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. IFS supports individuals to understand these parts creating more harmony. IFS is Trauma-informed and a supportive modality for complex trauma. IFS can be ND-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 may suggest that they use an IFS approach within other psychotherapy related modalities they are trained in such as EMDR, DBT, and Somatic therapy.

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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/ understanding. The purpose of IFS is to connect with the self- leadership and self-energy qualities that we all obtain. 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.These parts of us are often younger and more traumatized parts.

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Self: The core, undamaged essence of a person, characterized by qualities likecompassion, curiosity, and calmness. The goal of IFS is to help the Self lead the internalsystem. This can also be associated with the 8 C’s: Confidence, Creativity, Connected,Curious, Courage, Calmness, Clarity, and Compassion.

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Clinical Applications

● Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (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. It can help in understanding and creating 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/experiences and find more life balance.

●  Addiction: IFS can address underlying emotional pain and parts that may drive addictive related behaviors and help individuals to manage and overcome addictions.

●  Other Applications: IFS has been applied to a wide range of psychological issues, including grief, addiction, and chronic pain, where trauma or distressing memories play a significant role.

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Hannah Higgins Professional Experience

LICENSE INFORMATION: Hannah Higgins is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in theState of Colorado (CSW.09928629).
DEGREE INFORMATION: Hannah Higgins graduated from Metropolitan StateUniversity of Denver in 2017 with her Masters degree in social work. Hannah has aBachelor's degree in social work from Northeastern Illinois University.

REGULATION OF PSYCHOTHERAPISTS: The Colorado Department of RegulatoryAgencies 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.

Practicing in the field of social work/ mental health for 7 years.

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