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Trauma-Informed and Culturally-Responsive Integrated Massage Therapy

Last updated: August 26, 2026

TCI-Massage is trauma-informed massage and somatic education intervention developed by the Center for Victims of Torture. Research, including a recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) led by CVT, has shown efficacy in treating chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress symptoms among forced migrants.

This page provides access to resources about the TCI-Massage intervention. The materials include an intervention overview, case studies, a self-massage guide, and study results.

Learn About TCI-Massage
Read Case Studies
Try Self-Massage Techniques
Study Results and Publications

Learn About TCI-Massage

TCI-Massage Intervention Overview

Learn how TCI-Massage combines ten weekly massage sessions with trauma-informed care, cultural responsiveness, somatic education, and self-massage instruction.

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What Is Somatic Education?

Explore how TCI-Massage uses breath awareness, noticing bodily sensations, and self-compassion to strengthen body awareness and support pain and stress self-management.

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482 KB

Our Trauma-Informed Approach

Learn how TCI-Massage creates conditions for safe and healing therapeutic touch through client choice, clear communication, predictable care, and consistent therapeutic relationships.

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902 KB

Read Case Studies

About the Case Studies

Get background information about how the three TCI-Massage case studies were developed using participant interviews, clinical assessments, health records, and consultation with service providers.

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Akofa’s Story

Follow Akofa’s experience using massage, breathing, self-massage tools, and self-compassion practices to address chronic pain, sleep difficulties, and trauma-related distress. Her case illustrates how relief from physical pain and experiences of safe, nurturing care supported broader emotional healing.

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Kosi Jean’s Story

Explore how a carefully paced, trauma-informed massage approach helped Kossi Jean manage severe pain and develop greater acceptance of physical discomfort. His case also demonstrates the importance of self-management tools and coordination between massage and psychosocial care.

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Tumaini’s Story

Follow Tumaini’s process of developing greater body awareness and learning to recognize relationships among physical tension, pain, emotions, and movement. Her case highlights the roles of somatic education, self-compassion, and practical tools in pain management and healing.

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Try Self-Massage Techniques

Self-Massage Guide

Practice eight accessible self-massage techniques designed to reduce physical tension, promote relaxation, and bring gentle attention to the body.

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1 MB

Study Results and Publications

Sleep Health among Forced Migrants

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1 MB

TCI-Massage Research Study Results Summary: A Mixed-Methods Randomized Controlled Trial

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1 MB

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This website is supported by Grant Number 2203MNFSC6 from the Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Office of Justice Programs.