Family bonding together outdoors, symbolizing the supportive and healing environment fostered by IFS Therapy.

What are the 6 Steps of IFS therapy?

An In-Depth Look at the 6 Steps of IFS Therapy

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a powerful approach used to address and heal trauma. It operates on the principle that the mind is naturally multiple, with each part having its own positive intention and value. At Authentic Growth Wellness Group, we provide comprehensive IFS therapy to help individuals manage and overcome trauma.

How Does IFS Heal Trauma?

IFS therapy heals trauma by recognizing and welcoming all parts of the self, including those with extreme symptoms. Unlike traditional therapies, IFS starts by understanding and valuing these parts immediately, acknowledging their protective intentions.

 

  • Unblending Parts: The process begins with helping clients unblend their various parts using the 6Fs—Find, Focus, Flesh it out, Feel, beFriend, and Fear.
  • Engaging with Parts: This unblending fosters compassionate and curious engagement with parts, facilitating deeper healing.
  • Respecting Protective Roles: For trauma survivors, this respectful approach makes the therapeutic process safe and supportive.

     

By addressing and working with these parts, clients can release their burdens and integrate them into a harmonious whole, leading to lasting healing.

What Are the Steps of a Healing Journey?

The 6 steps of IFS therapy, known as the 6Fs, guide clients through a transformative process of self-discovery and healing:

 

  1. Find the Part:
    • Identify the part of your body or mind that needs attention.
    • Ask yourself, “Where do you notice it?”
  2. Focus on It:
    • Turn your attention inward to this part.
    • Visualize it and notice how it feels.
  3. Flesh It Out:
    • Describe this part in detail.
    • How does it look or feel? How close are you to it?
  4. Feel Toward the Part:
    • Assess your feelings towards this part.
    • Are your feelings aligned with the 8 C’s of Self-energy: Curiosity, calm, clarity, connectedness, confidence, courage, creativity, and compassion?
    • If your feelings aren’t aligned, another part may be influencing your thoughts. Ask this second part to relax and let you interact with the target part.
  5. Befriend the Part:
    • Develop a friendly relationship with this part.
    • Ask questions like:
      • How did it get its job?
      • How effective is its job?
      • What would it rather do?
      • How old is it?
      • What else does it want you to know?
  6. What Does This Part Fear?:
    • Understand the fears and concerns of this part.
    • Ask questions such as:
      • What would happen if it stopped doing its job?
      • What does it want for you?
    • This helps reveal any underlying issues or polarizations, like protecting against deeper feelings of loneliness or worthlessness.

 

This process helps clients differentiate their protective parts from their core Self, enabling them to address and heal their internal conflicts effectively.

Happy family sitting together in a field of flowers, representing the harmony and connection fostered by IFS Therapy.
Embracing the joy of unity and connection through IFS Therapy

How to Do IFS Therapy on Your Own?

While working with a licensed counselor is highly recommended for optimal results, there are ways to practice IFS therapy on your own. Start by finding a quiet place where you can focus without distractions. Follow the 6Fs steps: find a part, focus on it, flesh it out, feel towards it, befriend it, and understand its fears. Journaling about your experiences can also help in processing and understanding your internal parts.

Who Is IFS Therapy Good For?

IFS therapy benefits individuals with internal conflicts, trauma, or unresolved emotional issues. It is especially effective for trauma survivors, helping them understand and integrate various parts of their psyche. Key groups who benefit from IFS therapy include:

  • Trauma Survivors: Addresses protective roles of different parts to heal traumatic experiences.
  • People with Internal Conflicts: Resolves conflicting emotions and thoughts, fostering internal cooperation.
  • Individuals with Emotional Issues: Engages compassionately with internal parts to address deep-seated emotional issues.

People seeking a deep, introspective approach to mental health and emotional healing will find IFS therapy particularly beneficial.

The Importance of IFS Therapy in Healing Trauma

IFS therapy is a transformative tool in trauma treatment, providing emotional support, coping strategies, and long-term management solutions. If you or a loved one is struggling with trauma, IFS therapy can significantly improve mental health and overall well-being.

 

At Authentic Growth Wellness Group, we offer a range of therapy services tailored to various mental health needs. Our licensed counselors provide personalized treatment plans to help individuals manage trauma effectively. We also offer specialized programs and support groups for those seeking community and shared experiences. To begin your journey towards better mental health, request an appointment or contact us at telephone number (630) 796-0884.

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