Confessions of a fearful avoidant, dipping her toes into IFS (Internal Family Systems) and trying to make sense of the complexity of parts she stumbles into.
The birds-eye view of Internal Family Systems is that it's an evidence-based psychotherapy model developed by Richard Schwartz. This perspective views the mind as a system of distinct "parts" or sub-personalities within each of us.
These parts have unique emotions, roles, and motivations, but no matter how dark their expression, their core role has always been to protect you from pain.
IFS therapy involves identifying and understanding these parts, particularly wounded inner child parts called "Exiles" and protective "Managers" and "Firefighters," to promote inner harmony and healing.
The goal is to access the core Self, our source of calm, curiosity, and compassion, and teach it to lead these parts as our inner parent, restoring balance and nurturing growth.
Disclaimer: I am not sharing IFS from a therapeutic perspective, nor is this intended to be advice. I am sharing from my personal perspective, based on this singular moment in time on my path. I encourage you to do your own research and work with a therapist or IFS practitioner if you want to dive deeper.
Support the show
Whether you’re here for deep questions, unexpected laughter, or just the reminder that you’re not alone through the pain, you’re in the right place. Hit that follow button and join me as we keep chasing the big questions together.
Instagram (my main bungalow): www.instagram.com/rachelleedom
Substack (long & short form writing, poetry, short stories): https://substack.com/@rachelleedom
