It’s a gentle, yet powerful approach for processing trauma, reducing shame and, ultimately, accessing the power of self-healing.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is based on the understanding that people aren’t two-dimensional. They’re dynamic and adaptive, with many different parts to their personality. Similar to what happens in families, different parts of ourselves take on different roles to cope with stress, conflict and uncertainty. As parts become increasingly rigid, extreme or fearful, we experience greater internal conflict and distress.
Examples of common parts include :
- Critical, logical, high-performing, or care-taking parts
- People-pleasing, indecisive, angry, self-harming or substance-using parts
- Younger parts that are triggered when we feel shame, rejection, helplessness or hopelessness
As we begin to give voice to all the different parts of ourselves, we can create a safe, inner space to explore our unmet needs, foster a sense of safety and connection, and address long-standing pain, fear, isolation and shame.
IFS can be beneficial for:
- Trauma and PTSD
- Addressing patterns of abuse, neglect, avoidance, disconnection, over-achievement/perfectionism or inmeshment in families and relationships
- Mental Health challenges, including anxiety and depression
- Self-esteem and personal identity issues
- Pervasive guilt and shame
- Unhealthy coping strategies and disregulation
- Stress and disconnection in your daily life
IFS integrates well with EMDR and other trauma-informed methods of Psychotherapy.
To learn more about IFS and how it can support you, please check out the following resources:
- What is Internal Family Systems? (Youtube video)
- The Most Radical Way to Heal: Internal Family Systems with Dr. Becky Kennedy (Apple Podcast)
- Anxiety Meditation using IFS Protocols for Relaxation (Youtube video)
This video introduces a simple way to begin to embrace our different parts:
Interested in IFS? Book a free consultation with Gillian or reach out for more information.