Written by Sam Wilde

What is Somatic Awareness?
The term somatic refers to the body (Merriam-Webster, 2025). Somatic awareness is the ability to notice and track physical sensations in the body. This might be easier said than done, depending on one’s relationship to their body and whether or not they have experienced trauma. Dissociation is a common coping strategy and survival tool used by those who have experienced trauma. Trauma occurs when something is too much, too fast for us to handle. Dissociation is one way the brain protects us from experiencing the weight of a traumatic event as it occurs or thereafter. The problem is that unprocessed emotions live in our bodies and can create muscle tension and chronic pain. Somatic therapy can provide a safe container for clients to sequence unprocessed emotions through their body and release them.

Here is a simple assessment of somatic awareness that you can try at home. Choose a song to listen to. Find a comfortable position, take a few cycles of deep breaths, and begin to bring your awareness to your body. What sensations do you feel in your body as you listen? What emotions do you notice? What thoughts do you notice? Try not to attach to any thoughts that arise, simply let them come and go, like passing clouds. Do you notice any movement impulses in your body? If so, maybe see what it’s like to follow them. When the song ends, take a few moments to journal what you noticed. Use the form below for inspiration. If you don’t notice any physical sensations during the song, that is good information too! Do you feel numb? Can you feel your heartbeat or find your pulse? Can you feel your feet on the ground or your back against a chair? No sensation is too small to notice.

Practicing somatic awareness is one way to reclaim your sovereign right to inhabit your body fully. This is a life-long journey that is best practiced both solo and in community, with trusted guides and compassion for self and others.

Somatic Awareness Assessment
Instructions: Choose a song to listen to. As the song plays, notice what emotions, physical sensations, thoughts, and movement impulses arise for you. Circle them below or fill in the blanks. 

Emotions
Happy
Sad
Fear
Disgust
Anger
Surprise
Curious
Depressed
Anxious
Aversion
Aggressive
Excited
Proud
Lonely
Embarrassed
Disappointed
Annoyed
Confused
__________
__________
__________ 

Physical Sensations
Smile
Tears
Tense
Face scrunch
Clenched jaw
Sweaty palms
Warmth
Emptiness
Racing heart
Nauseous
Feeling hot
Brow-furrow
Calm
Numb
Frozen
Lump in throat
Clenched fists
Quick breathing
__________
__________
__________ 

Movement Impulses
Wiggle
Curl into a ball
Run
Cover face with hands
Stomp
Raised eyebrows
Spin
Hide
Shaking legs
Push away
Punch Jump
Open arms
Lay on floor
Wringing hands
Back up
Headbang
Kick
__________
__________
__________ 

What thoughts arose for you during this exercise? 
_____________________________________________

In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!

Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
In this final chapter, Allen focuses on the importance of advocacy and allyship in creating a more inclusive society. Advocacy and allyship matter because they empower individuals to support marginalized communities and promote equitable change. The dominant narrative may portray allyship as unnecessary or “extra,” downplaying the importance of standing with others. The corrective experience involves committing to ongoing learning, using one’s privilege to elevate marginalized voices, and taking actionable steps to dismantle inequality. By practicing allyship and advocacy, we actively contribute to a fairer and more compassionate world.

Why Advocacy and Allyship Matter to Mental Health
Advocacy and allyship play a crucial role in mental health by providing marginalized individuals with support systems and allies. For people in marginalized groups, the presence of allies can help mitigate feelings of isolation, improve self-esteem, and foster a sense of belonging. Dominant narratives may discourage active allyship, framing it as unnecessary, but research shows that allyship can enhance well-being for all involved by promoting a shared sense of purpose and community. Partnering with people from minoritized social identities with meaningful advocacy and allyship is not only affirming, it reinforces solidarity, resilience, and the hope for systemic change, which can empower individuals and improve collective mental health.

In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!

Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
Allen introduces intersectionality, explaining that people hold multiple, overlapping identities that together influence their experiences. Intersectionality matters marginalization is compounded in someone with multiple marginalized identities, such as women of color or LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities. The dominant narrative often simplifies identities, failing to account for the complexities created by these intersections. The corrective experience involves adopting an intersectional perspective, understanding that individuals’ experiences cannot be fully understood by examining each identity in isolation. This perspective promotes a more nuanced understanding of identity and social justice.

