| Do you have ‘bad parts’? Parts of you that you wish didn’t exist? Parts you wish would get back in their box? The Internal family systems (IFS) model of psychotherapy says: THERE ARE NO BAD PARTS! This model provides a wonderful framework for working with the parts of us that get ignored or activated at different times in our lives. When we can turn to these parts with some curiosity and kindness, they give us space to respond differently. Instead of being at war with all your inner parts, you can find inner harmony, balance and so much peace of mind. I recently completed a 12 week training course in IFS, which was both challenging and exciting. Study is my happy place. I have also started seeing a therapist trained in IFS and will soon participate in group supervision using IFS. Can you feel my enthusiasm? If you think that having different parts within you sounds weird…. Recall a time when you couldn’t make a decision……..and identify the two (or more) different opinions in your head. A part of me wanted to……and another part felt…………. “Part of me was really ready to sell the house and move and another part was really fearful and anxious about letting go and moving into the unknown.” If you can listen to the concerns of the anxious part, you can offer reassurance and when this part shifts in response; make a decision with clarity. I am loving integrating this framework with my clients in therapy and seeing the clarity and change it supports. |
| “Parts are little inner beings who are trying their best to keep you safe.” Richard C. Schwartz, No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems Model |
