In Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, Manager parts are proactive protectors that work to prevent emotional pain from surfacing. They strive to keep the system in control by managing behaviour, emotions, relationships, and external impressions. Unlike...
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Questions to Ask a Manager Part in IFS Therapy
The Dangers of Using AI as a Therapist: When Speed Becomes a Threat
AI is being used in increasingly sophisticated ways to simulate human conversation and provide mental health support. While some apps and chatbots can offer valuable companionship or coping tools, using AI as a substitute for human psychotherapy carries significant...
The ‘F’s of IFS: A Guide to Internal Family Systems’ Core Process
I recently went on an Internal Family Systems (IFS). So that I have an easy reference, I am writing a few articles around what I learned. IFS was developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz and is a psychotherapeutic model grounded in the belief that the mind is naturally...
The ‘C’s of the Self in IFS: Cultivating Compassionate Presence
Introduction In Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, healing doesn’t come from analysing or overpowering parts—it comes from being present with them from the core of our being. This core is known as the Self. The Self in IFS is not...
How to Support Trans People During Pride Month
🏳️⚧️ How to Support Trans People During Pride Month Introduction Pride Month is a time of celebration, remembrance, and resistance. While the entire LGBTQ+ community deserves recognition and support, trans people—especially trans women of colour—have often been at...
Understanding Erskine’s 8 Relational Needs: A Guide to Healthier Connections
Human relationships are at the core of our emotional well-being. Whether it’s with family, friends, or romantic partners, the quality of our connections profoundly impacts our mental health and sense of fulfillment. Psychologist Richard G. Erskine, a pioneer in...
The Search for Truth: Embracing the Journey Over the Destination
In a world captivated by answers and certainties, the phrase “search for truth” invites us into something far more enduring and rewarding: the quest itself. Whether in philosophy, science, psychotherapy or daily life, it is often the act of searching — the...
The Danger of Relying on the Child Ego State in Transactional Analysis
John Lanchester’s quote in Whoops! about the perils of relying on misleading information provides a compelling analogy for the dangers of being overly dependent on the Child Ego State in Transactional Analysis (TA). ‘You’re worse off relying on misleading information...
The Pros and Cons of Using the Dream Completion Technique for Trauma-Related Flashbacks
When it comes to managing the distressing impact of past trauma, many therapeutic approaches focus on transforming the relationship between an individual and their memories. One technique that has gained attention in this context is called dream completion. Rooted in...
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