Internal Family Systems Therapy: UK Options For This Mental Health Counselling Method
Researchers have long been aware of a need for effective therapeutic modalities to treat trauma, especially in those with complex childhood trauma that causes long-term challenges in adulthood. Although modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective for a wide range of people, some don’t respond as well to these techniques when working through severe trauma or dissociation. For this reason, psychologists created internal family systems therapy (IFS) and similar modalities to address the unique challenges of developmental trauma. Below, explore the principles of IFS, how to find a provider in the UK, and what to look for in an IFS therapist.
The importance of trauma-informed care in mental health counselling
Trauma-informed care is an approach that looks at an individual’s unique experiences in life instead of only viewing mental health from a pathological perspective. Prior to the advent of this approach, many providers were trained to see clients only as a set of symptoms or “bad behaviors” that should be changed. With trauma-informed care, although it may also involve changing unhelpful behaviors and thoughts, the emphasis is on treating the client with respect, not blaming them for their symptoms, and assuming their challenges come from what they’ve been through, not just who they are.
Having a trauma-informed provider can make a significant difference in the therapy experience and outcomes for a client. Studies suggest that trauma-informed care staff don’t just treat symptoms or validate a client but also typically avoid doing further harm or retraumatizing the client.
In addition, trauma-informed care can act as a base for effective mental healthcare that aims to address other challenges. Without trauma-informed support, other types of mental health care may be ineffective. Internal family systems therapy is one modality that focuses on treating clients using a highly trauma-informed approach.
Internal family systems therapy (IFS therapy) or counselling: How it was developed and how it works
Internal family systems therapy was developed in the 1980s by Dr. Richard Schwartz, PhD. He aimed to use the ideas of systems thinking and the multiplicity of the mind theory to create a system that could treat people with complex developmental trauma and dissociative disorders. The idea of the treatment is based on parts theory, which posits that all people have several inner parts to their personality that can become fractured, and that some parts may be stronger in certain moments than others.
Developmental trauma, which is often associated with severe dissociative disorders and trauma-related conditions, is thought to cause this type of splitting of the personality. Mental health care approaches related to parts theory are not the same as dissociative identity disorder (DID), a mental health condition where each part has its own identity, name, age, and personality. Instead, parts theory posits that all people have parts of their personality and subpersonalities and that these may be more pronounced in some individuals—especially those with past trauma.
Which mental illnesses can IFS therapy help treat?
Internal family systems therapy was developed to treat trauma- and stressor-related conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD (C-PTSD). In addition, the modality can be helpful for other disorders commonly formed from trauma, such as dissociative disorders and some personality disorders like borderline personality disorder (BPD).
The IFS Institute now provides IFS training to therapists nationwide so they can offer this unique type of support to clients with virtually any mental health condition or need. Often, clients will be guided in working within their own internal system to reduce self-critical thoughts as well as improve self-leadership and their concept of core self through the IFS model.
Research on the effectiveness of IFS for trauma- and stressor-related disorders
Several preliminary studies have indicated that IFS can be effective in many cases, and its popularity is growing. Research published on the IFS Institute website can be reviewed by individuals looking for more information.
For example, a 2021 study looking at IFS for post-traumatic stress disorder in clients with multiple severe childhood traumatic events suggests that IFS was effective for these clients. After treatment, clients showed increased interoceptive awareness and self-compassion as well as an increased ability to self-regulate and reduced depression symptoms.
How to find internal family systems therapy: UK options
Finding an IFS therapist may be tricky, as the modality is more rare and newer than other popular approaches. However, you may be able to connect with an IFS counsellor through the following methods.
The NHS
The National Health Service (NHS) provides free healthcare to eligible UK residents and citizens. You can request a referral to an IFS therapist by talking to your general practitioner or self-referring through the NHS website or self-referral hotline number. For those who are looking for care outside of the NHS, additional options may be available as detailed below.
Independent providers specializing in internal family systems therapy UK
Independent therapists may be more likely to practice a modality like IFS, as they can control their client load and may be more specialized. However, they might not take insurance or work with the NHS, so you may have to pay out of pocket. In these cases, those facing financial barriers might look for sliding-scale therapists. These providers offer lower rates for those with low income or no income.
Online counselling
Online counselling might be helpful for those who are having trouble connecting with a qualified provider in their area. Online counselling can be available through the NHS in some cases. Online platforms—which may be more affordable than independent practitioners—could also be worth exploring. Online therapy can be a more convenient option for those who struggle to leave home due to a disability or those who have few providers nearby.
Charities and other options for finding a mental health therapist
Some charities in the UK may offer free therapy or sponsor someone to get low-cost services. Students may also be able to get free therapy through their university, and employees might have mental health support offered through their employer. It may help to look into all the options available to you before selecting a therapist.
What to look for in an IFS therapist
When looking for an IFS therapist, you might ensure they are registered with an organization like the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). You might also inquire as to whether the provider has certification through the IFS Institute. This extra credential can help you trust that your therapist has fully studied the modality and understands what is required to support clients. Providers can work with Internal Family Systems UK to get certified within the UK.
