The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model of trauma therapy is an innovative and effective approach to healing from trauma. It was developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz and is based on the idea that our minds are composed of different "parts" or subpersonalities, each with its own feelings, beliefs, and roles. In IFS therapy, healing from trauma involves working with these parts to bring about harmony and balance within oneself. Here's how the IFS model can be applied to trauma therapy:

Identifying Parts: The first step in IFS therapy is to identify the different parts within oneself. These parts can represent various emotions, beliefs, or roles that have developed as a result of trauma. For example, there might be a part that holds the traumatic memories and another part that tries to protect you from feeling the pain associated with those memories.

Self-Leadership: In IFS, there is a central concept known as the "Self." The Self represents your core, true self – the part of you that is calm, compassionate, and wise. The goal is to access the Self and allow it to lead the healing process.

Unburdening Parts: Once you've identified your parts, the therapist helps you develop a relationship with each of them. You learn to listen to what each part has to say and understand its role. Some parts may carry heavy burdens related to the trauma, such as fear, shame, or guilt. The goal is to unburden these parts and release the trapped emotions associated with the trauma.

Reconnecting and Healing: As you work with your parts and unburden them, the goal is to heal the wounded parts of yourself. This process involves re-establishing a connection with the Self, which can provide guidance and healing to the wounded parts.

Integration: Ultimately, the goal of IFS therapy is to integrate these different parts into a harmonious whole. This means that you no longer feel controlled or overwhelmed by certain emotions or reactions related to the trauma. Instead, you have a balanced and compassionate relationship with your inner parts, and they work together to support your overall well-being.

Self-Compassion: IFS therapy places a strong emphasis on self-compassion. It encourages you to treat yourself with kindness and understanding, recognizing that all your parts, even those that may have developed in response to trauma, have valuable intentions and deserve compassion.

Externalizing Blame: IFS therapy helps individuals externalize blame and shame, recognizing that these feelings often result from parts trying to protect them from further harm. By understanding and healing these parts, individuals can reduce self-blame and self-criticism.

Ongoing Practice: Healing from trauma using the IFS model is an ongoing process. It requires practice and self-compassion over time. The goal is not just to manage trauma symptoms but to truly heal and transform your relationship with yourself and your past.

In summary, the IFS model of trauma therapy is a holistic approach that acknowledges the complexity of the human experience. It encourages individuals to work with their internal parts, fostering self-compassion, and ultimately achieving healing and integration.

If you are seeking to heal from past trauma, ask your therapist about using the IFS model as part of your therapy plan.