Traditional trauma therapy takes a much different approach to healing than the Internal Family Systems Model does. However, it is that approach that makes it so difficult for trauma victims to begin and sustain the healing process.
If you have never been a part of IFS, it may surprise you to learn some of the aspects that set it apart. Let’s take a closer look at the differences to help you understand what to expect when you choose to work with a therapist offering the IFS Model.
Traditional Trauma Therapy
There are several different types of more traditional trauma therapy. But in general, it is a type of therapy that focuses on helping people manage the traumatic experiences they have had. Some examples of therapy options include:
• Prolonged Exposure Therapy – This method gradually exposes the individual to the fears, emotions, feelings, and memories that are related to their traumatic events. The goal is to help them understand that they no longer need to avoid them because there is no risk.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – CBT is used to treat many mental health conditions. But for trauma victims, therapists can use its methods to help their clients change the way they think about trauma with the goal of changing certain harmful behaviors.
• Cognitive Processing Therapy – CPT is often utilized for clients with PTSD. It works by guiding trauma victims in modifying and challenging unhelpful beliefs about the traumatic events they have experienced. This method typically involves writing detailed accounts about the event(s).
As you can see, most of these methods involve revisiting past traumas in more direct ways. Many trauma victims find that to be extremely difficult, and for some, it can even lead to re-traumatization.
The Internal Family Systems Model of Trauma Therapy
The IFS Model involves a more indirect approach that does not involve revisiting past trauma. Instead, the focus is on forming a genuine curiosity about the Parts (anger, fear, grief, etc.) the client experiences apart from the Self.
IFS therapists have a high level of respect for clients and their Parts. Clients never feel pressured to converse with the Parts at all, and only do so when they are ready. This method of treatment understands that the Parts are there for a reason – to protect you at your most vulnerable.
Instead of guiding trauma victims to relive their painful experiences, IFS encourages clients to learn more about them and seek to understand them. During that process, the Parts feel validated and eventually, they are willing to come forward and let their voices be heard. It is during that process that true healing begins to take place and the client experiences relief from their trauma symptoms. At times, there may be Parts that need to be left alone for a while until they are ready to heal, and that’s OK with IFS.
Your internal system leads the way with IFS, and healing takes place at a pace you and your Parts are comfortable with. This approach has led many trauma victims to heal when more traditional methods had failed.
Talk with an IFS Trauma Therapist Today
If you have been struggling because of past trauma, and other therapy methods have not worked for you, I want to encourage you to consider IFS. You may find that it provides the missing pieces and gives you what you need to finally heal.
If you would like to make an appointment, please contact me today.
