Emotional Regulation and Dysregulation through IFS Lens
Apr 20, 2022
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Chris Burris, Senior Lead Trainer for the IFS Institute, discusses emotional regulation techniques, exploring the concepts of blending and unblending in therapy sessions, navigating therapeutic challenges, embracing self-energy in clients, and the role of shame in emotional regulation. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity, emotional vocabulary, and accepting emotions for effective therapy outcomes.
IFS provides effective tools for emotional self-regulation in therapy.
Developing emotional vocabulary aids in communication and authentic expression of feelings.
Deep dives
Importance of Emotional Regulation in Therapy
Emotional regulation plays a crucial role in therapy as individuals seek help for issues like depression and anxiety, which often stem from feeling overwhelmed. The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model contributes valuable tools for emotional self-regulation, providing user-friendly and effective methods for individuals to manage their emotions and foster healing.
Challenges with the Term 'Regulation' in IFS
In the IFS vocabulary, the term 'emotional regulation' is not commonly used, as it can be associated with suppression and control rather than genuine healing. Unlike traditional therapeutic approaches that may rely on suppressing emotions, IFS focuses on fostering a non-repressive environment where individuals can explore and understand their feelings without judgment or repression.
Personal Journey and Importance of Emotional Vocabulary
Chris Burris highlights the significance of developing an emotional vocabulary in his personal journey, especially in intimate relationships. Understanding and naming feelings clearly is essential for effective communication and emotional self-regulation. By expanding one's emotional vocabulary, individuals can express their emotions authentically and regulate their internal responses non-repressively.
Role of Curiosity and Inquiry in Emotional Regulation
The IFS approach emphasizes curiosity and inquiry over figuring things out when dealing with emotions. By fostering a curious and compassionate attitude towards one's feelings, individuals can engage in a process of self-discovery that allows their internal system to inform them. This approach enables individuals to explore their emotions without resorting to repressive strategies, ultimately leading to genuine emotional regulation.
Chris Burris, LPC, LMFT is a Senior Lead Trainer for the IFS Institute. He has been an IFS Therapist since 1999 and is trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist. He uses mind/body approaches of therapy in alleviating traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety disorders. He works extensively with individuals and groups.
Since 1990 he has been very active with Men’s, Couples, Self Leadership Groups and Rites of Passage Programs. As the former Director of Counseling at The North Carolina School of the Arts, Chris has considerable experience with performance enhancement with Athletes, Artists, Actors, Filmmakers, Musicians, Writers, and Dancers. He is currently in Private Practice in Asheville, NC.
In addition to being a psychotherapist, Chris has trained in many nature based models with Animus Valley institute, School of Lost Borders, The Foundation for Shamanic Studies, and The Center for Conscious Eldering.
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