Other traits to consider looking for in a therapist include the following:
- Respect, patience, and empathy
- Past experience treating clients with your condition, symptoms, or lived experiences
- Tolerance and understanding of different identities; a lack of bias
- An understanding of trauma and trauma-informed care
What does an IFS session look like?
The first session is generally an intake appointment where the therapist will ask questions about your mental health history and goals for therapy. They may explain the basis of IFS to you and help you start to identify parts within your own mental “system.”
In following sessions, you and your therapist might discuss the typical roles parts can play, such as protection, holding memories, guarding emotional pain, or socializing. You’ll explore and map these parts in more detail at your own pace over time. Your provider may also use other therapeutic methods alongside IFS, such as teaching skills like mindfulness, meditation, and visualization.
Similar modalities to IFS
If you’re looking for a trauma-informed therapist, there are many options to consider in addition to IFS. For example, you might also look into similar modalities that have been around for longer or don’t only focus on parts-related work, such as:
- Trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy (TI-CBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR)
- Exposure and response prevention (ERP)
- Ego state therapy
- Existential therapy
- Emotionally focused therapy (EFT)
- Attachment-focused therapy
- Family therapy with a family therapist
Alternative mental health support options
If you’re looking for a way to find support without having to go to a therapist in your area, you may be able to find an IFS therapist online. Online platforms like BetterHelp offer subscriptions as low as £65, billed every four weeks. Since clients can use these platforms to engage in online therapy sessions via phone, video, or live chat from anywhere they have an internet connection, it can be a more convenient option for those with a busy schedule or a lack of nearby providers.
Studies indicate that online IFS may be effective in supporting clients who have experienced trauma. For example, findings from a 2024 study suggest that online group IFS therapy significantly reduced PTSD symptoms in 53% of participants, and all participants were reported to have experienced decentering, increased self-compassion, and improved emotion regulation.
Takeaway
Internal family systems therapy is a modality based on parts and systems theory, developed by Richard Schwartz. Individuals in the UK who are interested in seeking this kind of support might explore options like the NHS, independent practice therapists, and online therapy. If you’d like to try IFS or another trauma-based modality, consider reaching out to a provider online or in your area.
Frequently asked questions
What is the controversy with IFS therapy?
Internal family systems therapy involves a non-traditional approach to mental health, which can be off-putting to those who are used to more traditional modalities. In addition, while some studies on its efficacy exist, more research is needed.
How much does IFS therapy cost per session?
The cost of IFS therapy can vary widely depending on the professional and whether your insurance offers coverage for this type of treatment. Without insurance, an IFS therapy session may range from $50 to $250.
What is the success rate of IFS therapy?
As there is currently limited research on the efficacy of IFS therapy, it’s difficult to determine its success rate. The studies that have been done typically reveal improvements in various mental health disorders, such as depression and PTSD.
Who funds the IFS in the UK?
The Institute for Fiscal Studies is a nonprofit. It receives funding from multiple sources, including the Economic and Social Research Council, UK government departments, and the European Research Council, among others.
What are the negatives of IFS therapy?
IFS therapy is usually a positive experience for clients. However, if a clinician hasn’t received proper trauma and IFS training, there could be potential for harm. Ensuring a therapist has the proper credentials may decrease the chance of negative outcomes or difficult experiences. Keep in mind that the therapist working with you should make therapy a welcoming place where you are comfortable talking about your thoughts and feelings.
Is IFS therapy worth it?
While the question of whether IFS therapy is “worth it” is a subjective one, research suggests that it can be a helpful form of treatment for various mental health concerns. In internal family systems therapy, multiple “families” or sub-personalities are identified as different parts within a person. There may be hurt parts or wounded parts, such as the inner critic, as well as parts of the personality that attempt to protect a person from pain. The relationship between these parts is often unhealthy, and aspects of attachment theory are often used in IFS to explain the extreme roles of the parts of the human mind. The goal of IFS therapy is to heal the wounded parts and achieve mental balance.
How long does IFS therapy take to work?
Some sources suggest that individuals will gain a sense of whether IFS therapy will help them within the first three to five sessions. In most cases, it takes at least two or three sessions to gain an understanding of the different parts of oneself and their roles. There’s not necessarily a set timeline for this type of therapy, as everyone is different.
Does IFS heal trauma?
IFS can be particularly helpful for trauma and overcoming difficult life experiences. This compassion-focused therapy can help individuals develop insight into their inner world, promoting self-awareness and an appreciation of one’s valuable qualities.
Who is IFS therapy best for?
IFS therapy may be best for anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, relationship problems, and eating disorders. It can also be helpful for challenges like imposter syndrome and self-harm in both young people and older adults. It’s not usually recommended for those with borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, and dissociative identity disorder.
Is IFS good for anxiety?
Some small studies suggest that IFS can be beneficial for anxiety. However, the current body of research isn’t necessarily enough to make any definitive statements.
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