Where Do the Parts of Internal Family Systems Therapy Come From?
Each person has an internal self that is made up of different parts of oneself and different experiences and interactions that occurred throughout their lifetime. Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFST) uses these different parts of the self to promote healing.
What Is Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFST)?
Internal Family Systems is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy. The approach comes from the Family Systems theory, which is the idea that individuals can't be fully understood without looking at themselves as well as their family members. The idea behind Internal Family Systems therapy is that the mind naturally has different parts to it and the parts come together as a whole.
During Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, an individual will work together with a therapist to help better understand each of the parts that make them who they are today in order to achieve healing. Throughout this type of treatment, individuals can identify the root causes of their conflicts, better manage future stressors, and reach a greater overall mental health and wellness.
What Are the Parts of IFS Therapy?
There are three general groups of parts within internal family systems therapy: Exiles, Managers, and Firefighters. It's important to know that there is no such thing as a "bad part" within any of the parts that make up IFS.
Exiles
Exiles are the younger parts of the self. This part tends to hold on to any ignored or unresolved emotions, unmet needs, memories, or vulnerable moments. These moments were ignored or exiled because you may have felt that you didn't have the space, time, or energy to process at the moment.
Managers
The manager works to help push the exiles to the side so that the self can function effectively and efficiently.
Another similarity to the workplace is that managers can be both healthy and unhealthy. A healthy manager is able to divide and conquer. This version can separate positives and negatives in order to avoid further discomfort. During stressful times, they're able to push through and carry on. On the other hand, an unhealthy version of a manager can put on unnecessary pressure or stress.
Firefighters
Firefighters tend to act impulsively in order to make any pain or conflict go away as soon as they can. This part is extremely fearful of what thoughts, emotions, or feelings may be brought up, so they actively work to keep the exiles at bay. This type of approach isn't sustainable and can often lead to addictive behaviors, dissociation, shutting down, or self-destruction.
Where Do the Parts of IFS Therapy Come From?
Each person has an internal system that works to protect themselves. You have memories from your childhood that you hold internally until you're ready and able to process them. These memories could range from happy moments to scary, challenging, or even traumatic ones.
Another way you develop an internal family system is through the people you surround yourself with. This could be your close family, friends, or even teachers if you felt close to them. When you build relationships, you naturally take on some of the personality traits and characteristics of the people you're hanging out with.
Next Steps
Internal Family Systems therapy is a great way to bring you back to your center again. Each person has different parts and pieces inside of them that make them who they are today. Sometimes, those parts can feel like they're challenging one another. You're not alone if you feel this way. Luckily, you don't have to try to manage these parts all on your own.
If you feel like you're struggling with getting back to your true self, I’m here to help you. Reach out today if you're interested in setting up a consultation to see how online therapy works.
