Ego state therapy typically involves identifying key parts of self involved in internal dynamics related to stuckness, inner conflict, self-sabotage, child-like behavior, avoidance, criticalness, and/or many other presenting problems (certainly, anxiety, depression, anger, shame, trusting others, attachment, are all on the list). Using a powerful method called dissociative table and other methods (hypnosis is sometimes used), it is possible to identify and work directly with the young parts that are mobilized around these long-standing issues. Ego state therapy honors those functions and their reason for being, hears their concerns, needs, and fears, appreciations their survival function, and when indicated, helps them update their "job description" to be more in current time. We don't get rid of parts, though they sometimes choose to blend with other parts and the work progresses. Containment of memories and tucking in of parts at the end of session is key to helping the life go smoothly between sessions so the work can continue.
Ego state therapy is about appreciating all those parts of the self of my clients, known or unknown, who contribute to survival by being protectors, even fierce protectors. Their work is important, and I know I can't accomplish a thing without their being on board.
