John Clarke is Interviewed by Mannah of Therapeutic Astrology Podcast (Part 1) | Going Inside x TAP
Nov 25, 2024
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Dive into a fascinating exploration of healing as astrology meets Internal Family Systems therapy. Discover how IFS challenges traditional methods like CBT by emphasizing self-awareness and parts work. The conversation highlights the importance of compassionate healing, especially in understanding trauma and neurodivergence. Learn about the transformative power of recognizing internal parts, and how self-acceptance can unlock personal growth. Lastly, hear reflections on mentorship and the lasting impact of those we lose.
01:04:49
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Quick takeaways
Internal Family Systems (IFS) distinguishes itself from traditional CBT by focusing on communicating with internal parts rather than solely addressing distorted thought patterns.
The concept of 'Self' in IFS enables clients to engage with and nurture their wounded parts, facilitating deeper healing from trauma.
Astrology can effectively complement therapeutic practices by enhancing self-awareness and personal growth, as demonstrated in the integration of Mannah's approaches.
Deep dives
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. Internal Family Systems
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) posits that thoughts directly influence emotions and behavior, suggesting that feelings of depression stem from distorted thinking patterns. For example, a person might think, 'No one likes me,' leading to feelings of sadness. In contrast, Internal Family Systems (IFS) suggests that such negative beliefs may come from an 'exile' part, often linked to a painful past experience, such as childhood trauma. IFS aims to acknowledge and communicate with these parts to understand and release the unhealthy beliefs they've adopted.
The Role of Exiles in IFS
In IFS, exiles are viewed as aspects of the self that hold painful memories and beliefs, often formed during formative experiences. These parts are usually young and vulnerable, leading to feelings of being unworthy or unloved, like the belief that no one likes them. The therapy encourages patients to connect with these exiled parts gently, fostering a dialogue that can lead to understanding their fears. By recognizing the origins of these beliefs, individuals can begin the healing process and allow their core self to nurture these wounded parts.
Therapeutic Models: Evolving Perspectives
The podcast discusses the evolution of therapeutic models, highlighting how approaches have shifted from traditional psychotherapy methods, such as psychodynamic therapy, to newer models like IFS. While psychodynamic therapy seeks to replicate childhood dynamics in the therapeutic relationship, IFS promotes the idea that the client can manage their internal system independently. This allows individuals to facilitate their own healing by introducing their 'Self' to various parts, instead of relying solely on the therapist for corrective emotional experiences. Such advancements in therapy offer more empowerment and self-efficacy to clients.
Neurodivergence and Parts Work
The discussion touches on accommodating neurodivergent clients within the IFS framework, emphasizing the unique ways individuals process their internal dialogues. Neuroscience recognizes that clients may experience their parts differently, whether through visualizations or somatic sensations. As such, therapists are encouraged to tailor their approach to meet the specific ways neurodivergent clients perceive and interact with their parts. This individualized method fosters a more inclusive therapeutic environment, validating each client's experience and enhancing their engagement in the healing process.
The Importance of a Trauma-Informed Approach
The need for a trauma-informed approach in therapy is underscored, especially when treating individuals with recent traumatic experiences. The conversation highlights that many therapists lack the training to adequately address trauma and often resort to standardized assessments that fail to uncover underlying issues. Clients may walk away without receiving the necessary support, reinforcing the importance of asking in-depth questions that acknowledge each client's unique trauma history. By utilizing trauma-informed practices, therapists can better assist clients in processing their experiences and paving the way for meaningful recovery.
In this episode of Going Inside, we share a conversation from Mannah’s Therapeutic Astrology Podcast (TAP). Mannah, an Evolutionary Astrologer and Trauma Therapist, explores how astrology informs her therapeutic work, while I dive into Internal Family Systems (IFS) and parts work. Together, we share how IFS differs from traditional therapies like CBT, the power of self-energy in healing, and the paradigm shift in understanding trauma. Mannah also examines my astrological chart, showcasing how astrology and therapy can complement each other in fostering self-awareness and growth.
