Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Resolve Inner Conflict
What is IFS?
The human mind is naturally multiple—we all have different parts of ourselves—we have a professional self and a social self…..ect—this perspective of multiplicity is supported by neuroscience. IFS is effective in situations where these parts of ourself are in conflict with each another, leading to inner turmoil and tension.
IFS focuses on bringing conscious awareness to the internal relationships that exist between different parts (aspects) of yourself—fostering self-awareness:
- Encouraging dialogue between polarized parts of the self
- Strengthening Self-leadership to create a warm and supportive internal environment
How can IFS help you?
The core premise is that every person has a Self—an essence that embodies their finest qualities, such as compassion, creativity, and wisdom. These qualities are innate, and healing through IFS involves reconnecting with what is already within us. IFS applies family systems techniques to the inner world, reducing internal conflict by fostering Self-Leadership within the internal family system.
The 8 C’s of Self-Leadership
The IFS model describes the characteristics of Self-energy with the 8 C’s:
- Calmness
- Curiosity
- Compassion
- Confidence
- Courage
- Clarity
- Connectedness
- Creativity
Burdens in the IFS Model
In the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, burdens refer to the negative beliefs, emotions, sensations, or energies that are absorbed by parts of us during overwhelming experiences and trauma. These burdens make the parts that carry them more extreme in their roles and reactions.
Legacy & Cultural Burdens
Beyond personal experiences, some burdens are inherited. Legacy burdens stem from beliefs, emotions, and memories that are passed down through family lines—while cultural burdens are passed down through broader societal influences. These can impact our inner world in profound ways that we may not even be consciously aware of.
IFS provides a road map to identify, release, and heal these burdens—generating profound shifts within the internal system.
