IFS, Grief and Loss
THis video describes how the system responds to loss
Trauma to Body-Mind (psychoneuro)Immunological Reactions by Elizabeth H. Fisher, PhD.
“In IFS and in other models for working with altered states, with the energy body and with
the physical body, we find glimpses of antidotes for these recurring reactions to trauma,
and healthy ways of preventing further harm.”
Our Bodies? Our Selves? – Susan McConnell
“Parts have bodies, parts are located in the body, and parts may use the body to perform
their protective or reactive functions. Weight gain may be an attempt to protect the tender
core from repeated boundary violations, or to prevent unwanted sexual interest; weight
loss may be an effort to provide a sense of control.”
Let Your Clients Help You Heal – Dick Schwartz
“Whether an impasse or vicious cycle is triggered by
therapist or client, the onus is on us as therapists—not to always remain Self-led because
that’s impossible—but to return to Self-leadership when we’ve lost it and nip vicious
cycles in the bud.”
IFS and Mindfulness Meditation – Paul Ginter Ed.D.
“With IFS, there is the understanding that if one part changes, it will inevitably affect
other parts within the system. Likewise, the concept of interbeing in mindfulness suggests
a profound level of connection between all things.”
Finding My Way In By Finding My Own Parts – Erich Moraine
Erich describes his journey to becoming a more Self-led therapist. “I caught the first few glimpses of this Self-like manager I named the striver/therapist
when I heard mixed reviews as part of my feedback during the practice sessions. This
striver part was definitely in charge and focused all of his/my energy on creating a
breakthrough for my practice clients, no matter what.”
An Interview with Dick Schwartz Ellen Pritsker, 1999
Dick Schwartz, 1999: “I believe this work can change society, change the way people understand and relate
to one another, both as individuals and as groups.”
IFS and The Twelve Steps – Suzan McVicker
Susan here describes bringing the IFS model to an ongoing group of people in recovery using the 12 steps model. “The biggest challenge of the weekly group’s
“storming” stage seemed to be triggering around members experiences and expectations
lingering from former treatments and self help groups.”
Accessing the Self and Parts Through Authentic Movement – Susan Cahill
“authentic movement is a remarkably effective tool to
access the inner voices of our parts through physical expression… When a nonverbal relationship is
developed between the Self and parts, parts are more likely to trust and accept the
presence, power, and leadership of the Self”
Grief: Mapping the Terrain
This post by Derek offers an overview and critique of contemporary bereavement theory and suggests some guiding principles in working with the bereaved from an IFS perspective. There is also a link to a video which demonstrates through role-play the application of the IFS method to bereavement.