Developed by internationally recognized trauma expert Janina Fisher, PhD, the Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST) model is a trauma-informed “parts” approach to healing that integrates principles from Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, clinical hypnosis, and cognitive restructuring.   

Designed for therapists to work with individuals who have experienced severe or complex trauma, TIST offers a structured yet gentle framework to help clients regain stability, regulate their nervous systems, and begin the work of healing without becoming overwhelmed. Rather than viewing extreme behaviors or inner fragmentation as pathology, it reframes them as protective responses to overwhelming experiences. This compassionate perspective reduces shame and self-blame while providing a clear, practical, and neurobiologically grounded path toward recovery, all within the safety of a strong and secure therapeutic relationship. 

Central to TIST is the understanding that the mind naturally organizes itself into “parts” to cope with trauma. Drawing on the lens of Structural Dissociation—while sharing some similarities with Internal Family Systems—therapy helps clients identify and engage with these parts, fostering collaboration and integration rather than internal conflict. Alongside parts work, sessions emphasize practical skills for emotional and physiological regulation, supporting clients as they ground themselves in everyday life. Traumatic memories are approached, first with safety building, gradually and sensitively, promoting resolution instead of re-traumatization. 

Clients who engage in TIST often describe a wide range of benefits: reduced anxiety, depression, and self-harm urges; greater emotional regulation and coping skills; increased self-awareness and self-compassion; a deeper sense of safety and security; and an improved ability to build and maintain healthy relationships. It can be particularly supportive for individuals who have endured childhood abuse or neglect, domestic or intimate partner violence, sexual assault, military combat or first-responder trauma, natural disasters, or other life-threatening events. 

Because of its specialized nature, TIST requires advanced professional training. Therapists complete an intensive curriculum and supervised practice through Janina Fisher, PhD and The Academy of Therapy Wisdom to achieve certification, ensuring that clients receive the highest standard of care.