What is Bioenergetic Analysis? Mind-Body-Energy Connection

Discover Bioenergetic Analysis: a somatic psychotherapy that explores the mind-body-energy connection to release emotional blocks and chronic tension. 

Learn how to heal today.

Bioenergetic Analysis is a specific form of body-psychotherapy, based upon the continuity between body and mind, rooted in the work of Wilhelm Reich and founded by Alexander Lowen. Bioenergetic Analysis is a unique and effective relational somatic psychotherapy with a long and established history on the cutting edge of modern psychology as rapid advance in neurobiology highlights the intricate and intimate relationship between body and mind. 

What modern Bioenergetic Analysis is able to offer, is the ability to understand and work safely with the whole body and all of its emotions. Bioenergetic therapists work with cognitions, feelings, sensations, the muscular and nervous systems integrating the latest finding in neuroscience.

Bioenergetic therapists work with not only affect regulation but also arousal regulation. Bringing all these dimensions into the therapeutic relationship, also brings greater potential for change and healing.

We, the International Institute for Bioenergetic Analysis (IIBA), are a non‑profit professional organization dedicated to the spread of modern Bioenergetic Analysis in the world and to the support and encouragement of its members in their activity as bioenergetic therapists.

Through our mission, modern Bioenergetic Analysis develops and grows. We give support to our members and to the various groups within our global organization (local societies and regional federations). We enhance the work being done at local and regional level to develop our members’ capacities as bioenergetic therapists, and the expansion of modern Bioenergetic Analysis.

Our affiliated societies or institutes offer training programs in order to become certified as a bioenergetic therapist by the IIBA. They follow our IIBA comprehensive training curriculum. 

While the specifics of each training program vary slightly (reflecting cultural, legal and professional norms around the world), all our training programs are conducted under our direct supervision, leading to certification as a bioenergetic therapist. 

All students in our training programs must comply with the our Code of Ethics.

 The International Institute for Bioenergetic Analysis was founded on October 2, 1956, when Dr. Alexander Lowen, as settler and trustee, together with Dr. John C. Pierrakos, William B. Walling, and Alice R. Kahn, devoted their time, funds, and commitment to advancing the work of Bioenergetic Analysis. The Institute for Bioenergetic Analysis was born. In celebration of the IIBA’s upcoming 70th Anniversary in 2026, we present: 

Faith in the Body

(An audio collection of archival talks (1987–2011) featuring Dr. Alexander Lowen and his close companions.)

Recorded long before the 70th anniversary was even imagined, these conversations capture authentic, intimate moments that reveal the depth, passion, and vision behind Bioenergetic Analysis. Curated as a special preview of the forthcoming anniversary e-book, these recordings offer inspiring personal stories, rich historical reflections, and a powerful reminder of the enduring faith in the body that continues to shape our work as Bioenergetic Therapists today.