How Somatic Therapy & Parts Work Can Address Addictive States
Individuals struggling with addiction have many holistic and evidence-based therapies to help them heal the root cause of their addictions. Some valuable treatment options to address addictive states includes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), as just a few examples. There are other modalities that can be equally as effective with addiction. Therapists trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), sometimes known as parts work, can attest to the importance of offering this valuable approach in the treatment of addiction.
Parts Work Therapy, also known as Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals explore and understand their inner thoughts, feelings, and behaviors by viewing the mind as a collection of different "parts." These parts represent different aspects of a person's personality and can be in conflict with each other.
In Parts Work Therapy, individuals work with a therapist to identify, communicate with, and heal these various parts of themselves. The goal is to create harmony and balance among these internal parts, which can lead to improved mental and emotional well-being. It's particularly helpful in addressing issues like inner conflicts, trauma, self-esteem, and emotional regulation.
The therapy is guided by the belief that each part has positive intentions and that, by acknowledging and working with them, individuals can better understand and manage their emotions and behaviors. This approach was developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the 1980s and has gained popularity in the field of psychotherapy.
IFS views addiction as a result of inner conflicts among various parts of a person. Some parts may want to use substances to cope with emotional pain, while other parts may desire sobriety and a healthier life.
In the context of addiction, IFS therapy helps individuals:
1. Identify and communicate with their "addicted parts" or parts that drive the addictive behavior.
2. Understand the underlying emotions and motivations behind their addiction.
3. Heal and transform these addicted parts by recognizing their positive intentions and addressing their needs in healthier ways.
4. Strengthen the parts that support recovery and sobriety.
IFS therapy can empower individuals to break the cycle of addiction by fostering internal harmony and balance. It can also provide tools for better managing cravings, triggers, and relapse prevention. When used in conjunction with other addiction treatment approaches, IFS therapy can be a valuable component of a comprehensive recovery plan.
EMDR Therapy can be highly-effective for patients struggling with addiction, helping them heal the root cause of their suffering. Even more effective is the integration of IFS and somatic parts work with EMDR sessions.
If you live in NY, finding a therapist to support you in your addiction recovery can feel daunting. Finding a psychologist or provider for addiction in New York City can be a multi-step process. Here are some steps to help you find a therapist who specializes in addiction treatment:
1. Ask for Referrals: You can start by asking your primary care physician, friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Personal referrals can be very valuable.
2. Insurance: If you have health insurance, contact your insurance provider to get a list of in-network therapists who specialize in addiction treatment. This can help make therapy more affordable.
3. Online Directories: You can use online directories such as Psychology Today, TherapyDen, or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) treatment locator. These directories often allow you to filter results based on location, specialty, and insurance.
4. Local Treatment Centers: Contact local addiction treatment centers or organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). They often have lists of recommended therapists in the area.
5. Professional Organizations: Look for therapists who are members of professional organizations specializing in addiction and mental health, such as the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) or the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC).
6. Online Reviews: Read online reviews and testimonials for therapists in your area to get a sense of their reputation and how they've helped others.
7. Interview Potential Therapists: Once you have a list of potential therapists, contact them to schedule an initial consultation or interview. This will allow you to assess their approach, experience, and whether you feel comfortable with them.
8. Consider Teletherapy: Given the accessibility and convenience of teletherapy, you can also expand your search to therapists who offer online sessions if in-person options are limited.
9. Specialization: Look for therapists who specialize in addiction, substance abuse, or related issues. They should have experience and expertise in treating addiction.
10. Verify Licensing: Ensure that the therapist is licensed and in good standing with relevant licensing boards in New York State.
It's essential to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and who can provide the specific type of addiction treatment you need, whether it's individual therapy, group therapy, or a combination. Remember that addiction treatment is a journey, and finding the motivation to begin and taking first steps is crucial to the recovery process.
About Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan
Kimberly Seelbrede, LCSW is a New York State licensed Psychotherapist, EMDR Practitioner and Couple Therapist with a private practice in New York City, Montana and virtually. As a wellness psychotherapist and holistic consultant, she has receive advanced, extensive training in Trauma Therapy, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Nutrition & Integrative Medicine For Mental Health. She is passionate about honoring the exquisite interplay of the mind-body connection. Kimberly Seelbrede specializes in anxiety & mood disorders, trauma and women’s mental health. She brings over 20 years of counseling, coaching, and healing experience to her holistic practice and transformational work.
In addition to online therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship struggles, Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness offers a wide variety of online services to fit the needs of busy professionals. New Yorkers often lead fast-paced and complex lives, which makes work-life balance and managing career, family and social obligations a challenge. Psychotherapy and wellness practices provides the support to help clients cultivate resources, resilience and enhanced emotional health, as well as uncover conflicts and obstacles that may interfere with having the life they desire.