Trauma-Informed Therapy with TIST in Washington, DC
TIST (Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment) is a practical, compassionate, and highly effective approach developed by internationally renowned trauma expert Dr. Janina Fisher.
Unlike traditional trauma therapies that may push clients to revisit painful memories too quickly, TIST focuses first on stabilization and safety. It helps clients understand and work with their “parts” — the different survival strategies (such as fight, flight, freeze, or people-pleasing) that developed to protect them from overwhelming experiences.
Core Focus of TIST:
Rather than diving straight into painful memories, TIST focuses first on stabilization — helping you feel safe in your body and mind before deeper trauma work begins. It combines elements of mindfulness, parts work (understanding different inner states), and sensorimotor awareness to gently restore a sense of safety, regulation, and self-understanding.
Reducing emotional overwhelm and dissociation
Building internal safety and self-compassion
Understanding trauma responses without shame
Gradually integrating fragmented parts of self
Improving daily functioning and relationships
TIST is especially helpful for people with complex trauma, childhood adversity, PTSD, and those who feel stuck, fragmented, or easily triggered. It combines mindfulness, parts work, sensorimotor awareness, and psychoeducation in a gentle, paced way that respects the nervous system.
How TIST Looks in Practice
This is not rushed or overwhelming. A typical process might include:
1. Identifying what feels most destabilizing We start by understanding your current challenges — anxiety, relational patterns, dissociation, shame, or feeling “stuck.”
2. Building safety and stabilization Using TIST tools to help your nervous system feel more regulated and less hijacked by trauma responses.
3. Exploring your inner parts Gently mapping the different survival strategies (protectors, firefighters, exiles) that developed to keep you safe.
4. Moving toward integration Over time, helping these parts work together so you feel more cohesive, present, and in charge of your life.
What You Can Expect
Clients often begin feeling fragmented, anxious, or disconnected from themselves. With TIST, many gradually experience:
Greater emotional stability and fewer “trauma hijackings”
Improved ability to stay present in relationships
A kinder, more compassionate relationship with themselves
Reduced shame and self-sabotage
A growing sense of wholeness and personal agency
TIST is not about quick fixes — it’s about creating lasting internal safety and integration so you can live with more freedom and authenticity.
Schedule Trauma-Informed TIST Therapy in Washington, DC
Forma offers trauma informed parts work individual therapy for adults in Washington, DC, including neighborhoods like Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, Capitol Hill, and surrounding areas.
Sessions are available in-person and via telehealth across DC.