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How long does inner child work take?
Unlike some therapies, which may take months or even years, Inner Child Therapy can, on average, be completed in 10 two hour long sessions. Unlike some therapies, which may take months or even years, Inner Child Therapy can, on average, be completed in 10 two hour long sessions. Inner child exercises — like self-compassion, the butterfly hug, and writing letters to your younger self — can help you heal from painful childhood experiences. Inner child work teaches you to parent and nurture your wounded inner child.
Why is inner child work so intense?
The Hidden Emotions of an Inner Child Thus, inner children learn to hide their feelings of rejection, experiences of abuse, and fear of abandonment deep inside. Unfortunately, by repressing these intense emotions, adults find themselves stuck in cycles of self-sabotage. The inner child is a direct representation of yourself in your early years. Ideally, the inner child would represent playfulness and fun. However, not everyone associates their childhood with playfulness. If you experienced trauma of any kind, your inner child may seem vulnerable, small, and afraid. They’re dismissive or overwhelmed when the child has an emotional need. They’re not interested in the child’s life (interests, friend groups, school work). They have difficulty expressing their feelings, even with adults. They’re unable or unwilling to provide comfort during emotional distress. But who is this second self and what do they want? They are in fact what’s known as the ‘inner child’, that younger part of you that is still five years old (or seven, or nine). And whether you realise it or not your relationship with them can have a huge impact on your life.