Question

Do you have selves/parts/alters/fragments who seem out of reach, so that no matter what you try, you can't communicate with them? We have one or two who seem to be lost in the horror of the trauma they've suffered and no matter what we've tried, they can't feel, or hear or see anything in the present. They seem stuck in the trauma. Does anyone have experience reaching such parts? How did you do it? Do you have any ideas about what you would try if you ever discovered a part like this?

Answer 1

It's not uncommon for individuals with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) to have parts or alters who feel out of reach or "stuck" in traumatic experiences. These parts might be holding memories and emotions related to particularly distressing or overwhelming traumatic events, and they may not be readily accessible to the front or co-conscious parts of the system.

Working with such parts can be challenging and requires a patient and compassionate approach. The therapeutic relationship and the cooperation of other alters within the system are essential in helping reach these parts. Here are some strategies that therapists and individuals with DID may use to work with such parts:

1. Establishing safety: Ensuring a safe and supportive environment is crucial for the parts to feel comfortable enough to communicate or come forward. This may involve creating internal safe spaces or working on grounding techniques to manage distress.

2. Internal communication: Encouraging open communication within the system can help build connections with parts that may feel disconnected. Journaling, artwork, or using a journal shared among the system can facilitate communication.

3. Externalizing the trauma: Encouraging the parts to share their experiences through creative means (e.g., drawing, writing, role-playing) can help them express their emotions and memories in a less overwhelming way.

4. EMDR and other trauma-focused therapies: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and other trauma-focused therapies can be beneficial in addressing traumatic memories and helping parts process and integrate these experiences.

5. Patience and understanding: It's essential to be patient and compassionate with the parts that are struggling. Pushing too hard or trying to force communication may cause further distress.

6. Building trust: Establishing trust within the system is crucial. This may involve ensuring that the parts feel heard and respected.

7. Seeking professional help: Working with a therapist experienced in dissociative disorders and trauma can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the healing process.

It's important to remember that everyone's experience with DID is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. Tailoring the approach to the specific needs and experiences of the individual and their system is essential in the therapeutic process. Additionally, working with difficult parts may require specialized training and experience, so seeking help from a qualified mental health professional is strongly advised.