Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Internal Family Systems is a model of psychotherapy that is based on the idea that everybody has many parts, also known as sub-personalities, all interacting with each other much like the way families operate.
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Having parts is completely normal, they develop at different times throughout our lives and take on certain roles and responsibilities to help us get through difficult times.
Internal Family Systems
The goal of IFS is to embody the Self and heal our injured parts so we can live with confidence, guided by curiosity and compassion.
"Diagnosed with depression, anxiety, C-PTSD and ADHD and having seen 4 therapists previously, I thought there was no hope. IFS has helped gain awareness of my past to eventually have freedom from it, and live through a whole new perspective. I honestly cannot thank Alex enough for all he’s done!"
Lara - Google 5* Reviews
I use IFS as part of my Hypnotherapy and Mindfulness approach to help clients overcome:
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Addictions
Anxiety Disorders
Depression
Phobias
Panic
Trauma
Three Roles of Parts
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Hypnosis is not like being asleep or unconscious
Hypnosis is not like being asleep or unconscious
Managers
A manager is a protective part of an individual's internal system that focusses on controlling people, events, and other parts.
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They carry huge burdens of responsibility to help the individual fit in, identify potential threats, and manage day to day life. They strive ro protect the individual from experiencing difficult emotions or situations by taking charge and making decisions on their behalf.
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Managers often exhibit traits such as:
Criticising
Analysing
Pessimism, and planning
Firefighters
A firefighter is a protective part that springs into action to distract, numb, or supress overwhelming emotions with the pain from other parts, especially the more wounded exiles, get activated.
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They are part of the internal system's attempt to protect the individual from unbearable feelings and memories, often engaging in behaviours like:​​
Substance abuse
Binge-eating
Self-harm
Exiles
Exiles are wounded and vulnerable parts of an individual's internal system that hold deep wounds, store painful memories, emotions, and beliefs related to past traumatic experiences.
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When exiles are activated, they can overwhelm the individual eith intense emotions like sadness, fear, or shame.
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The goal of IFS therapy is to heal and integrate these wounded parts to achieve greater inner harmony and self-compassion.
The Self
The Self is considered the core, unifying aspect of an individual that embodies qualities such as curiosity, compassion, and connectedness. It is the essence of one's authentic being that transcends the protective parts and wounded exiles within the internal system.
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The Self seves as a compassionate leader and a source of wisdom, guiding the individual toward self-awareness, healing, and integration of all parts.
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In Internal Family Systems Therapy, accessing and embodying the Self is essential for acheiving internal balance, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being.
