IFS (Internal Family Systems Therapy)

Internal Family Systems is important work for treatment of Complex Trauma and Dissociative States, helping to identify the defenses that a younger self needed to survive (ie. fight, flight, fawn or freeze parts).   We identify Managers, Exiles and Firefighters to understand how each part was perhaps wounded or was essential to manage a traumatic moment.  Applying Somatic Experiencing, then, to be outraged or grieve with them and to help us support them somatically to step back when safety is present.

Together, we will consider social and and familial oppressions.  Parts of us might develop as a result of racism, gender difference phobias and shaming of neurodiversity.  Dissociative parts (or “undercoupled” ones) are deeply understood and appreciated here as in hiding due to abuse, neglect or overwhelm.   We both celebrate and challenge dissociation with expansive time and close support to sense shifts.

Research has found IFS to be effective in treating individuals and groups with a range of concerns, including depression, dissociative identity disorder, and eating disorders.   We find IFS helps to manage the complexity that so many folks with CPTSD feel in their reactions; adding SE helps make the work smoother, less jarring or intense.

Let your intake support person know that you are interested in IFS work as you connect with us – they’ll want to match you with a clinician that supports that passion.