You’ve probably heard that two is better than one.
This is especially true for therapy. Integrating different trauma therapy techniques can lead to more comprehensive and effective healing. In this article, we’ll explore the integration of two powerful trauma therapy techniques — Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), also known as IFS-informed EMDR therapy.
Empowered Through Compassion offers both therapies to help individuals on their healing journey.
An Overview of IFS and EMDR Therapies
So, what exactly are IFS and EMDR? Let’s briefly go over each one before exploring how they can work together.
IFS Therapy: A Deep Dive
IFS, developed by Richard C. Schwartz, PhD, is a transformative approach that views the mind as a system of sub-personalities or “parts.”
Each part has its own emotions, thoughts, and roles, and they’re often in conflict. IFS aims to help you connect with your core Self, a compassionate and wise inner leader, to harmonize these parts and heal from within.
IFS is effective in addressing:
Trauma
Anxiety
Depression
Panic
Phobias
Substance use
And more
EMDR Therapy: A Deep Dive
EMDR therapy, pioneered by Francine Shapiro, PhD, is a structured therapy designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
EMDR involves bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, while you focus on traumatic memories. This process helps reprocess and integrate these memories, reducing their emotional charge and promoting adaptive resolution.
This type of therapy is effective in treating symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma.
Key Differences and Similarities
While IFS and EMDR are distinct in their methodologies, these trauma therapy techniques share a common goal: healing.
IFS focuses on internal parts and their interactions, promoting self-leadership and harmony. While EMDR targets the reprocessing of traumatic memories through bilateral stimulation.
Both therapies emphasize the importance of a safe therapeutic environment and the client’s active participation in trauma healing.
The Power of Combining IFS and EMDR Therapy
The combination of IFS and EMDR therapy is highly effective in treating complex, long-standing trauma.
But what does a successful treatment look like?
Case Studies of Integrated Therapy Approaches
Here are two sample case studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of integrating IFS and EMDR therapy:
Case 1
A client with complex PTSD is struggling with intense flashbacks and overwhelming emotions.
Through IFS, they better understand their internal parts and develop self-leadership skills to manage them. EMDR then targets specific traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity.
Case 2
A client with substance use disorder struggles with underlying trauma and anxiety.
IFS helps them identify the root causes of their addiction and develop healthier coping mechanisms. EMDR focuses on processing the traumatic memories related to their substance use, reducing triggers and cravings.
Benefits of Dual Modalities for Trauma Recovery
Integrating IFS and EMDR benefits clients by:
Addressing the cognitive and emotional facets of trauma
Building a robust sense of self and reducing trauma symptoms
Tailoring the therapeutic approach to individual client needs leading to more significant and sustained improvements
Now that you know how integrating IFS and EMDR benefits clients, finding a therapist specializing in both is the next step.
How to Find a Therapist Skilled in Both IFS and EMDR
Finding a therapist trained in IFS and EMDR can significantly enhance your healing journey.
Look for therapists certified in both modalities and have experience integrating them. Websites like the IFS Institute and EMDRIA offer directories of certified therapists.
Schedule an Online IFS Therapy Consultation
If you want to see how integrating IFS and EMDR benefits you, consider scheduling an online consultation.
Many therapists offer virtual sessions, making it easier to access the support you need from the comfort of your home. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with David Polidi, LICSW, an experienced therapist trained in IFS and EMDR.
Begin your journey toward trauma healing today!