The Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy model is an integrative approach to psychotherapy developed by Richard C. Schwartz in the 1980s. It has achieved international recognition over the years as an effective method of working with a wide variety of mental and health issues. It is an evidence-based approach, which means that studies have shown it to be effective.
IFS posits that the mind is made up of multiple parts. Each part has its own perspective, interests, memories, and viewpoint. A core tenet of IFS is that every part has a positive intent, even if its actions are counterproductive or cause dysfunction. There is no need to fight with, coerce, or eliminate parts. Additionally, every person has a core or true Self that has qualities and characteristics that cannot be damaged by trauma and adverse experiences. The Self has the capacity to lead the family system in a healthy and equanimical way. Often people’s problems result from the parts who have extreme roles, such as rage, perfectionism, terror, etc. These parts can take over at times and the Self isn’t able to lead. The IFS method promotes internal connection and harmony between the Self and the parts. Trust is built and then the Self is able to lead the system, tend to the parts, help them heal and let go of burdens and traumas, and bring the mind, body, and spirit back into balance.
I am a Level One trained IFS therapist and have used the model for over 3 years. I find it helpful with so many issues people are dealing with. I often combine IFS and EMDR which can be an amazing therapeutic combination. I use IFS for many issues which includes complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) and attachment issues (see my section on C-PTSD and attachment).
Below is a link and a book to find out more about IFS. Feel free to reach out to me through the contact page on this website if you are interested in IFS therapy.
No Bad Parts, by Richard C. Schwartz