What is Janina Fisher Trauma-Informed Stabilisation Treatment (TIST)? And why might I be interested in it?
Janina Fisher’s Trauma-Informed Stabilisation Treatment (TIST) works on the theory that we all have parts. All of us. For example, part of me might feel upset with my friend for cancelling plans with me and part of me understands that they are struggling right now so couldn’t make it.
At a fundamental level, we can all benefit from being curious about the different parts of our experiencing so that we are considering everything that is happening for us rather than omitting anything in favour of what we may have learnt ‘should’ be ‘our more desirable’ response.
Where Fisher’s TIST comes into it’s own is when we have had experiences that may have been overwhelming and/ or traumatic and we are left with trauma symptoms that might leave us feeling chaotic, confused and distressed.
So what can TIST do for me?
Understanding & Accepting Different Parts of Ourselves
Fisher’s approach views psychological distress as the result of different parts of the self that formed as survival strategies.
For example:
a protective part might keep you hyper-vigilant
a wounded part holds painful memories
Instead of feeling overwhelmed or ashamed of these parts, therapy can help us feel curious about the roles of our parts and come to understand their purpose.
Healing Trauma Without Re-Traumatisation
Traditional trauma work can sometimes feel really intense. Fisher’s approach helps us to observe and get to know our parts without reliving the trauma.
This can allow for healing at a manageable pace.
Reducing Self-Criticism & Shame
Many of us struggle with a critical inner voice. Fisher’s method helps reframe self-judgment as a protective mechanism i.e. can help us to wonder what the critical inner voice is trying to protect us from or what the critical inner voice is afraid of.
This makes the path to self-compassion feel more in reach.
Enhancing Emotional Regulation
By recognising which part of us is activated in a stressful moment, we can respond with more self-awareness rather than reacting impulsively.
For example, if an angry protective part of us gets triggered, therapy can help us hear that part of ourselves, understand what is happening for that part and make a considered judgement call rather than feeling consumed by anger and reacting from that place.
Creating Internal Harmony
Instead of feeling fragmented or stuck in behaviours that might feel unhelpful in our current life, parts work can help us move towards bringing all aspects of ourselves into communication and collaboration. This can help us feel less chaotic, confused and distressed.
Subsequently, this can make it easier for us to make choices that serve us and our wellbeing.