Internal Family Systems Therapy

Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) works from the idea that individuals can only be fully understood within a view of a “family” unit. Similarly, IFS assumes each individual possesses a variety of sub-personalities, or “parts,” (each with its own likes, dislikes, burdens and history) designed with a distinct role in achieving self preservation for the person. Each part can be labeled as a type (Exiles, Firefighters or Managers). Therefore, looking at each part can help identify whether it is either healthy and productive or extreme.

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Why Internal Family Systems Therapy?

Internal Family Systems Therapy is proven to be effective

While it is difficult to draw definitive conclusions when it comes to researching psychological and emotional phenomena, Internal Family Systems Therapy has been shown to be effective for the improvement of emotional and mental well-being specifically in the improvement of symptoms of phobia, panic, generalized anxiety, depression, and certain physical ailments.

Internal Family Systems Therapy has structure

We want the individuals we serve to have a clear idea of what we are doing and why we are doing it in therapy. Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) works from the idea that individuals can only be fully understood within a view of a “family” unit. Similarly, IFS assumes each individual possesses a variety of sub-personalities, or “parts,” (each with its own likes, dislikes, burdens and history) designed with a distinct role in achieving self preservation for the person. Each part can be labeled as a type (Exiles, Firefighters or Managers). Therefore, looking at each part can help identify whether it is either healthy and productive or extreme. Therapy can be intimidating, especially when you don’t know what to expect. However, understanding the basics of Internal Family Systems Therapy can help with calming any uncertainties.

Internal Family Systems Therapy is logical

This may just be a personal preference of ours, but we value practicality. Internal Family Systems has a well-researched theoretical base, but in treatment what takes precedence is what is currently taking place in an individual’s life and what can be done to make desired changes. Finally, achieving greater insight is a worthwhile pursuit, but we’re more concerned with helping people put that greater insight to use.

Internal Family Systems Therapy builds on itself

We believe in the adage, “It is a therapist’s goal to work themselves out of a job.” However, at Mindly, we understand that the reason people come to therapy is because they are looking for help in escaping some sort of distress. Therefore, we want to help you feel better as soon as possible while also setting you up for long-term success. Internal Family Systems Therapy offers exploration into the self that can be applied across multiple platforms in life and can be utilized immediately to effect change. Similarly, learning more about the aspects of the internal “family” provides insight into behavior patterns and incorporates the opportunity for change early in the process with continued effectiveness as more insight is obtained.

Internal Family Systems Therapy is goal oriented

At Mindly, we do not delude ourselves into thinking that we know how to solve every problem that our clients experience or that we can somehow lead an individual down a path towards “enlightenment” or “self-actualization” (think Gandhi). Therefore, we strive to assist individuals overcome specific obstacles that may be in their self-defined path towards whatever larger end they choose to pursue. Why? Self-actualization is life-long process, whereas therapy shouldn’t have to be.