What is IFS?
IFS (aka parts work)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic model that views every human being as a system of inner parts guided by a core Self. The idea that our inner experience is multiple is not new: Freud offered the concept of the id, ego, and superego; while Jung contributed extensively with the concepts of the persona and shadow. In the 1980s Richard Schwartz, the founder of IFS, began applying Bowen's family systems theory to his work with individuals when he observed that within his patients there appeared to be opposing parts - those that wanted change and those that continued engaging in maladaptive behavior.
To bring this theory into perspective, consider how many times you have said, "a part of me feels this way, while another part of me understands it this way." In IFS work, we slow down and bring conscious awareness to the parts of you that are behind your behaviors, emotions, and beliefs. When we slow down and bring curiosity to each part of you, we begin to understand their role, their positive intent, and what they are afraid would happen if they didn't do what they do for you.
This mindful, curious way of being with parts of you is what IFS calls Self Energy. This isn't some mystical higher self that you need to conjure. Instead, it is an experience of calm centeredness that brings compassion, courage and confidence to the exploration and understanding of your inner system. The goal of IFS isn't to eliminate "bad" parts. By bringing Self Energy to the parts that have been leading subconsciously or unconsciously, we invite the system to reorganize. Parts learn to shift into new roles within your system, or they begin do their jobs more flexibly. IFS work invites you to have a whole new relationship with yourself and the multitude of parts that have developed along your lifetime.
IFS sessions can look all kinds of ways. It often starts by me inviting you to notice the part(s) of you that have been sharing their perspective, emotions, or beliefs in session. That pause may invite some curiosity for us to focus on one part and their role in your system. As we focus in on a part, many clients find it helpful to drop inside by closing their eyes and attuning to their inner experience. We may also explore parts by allowing them to speak freely without being censored by other parts, or by identifying them symbolically with artwork or representative objects. If this type of work interests you, click the link below and let's work together!