Trauma can be a debilitating and overwhelming experience, leaving individuals feeling lost and alone in their struggles. Complex trauma, also known as chronic or developmental trauma, is a particularly challenging form of trauma that can occur over an extended period of time, such as during childhood, and can affect all aspects of a person's life. Healing from complex trauma requires a holistic and compassionate approach and Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a highly effective method for addressing the many layers of trauma.
IFS therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on understanding and healing the different parts of the psyche, known as sub-personalities using the core Self as the agent of change. These sub-personalities are classified into protective and exiled parts made up of behaviours, thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations while harbouring their own unique memories and perspectives. Some of the most common examples of parts are the Inner Critic, the Perfectionist, the People-Pleaser, the Anxious or Avoidant part and many others. The Self in Internal Family Systems (IFS) is the central, observing and compassionate witness within us that has access to inner wisdom, love and guidance. The Self is grounded in present moment awareness, self-compassion, and the ability to access a wide range of emotions without getting overwhelmed by them.The IFS therapist will help a client evoke their own Self-energy, allowing them to understand and communicate with their parts so that their parts can work together cohesively towards meeting the client's goals.
One of the key principles of IFS therapy is that all parts have positive intentions, even those that may be causing harm or distress. The negative behaviours or tendencies arise as parts are burdened by the trauma; they are good parts stuck in "bad roles" geared towards coping and survival. By understanding and addressing the underlying needs and concerns of these parts, individuals can learn to unburden, integrate and transform their parts, rather than repressing or suppressing them. This process of self-discovery and self-compassion can be particularly beneficial for those who have experienced complex trauma, as it allows them to understand and heal the different parts of themselves that may have been affected by the trauma.
IFS therapy is also a somatic therapy, which means it recognizes the connection between the body and the mind. Trauma can often be stored in the body, and IFS therapy can help individuals access and release these physical sensations, an important step in the healing process.
In a study by (Bromberg, 2011), it was found that IFS therapy was effective in treating individuals with a history of complex trauma. Participants reported significant improvements in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as an increased sense of self-compassion and self-awareness. It is important for individuals to work with a therapist who is trained in treating trauma and who can provide a safe and supportive environment for healing.
If you are struggling with the effects of complex trauma and are looking for a trauma-informed and evidence-based approach to healing, IFS therapy may be the right choice for you. With our team of trained therapists, you can begin to understand and integrate the different parts of yourself and move towards a more whole and healthy life.
Don't hesitate to reach out and schedule a session with us, and let us help you on your journey towards healing and wholeness https://sacredspaces.teletherapy.io.