ACTW Blogs Written by our Expert Therapists
Understanding and Healing the Protective IFS Parts of Yourself That You Dislike
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy has a way of uncovering the parts of us that we may not like very much about ourselves. Maybe it’s the inner critic that feels nonstop, the frustrating self-sabotaging ones that don’t make logical sense, the heightened anxiety, or even the avoidant part that tends to run away. These parts can feel like adversaries, but in the IFS framework, they’re actually looking out for us, trying to protect us in some way.
Here’s the complicated thing: their intentions are good.
Understanding Betrayal Trauma: Causes, Effects, and How Therapy Can Help
Betrayal trauma is an extremely painful emotional experience that occurs when someone we trust greatly, such as a close friend, family member, partner, or even system or institution, violates that trust. This type of trauma resonates deeply and impacts one’s emotional wellbeing, relational foundation, and ability to trust in the relationship moving forward. Therapy can aid the betrayed person in understanding the impact and processing the experience and emotional aftermath.
Healing Trauma with EMDR: Transforming Pain, Reconnecting to Self, and Rewiring Beliefs
Trauma can linger in our minds and bodies and leave an impact on how we see ourselves and the world around us. It influences our responses, relationships, and even the ways in which we attempt to shield ourselves from further pain. Often, in response to this pain, we exile the parts of ourselves that feel too overwhelming to face, such as our memories or beliefs about ourselves.