Decoding Trauma, Somatics, and Transference with Dr. Eric Wolterstorff

Why is treating trauma much more complex than just dealing with our own reactions? In this episode of A State of Mind, Julian Royce sits down with Dr. Eric Wolterstorff, a veteran body-based psychotherapist, sociologist, and core trainer with the Trauma Healing Protocol (TIP). Together, they explore how traumatic memory lives in the autonomic nervous system, how to break down overwhelm using Peter Levine's SIBAM model, expanding your relational "permission space," and why true integration requires addressing the entire "scene of the crime"—including the victim, savior, bystander, and perpetrator roles within us. About Dr. Eric Wolterstorff Dr. Eric Wolterstorff began studying with Peter Levine in 1993, extending his work into memory systems, transference, and group dynamics. He trained in Hakomi bodywork with Pat Ogden and Worldwork with Max Schupbach and Arnie Mindell, earning a doctorate in group traumatology. He created the TIP trainings and leads Sovereignty First. Eric leads a yearly six-month TIP Transference Training, beginning each October. This year’s training begins October 21, 2026, with a five-day intensive in Greenwood Village, Colorado, followed by five months of live online learning. Registration closes September 30. Learn more: TIP Transference Training Main Topics Covered The Evolution of Somatic Therapy: Early work with Peter Levine, Hakomi bodywork, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. The SIBAM Model: Deconstructing trauma into basic sensory "letters" to gently process charge through the nervous system. Redefining Trauma as Disruption: Understanding disruptions in safety, attachment, family systems, and community culture. The "Scene of the Crime": Why healing requires integrating every role in our memory, including the bystander and perpetrator. Connect with the Guest Website: Sovereignty First LinkedIn: Dr. Eric Wolterstorff Trauma Protocol: TIP Website Connect with Julian Royce YouTube: @AStateofMindPodcast Spotify: A State of Mind Podcast Website: AStateOfMindTherapy.com Instagram: @julianoceann Special Thanks to Our Sponsors MyFeelium: Get 20% Off MyFeelium (Code: julian20 | Pass: opensesame) KA! Empathogenics: kaempathogenics.com/JULIANROYCE EMR Tek: emr-tek.com/JULIAN90864 Shilajit: astateofmindpodcast.com (Message Julian for 20% off) Please leave a review or 5-star rating on Spotify to support the show!