Michiel Bosman MD PhD

EMDR- and IFS-trained Psychiatrist

Understanding What is Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)?

Curious About What Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) is? Your Introduction to This Powerful Model

Have you heard the term Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy and are looking for a clear answer to "What is Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)?"? Let me try to answer. IFS is a transformative psychotherapy and empowering paradigm that's gaining recognition as one of the fastest-growing approaches to psychotherapy. At its heart, IFS sees every human being as a system of protective and wounded inner parts led by a core Self. IFS believes that the mind is naturally multiple and that is a good thing. Just like members of a family, inner parts are forced from their valuable states into extreme roles within us. Self is in everyone. It can’t be damaged. It knows how to heal. Understanding these core ideas can be the first step towards greater inner harmony and well-being.

TL;DR: Want a clear and concise explanation of What is Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)?

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Now, let's dive into the specific question that brought you here:

"What is Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)?".

Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy is widely recognized as one of the most compassionate and comprehensive psychotherapies available. Developed by Richard Schwartz, IFS presents a non-pathologizing approach to behavior, consciousness, and personality. IFS has been adopted by clinicians around the world. At its core, Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy states that we all have different "parts" with their own unique feelings, thoughts, and roles, and that at our core, we all have a "Self" characterized by qualities like calmness, curiosity, and compassion. The Internal Family Systems model aims to help individuals understand and heal their inner system by fostering connection with the Self and promoting harmony among the parts. This approach suggests that the mind is naturally multiple, and this is considered normal.

IFS is considered an evidence-based psychotherapy, helping people heal by accessing and healing their protective and wounded inner parts. IFS operates from the understanding that even seemingly negative or extreme emotions and beliefs emanate from inner personalities or "parts" that are trying to protect more vulnerable aspects of ourselves. These protective parts may take on extreme roles due to past experiences or "burdens" they carry. The goal of IFS is not to eliminate parts but to help them transform by unburdening them of these extreme beliefs and emotions and allowing them to take on more helpful roles under the leadership of the Self. When parts relax and separate, clients spontaneously report feeling calm, curious, and compassionate—the qualities of Self. Ultimately, IFS creates inner and outer connectedness by helping people first access their Self and, from that core, come to understand and heal their parts.

Understanding the basics of Internal Family Systems can open up new ways of relating to yourself and others. By recognizing the different parts within you and learning to access your core Self, you can begin a journey towards greater self-awareness and healing.

Ready to learn more about IFS and explore your inner world with curiosity and compassion? Join our mailing list to receive updates, resources, and insights into Internal Family Systems Therapy. Take the first step towards greater Self-leadership today!

FAQ about the Internal Family Systems model

Q: What is the internal system in the context of the IFS model?

A: The internal system refers to the concept in the IFS model that suggests individuals have various "parts" or subpersonalities that interact within their psyche. These parts include exiles, firefighters, and managers, each playing a role in the person's emotional and psychological functioning.

Q: How can an IFS therapist help trauma survivors?

A: An IFS therapist is trained to assist trauma survivors by guiding them through the process of understanding and integrating their internal parts. This approach helps clients heal from their past experiences and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Q: What role does family therapy play in the IFS model?

A: Family therapy in the IFS model emphasizes understanding how the internal systems of family members interact. It allows for exploration of dynamics that may have contributed to trauma and promotes healing within familial relationships. Richard Schwartz was an "external" family therapist when he developed the Internal Family Systems therapy model.

Q: What qualifications, training and certification should I look for in an IFS therapist?

A: When seeking an IFS therapist, it's important to verify their training and certification in the IFS model, typically offered through programs at the IFS Institute or the IFSCA directory. A qualified therapist should also have experience working with trauma survivors and a solid understanding of systems theory.

Q: Can the IFS model be effective for substance use issues?

A: Yes, the IFS model may be effective for addressing substance use issues by helping individuals understand the internal parts that drive their behaviors, including vulnerable parts that may seek relief through substances. Therapy focuses on healing these parts rather than simply suppressing them.

Q: What are the main goals of therapy in the IFS model?

A: The main goals of therapy in the IFS model include helping clients connect with and heal their internal parts, fostering self-compassion, and promoting integration of these parts to create a more harmonious internal system. This process is particularly beneficial for trauma survivors.

Q: What does the IFS training process entail?

A: IFS training typically involves comprehensive coursework and supervised practice that equips therapists with the skills needed to facilitate internal family systems-based psychotherapeutic interventions. This training ensures they can effectively work with clients' internal systems. IFS training is experiential, meaning that a significant part of the training is experiencing IFS therapy as a client.

Q: Is there an evidence base for the effectiveness of the IFS model?

A: Yes, there is a growing body of evidence supporting the efficacy of the IFS model, including pilot studies and controlled trials demonstrating its effectiveness among survivors of multiple childhood trauma and other psychological issues.

Q: How does the IFS model address stress disorders?

A: The IFS model addresses stress disorders by helping clients identify and work with their internal parts that contribute to stress responses. By understanding the roles of these parts, individuals can develop healthier coping strategies and reduce symptoms associated with stress disorders.

Q: What is the significance of exiles and firefighters in the IFS model?

A: In the IFS model, exiles are parts that hold painful memories and emotions, while firefighters are parts that react by escalating behaviors to protect the individual from feeling that pain. Understanding the interplay between these parts is crucial for healing and achieving a balanced internal system.

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