self-compassion and access their inner “Self” — a calm, curious internal resource.
    Citation: Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, 2013

  • A person holding an open photo album with black and white vintage photographs. The left page has three photos, showing children riding a horse, children playing outdoors, and a person near a barn. The right page has three photos, with a holiday scene including a Christmas tree indoors, two children with a bicycle outdoors, and two children with an early 20th-century car outside.

    EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

    Why we use it: EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories without having to relive them in detail. It’s highly effective for trauma, panic attacks, and deep emotional wounds.
    Research says: EMDR is endorsed by the American Psychological Association among many others, and through dozens of clinical trials has been found to be one of the most effective treatments for PTSD.
    Citation: American Psychological Association, World Health Organization, and dozens of clinical trials

  • A statue depicting a woman carrying a child on her shoulders, surrounded by others, with a woman and a child sitting at the bottom, engaging in a conversation.

    Shame Resilience Work (Brené Brown’s The Daring Way™)

    Why we use it: Shame is at the root of “never enough.” Brené Brown’s research shows that shame resilience is the key to self-worth, vulnerability, and deep healing.
    Research says: Shame resilience leads to stronger relationships, better emotion regulation, and improved mental health.
    Citation: Brown, B. (2006–2012), grounded theory qualitative studies on shame and vulnerability

  • A person practicing yoga on a mountain summit, standing on one leg with hands in prayer pose, overlooking foggy mountains and lush green forest.

    Yoga for Trauma Recovery

    Why we use it: Trauma lives in the body — and yoga helps us feel safe inside it again. Our trauma-informed practice supports regulation, empowerment, and inner peace.
    Research says: Yoga reduces PTSD symptoms, calms the nervous system, and improves emotion regulation — especially when combined with talk therapy.
    Citation: van der Kolk, B. (2014). “The Body Keeps the Score”

  • A woman with short blonde hair and closed eyes standing outdoors at sunset or sunrise, wearing a black sports bra with a light-colored towel over her shoulders, with her hand on her neck.

    Somatic Breathwork Release

    Why we use it: Breath is one of the fastest ways to shift the nervous system from survival to safety. Breathwork clears stored tension, accesses emotion, and restores clarity.
    Research says: Breathwork activates the vagus nerve, reduces cortisol, and improves emotional processing — especially in trauma survivors.
    Citation: Frontiers in Psychology, 2020

  • A mare and her foal standing in a grassy field, with multiple other horses in the background

    Equine Therapy (Horse-Guided Healing)

    Why we use it: Horses mirror our nervous systems and help us build trust, boundaries, and self-awareness — without words.
    Research says: Equine therapy enhances emotional regulation, reduces trauma symptoms, and increases self-esteem. It’s especially powerful for those who struggle with trust or connection.
    Citation: Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, 2015

  • Person holding a singing bowl and a wooden mallet, sitting cross-legged indoors near a window with a blurred green outdoor background.

    Sound Healing & Meditation

    Why we use it: Sound vibrations support the brain and body in entering restorative states. It’s a gentle but powerful way to regulate the nervous system and deepen mindfulness.
    Research says: Sound healing lowers heart rate, reduces anxiety, and activates parasympathetic (rest and digest) states.
    Citation: Global Advances in Health and Medicine, 2016

  • Three women with different hair colors and styles, dressed in colorful coats, looking out at the ocean during daytime.

    Experiential Group Healing & Sacred Sisterhood

    Why we use it: Real healing happens in connection — Sharing space with others on a healing journey offers deep validation and belonging. When we’re witnessed in our vulnerability, transformation accelerates.

    Research says: Group-based healing experiences increase emotional resilience, reduce shame, and create a powerful sense of safety through co-regulation and belonging. Neuroscience shows that being seen and supported in a safe group helps rewire trauma patterns in the brain. Citation: Yalom & Leszcz (2005); Journal of Psychosocial Nursing, 2017

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