It may seem hard to believe, but the different types of Parts – managers, exiles, and firefighters – can be transformed into something completely different and inherently beautiful for all trauma victims. Though each one has its own extreme role to play, none of them have to remain in those roles.
They can be transformed, and trauma therapy that focuses on the Internal Family Systems Model is the best option in most cases.
The Roles of Managers, Exiles, and Firefighters
Any of the three types of Parts can come forward at any time and dominate. But most trauma victims find that they are mostly controlled by only one.
- Managers: These Parts spend a lot of time working on protecting the victim from anything that could be perceived as harmful. They tend to lead boring lives because they are always ensuring their own safety.
- Firefighters: These Parts are always looking for the next distraction so they can avoid having to face the root causes of their internal issues. Their goal is to keep distracting to avoid interference from exiles.
- Exiles: These Parts manifest through feelings of constant sadness, shame, and fear.
When a person is dominated by one of the above, they cannot be who they truly are. That is because they are only showing one small part of themselves to the world.
Finding Joy and Fulfillment
Trauma victims spend an excessive amount of time with their negative emotions. They are constantly in an internal struggle against feelings of anger, sadness, fear, and grief. So much energy is expended on these emotions.
But what if instead, trauma victims could learn to redirect that energy into confidence, happiness, and emotional strength? It is possible.
All three types of Parts are there due to experiencing shame and pain, and not being equipped to properly process traumatic events. When we are not shown how to relate to these negative feelings and situations, we exile them, and we develop a need for internal protection.
What Do Healing and Transformation Look Like?
The Self has a powerful ability to heal once it is accessed, and that often comes with the right type of therapy. As the Parts feel heard and understood, they do not disappear, but they do begin to move into better, healthier, and more appropriate roles. The result is a feeling of integration and emotional stability. It is a true transformation.
As healing continues, even when disaster strikes, the Self stays at peace. It also gains the ability to calm the Parts that are just below the surface. The Parts respond positively because they no longer have the job of keeping everything in balance and carrying all the burdens. Instead, they get to play their proper roles, get along with each other, and trust that the Self is in control.
In healing trauma victims, this can look like having better perspectives, breaking destructive patterns, and improving relationships.
Trauma Therapy Can Help
Perhaps you have been struggling because of a traumatic experience, or even a traumatic past. Therapy can help you understand what is happening internally and begin to work toward healing. Please contact me today to make an appointment.
