10 Reasons to Incorporate Internal Family Systems in Eating Disorder Recovery
This year I had the honor of attending my first in-person conference since 2019.
The one I attended was called, "Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eating Disorders."
I had been incorporating IFS into my own healing as well as my professional work since 2020, but this conference gave me new language to talk about it with others and a deeper understanding for why this method yields the results I see time and time again.
As such, I wanted to share a 10-point blog about its efficacy. The specific points outlined here were inspired by a presentation by Theresa Chesnut, LCSW, CEDS-S. You can also listen to a podcast episode of the founder, Richard Schwartz, talking about the model and doing a short session with the host, Glenon Doyle.
Eating disorders are complex and multifaceted conditions that require comprehensive approaches that address not only the symptoms but also the underlying emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects. Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy offers a unique and effective framework for eating disorder recovery, providing a holistic approach that honors the complexity of the human psyche. Below are 10 reasons why incorporating IFS therapy into eating disorder treatment can be incredibly beneficial:
1. Non-Pathologizing: IFS therapy adopts a non-pathologizing stance towards the various parts of the individual's psyche. Instead of viewing symptoms as evidence of dysfunction or weakness, IFS recognizes them as adaptive responses to past experiences. This perspective fosters self-compassion and reduces shame, which are crucial components of eating disorder recovery.
2. Integrative: IFS therapy integrates elements from various therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness-based approaches. By drawing from different perspectives, IFS provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing the complex dynamics underlying eating disorders.
3. Collaborative: In IFS therapy, the therapist works collaboratively with the client to explore and understand their inner world. Rather than imposing interpretations or solutions, the therapist facilitates a dialogue between different parts of the client's psyche, empowering the individual to discover their own insights and wisdom.
4. Honors Protectors: IFS recognizes that the various parts of the psyche, including those that manifest as eating disorder behaviors, serve protective functions. These "protector" parts often emerge in response to past trauma or emotional pain, aiming to shield the individual from further harm. By honoring and understanding these protectors, IFS helps individuals develop compassion towards themselves and their coping mechanisms.
5. Effectively Works with Polarizations: Eating disorders often involve internal polarizations, such as the conflict between the part that wants to restrict food intake and the part that seeks comfort through binge eating. IFS therapy provides a framework for exploring and reconciling these polarizations, facilitating inner harmony and integration.
6. Unburdens Exiles/Reduces Relapse: In IFS therapy, the focus is not only on managing symptoms but also on healing the underlying wounds that drive the eating disorder behaviors. By identifying and unburdening the "exile" parts—those that carry unresolved emotions and memories—IFS reduces the risk of relapse and fosters long-term healing.
7. Psycho-Spiritual: IFS therapy acknowledges the spiritual dimension of human experience, recognizing that individuals may have spiritual parts that play a significant role in their healing journey. By integrating psychotherapy with spiritual exploration, IFS offers a holistic approach that addresses the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
8. Reduces Power Struggles/Caretaking Behaviors: Eating disorders often involve internal power struggles between different parts of the psyche, leading to cycles of self- sabotage and conflict. IFS therapy helps individuals navigate these power dynamics with compassion and understanding, reducing inner turmoil and facilitating healthier self-care practices.
9. Addresses External Constraints: While internal dynamics play a significant role in eating disorders, external factors such as societal pressures, familial expectations, and cultural norms also contribute to the development and maintenance of these conditions. IFS therapy acknowledges the influence of external constraints and helps individuals develop strategies for navigating them effectively.
10. Focus on System, Not Just Symptoms: Perhaps most importantly, IFS therapy focuses on healing the entire internal system rather than just managing symptoms in isolation. By fostering self-awareness, self-compassion, and inner harmony, IFS empowers individuals to reclaim their lives from the grip of their eating disorders and cultivate a sense of wholeness and authenticity.
In conclusion, Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy offers an impactful approach to eating disorder recovery. By embracing principles of non-pathologizing, collaboration, and holistic healing, IFS honors the complexity of the human psyche and empowers individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth.
If you'd like to explore this avenue of healing your relationship with food, movement, or your body, consider booking a consultation. I'd love to hear form you!
