What is the Internal Family Systems model?

The Internal Family Systems Model (IFS) is an integrative approach to individual psychotherapy developed by Richard C. Schwartz in the 1980s. It combines systems thinking with the view that the mind is made up of relatively discrete subpersonalities, each with its own unique viewpoint and qualities.

Initially developed for clinicians working with eating disorders, IFS is a synthesis of two existing paradigms.
The first is that multiplicity of mind is normal and helpful, and as such, our personality consists of various ‘subpersonalities’ as part of our ego or psyche. IFS language uses the phrase that we all contain many different parts.
The second idea draws on the integrative mechanics of systems thinking, which suggests that systems are integrated and connected such that moving one part in the system results in movement in the whole system. IFS views each person as having access to all the psychological and emotional capital they require and rather than pathologising the individual (as many psychological models do), IFS seeks to empower and propel people toward wholeness and healing in all aspects of their life.

What happens in an IFS session?

IFS therapy can look like traditional talk therapy but it is particularly focused on the client’s internal world in terms of images, body sensations or a general awareness of parts. The therapist will encourage the client to extend some Self-energy – typically in the form of curiosity or compassion – to the part with whom they are working. Thus the process of welcoming the part and creating a Self-to-part relationship is facilitated. Much of the work is very similar to two people talking, except that in IFS the conversation is occurring between the client’s Self and their various parts. The client’s part may give a rationale for its behaviour, explain its role in the system, or outline its fears. These conversations are facilitated by the therapist in clinically appropriate and therapeutically safe increments.
If there are parts holding beliefs, energy and or emotions from past unpleasant events (such as fear, pain or worthlessness) we can assist them to be released, in order to heal.

 Benefits of Internal Family Systems therapy

IFS is an evidence-based practice used to treat a range of mental health disorders including :

• anxiety

• depression

• PTSD

• substance abuse

• eating disorders

• phobias

• panic

  
  

IFS is also used for people struggling with issues related to self-esteem, anger, shame, and more along with physical health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Our IFS (Internal Family Systems) practitioners

Learn more about IFS with our trained and experienced psychologist Sarah Axford or Therapist Joy Herman.