Why Intersectionality Matters to Mental Health
Intersectionality highlights the compounded impact of holding multiple marginalized identities on mental health. For individuals with intersecting identities—such as race, gender, and disability—the combined pressures of discrimination and societal expectation can lead to heightened stress, burnout, and a higher risk of mental health issues. The dominant narrative often overlooks these complexities, leading to feelings of invisibility or misrepresentation. Adopting an intersectional perspective as a corrective experience encourages inclusive mental health support that considers all facets of an individual’s identity. When mental health care is intersectionally aware, it can offer a more comprehensive and effective approach, helping individuals feel fully understood and valued.

In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!

Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
This chapter explores ability and disability as identities, focusing on how ableism impacts individuals with physical and mental differences. Ability matters because it shapes access to public spaces, opportunities, and social inclusion. The dominant narrative often marginalizes people with disabilities, treating them as “others” or seeing disability solely as something to “overcome.” The corrective experience includes adopting the social model of disability, which sees disability as a result of societal barriers rather than individual limitations. By advocating for accessibility and inclusion, we foster a world where everyone can participate fully.

Why Disability Matters to Mental Health
Living with a disability often presents unique mental health challenges, especially in a society that may not fully accommodate or understand those differences. People with disabilities may face social exclusion, discrimination, and internalized ableism, which can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, constant efforts to navigate inaccessible environments can contribute to chronic stress. The corrective experience of advocating for inclusive spaces and respecting diverse abilities fosters a sense of whole-person respect and belonging that can improve mental health. When society values accessibility and support, people with disabilities can experience enhanced self-worth, reducing mental health burdens.

In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!

Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
Allen addresses social class and economic inequality, discussing how socioeconomic status profoundly impacts people’s lives. Social class matters because it determines access to resources like education, healthcare, and housing, which shape opportunities and overall well-being. Dominant narratives often individualize economic hardship, suggesting that poverty is a personal failing rather than a systemic issue. The corrective experience involves understanding the structural factors behind economic inequality and supporting policies and practices that promote social mobility and economic justice. Recognizing the impact of social class enables us to advocate for a fairer society.

Why Economic Inequality Matters to Mental Health
Economic hardship and social class disparities can create chronic stress that has a very real impact on mental health. Limited access to quality healthcare, high stress levels from financial instability, and social exclusion can lead to anxiety, depression, and a sense of hopelessness. The shame associated with poverty or lower social class can also contribute to mental health challenges, as people may internalize societal stigma. Embracing a corrective experience where economic challenges are seen as structural rather than individual failures helps reduce shame and fosters resilience. Access to supportive resources and a focus on personal strengths can empower individuals and improve mental health, promoting a sense of agency and hope.

In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!

Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
This chapter examines age as a social identity and addresses ageism’s effects on both younger and older populations. Age matters because it influences how individuals are perceived, their opportunities, and their societal roles. The dominant narrative often casts youth as inexperienced and older adults as outdated, fostering stereotypes that limit people at both ends of the age spectrum. The corrective experience involves recognizing the strengths each age group brings and valuing intergenerational perspectives. By challenging age-related biases, we can create communities that respect people at every stage of life.

Why Age and Ageism Matter to Mental Health
Ageism can take a serious toll on mental health, leading to increased feelings of worthlessness and social isolation, particularly among older adults. Younger individuals may also struggle with self-esteem and anxiety due to a lack of validation or respect. These experiences often lead to a diminished sense of purpose and well-being. The corrective experience of fostering intergenerational respect and understanding helps validate individuals at every age, enhancing their sense of worth and reducing the mental health burdens of age-based stereotypes. When people feel valued regardless of age, they are more likely to thrive psychologically.

In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!

Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
Allen delves into sexual orientation, a deeply personal aspect of identity often subject to misunderstanding and prejudice. Sexual orientation matters because it shapes relationships, self-expression, and belonging. Dominant narratives may stigmatize or exclude LGBTQ+ identities, creating a culture of marginalization and misunderstanding. The corrective experience involves educating ourselves on the diversity of sexual orientations and supporting equal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals. By fostering understanding and inclusion, we contribute to a society where everyone can live openly and without fear of discrimination.

