EP28 | Stephen Gyllenhaal | Healing Trauma Through Resonance and Storytelling

According to filmmaker and founder of the Identity Development Institute, Stephen Gyllenhaal, “The best instrument in the world is another human being.” In this episode, he and Thomas discuss the importance of resonance to trauma healing. Similar to attunement, resonance involves communication between nervous systems wherein our bodies transmit our pain to others within a safe and open environment. This is also the basis for the Intention Method (IoPT) sessions that changed Stephen’s life and inspired him to start training others in this unique methodology. He explains that early traumas make positive change and evolution difficult, and how being present in connection with others has allowed him to experience profound healing.  He and Thomas also discuss how the art of cinema is a form of resonance, and the themes of galactic resonance that are explored in his upcoming documentary, The Universe Sings. Key Points: 00:45 Movies as an expression of trauma 06:54 Trauma travels generations 11:24 Healing requires digging at the core 18:45 The human being as an attuned resonator 24:52 Resonance is presence 28:36 Film and TV representations of trauma 37:18 How media creates spaces for conversation 41:46 The way to trauma healing   Stephen Gyllenhaal is a film director, poet, and Founding Director of the Identity Development Institute, which aims to grow a community of practitioners, researchers, and educators that integrate trauma in facilitating healthy identities. He is well-known for directing movies, such as “Film Spies” and “Waterland”, and several episodes of hit TV shows, “Numb3rs”, “The Mentalist” and “Twin Peaks.” Sign up for updates by visiting our website: