Healing Trauma with Internal Family Systems Therapy

Understanding Trauma in IFS

Traumatic experiences often overwhelm the system, causing exiled parts to carry fear, shame, or helplessness. Protectors then step in to keep these memories out of awareness, sometimes resulting in avoidance, hypervigilance, or dissociation.

Healing Through Self-Energy

By connecting with Self, clients create a safe internal space to acknowledge and care for wounded parts. Protectors learn that their role can shift, reducing hypervigilance and emotional reactivity.

Practical Applications

Therapy may involve guided dialogues, visualization, and safe memory processing. The goal is to unburden exiled parts while maintaining a compassionate connection between Self and protectors.

Benefits of IFS for Trauma

Clients often experience reduced intrusive thoughts, improved emotional regulation, and a sense of integration and empowerment. Healing occurs not by erasing trauma, but by creating harmony within the internal system.

Call to Action
IFS therapy can help you heal from trauma and reclaim your sense of safety. Book a session today.

References

• van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Penguin Books.

• Schwartz, R. C., & Sweezy, M. (2019). Internal Family Systems Therapy (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.