Why Sexual Orientation Matters to Mental Health
Sexual orientation is closely linked to mental health, especially for individuals who identify as LGBTQ+. Homophobia, discrimination, and social stigma can contribute to mental health issues, including higher rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma. These challenges are often compounded by societal rejection or internalized shame. Providing safe spaces and supportive communities where diverse sexual orientations are celebrated can mitigate these mental health risks. When individuals feel seen, understood and respected, they are more likely to experience self-acceptance, resilience, and improved mental health outcomes.

In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!

Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
In this chapter, Allen explores gender as a complex, socially constructed identity with far-reaching implications. Gender matters because it shapes how individuals are treated, what is expected of them, and the opportunities available to them. The dominant narrative often upholds traditional gender roles and binary expectations, limiting individuals and perpetuating inequality. The corrective experience encourages recognizing gender as a spectrum, respecting diverse gender identities, and challenging restrictive gender norms. By embracing gender diversity, we create a society that honors each person’s identity and supports their freedom to live authentically.

Why Gender Identity Matters to Mental Health
Narrowly-defined gender expectations can lead to mental health challenges, as restrictive roles and societal pressures impact self-image and self-acceptance. For those whose gender identity differs from societal norms—such as nonbinary or transgender individuals—misunderstanding and discrimination can lead to increased risks of anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms. The rate of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts are much higher among transgender individuals, indicating a mental health crisis related to systemic oppression and violence toward this population. Traditional gender roles may also increase stress in people of all genders, as they navigate societal expectations that don’t align with their authentic selves. Approaching gender identity with respect for gender diversity and individual empowerment can provide a powerful foundation for positive mental health and self-acceptance.

​In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!

Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
Race and ethnicity are examined as core aspects of identity that have a profound impact on people’s experiences and opportunities. Allen emphasizes that race matters because it affects access to resources, societal status, and personal well-being. The dominant narrative often downplays racial disparities or stereotypes certain racial groups, perpetuating systemic racism. The corrective experience involves unlearning stereotypes and understanding the historical and present-day impacts of race on people’s lives. By educating ourselves and engaging in meaningful dialogue about race, we can work toward a society that values and respects racial diversity.

Why Race and Ethnicity Matter to Mental Health
Race and ethnicity profoundly influence mental health outcomes, often due to systemic racism and chronic stress. People from marginalized racial or ethnic backgrounds frequently face discrimination, which can lead to heightened stress levels, trauma, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. These communities also encounter barriers to culturally sensitive mental health care, which can delay or complicate treatment. Recognizing and addressing these realities can validate individuals’ experiences and help reduce feelings of isolation and internalized shame. Acknowledging the mental health impact of racial inequities is essential for building resilience and advocating for accessible, culturally informed support.

In the fall of 2024, the Benediction Counseling team read the book Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen and participated in formal trainings by experts in each content area. Throughout Difference Matters, Allen encourages readers to recognize the power of understanding and respecting diversity. Each chapter invites reflection on how we can challenge dominant narratives, broaden our perspectives, and cultivate empathy. The book’s hopeful message is that, through awareness and active engagement, we can create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. This 9-part blog series is part book review and part integration to understand the implications of each social identity on the field of mental health. Please join us on this journey to become culturally informed providers!
Book Summary: Difference Matters: Communicating Social Identity by Brenda Allen.
​Allen opens with key definitions and frameworks around identity, difference, and power because understanding these concepts is essential for recognizing how individual experiences are shaped by social structures. The dominant social group in any category defines the narrative about that identity. The risk inherent in allowing the dominant group to define what is “best” and “healthy” for all groups is that it is not informed by the impact of all social identities on people’s lives. The corrective experience involves acknowledging one’s own identity, recognizing privilege, becoming aware of marginalization and becoming open to learning about diverse lived experiences. By embracing these principles, readers can foster greater empathy and build inclusive communities.
Why Identity, Difference and Power Matters to Mental Health
Understanding identity, difference, and power has a substantial impact on mental health. Defining one’s social identities can be liberating, as it provides context for our personal experiences. Understanding one’s proximity to the dominant narrative is important. For those in privileged groups, they are often supported by the dominant narrative and can bring healing to their communities when they learn from those with differing lived experiences and combat oppressive systems. For those in marginalized groups, the dominant narrative creates a power imbalance that can cause feelings of isolation, invalidation, and internalized shame, affecting self-worth and self-esteem. Creating awareness of oppressive systems can allow more accurate self-reflection, personal choice and self-compassion.