services
Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
Your personality is made up of different parts that help you navigate the world. However, traumatic experiences can cause some parts of yourself to be more integrated than others. This can make it difficult to have a clear sense of self-identity and feel in control of your reactions and responses. But with techniques like Coherence Therapy and Sub-Personalities, Ego State Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), you can address and work with the "parts" inside you that are causing emotional distress and behavioral difficulties. These powerful methods can help you understand and intentionally integrate these parts, giving you greater control over your thoughts and actions.
family therapy vancouver
family therapy vancouver
family therapy vancouver
Our Approach
Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
At Providence Therapy we are proud to offer Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) as an offering within our holistic trauma-focused group therapy practice. Our clinic is staffed with formally trained IFS therapists, and IFS informed counsellors, who are dedicated to helping individuals heal and transform.
Internal Family Systems Therapy, developed by Richard C. Schwartz, PhD, is a powerful and innovative therapeutic approach that recognizes the complexity of the human psyche. IFS views the mind as consisting of various parts, each with its own thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. These parts can be described as a family system, where different members of the system hold different roles and functions.In IFS, the therapist works alongside clients to explore and understand the various parts within them. This therapy approach emphasizes the importance of developing a compassionate and curious stance towards these parts, as well as fostering a deep sense of self-awareness.
The goal of IFS is not to eliminate or suppress any parts, but rather to establish a harmonious and balanced relationship among them, allowing the client to access their true self. The true self is seen as an essence within each individual that is calm, compassionate, and wise. By connecting with and nurturing the true self, clients can learn to heal their internal conflicts and wounds, resulting in lasting transformation and personal growth.
IFS is especially effective in trauma-focused therapy due to its inherent capacity to address the impact of traumatic experiences on the internal system. Traumatic events often result in the fragmentation and polarization of parts, leading to symptoms such as dissociation, anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship difficulties. Through IFS, clients can safely explore traumatic memories and their associated parts, enabling healing and integration to occur.
In addition to its effectiveness in trauma-focused therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) can also be beneficial in addressing a wide range of other issues and challenges individuals may face. At Providence Therapy, our trained IFS therapists recognize the versatility of this approach and the potential it holds for holistic healing and personal growth.
IFS can be particularly helpful in:
1. Anxiety and Depression:
IFS helps you identify and explore the parts of yourself that contribute to anxiety and depression. By developing a compassionate understanding of these parts and working towards integrating them, you can experience relief from symptoms and gain a greater sense of inner peace.
2. Relationship Difficulties:
IFS provides a valuable framework for understanding and improving relationships. By examining the various parts that influence how we engage with others, therapy can promote healthier patterns of communication, deepen empathy, and foster more satisfying connections.
3. Addictions and Compulsive Behaviors:
IFS views addiction as a way for parts to cope with underlying pain or trauma. By addressing the root causes and building a relationship with these parts, you can find healthier ways to meet their needs and overcome addictive patterns.
4. Self-Esteem and Self-Worth:
Many people struggle with low self-esteem and feelings of unworthiness. IFS helps to identify the critical and judgmental parts that contribute to these negative self-perceptions and supports the development of your self-compassion and self-acceptance.
5. Inner Conflict and Decision-Making:
IFS can assist you in resolving internal conflicts and dilemmas. By exploring different parts that hold opposing beliefs and desires, therapy helps clients find an integrated and balanced approach to decision-making, leading to increased clarity and alignment with your true self.
6. Chronic Pain and Physical Symptoms:
IFS recognizes the connection between mind and body and acknowledges that physical symptoms can be influenced by unresolved emotional issues. By addressing the underlying emotional parts related to chronic pain or physical symptoms, you may experience relief and improved well-being.
By incorporating Internal Family Systems Therapy, Providence Therapy ensures that clients have access to a comprehensive approach to healing and personal growth. Our skilled IFS therapists are dedicated to supporting you on your unique journey and guiding you towards lasting transformation and improved overall well-being.
Whether you're seeking trauma-focused or non-trauma-focused therapy, our clinicians are here to assist you in cultivating a healthy and harmonious internal system.
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
