Internal Family Systems
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is based on the idea that everyone has different protective and wounded parts inside of us. Our parts have various roles based on their fears and desires – some of which conflict with other parts! Ultimately, your parts have good intentions for you, such as to protect you, to help you deal with pain, or to hold hard things. However, some of their strategies for accomplishing their goals can have unintended negative consequences.
In addition to parts, everyone has a rich inner resource called Self that you can learn to tap into. Self’s only agendas are love, empathy, and healing. When you learn to lean into Self, you gain greater access to the attributes of Self, known as the 8 Cs and 5 Ps:
Confidence
Courage
Curiosity
Compassion
Calm
Clarity
Creativity
Connectedness
Presence
Perspective
Patience
Playfulness
Persistence
When incorporating Internal Family Systems, our therapists work with clients to get to know parts of themselves and bring them into closer relationship with their inner resource of Self. This Self-to-parts relationship fosters greater compassion and understanding of parts, which leads to increased self-awareness and self-worth. One primary goal is to “unburden” your wounded parts, meaning helping your parts let go of false beliefs they hold, such as, “I’m responsible,” “My needs don’t matter,” or “I have to be perfect.” Another important goal is to update parts’ strategies to ones that are healthier and more constructive.
Beth and Kiki are trained in this method of therapy. To learn more about IFS, take a look at this helpful Informational video.
Next Steps
Our team is highly specialized. Take a look at our About Us pages to get a feel for who would be the best fit for you.
Interested in pursuing one of the therapies we offer? Reach out to us for a complimentary consultation!