Internal Family System (IFS)
IFS is an approach to therapy that takes into consideration the multiplicity of parts inside each of us.
What is IFS Therapy?
As we grow up and develop things happen to us, that’s inevitable. Our inner system, seeking safety, exiles more vulnerable parts and starts protecting them.
Years later the parts are still protecting them even though the threat is not there anymore. Like the soldiers no one told them the war is over.
In IFS we get to know these protectors in a deep and compassionate way and with their permission we go to the vulnerable parts that hold hurt, pain, shame and any other burden they took on and we help them release these so they can go back to their natural joyful state.
What is it used for?
IFS therapy is a versatile approach that caters to individuals, couples, and families seeking effective treatment. This transformative therapy has shown significant success in addressing a wide range of conditions and symptoms, including:
1. Depression: IFS therapy provides a safe and supportive environment to explore and heal the underlying causes of depression. By promoting self-awareness and compassion, it helps individuals alleviate depressive symptoms and regain a sense of inner balance.
2. Anxiety: Working with an IFS therapist empowers individuals to identify and manage the various parts of themselves that contribute to anxiety. Through gentle exploration and understanding, individuals can develop healthier coping strategies and reduce excessive worry or fear.
3. Panic: IFS therapy assists individuals in understanding the roots of their panic attacks. By fostering a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, it helps individuals cultivate a sense of calm and resilience, reducing the frequency and intensity of panic episodes.
4. Phobias: With the support of an IFS therapist, individuals can uncover and address the underlying fears and traumatic experiences related to their phobias. IFS therapy helps individuals develop a healthier relationship with their fears, leading to greater confidence and reduced avoidance behaviors.
5. Trauma: IFS therapy offers a gentle and effective approach for healing trauma. By helping individuals navigate and process traumatic memories, IFS therapy promotes resilience, reduces symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and facilitates a sense of safety and wholeness.
6. Substance Use: IFS therapy recognizes that substance use can often stem from underlying emotional, relational, or traumatic wounds. It supports individuals in building a stronger sense of self, increasing self-compassion, and developing healthier coping mechanisms, thus assisting in overcoming substance use challenges.
7. Physical Health Conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis: IFS therapy acknowledges the potential impact of emotional and psychological factors on physical health conditions. By working holistically, it helps individuals explore the emotional roots of their physical symptoms and develop healthier ways of managing pain and overall well-being.
8. General Functioning and Well-being: IFS therapy goes beyond targeting specific conditions or symptoms. By fostering self-compassion, improving self-awareness, and building healthier relationships with all parts of oneself, it supports individuals, couples, and families in enhancing their overall functioning and well-being.
IFS therapy has the power to transform lives by assisting individuals, couples, and families in their journey towards greater emotional well-being and personal growth. Reach out to me and embark on a path of healing and self-discovery today.