If we had early experiences of trauma, chances are we are either flooded by inner experiences (e.g., thoughts, emotions, trauma, flashbacks) or unable to retrieve or remember them (e.g., due to dissociation).
However, it is still possible for us to learn ways to safely contain our inner experiences so that we have choice over when it is put aside and when it is processed. This helps us to stay in our "window of tolerance" and avoid becoming overwhelmed.
In this video, Dr. May reviews how we can practice developing imaginary "safe containers" for our inner experiences so we have a healthy sense of control over our thoughts and emotions.
References:
Boon, S., Steele, K. & van der Haart, O. (2011). Coping with Trauma-Related Dissociation: Skills Training for Patients and Therapists. W. W. Norton & Company; 1st edition.
Twombly, J. (2023). Trauma and Dissociation Informed Internal Family Systems: How to Successfully Treat C-PTSD, and Dissociative Disorders.
(*Apologies for accidentally saying the wrong first name in the video. It is Joanne Twombly, not Jeanne.)
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