Approved for 4 EMDRIA Credits

Many dissociative clients have difficulties with voices that are hostile and critical. The internal conflict is sometimes so strong that the person will even have difficulties carrying on with an ordinary conversation. One factor that affects this conflict is how the patient deals with the voices or parts of the self. Most approaches to helping people with hostile or critical voices have something to do with either trying to get rid of the voice, such as by taking drugs until it fades away, or trying to ignore the voice or distract attention away from it. One problem with these strategies is that they all involve avoiding issues or emotions the voice may be bringing up. A key aspect to the work with hostile parts of the personality and voices is to understand their function and the meaning behind their disruptive behaviors. A comprehensive approach is needed with the most complex cases where internal conflict can lead to harmful behaviors for the self and others. In these cases, transforming conflict through dialogue, compassion and understanding is essential. Specific procedures to work with the conflict in these clients, will be illustrated through case examples.

Presenter: Dolores Mosquera, MA