What is Internal Family Systems (IFS)?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of therapy that helps people understand and heal their inner world by focusing on the different "parts" of themselves. IFS is based on the idea that everyone has multiple parts within them, and each part has its own feelings, thoughts, and behaviours. These parts often develop in response to life experiences, especially difficult or painful ones.
In IFS, there are generally three types of parts:
Exiles: These are parts of ourselves that hold painful emotions or memories, often from past trauma. These parts tend to be hidden or "exiled" because the emotions they hold can be overwhelming.
Protectors: These parts are focused on keeping us safe by preventing us from feeling the pain of the exiles. They may show up as behaviors like avoiding situations, being critical, or acting defensively.
Self: This is the core, wise, and compassionate part of who we truly are. In IFS, the goal is to help the person reconnect with their Self, which can lead to healing, as the Self has the ability to understand, calm, and guide the other parts.
IFS therapy helps people connect with their various parts in a non-judgmental way. By understanding and healing these parts, a person can feel more balanced and peaceful. The therapist's role is to guide the person through this process, helping them work with their parts in a way that promotes healing and integration. The overall goal is to help people achieve greater self-awareness, emotional balance, and resilience.