#57 Somatic Experience and Internal Family Systems

In this conversation, Melina McConnell, a somatic trauma therapist, discusses the concepts of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Somatic Experiencing. She explains how different parts of ourselves, such as the inner critic and protector parts, can impact our experiences of shame and trauma. Melina emphasizes the importance of connecting with our bodies and self-regulating to create a sense of safety and healing. She also highlights the role of reparenting and re-friending ourselves in the healing process.

Show Notes

I am pleased to have Melina McConnell, a somatic trauma therapist, here with us to discuss the concepts of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Somatic Experiencing. She explains how different parts of ourselves, such as the inner critic and protector parts, can impact our experiences of shame and trauma. 

Melina emphasizes the importance of connecting with our bodies and self-regulating to create a sense of safety and healing. She also highlights the role of reparenting and re-friending ourselves in the healing process. 

Melina and I explore the intersection of psychology and the body in trauma healing. In this conversation, we discuss somatic work and touch therapy, focusing on integrating primitive reflexes and the importance of working with the kidney adrenal glands and brainstem. She explains how these techniques support co-regulation and attachment repair. Melina emphasizes the significance of body awareness, softening, and recognizing the lack of centring. She encourages curiosity, self-reflection, and exploring different perspectives. Melina also highlights the importance of connection and relating to others in the healing process and the need to be gentle and kind to oneself and take steps to stay calm and centered.