Managing Anxiety with Internal Family Systems Therapy

Understanding Anxiety in IFS

Anxiety often arises when protector parts attempt to anticipate danger or prevent perceived threats. Exiled parts may carry past traumas, memories, or vulnerabilities that heighten these protective behaviors. The more protectors react, the more anxiety is amplified, creating a feedback loop that feels impossible to break.

Self-Led Approaches to Anxiety

Connecting to Self-energy allows you to approach anxious parts without judgment. By listening to their fears and understanding the protective intent, you can soothe anxious parts and help them take on a less reactive role.

Practical Applications for Anxiety

IFS therapy includes exercises such as dialoguing with anxious parts, understanding their origin, and providing reassurance. Clients learn to differentiate between their Self and anxious protectors, which reduces tension and restores balance.

Benefits of IFS for Anxiety

Clients report reduced worry, improved focus, and a greater sense of emotional stability. Rather than trying to suppress anxiety, they learn to work with it compassionately, which fosters long-term resilience.

Call to Action
IFS therapy can help you find calm amid anxiety. Book a session today.

References

• Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(5), 427–440.

• Schwartz, R. C., & Sweezy, M. (2019). Internal Family Systems Therapy (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.