I am trained in IFS, Internal Family Systems. Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a model of psychotherapy that views the mind as comprised of various "parts" or subpersonalities. Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

https://ifs-institute.com/practitioners/all/161820

• Core Concept:

  • IFS posits that everyone has a "Self," a core of calm, compassionate, and wise qualities.
  • Alongside the Self, there are "parts" that take on various roles, often as a result of life experiences.
  • These parts are not inherently "good" or "bad," but rather have developed strategies to protect the individual.

• Key Components:

  • Parts:
    • Protectors: These parts aim to shield the individual from emotional pain. They can manifest as:
      • Managers: Proactive protectors that try to control situations and prevent pain.
      • Firefighters: Reactive protectors that emerge when pain arises, often using impulsive or destructive behaviors.
    • Exiles: These parts carry the burdens of past wounds, traumas, and painful emotions.
    • The Self: This is the core of the person, characterized by qualities like compassion, curiosity, and clarity. IFS aims to help individuals access their Self.
  • Goals:
    • To help individuals understand and accept their parts.
    • To heal the wounded exiles.
    • To help parts release their extreme roles and trust the Self to lead.
    • To promote self leadership.

• Therapeutic Process:

  • IFS therapy involves helping individuals to:
    • Identify and differentiate their parts.
    • Develop a relationship with their parts.
    • Help parts release their burdens.
    • Access the Self, and allow the self to lead.

• Applications:

  • IFS is used to treat a range of issues, including:
    • Trauma
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Relationship problems
    • And many other mental health concerns.

In essence, IFS provides a framework for understanding the inner workings of the mind and fostering self-compassion and healing.

Some of my favorite books about IFS is:

IFS Books

1) No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems Model by Richard Schwartz

2) You are the One You’ve Been Waiting For: Applying Internal Family Systems to Intimate Relationships by Dr Schwartz

3) Transcending Trauma: Healing Complex PTSD with Internal Family Systems by Frank Anderson