The Dream My Family Just Moved In Upstairs
Oct 3, 2025
In this discussion, Aaron Barrow, a veteran and peer specialist in addiction recovery, explores the nuances of Internal Family Systems (IFS) in treatment. He contrasts peer support's intimate approach with traditional therapy, emphasizing the importance of lived experience. Aaron delves into the complexities of addiction and societal stigma while critiquing how IFS can be misapplied, especially in group settings. He raises concerns about unqualified facilitators and the potential harm of oversimplifying internal conflicts, advocating for cautious and qualified practice.
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Peer Specialists Walk Beside Clients
- Aaron Barrow describes his role as a peer specialist and why lived experience matters in recovery work.
- He emphasizes peers build trust by sharing personal stories and walking alongside clients rather than separating expert from patient.
Joining The Air Force To Escape Home
- Aaron recounts joining the Air Force at 17 to escape family chaos and financial stress.
- Military life exposed him to heavy drinking culture and later led to using weed as a long-term painkiller and escape.
IFS Frames The Psyche As A Family
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) frames the mind as a family of sub-personalities including exiles, managers, and firefighters.
- IFS locates trauma-driven parts that hide vulnerable exiles and treats them as protectors rather than enemies.
