IFS
What is IFS?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a counseling model that focuses on understanding and healing the various parts of a person. According to IFS, we all have different parts within us that carry different thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. These parts can sometimes conflict with each other and create internal struggles and difficulties in our lives.
One way to think of this is by relating it to a family. Just like a family is made up of different individuals with their unique personalities and roles, our internal world is composed of different parts. Each part has its specific qualities, desires, and intentions.
What are the key components of IFS?
- Self: The Self is the core or essence of a person. It represents qualities like compassion, wisdom, and curiosity. The Self is not affected by the challenges or conflicts of the different parts but remains steady and centered
- Parts: Parts are the different aspects within us. They can be thought of as different characters within the internal family. Some examples of parts might include the Inner Critic, the Inner Child, the Pleaser, the Protector, or the Perfectionist. Each part has its unique role and purpose.
- Exiles: Exiles are wounded or vulnerable parts that hold painful emotions, memories, or traumatic experiences. These parts often carry unresolved pain from the past and are often hidden or pushed away to protect the individual from further harm.
- Managers: Managers are parts that try to control or protect us from experiencing the pain carried by the exiles. They are proactive and often take charge to keep things under control. Examples of managers include the Perfectionist, the Controller, or the Rationalizer.
- Firefighters: Firefighters are parts that emerge in response to overwhelming emotions or situations. They engage in impulsive or distracting behaviors to provide immediate relief or escape from distress. Examples of firefighters might include excessive alcohol or substance use, self-harm, or binge eating.
What is the goal of ifs therapy?
The goal is to establish a healthy and balanced relationship between the different parts of ourselves and the core Self. We can help you develop a compassionate and curious stance towards these internal parts, fostering understanding, empathy, and healing.
Through the IFS process, you can learn to recognize and communicate with your parts, understand their roles, and ultimately transform your relationships with these parts. By cultivating a harmonious internal system, you can experience increased self-acceptance, self-compassion, and overall well-being.