IFS (Internal Family Systems)

WHAT IS IFS (INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS)?

We all have parts that want different things, carry distinct beliefs, and play important roles in our lives. Conflicting thoughts and feelings may reflect parts that need attention. The IFS process helps reveal your inner resource—Self energy—which can care for your parts and support healing. Building a relationship with your parts can lead to greater inner harmony and ease.

What does an IFS therapist do during a session?

I ask questions that help you build a relationship with your parts. Over time, they begin to trust you, allowing more vulnerable parts to release the burdens they carry. You may experience these burdens as challenges at home, at work, or in your relationships. I support this unburdening process so you can release painful beliefs and invite more expansive qualities into your life.

What makes IFS different from other therapeutic approaches?

IFS is an experiential process, meaning you tune into your direct experience rather than just talking about it. It can go deeper than traditional talk therapy. You experience what is happening in the present moment, both in relationship with yourself (including your many parts) and with me, your therapist. This is a potent combination. Because IFS is experiential, it can be hard to put into words. There is an ineffable, almost spiritual quality to the IFS process that fosters a more authentic and open-hearted way of being.

What can you expect from doing IFS work?

You’ll access more Self energy, which includes the 8 C’s: confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. You may notice your parts more and respond with less reactivity in challenging situations. This allows you to face difficulties with greater ease and compassion for all your parts.

When you feel stuck in patterns of distress and are struggling to overcome past experiences that you have a hard time letting go of, or if you are feeling stuck in your current talk therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a great therapy to effectively heal your trauma, distress/anxiety and other emotional challenges.

EMDR therapy is a form of psychotherapy that specializes in helping individuals work through/process traumatic memories, distressing beliefs, and emotions within an environment that prioritizes a sense of safety and support. EMDR is a leading therapy in treating various mental health challenges and increasing healing and sustainable change.

WHAT DOES EMDR HELP WITH?

EMDR helps treat conditions caused by trauma. This could be nightmares, PTSD, difficult personal interactions, difficulty in relationships, fears/phobias, anxiety, and depression.

HOW DO I KNOW IF EMDR IS RIGHT FOR ME?

EMDR is right for individuals that are ready to get “unstuck” with their past traumas and traumatic memories that have shaped their present day mental wellbeing. If you are wanting to alleviate your psychological distress, negative thought patterns/beliefs, anxiety and depression and find a deeper sense of calm and safety in the world, EMDR may be the therapy that works for you.

Please reach out to me if you are interested in learning more about this process as it has shown to be highly effective with individuals in finding healing and lasting change. Please watch the video link below to find out more about how EMDR may be a good step for you to take in your healing journey.

Next Steps

Please book a free 15-20 minute consultation with Ash Gangadean or email them at ashley@mosiaccounselingcollective.com for more information.