Pear Tree Software
Bahama, North Carolina
Internal Family Systems Therapy
The Internal Family Systems model of the human mind was developed, starting in the eighties, by Richard C. Schwartz, PhD. Working with bulimic young women he would often hear reference to a "part of me" that seemed at odds with another "part of me". Deciding to take these reports seriously, Schwartz came to realize not only that we have these internal "parts", but that one can talk with them, get to know them, and discover why they often cling to extreme beliefs or behaviors which are dysfunctional for the person as a whole.
As Schwartz worked with clients during the following years other important concepts emerged. All parts are "good" parts; they may have been forced into "bad" or extreme roles, often by childhood situations or events. Everyone has a core Self, which is our innate natural leader. This Self has the desirable qualities of curiosity, calmness, compassion, courage, clarity, connectedness, creativity, etc. The Self has often been pushed aside over time by the well meaning but extreme behaviors of the parts.
Much of the work of IFS therapy is to help the parts to unburden their outdated beliefs or "burdens", resolve the polarizations which are often present among them, and assume new positive roles. The ultimate goal is for the Self to regain the trust of the parts and return to its original leadership role.
During the therapy, clients work through their issues and burdens at a safe and appropriate pace, dealing with the concerns of each part as needed. IFS therapy is effective because it respects the complex realities of each person's unique inner family.