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What is Internal Family System Therapy(IFS) ?

Internal family systems (IFS) therapy was developed by Richard Schwartz in the 1980s. This therapeutic approach seeks to identify and manage multiple sub-personalities, also known as "families" or "parts," within a person’s mental system. The internal family systems model is based on the idea that the mind is not a singular entity but is composed of multiple parts with various roles and functions.

How can IFS help you?

IFS therapy may help people explore the intricate relationships between their internal parts. For example, individuals living with eating disorders may experience internal conflict among various “parts” that assume extreme roles. Through self-exploration, the goal is to cultivate a balanced relationship between these various parts. Central to this process is the "core Self," a unifying and guiding entity with innate qualities like compassion and wisdom.

 

IFS therapy typically aims to help individuals identify the needs, concerns, and emotions of their different internal parts while directed by this core Self.The IFS model may help treat various psychological problems and applies to individuals, couples, and families. This versatile therapy has been shown to be effective in treating trauma,1 depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. Through IFS therapy, individuals may develop a more unified sense of self for personal growth, improved relationships, and overall well-being.

How it works

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IFS works through various processes to help individuals access their core self for healing and balance their sub-personalities or parts. According to the IFS theory, the parts of the internal mind have three main roles or functions:

Managers

Managers are the parts tasked with overseeing day-to-day activities and interactions. They function as the stewards of your emotional well-being, often working to avoid situations that might cause pain or vulnerability. These parts are often involved in planning, judging, problem-solving, and handling other organizational tasks. 

Firefighters

When emotional distress2 breaks through the defenses built by Managers, Firefighters take action. Their role is to douse the emotional "fire" as quickly as possible. They tend to resort to immediate, often impulsive, actions that temporarily relieve distress, such as substance use, binge eating, or other forms of escapism. 

Exiles

Exiles are the parts of the psyche that hold onto emotional pain, often originating from past trauma or difficult experiences. These are the parts that Managers and Firefighters work to protect you from. Exiles often carry deep-seated emotions like shame, guilt, sadness, or anger, often linked to early life events. These parts are generally suppressed or isolated to keep their burden from overwhelming you. 

The Self is an innate part of every individual that consists of eight C’s:

  • Compassion

  • Creativity

  • Courage

  • Calmness

  • Clarity

  • Connectedness

  • Curiosity

  • Confidence

In internal family systems therapy, the core Self also includes five P’s:

  • Presence

  • Patience

  • Perspective

  • Persistence

  • Playfulness

At the core of IFS therapy is recognizing different parts of the Self to identify and heal deep emotional wounds that can affect daily life. By accepting the sub-personalities, individuals may be able to achieve a healthier and more balanced mental state.

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More info on IFS​

https://ifs-institute.com/

My IFS Directory listing https://directory-uk.internalfamilysystemstraining.co.uk/practitioner/barry-golten/

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