Breaking Free: How to Get Unstuck from Trauma and Reclaim Your Life (Episode #52)

Breaking Free:

How to Get Unstuck from Trauma and Reclaim Your Life

  In this milestone 52nd episode of the Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner and MaryAnn Michaelis discuss one of the most challenging aspects of healing—getting stuck in trauma. Many individuals feel trapped in past experiences, unable to move forward despite years of therapy or self-help efforts. Trauma is not logical; it bypasses rational thought and gets stored in the body, often resurfacing in fight, flight, or freeze responses.  

This episode delves into the neuroscience behind trauma, explaining implicit vs. explicit memories, generational trauma, and learned helplessness. Dr. Skinner and MaryAnn explore why people remain stuck and share proven strategies for processing and releasing trauma through evidence-based therapies. They emphasize the importance of body-based approaches, neuroplasticity, and the hope that real healing is possible.  

Listeners will also hear about the Human Intimacy Conference (March 14-15, 2025), featuring leading experts in the field. As a special thank-you, podcast listeners can receive 50% off registration (expires Feb 8) and a free 100-day healing course upon signing up.  Coupon Code: 50off

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:  

Therapeutic Modalities for Trauma Healing:  

1. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) – Uses bilateral stimulation to help the brain process and integrate traumatic memories.   2. ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) – Uses visualization and rapid eye movement to help rewrite trauma narratives.   3. Brainspotting – Identifies and processes trauma by focusing on where distress is stored in the brain.   4. Somatic Experiencing (Dr. Peter Levine) – Focuses on releasing trauma stored in the body through physical awareness.   5. Polyvagal Theory (Dr. Stephen Porges) – Helps regulate the nervous system and restore safety in the body.   6. Trauma-Informed Yoga – Uses movement and breathwork to help the body release trauma.  

Books and Experts Referenced:   - The Body Keeps the Score – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk   - Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma – Dr. Peter Levine   - The Developing Mind – Dr. Dan Siegel   - Facing Codependency – Pia Mellody   - The Circuit of Hope – Dr. Martin Seligman   - The Choice – Dr. Edith Eger  

Human Intimacy Conference (March 14-15, 2025):   - Coupon Code: 50off —50% discount available for podcast listeners (expires Feb 8).   - Featured Experts: Dr. Kevin Skinner, Michelle Mays, Dr. Sheri Keffer, Dr. David Robinson, Geoff Steurer, and more.   - Bonus: Register and receive a $100 gift toward Dr. Skinner’s 100-Day Healing Course.   - Special Sessions: Pre- and post-conference Evening With the Experts, covering topics like rebuilding trust and getting unstuck.  

Final Message:  

If you feel stuck in trauma or emotional patterns that seem impossible to break, know that healing is possible. The brain can change, and you are not alone in this journey. Seek support, explore body-based healing modalities, and, most importantly, give yourself compassion.  

📍 Register for the Human Intimacy Conference: Click Here!