Managing Burnout and Stress with Internal Family Systems Therapy
What Burnout Really Feels Like
Burnout goes beyond being tired—it’s a state of deep exhaustion and detachment. You may feel irritable, unmotivated, or unable to keep up with responsibilities. Often, burnout develops gradually, fueled by perfectionism, caregiving, or high-stress jobs.
How IFS Approaches Stress and Burnout
IFS helps clients understand the inner parts that push them to overwork, overcommit, or ignore their own needs. These parts often believe they are protecting the person, but in reality, they create exhaustion. By listening to these parts with compassion, clients can shift from burnout cycles to healthier patterns of self-care.
Building a New Relationship with Protective Parts
Through therapy, clients learn to negotiate with protective parts like the “inner critic” or “taskmaster.” Instead of fighting these parts, IFS guides clients in building collaboration, allowing protectors to relax. This creates more space for rest, creativity, and joy.
Restoring Self-Energy
IFS reconnects individuals with their Self, which brings clarity and balance. From this place, clients can manage responsibilities without becoming consumed by them. They are better able to set boundaries, prioritize well-being, and sustain energy for what matters most.
Thriving Beyond Burnout
With IFS, burnout can become a turning point toward transformation. Clients often find that the very parts once pushing them too hard can become allies in creating balance. The result is a life where productivity and rest coexist in harmony.
Call to Action
Ready to begin your IFS therapy journey? Book a session today.
Peer-Reviewed References
Schwartz, R. C., & Sweezy, M. (2020). Internal Family Systems Therapy (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
Leiter, M. P., & Maslach, C. (2016). Understanding burnout: New perspectives on conceptualization and measurement. Annual Review of Organizational Psychology and Organizational Behavior, 3, 397–422.
Avery, E. F., & Schwartz, R. (2018). Internal Family Systems therapy as an intervention for stress and burnout: A conceptual framework. Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings, 25(4), 401–410.