Understanding the Window of Tolerance in Trauma Therapy The concept of the Window of Tolerance, developed by Dr. Dan Siegel, has become an essential framework in trauma-informed psychotherapy. It describes the optimal zone of arousal in which a person can function...
Mental Health and Wellbeing Articles
Understanding the Window of Tolerance in Trauma Therapy
Questions to Ask a Firefighter Part in IFS Therapy
Introduction In Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, Firefighter parts are protective subpersonalities that react quickly and often dramatically when a person is overwhelmed by emotional pain. Their goal is not to cause harm, but to prevent further suffering—usually...
Questions to Ask a Manager Part in IFS Therapy
Introduction In Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, Manager parts are proactive protectors that work to prevent emotional pain from surfacing. They strive to keep the system in control by managing behaviour, emotions, relationships, and external impressions. Unlike...
The Dangers of Using AI as a Therapist: When Speed Becomes a Threat
The Dangers of Using AI as a Therapist: When Speed Becomes a Threat AI is being used in increasingly sophisticated ways to simulate human conversation and provide mental health support. While some apps and chatbots can offer valuable companionship or coping tools,...
The ‘F’s of IFS: A Guide to Internal Family Systems’ Core Process
Introduction I recently went on an Internal Family Systems (IFS). So that I have an easy reference, I am writing a few articles around what I learned. IFS was developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz and is a psychotherapeutic model grounded in the belief that the mind is...
The ‘C’s of the Self in IFS: Cultivating Compassionate Presence
Introduction In Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, healing doesn’t come from analysing or overpowering parts—it comes from being present with them from the core of our being. This core is known as the Self. The Self in IFS is not...
Understanding Erskine’s 8 Relational Needs: A Guide to Healthier Connections
Understanding Erskine’s 8 Relational Needs: A Guide to Healthier Connections Human relationships are at the core of our emotional well-being. Whether it’s with family, friends, or romantic partners, the quality of our connections profoundly impacts our mental health...
The Danger of Relying on the Child Ego State in Transactional Analysis
The Danger of Relying on the Child Ego State in Transactional Analysis John Lanchester’s quote in Whoops! about the perils of relying on misleading information provides a compelling analogy for the dangers of being overly dependent on the Child Ego State in...
The Pros and Cons of Using the Dream Completion Technique for Trauma-Related Flashbacks
When it comes to managing the distressing impact of past trauma, many therapeutic approaches focus on transforming the relationship between an individual and their memories. One technique that has gained attention in this context is called dream completion. Rooted in...