What is Internal Family Systems (IFS)?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic approach created by Dr. Richard Schwartz. IFS views the mind as made up of different "parts," each with its own perspectives, memories, and emotions. IFS assists us in befriending and unburdening the traumatized parts of ourselves, and supports individuals in understanding these parts and creating more harmony.
IFS is trauma-informed and a supportive modality for complex trauma. It can be neurodivergent affirming, and can be supportive when traditional "talk" therapy has not been as helpful. We have the choice and autonomy to explore our own parts on our own terms.
It is common for clinicians to refer to themselves as "IFS-informed." This suggests that they use an IFS approach within other psychotherapy modalities they are trained in, such as EMDR, DBT, and somatic therapy.
The IFS process
By getting to know and understand our parts and their roles, individuals can heal past wounds and integrate these parts into a cohesive, balanced self. IFS therapy involves techniques like guided meditation and dialogue with the parts to establish internal harmony and personal growth.
The purpose of IFS is to connect with the self-leadership and self-energy qualities that we all hold. These are also known as the 8 Cs: confidence, calm, compassion, courage, creativity, clarity, curiosity, and connectedness.
- Parts. Different aspects of the self that hold emotions, beliefs, and memories. Parts can take on various roles such as protectors, managers, and exiles.
- Protectors. Parts of us that try to protect us from pain or harm.
- Managers. Parts that try to control daily life experiences and interactions to prevent pain.
- Exiles. These parts hold onto trauma and painful emotions and are often suppressed. They are often younger, more traumatized parts of us.
- Self. The core, undamaged essence of a person, characterized by qualities like compassion, curiosity, and calmness. The goal of IFS is to help the Self lead the internal system.
Clinical applications
- PTSD and complex trauma. IFS is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating PTSD and complex trauma. Studies have shown significant reductions in PTSD symptoms following IFS treatment. For individuals with complex trauma or multiple traumatic experiences, IFS can be an effective part of a comprehensive treatment plan, helping create understanding and space between multiple traumatic events.
- Anxiety and depression. By identifying and understanding the parts that contribute to anxiety and depression, IFS can help individuals reduce symptoms and find more life balance.
- Addiction. IFS can address underlying emotional pain and the parts that may drive addictive behaviors, helping individuals manage and overcome addictions.
- Other applications. IFS has been applied to a wide range of psychological experiences, including grief and chronic pain, where trauma or distressing memories play a significant role.
Professional experience
License information. Hannah Spivak is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Colorado (CSW.09928629).
Degree information. Hannah Spivak graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver in 2017 with a Master's degree in social work, and holds a Bachelor's degree in social work from Northeastern Illinois University.
Regulation of psychotherapists. The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies has the general responsibility of regulating the practice of licensed psychologists, licensed social workers, licensed professional counselors, licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed school psychologists practicing outside the school setting, licensed or certified addiction counselors, and unlicensed individuals who practice psychotherapy.