Internal Family Systems: Compassion for “Big A” and “Small a” Addictive Processes

Most of us are familiar with feeling ‘addicted.’ We’re glued to our phones, work too much or worry about late-night drinks, food patterns, or spending. While we deem these behaviors  “Small a” addictions, what does it mean when we can’t change? Others of us, and many clients,  struggle with higher-risk “Big A” addictive processes: heavy drinking or drug use, chronic disordered eating, or sexually compulsive or self-harming activity.

Faced with these common yet challenging issues, therapists need more options than just referring to treatment centers or self-help groups. While sometimes this works, what happens when it doesn’t? IFS offers a paradigm shift. Rather than viewing addictive behaviors as self-destructive pathologies, we view parts engaged in compulsive behavior as trapped in an extreme role, yet desperately trying to help. In this approach, we build new inner relationships by working directly with extreme behaviors and offering safe methods for addressing the underlying emotional pain these desperate parts have been tasked with protecting.

In this experiential workshop, you will learn how to create clear road maps using your own experiences,  avoid power struggles, discover positive intentions behind ‘negative’ behaviors, and how to build safe inner connection to underlying trauma. We will also explore how therapists can combine self-compassion with effective compassion for others.