Are you familiar with the saying “my head says one thing, but my heart says another?” This is a prime example of egostate work: The idea that our personalities are made up of multiple parts, that we access in different times and situations. With this therapeutic modality, we get curious about the parts that make up your unique system. We use trauma-informed therapy for the parts that are overactive and need relief, and future template exercises to gain easier access to parts you decide are more appropriate for specific situations.
Borrowed from the teaching of Frank Anderson, I encourage clients to watch the trailer to Inside Out before session, so they can better conceptualize our conversations.
Who is IFS/Egostate Work right for?
Individuals who are:
- Looking to improve their meditation techniques or feel as if they “can’t” meditate.
- Feeling as if they are fully identifying with previous diagnoses, and are looking to diversify their identity.
- Not showing up in situations as the versions of themselves they are satisfied with (i.e. unable to be present in the moment, anger management, frequently judgemental, etc).
- Previous CBT/DBT treatment were able to identify the root of the problem, but client felt as if there was “no movement.”
If you’d like further information, please see the link below:
What is Internal Family Systems? | IFS Institute