TREATMENT THERAPIES
Oasis River Recovery uses internal family systems therapy (IFS) to explore sub-personalities or family members within each person's mental system, identifying how their inner conflict can lead to addictive behaviors and substance abuse.
The internal family systems therapy approach to addiction recovery differs from traditional psychotherapy, viewing addiction as an effect of underlying hurt, either from past or present-day stressful situations, such as COVID-19.
Internal family systems therapy focuses on understanding the different parts of a person's psyche, including negative emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities are often in opposition to each other and to the individual's "core Self," which is the representation of their confident and compassionate nature. IFS therapy teaches individuals how to alter the dynamics that create tension between their sub-personalities and the Self, restoring mental health with balance and harmony.
The Three Parts Of Internal Families
Exiles are the parts of ourselves that hide to avoid the pain of feeling weak or exposed due to neglect, attachment injuries, boundary violations, or other hurtful encounters.
Firefighters are the second line of defense against exiles' overwhelming pain, trauma, or irrational beliefs, and prioritize instant safety over potential internal or external harm, which can include behaviors like substance abuse and eating disorders.
Managers shield us from being vulnerable or experiencing painful memories (exiles), and ensure that operations run smoothly. These parts are dependable, skilled, and good at managing daily tasks.
During IFS therapy sessions, the therapist works with the person to recognize and differentiate between the core Self and extreme roles of their being, exploring the connections and interactions between these various parts. After these aspects are identified, the therapist will:
The therapist may suggest relaxation practices, visualization, journaling, or creating a chart that outlines the connection between the core Self and the various parts of yourself. During the healing process, a therapist can help the client form autonomy, implying they are in charge of all components rather than being regulated by only one part.
Oasis River Recovery strives to provide a unique recovery program unlike anything offered in the area. By incorporating evidence-based treatment, experiential therapy methods, and holistic healing modalities, we've created a program that blends into our location's natural beauty
One of the main parts of the internal family systems model is "self-energy," which is the energy we need to maintain the harmony and balance of our core Self. When this self-energy is low, it can be harder for individuals to control their feelings and actions, which may result in substance use or relapse. By expanding self-energy through IFS treatment, people can learn how to manage their emotions and actions better, calming internal conflict and avoiding addictive behaviors.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, reach out to Oasis River Recovery. Our team of professionals can use internal family systems therapy and other trauma-informed therapy models to identify internal conflict, explore various parts of yourself, prevent extreme roles from taking over, and reduce
addictive behaviors.