IFS
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic model that views every human being as a system made up of parts, both protective and wounded, which are guided by the core Self. It is a non-pathologizing approach which helps provide a better understanding of the Self and inner world as well as in interpersonal relationships and moving through life with the 8 Cs: confidence, calm, compassion, courage, creativity, clarity, curiosity, and connectedness.
The IFS model teaches that the mind has multiplicity, which is healthy. Similar to members of a family system, inner parts can be pushed into extreme roles but also have helpful and valuable inherent qualities. IFS helps people access their Self (healthy, undamaged, discerning and clear-sighted) which knows how to heal. Guided by that inner leadership, people will learn not only to understand but to transform their parts, creating harmony between the parts, with the understanding that all parts have good intentions, even when their behavior is destructive. Healing occurs through a reduction of internal conflict, as well as treating and alleviating symptoms of trauma, depression and anxiety.
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What Can It Help Me with?
IFS is helpful in healing trauma and complex emotional issues and has proven useful for treatment in the following conditions:
Trauma & PTSD
Depression & Anxiety
Emotional Regulation
Relationship & Life Stressors
Sexual and/or Physical Abuse
Self-Esteem & Self Image
IFS can also help if you experience emotions and behaviors that appear to be disproportionate to the experience/situation at hand. If you experience reaction that seem inappropriate to certain triggers or hold one or more unhelpful beliefs about yourself that you know are not true, but feel that they are, you may be a good candidate for IFS therapy and work to create inner harmony and healthier responses.