Exploring Core State and the Role of Implicit Relational Messages in AEDP: A Call for Collaboration
I’m excited to share news of my soon-to-be-launched doctoral study exploring a key dimension of AEDP: Core State phenomena, and the role of implicit relational messages (IRMs) in their unfolding.
IRMs—those often-unspoken cues of safety, connection, and deep attunement—are often conveyed through nonverbal and paraverbal communication: facial expression, posture, gestures, and the many ways we use our voice (tone, pitch, tempo, volume, and even silence). These subtle yet powerful messages help usher in moments of profound intersubjectivity—states of flow, deep resonance with self or a True Other, and encounters that may feel spiritual, even sacred.
While AEDP theory richly addresses these dynamics, we know far less about how such moments are experienced and remembered by patients themselves. This mixed-methods study aims to explore exactly that: how patients experience Core State phenomena, and how they perceive the role of IRMs in shaping those moments. By centering the patient’s perspective, this research seeks to fill a crucial gap in the literature and offer new insights to AEDP therapists—and others—wishing to deepen their relational presence.
I am currently preparing to begin Phase One, which involves a brief online survey for individuals who completed AEDP therapy within the past five years. I’ll soon be reaching out to AEDP therapists for help identifying former patients who might be open to participating—and would be deeply grateful for your support.
If you would like to stay in the loop or share ideas, I warmly invite you to reach out: leahsubar@gmail.com
Thank you so much for your time, your care, and your collaboration.
Warmly,
Leah Subar