IFS can be a powerful and transformative way of working. As you will see from the video linked here, the modality takes the belief that all of our minds are multiple (which is positive!) and that these parts, which we are born with, make up our personality; who we are, our qualities, skills, attributes etc, but life experience may mean that our parts are forced to take on new roles or jobs in order to protect us and to keep us safe. By getting to know these parts and why they think, feel and act like they do, we can begin to understand ourself and begin to make the changes in our life that we want to make.
As well as parts, we all have 'Self'. I believe that self is the core of us, our spirit, but discovering what this means to you is deeply personal. "Self is in everyone. It can't be damaged. It knows how to heal."
(Quote: What is Internal Family Systems? | IFS Institute (ifs-institute.com)
As an integrative counsellor I draw on many ways of working, but IFS informs my practice and I may offer this way of understanding to you in our sessions if I feel it would be beneficial. As with any approach I offer, it is up to you whether it is something you choose to adopt.
Creative therapy can be a way to make space for our thoughts and feelings outside of ourselves. Sometimes when we are going through a challenging time, it can be easy to tie ourselves in knots by overthinking and analysing. Drawing, using a sand tray, or moulding play dough can help us make sense of our inner world by putting it in front of us on the outside and being able to observe it at a distance.
I offer online therapy for individuals ages 16 and over. This work can be very different than working face to face, but has been shown to offer just as much value to clients. Links for sessions conducted via Microsoft Teams will be sent at least 24 hours before a session.
I am qualified as a Certified Cyber Therapist with the Online Therapy Institute who offer a broad and comprehensive training about working online and all the different ways this may suit different individuals.