What Is IFS Psychodynamic Therapy?
Hello to all the I-do-my-homework-before-I-start-something-new people out there. I see your interest in this IFS therapy thing, and I’m glad you’re here! Today, I want to name and then answer a question that might be nebulously swirling around your head like a particularly hard-to-pin-down earworm:
Is IFS therapy that whole "psychodynamic" thing?
You know, that therapy where you spend hours dissecting your relationship with your mother, your father, your childhood traumas, and unearthing buried memories?
(Cue dramatic music and couch sessions with a therapist in a tweed jacket.)
Well, hold on to your metaphorical hats, because good news: IFS therapy is a whole different beast. It's like the cool, tattooed cousin of traditional therapy – insightful, effective, and way more down-to-earth than that stuffy stereotype.
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of IFS, let's break down the basics.
What Is the IFS Form of Therapy?
Imagine your inner world as a bustling apartment complex. You've got different tenants living there, each with their own quirks and personalities. There's the "Fiery Protector" who steps in when you feel threatened, the "Inner Critic" who whispers doubts in your ear, and maybe even a "Chill Surfer Dude" who takes things in stride (we can all wish for one of those!).
These are all examples of internal family systems parts, and IFS therapy is all about understanding these different parts of yourself. It's not about labeling them "good" or "bad," but rather recognizing their roles and motivations. Here's the cool part: you, the awesome human being you are, get to be the landlord of this inner apartment complex. IFS therapy helps you access your "Self," the calm and centered observer within, so you can navigate the needs of your internal tenants with compassion and understanding.
What Type of Therapy is IFS?
This is where things get interesting. IFS borrows some ideas from different therapy schools, but it's not quite the same as any of them. It definitely has some elements of psychodynamic therapy, like exploring your past experiences and understanding their impact on your present self. But unlike traditional psychodynamic therapy, IFS isn't solely focused on digging up buried memories.
Think of it this way: psychodynamic therapy is like an archeological dig, meticulously unearthing the past. IFS therapy, on the other hand, is more like an interior design project. You acknowledge the foundation of your past experiences, but the focus is on creating a harmonious and functional inner space for you to live your best life right now.
IFS also draws inspiration from family systems therapy. Just like families have different members with unique roles and dynamics, IFS recognizes that your inner world is a complex system of parts, each with its own needs and influences. By understanding these internal family dynamics, you can learn to manage conflict, cultivate compassion, and build a more cohesive and supportive inner unit.
As a parts work therapy example, imagine your "Inner Critic" is constantly nagging you about a mistake you made. Through IFS, you discover that this critical part isn't just trying to be mean - it's actually trying to protect you from feeling hurt or judged by others. You learn it was formed from growing up in an environment where mistakes were harshly criticized, so now whenever you make a misstep, this protective part kicks in, relentlessly reminding you of your imperfection…to avoid the possibility of that earlier pain.
With this newfound understanding, you can develop a more compassionate relationship with your "Inner Critic." You can acknowledge its intention to shield you, and then gently guide it towards more constructive ways to keep you safe.
Is IFS a Psychodynamic Therapy?
IFS shares some similarities with psychodynamic therapy, but it's not a perfect match. Both approaches acknowledge the influence of your past experiences on your present behavior. However, IFS takes a gentler approach. While psychodynamic therapy might delve deeply into uncovering those past experiences, IFS focuses more on understanding the parts of you that were shaped by those experiences and how they function in your inner world right now.
Imagine it like this: psychodynamic therapy is like reading a historical novel to understand the roots of a conflict, while IFS is like mediating a conversation between the warring parties in the present. Ultimately, IFS aims to create harmony within your inner system, empowering you to move forward with a sense of peace and self-compassion.
Is Internal Family Systems Legitimate?
Absolutely! IFS therapy is backed by a growing body of research. Studies have shown it to be effective in treating a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and even trauma.
Of course, IFS therapy criticism exists - some people question the validity of the "parts" concept, while others wonder if it's too complex. These concerns are explored a bit more here, but for now, let's keep unpacking what IFS therapy is all about.
IFS isn't just about feeling better; it's about personal growth and healing. It helps you become more self-aware, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and build stronger relationships – both with yourself and others.
Think about it: wouldn't it be awesome to have a whole crew of empowered and supportive "tenants" living inside you, instead of a bunch of bickering roommates?
Final Thoughts
So, is IFS psychodynamic therapy? Not exactly. It borrows some concepts, but ultimately it's a unique and powerful approach to healing and growth.
IFS therapy is about ditching the drama of your inner world and creating a space where all your parts, even the "Fiery Protector" and the "Inner Critic," can co-exist peacefully. It's about becoming the best version of yourself, not by erasing your past, but by learning to live with it in a way that empowers you.
Ready to rescue those inner roommates from their drama cycles and create a thriving inner apartment complex? Consider giving IFS therapy a shot. If you do and you happen to live in Missouri, I provide IFS therapy online and in person for individuals, women, and therapists.
