Dr. Richard Schwartz created Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) as an integrative approach to help address internal components that play a part in our everyday lives. It is based on the belief that people are made up of many different parts. Dr. Sara Dupuis uses this method to help people better navigate through their feelings and emotions.
Appointments are available in-person in East Lansing and virtually for Michigan residents.
The Basics of IFS
Internal Family Systems Therapy holds the belief that people are made up as parts that can interfere with our core self. Each part is unique, with discrete viewpoints, attributes, and experiences that impact a person's thoughts and behaviors.
These sub-personalities can have turmoil that affects an individual's core self. The parts may be characterized by their role in managing a person's daily life, may hold a person's painful feelings, or prompt coping techniques when painful memories resurface. Through IFS, you and your therapist will work on the areas that are negatively impacting your mental well-being. Together, you will create harmony among the parts by re-integrating them into the 'self'.
What IFS Treats
IFS can be a treatment to improve your mental health overall. Dr. Dupuis may use it to help resolve internal conflict and triggers.
IFS can help with include all of the following:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Substance abuse
- Trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Phobias
How IFS Works
IFS uses mindfulness and grounding techniques to tap into parts and feelings. Rather than suppressing emotions, you are empowered to move through them, as you navigate the source or trigger events. Through this therapy, you resolve internal conflicts you may not have been aware of. Internal Family Systems therapy isn’t the only way of framing mental health struggles, but many people find it helpful. If you are looking for a new way of coping with internal conflict, Dr. Dupuis offers in-person visits in East Lansing and online therapy for Michigan residents.
