What might an Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy session look like when addressing anxiety?

IFS, developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, is grounded in the belief that within each individual, there exist multiple internal parts or sub-personalities, each with its own unique characteristics and emotions. When it comes to anxiety, these parts often play a significant role in the manifestation and perpetuation of anxious feelings. In this blog post, we will explore what an IFS session focused on anxiety might look like.Setting the Stage: The IFS session typically begins with the therapist creating a safe and comfortable environment for the client. Establishing trust is crucial, as the client will be delving into their inner world and sharing vulnerable aspects of themselves. The therapist may start with a brief check-in to gauge the client's current emotional state and any immediate concerns.
Introduction to Internal Parts: One of the core concepts of IFS is the understanding that individuals harbor various internal parts, each serving a unique purpose. In the context of anxiety, there might be a "worried part," a "protective part," or even an "avoidance part." The therapist introduces these concepts and helps the client identify which parts may be contributing to their anxiety.
Establishing Connection: The therapist guides the client in connecting with the anxious part. This involves exploring the feelings, thoughts, and sensations associated with anxiety. The client may be asked to locate where in their body they feel the anxiety and to describe its qualities. This process allows for a deeper understanding of the anxious part's role and significance.
Dialogue with Internal Parts: Once the anxious part is identified, the therapist facilitates a dialogue between the client and this internal aspect. This may involve asking questions like, "What is the anxious part trying to protect you from?" or "What does it need you to know?" The goal is to uncover the underlying motivations and fears of the anxious part.
Uncovering the Exiles: In IFS, there are often deeper layers of wounded or exiled parts that hold unresolved emotions and memories. These parts may be connected to past traumas or significant life events that contribute to the anxiety. The therapist gently explores these exiled parts, creating a space for acknowledgment and healing.
Integration and Harmony: As the dialogue progresses, the therapist guides the client in developing a compassionate and understanding relationship with their anxious part. The goal is not to eliminate the anxious part but rather to integrate it into the client's internal system in a way that promotes harmony and balance. This might involve identifying other, more positive parts that can provide support and reassurance.
Closure and Reflection: Towards the end of the session, the therapist and client work together to integrate the insights gained. The client may leave with a newfound awareness of their internal dynamics and tools for managing anxiety. Homework or reflective exercises may be assigned to further support the ongoing integration process between sessions.
An IFS session focused on anxiety is a collaborative journey between the therapist and client, exploring the internal landscape and fostering a sense of self-compassion. Through this process, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their anxiety, cultivate a more harmonious internal system, and ultimately find greater peace within themselves.