Protector parts may block therapy when they believe it could dysregulate the system. Often this happens because they assume therapy will immediately involve processing traumatic memories, which really could overwhelm the system and interfere with daily functioning.
One helpful first step is to thank the protector parts for working so hard to keep the system safe. That may be the first time they have ever heard their efforts acknowledged. You can also let them know that the first phase of trauma therapy—often lasting months—is focused on building safety and stabilization for the entire system.
It can also help to commit to the system that no one will be forced to participate in therapy. Parts who feel uncertain can be invited to observe sessions from inside and decide for themselves whether therapy feels safe or helpful.
You might also agree to respect the protectors’ concerns about certain topics for now. Even with those limits, there is usually plenty of work you and your therapist can do. Periodically checking in with protector parts to ask how they think therapy is going can also help build trust.
This page is part of the Therapy and Finding Safe, Supportive Healing section of the CommuniDID site, which explains how to evaluate therapists, recognize trauma-informed care, and understand what safe, phase-based DID treatment should look like.
Explore more:
- Questions about therapy and DID
- Why Trauma Therapy Often Begins with Stabilization for information about the phased approach to treating trauma.
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