Nov 12, 2025
“Trauma can be a gateway for transformation, and it's one of the
things that I am passionate about.” – Abi Blakeslee
On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth sits down
with Dr. Abi Blakeslee, a leader in the field of trauma recovery
and somatic psychology recognized for her clinical research and
teaching. Dr. Blakeslee shares her deep exploration of implicit
memory—the non-conscious processes shaping movement, emotion, and
survival patterns—and explains how harnessing implicit memory
offers new and practical pathways to healing trauma.
Drawing from Somatic Experiencing, neuroscience, and her own
research, Dr. Blakeslee breaks down the branches of implicit
memory—procedural, priming, associative, and more—and clarifies
their relevance in trauma and recovery. The conversation explores
how clinicians can support present-moment, embodied “new learning”
that rewires automatic responses and fosters positive
transformation. Listeners will hear practical strategies to
increase clients’ interoceptive awareness, cultivate
self-compassion, and repair ruptures through embodied, relational
experiences. Dr. Blakeslee emphasizes the importance of helping
clients reconnect with their essential self, shifting the focus
from merely resolving the past to building new implicit memories of
agency, connection, and vitality.
Together they discuss the flexibility of integrating these
neurobiological insights into diverse modalities—including Somatic
Experiencing, Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Therapy, and
beyond—to deepen agency and nurture post-traumatic growth,
especially in cases of developmental and complex trauma.
Throughout, Dr. Blakeslee underscores the healing power of gentle
attention, relational attunement, and compassion—offering a hopeful
framework for practitioners and clients alike.
We invite you to listen to the full episode and follow Transforming
Trauma on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite
podcast app.
***
**SPACE:**
SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery
for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal
Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This
experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience
designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and
deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn
more about how to join.
***
**The Complex Trauma Training Center:**
https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com
**View upcoming trainings:**
https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/
***
The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional
organization providing clinical training, education, consultation,
and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals
working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse
Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC
provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training
programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those
learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community
for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on
three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal &
transpersonal. The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit
of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection,
and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective,
transformational trauma-informed care.
***
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