Internal Family Systems
(IFS)
The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model is an evidence based method that helps individuals gain a deeper understanding of their personality and why they respond and react in certain ways during stressful situations. This approach recognizes the mind as having multiple parts rather than a monolithic singularity. In IFS therapy, we explore the relationships, conflicts, and cooperation among these internal parts so that you can learn how to lead from a balanced state.
Internal Balance
What is IFS?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a psychotherapeutic approach that recognizes the mind as having different parts or neural networks with unique roles and agendas that sometiems work well togther, and other times conflict. In IFS therapy, the therapist helps the client identify and understand these parts, leading to improved internal harmony and self-cohesion. Helping you to engage the innate dynamics that emerge in response to various situations to relax the conditioned response, address inner conflicts, heal emotional wounds, and work towards greater well-being and personal growth. IFS opens the door to change.
Reconnect
Elements Of IFS
The IFS model is designed to guide individuals through a six-step process that focuses on enhancing their self-awareness and resolving any internal conflicts. The ultimate goal is to foster a sense of reconnection with oneself and promote overall well-being. IFS offers a way to take stress off of a burdened system.
1.
Internal Exploration
Utilize an internal inquiry process to tap into different motivations and automatic responses.
2.
Build a relationship
Connect to the parts that are overwhelmed and help them collaborate, taking time to understand their internal conflicts and positive intentions.
3.
Unburdening
Release any negative emotions or trauma stuck in the past so that exiled self-states can heal.
4.
Transform
Relax the extreme protective functions and reactions to allow for a balanced and effective response.
5.
Self-leadership
We help you lead thoughts and emotions with respect and compassion.
6.
Healing and integration
We help you heal the different parts of yourself leading to personal awareness and growth.
How does an IFS session work?
Therapy sessions start with a short chat. Then, close your eyes, take deep breaths, and focus on calming any racing thoughts. While your eyes are closed, pay attention to your body and emotions. We'll connect with the parts that need attention and help them release tension. The goal is to help you discover your self-led state more often than not. This process is conscious, not hypnotic, and can bring more clarity and insight into your thoughts and feelings.
The course of treatment:
Initial Call
Initial calls are to determine if we are a good fit. They generally last about 15 minutes. If my practice is a good fit for us both, I will mail you the initial paperwork, which will also involve some self-reported diagnostic assessments.
1.
Initial intake Session
The initial intake session is 100 minutes long. It involves reviewing the paperwork, using basic assessment tools, and taking a personal and family history. In this session, we set goals and plan treatment.
2.
Follow up sessions
New clients meet with me weekly for at least 8 weeks. This builds rapport and trust and allows for a safe alliance, which is essential for this work. Once symptoms lessen, we can reduce the frequency until your goals have been met.
3.
Closure
As symptoms feel resolved, we plan to conclude treatment. We review what was helpful and discuss resources to help you maintain gains after treatment concludes.