​​​​​​​​Workshop Description​

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For many therapists, working with perpetrator introjects (inner abusers) can feel like an overwhelming challenge and even an unachievable goal. These parts often resist connection, actively disrupt the therapeutic alliance, and evoke intense shame in the client. They may undermine progress, sabotage safety, and leave both client and therapist feeling helpless, frustrated, and stuck.

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​​This workshop explores the nature of perpetrator introjects in complex trauma and dissociation, and offers advanced clinical strategies for recognizing, understanding, and transforming these internalized abuser dynamics. 

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During this Workshop, Kathy Steele will discuss the many issues that arise in working with inner abusers, ranging from ego states to dissociative parts. The functions of these parts are complex, including:

• Maintaining attachment to the perpetrator through intense shame and fear in the client;

• Maintaining the "badness" of the client which preserves the "goodness" of the caregiver;

• Directing the client to improve through harsh inner discipline or punishment;

• Re-enacting the abuse within the client, while also preventing the client from remembering or telling about the abuse; 

• Holding the understandably sadistic impulses of the wounded child, who cannot tolerate being "like" the abusive caregiver; Acting out aggressively toward others to punish, prevent connection, and project vulnerability;

• Disowning vulnerability and holding to a narcissistic belief in ultimate power and control; and

• Attempting to manage the therapeutic relationship through inducing shame and hostility, leading to intense countertransference reactions. 

 

Each of these topics will be discussed with specific treatment interventions.​

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Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:​

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• Explain at least Three (3) forms and functions of inner abuser parts.

• Explain how inner abuser parts preserve attachment to the perpetrator through shame and fear.

• Use at least four (4) interventions to access inner abusers.

• Demonstrate at least two (2) strategies to remain attuned and grounded as a therapist when faced with the intense emotional reactions that inner abusers provoke.

• Apply at least one (1) targeted intervention to minimize the risks of self-harm and external aggression.

• Use at least one (1) targeted intervention to minimize the risks of therapist burnout.

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The Envision Difference

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100 % online:  Develop your skills from the comfort of your home or office via Zoom.

Live Q & A:  Ask questions during the live Q & A with the presenter and participants.

1 YEAR access:  Can't attend live?  Watch later. 1 YEAR of access to the workshop recording and materials and receive a certificate with CEs for home study learning. *Exception applies, see CE section below