IFS Talks Brain, Mind, and Parts through a Neuroscience Lens
5 snips
Jul 27, 2025 In this enlightening discussion, Catia Vinnik, a seasoned neuroscientist and science communicator, shares insights from her 20+ years of research on the brain. She dives into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and Internal Family Systems therapy, exploring how memory influences emotions and decisions. Catia emphasizes the significance of recognizing inner 'parts' as real influences rather than mere metaphors. Furthermore, she discusses how therapeutic techniques can reshape memories, shedding light on the neural networks that underpin human behavior.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Brain's Modular Systems Align With IFS
- The brain operates as multiple parallel systems without a single unified control center.
- These modular systems correspond well with IFS's view of parts having separate agendas and perspectives.
Memory Engrams Link IFS Parts
- Memories are encoded by distributed neuronal networks called engrams that overlap for related events.
- This supports the concept of IFS parts carrying linked memories united by common themes.
IFS Parts as Predictive Brain Models
- Each IFS part holds its own internal model predicting what is safe or dangerous, aligning with the Bayesian brain hypothesis.
- This explains why different parts may pursue conflicting but protective strategies.