Episode 48 - Internal Family Systems Therapy for Shame and Guilt
Nov 10, 2023
auto_awesome
Dr. Martha Sweezy, IFS therapist, discusses the multiplicity hypothesis of IFS, differences between Buddhist traditions and IFS, the shame cycle, soothing parts, shaming parts, burdens of parts, and self-referential children. They explore the usefulness of shame, Karlen Lyons-Ruth's research, and the complex world of internal protective parts leading to self-destructive behaviors.
Internal Family Systems Therapy emphasizes multiplicity within the psyche and encourages dialogue with different internal parts for healing.
Contrasting IFS with mindfulness practices, IFS therapy involves direct engagement with inner parts to facilitate integration and healing.
Deep dives
Understanding Multiplicity in Internal Family Systems Therapy
Internal Family Systems Therapy introduces the concept of multiplicity within the psyche, emphasizing that various centers of motivation, viewpoints, and communication exist. To grasp this perspective, individuals are encouraged to turn their attention inward, observe thoughts, feelings, and sensations, and engage in a dialogue with different parts of themselves. By exploring these internal interactions, individuals can access compassionate and courageous states, essential for addressing distress.
Engaging with Inner Parts in IFS and Mindfulness Traditions
Contrasting IFS with mindfulness practices, the podcast highlights the active engagement with inner parts in IFS therapy. Unlike some mindfulness traditions that focus on observation without interaction, IFS encourages direct engagement with internal parts. This hands-on approach aims to establish connections with wounded parts and leverage the compassionate 'self' to facilitate healing and integration.
Exploring the Shame Cycle and Protective Parts in IFS Therapy
The podcast delves into the intricate dynamics of the shame cycle, describing how wounded parts in individuals give rise to protective mechanisms, such as managers and firefighters. These protective parts, driven by the fear of shame and unworthiness, undertake roles to shield vulnerable parts from perceived defects or emotional injuries. By unveiling and addressing these internal configurations, individuals can confront deep-seated beliefs of unworthiness and self-blame.
Addressing Empathy and Boundaries in IFS Therapy
The discussion extends to the complexities of empathy within the therapeutic process, emphasizing the interplay between empathetic responses and personal boundaries. Empathizing with both internal and external sources of distress, individuals may exhibit caretaking tendencies towards others' needs, potentially compromising personal boundaries. Recognizing and reshaping these empathetic patterns is crucial in fostering self-compassion, understanding healthy boundaries, and promoting internal harmony.
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Martha Sweezy, IFS therapist, author and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. We discuss her book, Internal Family Systems Therapy for Shame and Guilt. These topics are covered:
The multiplicity hypothesis of IFS
The difference between some Buddhist traditions and IFS
The ontology of IFS
The shame cycle
Soothing parts
Shaming parts
Outward shaming parts
“Scouting” managerial parts
The kinds of burdens of parts
How children are self-referential
Karlen Lyons-Ruth’s research
The usefulness (or not) of shame
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode