In this podcast, Mary Kruger and Cece Sykes discuss addiction and Internal Family Systems (IFS). They explore alternatives to a traditional 'Plan' approach, working with your own parts when dealing with others, and the importance of welcoming the wisdom of firefighters. They also discuss how IFS can bridge the gap between the addiction and psychological worlds, bringing curiosity to the interactions of all parts involved. Exciting announcements and appreciation conclude the episode.
To effectively address addiction, clinicians should bridge the gap between traditional psychological treatment and addiction treatment.
Understanding the systemic interactions and motivations of firefighters, the parts engaging in addictive behaviors, can facilitate a deeper exploration and understanding of addiction.
A compassionate and holistic approach to addiction treatment should prioritize self-compassion, empowerment, and the individual's unique journey.
Deep dives
The importance of bridging the gap between psychological and addiction treatment
The podcast highlights the importance of bridging the gap between traditional psychological treatment and addiction treatment. The speaker emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in how we approach addictive processes, urging clinicians to view these behaviors as attempts by parts to help, rather than as moral failings. The focus is on listening to and understanding the intentions behind these parts, rather than simply following rigid treatment plans. By creating a bridge between the two worlds, clinicians can offer more compassionate and effective support to individuals struggling with addictive behaviors.
Recognizing the complexity of addictive processes
The podcast delves into the complexity of addictive processes and the need to consider the systemic interactions of various parts within an individual's internal system. It emphasizes the importance of understanding that firefighters, the parts that engage in addictive behaviors, are also exiled parts and that pushing them away or judging them only perpetuates the cycle of addiction. By listening to and acknowledging these parts' motivations, clinicians can create a safe space for individuals to explore and understand their addictive behaviors.
Shifting the focus from black and white thinking
The podcast challenges the traditional black and white thinking around addiction treatment, highlighting the need for a more nuanced and compassionate approach. It argues that progress shouldn't be solely measured by abstinence, but rather by understanding the underlying systemic interactions and self-protective intentions behind addictive behaviors. By shifting the focus from rigid treatment plans to collaborative exploration of the system, clinicians can create a bridge between different modalities of treatment and foster more holistic recovery.
Importance of self-compassion and empowerment in addiction recovery
The podcast emphasizes the significance of self-compassion, empowerment, and honoring the pace of individuals in their addiction recovery journey. It encourages clinicians to create space for clients to share their previous experiences, beliefs, and feelings about addiction, allowing their voices and perspectives to be heard and respected. Rather than imposing plans or judgments, clinicians can guide clients in exploring their internal system and making empowered decisions that align with their own visions and needs.
Working with the complexities of addictive processes
The podcast underlines the importance of acknowledging and embracing the complexities of addictive processes in therapy. It highlights the need for clinicians to be aware of their own parts and judgments, and to approach individuals struggling with addiction with an open heart and non-judgmental stance. By listening to the individual's unique experience and system, clinicians can support them in finding their own path to recovery, exploring alternative coping mechanisms, and fostering a compassionate understanding of their firefighting parts.
I'm excited to talk to Mary Kruger (again!) and Cece Skyes who wrote a Chapter in the Altogether Us book entitled, "IFS and Addiction: Compassion for the Addictive Process."
We talk about:
Alternatives to a manager led (client's or family or therapist's) "Plan"
Working with your own parts (helper, rescue, fixer, advice giving) when working (or living) with others who have 'Extreme Firefighters'
"Exiling firefighters is not working"- What if we welcomed their advice and wisdom?
Bridges
how IFS can Bridge the polarization between the addiction world and the psychological world
creating them between ALL parts involved in the addictive process
bringing curiosity to the systematic interactions of the parts
Sign up for Tammy's email list and get a free "Get to know a Should part of you" meditation on her website: Home - Tammy Sollenberger
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Tammy is grateful for Jack Reardon who created new music. Jack is a graduate of Derek Scott’s IFS Stepping Stones Program. You can follow Jack on Instagram at bonzemusic.
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