How Does Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Parts Work Go?

Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) & Parts Work is a unique therapeutic approach that views the mind as made up of various "parts," each with its own perspectives, emotions, and roles. Central to IFS is the concept of the "Self," a core of calmness, clarity, and compassion that can help guide these parts toward healing and harmony. This modality is especially useful for addressing complex emotional issues and fostering personal growth.

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What Can IFS & Parts Work Help With?
IFS & Parts Work can be beneficial for a wide range of psychological and emotional challenges, including:

• Trauma and PTSD: It helps process and integrate traumatic memories and experiences.

• Anxiety and Depression: By working with parts that hold fear or sadness, it can alleviate symptoms and foster resilience.

• Relationship Issues: It improves understanding of personal and relational dynamics, enhancing communication and intimacy.

• Self-Esteem and Identity Issues: Helps individuals connect with their true Self, boosting confidence and self-worth.

• Behavioral Issues: Addresses self-destructive behaviors by understanding the protective parts behind them.

• Addiction and Compulsions: Works to understand and heal the parts that drive addictive behaviors.

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While we can do Parts Work on a one-off basis, it works best in a multiple session plan specifically focused on this technique. I can incorporate some Parts Work and somatic practices into my Life, Sex, and Relationship Coaching if clients are familiar with it and request it. Otherwise, I generally advise following a plan like the below.

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What Does a Typical 8-Session Plan Look Like?
An 8-session plan provides a structured yet flexible approach to working through personal issues using IFS & Parts Work:

Session 1: Introduction and Overview

• Introduction to the IFS model and the concept of the Self and parts.

• Mapping out your internal parts and understanding their roles and functions.

Session 2: Establishing a Safe Space

• Developing a safe and trusting environment for exploration.

• Connecting with the Self and identifying protective parts.

Session 3: Exploring Protective Parts

• Delving into the parts that act as protectors, understanding their fears and concerns.

• Beginning the dialogue process to establish trust with these parts.

Session 4: Uncovering Vulnerable Parts

• Identifying parts that carry vulnerability, pain, or trauma.

• Working with the Self to provide comfort and support to these parts.

Session 5-7: Healing and Integration

• Focused sessions on processing and healing the burdens carried by various parts.

• Integrating unburdened parts into a cohesive internal system.

• Strengthening the Self's leadership and guidance within the system.

Session 8: Reflection and Future Planning

• Reviewing progress and insights gained throughout the sessions.

• Developing a plan for continued self-care and future growth.

• Setting goals for ongoing integration and harmony.

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What Are Individual Sessions With Me Like?
Each IFS & Parts Work session is a journey into the mind's landscape, with a focus on healing and integration:

• Check-In: We start with a brief check-in to understand your current emotional state and any immediate concerns.

• Identifying Parts: I will guide you on an exploration to identify and connect with the parts that are most present or in need of attention.

• Dialogue and Exploration: We’ll engage in a compassionate dialogue with the identified parts, listening to their stories, needs, and concerns.

• Unburdening Process: I will help you release negative beliefs or emotions that parts may carry, allowing for healing and transformation.

• Integration and Closure: We’ll reflect on the session's work, integrating insights, and ensuring you feel grounded and supported.

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Internal Family Systems & Parts Work offers a compassionate and holistic approach to understanding and healing the complexities of the mind. By fostering a loving relationship with all parts of oneself, individuals can achieve greater emotional balance, self-awareness, and a sense of inner harmony. Whether you're facing specific challenges or seeking deeper personal growth, IFS & Parts Work can provide a powerful framework for transformation and healing.

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A Quick Note
It's important to clarify that, as a coach, I am not a therapist and do not work with insurance. While my background includes training in psychology and mental health, as well as specific modalities like Somatic EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Parts Work, my role is distinct from that of a talk therapist.

We will dive into traumatic memories and the past in sessions with EMDR and IFS, but I require clients to have already gone through traditional therapy and/or have a high level of self-awareness about their trauma, behaviors, mental health conditions, and patterns. While I may use therapeutic techniques to support your journey, my work is not about diagnosing mental health conditions but about guiding you toward personal and emotional growth and success. This distinction ensures that our sessions are a collaborative and dynamic process, tailored to help you create the life you desire.