Top-Down Therapy is brain to body. Meaning we think first, gather information, study, listen to better ways to think and behave, to accept life on life's terms and then hope that information ((ORIGINATED & DISSEMINATED BY SOMEONE ELSE & NOT US)) will trickle down to our body and the subsequent actions we take. Correct me if I am way off base.
Bottom-Up Therapy is a PLAY BOW. Argue. Go ahead. Get fancy. Probably will not change my mind. Because I like this mind-set! Makes me feeeel good. Bottoms Up in the Dog world (99% of the time) is a request for play, engagement, friendship. It signals (I think) safety, openness, and most importantly: the invitation to the other to physically make their first play move.
Not making light of human therapy - this is where I got Bottom-Up Therapy from - Dr. Gabor Mate', renowned French psychiatrist, specializing in PTSD, childhood trauma, and addiction. The gist of what (I think) he is saying is = it is easier to act our way into good thinking rather than think our way into good action. He refers to 'somatic exercises' like... breathing consciously, exercising, squeeze balls, yoga, water therapy, writing, creating art... being all-important in humans positively changing their thinking, attitudes, and actions towards life.
In the Canine world = good somatic exercises include licking, chewing (unless has a bite history), sniffing, puzzle toys, hide 'n' go seek, burrowing (esp the Terriers!), whatever activities positively stimulate the brain. Watch for swallowing, lip and air licking, plus changes in blink rate, and more! Chapter title in my book: "IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE"
Make Choices! Take action(s)! Then re-visit a problem with a freshly oxygenated perspective.
NOTE: If you ever see your Dog on the floor with his/her bottom up in the air and front legs Sphynx-like; Double dare you to get on the floor and imitate their posture. Mimic their actions. Double dare. See what happens. You will be delighted. Promise. LMK how it makes you feeeeel.