Inner Child Integration Therapy: treatment for CPTSD and other issues stemming from childhood

After working with hundreds of clients who suffer from the effects of childhood trauma, I have found that the most effective and lasting treatment is Inner Child Integration Therapy (ICIT). I have used this method to treat PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), anxiety, depression, and panic disorder.

When an individual goes through a trauma, they are susceptible to losing a part of themself. We can view this phenomenon through different lenses. In psychology we call it dissociation; a mental process of disconnecting from one's thoughts, feelings, memories or sense of identity. Through a shamanic lens we call it soul loss; part of the soul leaves the body during a traumatic event. Both are ways that we unconsciously attempt to cope with a situation that feels unbearable or too painful to remain present with. Trauma may be abuse, neglect, isolation, violence, loss of a loved one, being bullied, being sexualized, having serious health problems, witnessing any of the above, or any other situation that overwhelms the system. The effects of trauma are tremendously exacerbated by lack of social support, or worse yet having family and friends turn a blind eye, victim blame, shut out, spiritual bypass, or take part in the damaging event itself.

Inner Child Integration Therapy uses conventional talk therapy, combined with body-centered or somatic therapy to bridge a gateway to communication with the lost parts of one’s self, to the inner child who suffered and fragmented. When a client observes and greets this lost part of themselves, they are guided through communication and to invite the inner child into the present. When this process is complete and the client opens their eyes and looks at me, we are both aware of a profound shift. The client appears changed to me, and they often report that they feel as if they just become present for the first time in their life.

 If this resonates with you, please feel free to reach out and we can schedule a time to talk.

jeannie@ashlandcounseling.org