Real Over Ideal

Is Internal Family Systems Bullsh*t ?

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0:00 | 17:05

Title: Unpacking Internal Family Systems: Benefits, Critiques, and Practical InsightsIn this episode, Vanessa Gorelkin explores the therapeutic model of Internal Family Systems (IFS), sharing her personal experiences, scientific findings, common critiques, anda practical exercise. Whether you're a practitioner, client, or simply curious about this approach, you'll find valuable insights into how IFS can support healing and self-understanding.Key Topics:

  • The principles behind Internal Family Systems: parts, self, and internal leadership
  • Vanessa's personal experiences and how IFS fosters breakthroughs
  • The controversy: critiques around research, metaphor reliance, and trauma oversimplification
  • Scientific evidence supporting IFS: PTSD reduction, emotional regulation, and empowerment
  • The response to critiques: research limitations, the role of imagery, and trauma complexity
  • Practical demonstration: a safe, simple IFS exercise for self-awareness
  • How to assess a therapist's use of IFS and avoid potential misuse 
  • The importance of applying IFS within a broader, trauma-informed context
  • The potential for transformation when used ethically and skillfully


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Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467



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