Episode Summary:
Join us for a deep dive into the heart of experiential therapy with Caitlin Shiflett, where we unpack the profound role of defenses in our suffering, how anxiety serves as a biological response to emotions, and the journey of finding our true selves. Caitlin explains the foundations of Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), how it targets defenses and anxieties, and the challenges therapists face as learners. We also discuss her upcoming self-compassion group, rooted in mindfulness and self-kindness, and the impact of integrating therapeutic learning with self-compassion.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Understanding Defenses in ISTDP

   • Exploring how defenses protect us from intense emotions and the role of experiential therapy in reducing suffering by targeting these defense mechanisms.
   • Why anxiety in ISTDP is seen as a nervous system response rather than a feeling.

2. Embracing the Hero's Journey in Learning

   • Caitlin’s own "hero’s journey" as a therapist and her journey through ISTDP training, which required vulnerability, resilience, and a confrontation with her own self-criticism.
   • How creative growth requires both commitment and self-compassion, moving beyond self-criticism to embrace learning through mistakes and practice.

3. The Role of Self-Compassion in Healing

   • Caitlin’s upcoming self-compassion group, inspired by Kristen Neff’s research, blends self-kindness with the power of taking action for oneself.
   • How group work fosters common humanity, helping participants to feel connected through shared struggles and building resilience against self-criticism and shame.

4. Navigating Vulnerability and Visibility in Private Practice

   • The realities of marketing and vulnerability on social media as a therapist, along with strategies to manage the challenges of feeling “invisible” online while promoting meaningful work.

Takeaways:

• Awareness of Defenses: Recognizing personal defense mechanisms can help reduce anxiety and open the door to emotional authenticity.
• Self-Compassion as a Path to Growth: Learning to integrate self-kindness and structured reflection enables more profound healing, particularly in group settings.
• Learning as a Process: The journey to mastery involves embracing vulnerability, acknowledging failures, and finding safety in the learning environment.
• Navigating Online Spaces as Therapists: Embrace patience and persistence, as sharing valuable content in small communities can still make a significant impact.

Upcoming Group:
Caitlin’s “Yin and Yang of Self-Compassion” group begins early 2025, offering a safe, trauma-informed environment for women focused on self-kindness and empowerment.

Follow Caitlin Shiflett:

• Instagram
• Working Within RVA