*IFS* (Internal Family Systems) is a psycho-spiritual model and practice developed by [[Richard Schwartz]] in the 1980s. It takes the view that the mind is a system of distinct but interacting [parts](Parts) ([[Having parts is adaptive]]), and beneath these parts is a person's true [[Self]]: [[IFS makes people understandable]]. Each [part](Parts) has its own thoughts, feelings, personality, perspective, beliefs, interests, capabilities, and memories: [[Parts are people]]. Some parts (called [[Protectors]]) take on roles and personalities that are extreme and destructive. However, these parts are trying their best to protect us: [[Protectors have positive intent]] and [[There are no bad parts]]. Protectors take on these roles and personalities in an attempt to either prevent parts that are wounded by [trauma](Trauma) (called [[Exiles]]) from further harm or to protect a person's system from feeling the exile's pain: [[Protectors have good reasons for their roles and beliefs, even when they're extreme, irrational, and wrong]]. [[The goal of IFS is to become Self-led]]. [[The IFS process]] has many steps to help us get there, but the most important aspect is sharing Self-energy with our parts: [[Self-energy is healing]]. IFS can be practiced alone, practiced with the help of AI chatbots, and/or practiced with the help of an IFS practitioner. - For practicing alone: [Self-Therapy](https://www.amazon.com/Self-Therapy-Step-Step-Cutting-Edge-Psychotherapy/dp/0984392777) - For practicing with a chatbot: [IFS Chat](https://www.ifschat.com) - For practicing with an IFS practitioner: [IFS Institute Directory](https://ifs-institute.com/practitioners)and [IFSCA Directory](https://ifsca.ca/ifs-directory/) Practicing IFS can be hard. These principles help: - [[Working with an IFS practitioner makes healing easier]] - [[Check in on parts]] - [[Learn IFS even if you're working with a practitioner or chatbot]] - [[All parts are welcome]] - [[There are no bad parts]] - [[Protectors have positive intent]] - [[If you have an agenda, you're blended with a part]] - [[The goal of IFS isn't to get rid of parts]] - [[Parts are valuable]] - [[Be aware of Self-like parts]] - [[Everyone has parts]] - [[Parts aren't problems to solve]] - [[Protectors have good reasons for their roles and beliefs, even when they're extreme, irrational, and wrong]] - [[Let parts speak for themselves]] - [[Become familiar with Self-essence]] - [[IFS helps us release burdens and constraints]]