The OCD Stories Robert Fox: An Internal Family Systems (IFS) view of OCD (#314)
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Jan 30, 2022 In this engaging discussion, Robert Fox, a therapist specializing in Internal Family Systems, shares his own journey with OCD and how it has shaped his practice. He explores the complex relationship between shame and OCD, shedding light on how protective parts of ourselves can emerge from trauma. Robert illustrates IFS in action through personal narratives and emphasizes the transformative power of self-compassion in recovery. Listen in for heartfelt insights on understanding our internal dynamics and embracing healing.
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Robert Fox's OCD Journey
- Robert Fox shared his lifelong struggle with OCD, including symptoms like contamination fears and intrusive sexual thoughts.
- His OCD caused intense guilt and shame, disrupting his social life especially when away from his parents.
IFS Views OCD as Protective
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) views the mind as having parts, each with positive intent to protect us.
- OCD is seen as an extreme protective part formed to prevent painful past experiences from resurfacing.
Managers vs Firefighters in IFS
- IFS identifies two types of protective parts: managers (proactive) and firefighters (reactive).
- Firefighter parts like OCD react when managers fail, keeping painful exiled parts suppressed.