Hand Carved Sensory Therapy Object
2022
Pittsburgh, PA

Much like the harmful medical model of disability that focuses on ‘fixing’ what is ‘wrong’ with a person, treatment for people suffering from trauma-induced sexual problems often takes a narrow and clinical approach to ‘fixing’ the physical symptoms of a psychologically connected issue. 

This object is a conceptual exploration into making healing sensory objects for people affected by sexual abuse.

After sketching different designs, I began carving the soft shape out of a small walnut off-cut. Similar to wooden massage tools, the object is sanded to create a smooth and safe surface. If this object were to be distributed for use I would also polish it. I chose wood over a synthetic material both to create a low waste and sustainable object as well as to use a material that would be more natural and beautiful than traditional silicone tools. When the round, eyedrop end rests in someone's palm, their thumb naturally lays along the long concave curve.

The tactile object encourages exploration and helps people regain a sense of bodily security. By better understanding embodied trauma, we can create more holistic therapeutic approaches that help people create positive, fun, and even pleasurable associations with their bodies. I am developing a corresponding workbook that would offer prompts and reflections for folks healing from sexual abuse.

I’m excited by the potential for sensory objects and tactile toolkits to be used in a wider array of therapies. I’m inspired by projects like ‘Sexual Healing’ by Nienke Helder and ‘Tools for Therapy’ by Nicolette Bodewes and feel that sensory and embodied approaches to healing are continuing to gain support. As someone who has struggled with traditional therapy and often finds the most healing through movement, I have a personal interest in the potential for objects to be used in conjunction with embodied practices.

*I made the small checkered cutting board positioned below the object. I used scrap wood to create this small piece.