Why we use IFS

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Internal Family Systems (IFS) is an integrative approach to individual psychotherapy developed by Richard C. Schwartz in the 1980s. It combines systems thinking with the view that the mind is made up of relatively discrete subpersonalities or parts [1]. The model is based on the premise that individuals, similar to complex external family systems, are composed of separate and multifaceted internal parts in relationship with each other[1]. 

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The Self and the three kinds of "parts"...

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The internal system consists of the types of relationships between each of the parts and the self. The three primary relationships consist of protection, polarization, and alliance[1]. IFS sees consciousness as composed of a central self with three types of subpersonalities or parts: managers, exiles, and firefighters[4]. 

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The IFS model is based on several assumptions. It posits that the mind is naturally subdivided into an indeterminate number of subpersonalities or parts. Everyone has a Self, and the Self can and should lead the individual's internal system. The non-extreme intention of each part is something positive for the individual. There are no "bad" parts, and the goal of therapy is not to eliminate parts but instead to help them find their non-extreme roles. As we develop, our parts develop and form a complex system of interactions among themselves; therefore, systems theory can be applied to the internal system. When the system is reorganized, parts can change rapidly. Changes in the internal system will affect changes in the external system and vice versa[6].

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Ways it can help our lives...

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The overall goals of IFS therapy are to achieve balance and harmony within the internal system, to differentiate and elevate the Self, and to understand that the individual's internal system affects and is affected by the external system of which he or she is a part[6].

IFS is frequently used as an evidence-based psychotherapy, helping people heal by accessing and healing their protective and wounded inner parts. It creates inner and outer connectedness by helping people first access their Self and, from that core, come to understand and heal their parts[5]. It is also a way of understanding personal and intimate relationships and stepping into life with the 8 Cs: confidence, calm, compassion, courage, creativity, clarity, curiosity, and connectedness[5].

Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internal_Family_Systems_Model
[2] https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/types/internal-family-systems-therapy
[3] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy-types/internal-family-systems-therapy
[4] https://psinyc.org/new-to-internal-family-systems/
[5] https://ifs-institute.com
[6] https://ifs-institute.com/resources/articles/internal-family-systems-model-outline
[7] https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-ifs-therapy-internal-family-systems-therapy-5195336
[8] https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/what-is-internal-family-systems-therapy-ifs/
[9] https://youtube.com/watch?v=fzevlBt5HUA