Neurodivergent individuals often struggle to deal with the challenging environment of the workplaces. They may experience difficulty reconciling their professional and personal lives, comprehending social norms, or adhering to regulations that are not necessarily equitable.
Individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, dyslexia, or ADHD offer distinctive viewpoints, innovative problem-solving skills, and critical insights that can greatly benefit organizations.
You can also read this article : leveraging internal family systems for adhd management techniques and benefits.
Despite these strengths, many remain unemployed due to a lack of understanding and accommodations in the workplace. As they require unique approaches to manage their daily life, therefore these professionals also demand unique plans to succeed in their careers.
Internal Family Systems therapy has been shown to be quite effective in treating neurodivergent individuals. It is a less familiar approach compared to well known techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy.
This comprehensive guide explores the details of Internal Family Systems therapy, highlighting its major components and specific benefits for neurodivergent persons living in Canada.
What is IFS?
The IFS model suggests that the mind consists of various sub-personalities or "parts", and each part combines to form a complex internal system. In simple words, we all have a core self and various inner parts.
How was the IFS model created?
Dr. Richard Schwartz, a professional family therapist, after listening to countless patients express their inner conflicts, came to realize that people often refer to their inner selves as parts, like a part of them wants to connect with people, but also there is a part inside that fears rejection.
This way he discovered that everyone possesses a core self characterized by qualities like compassion, curiosity, and calmness. This idea led to the creation of the IFS model.
Key components of IFS
The Self
The Self is the core of IFS. It represents the essence of who we are, and composed of what are known as the eight C's and the 5 P's. The eight C's are:
Confidence
Calmness
Creativity
Clarity
Curiosity
Courage
Compassion
Connectedness
And the 5 P’s are:
Presence
Patience
Perspective
Persistence
Playfulness
The Internal Parts
There are three different parts in our mind, each has its own role and purpose.
Manager part puts in a lot of effort to keep things under control and protect us from hurt feelings. For example, the shy part might compel you to flee from social situations to protect you from possible shame and embarrassment.
Exile part bears the weight of their past traumas and painful memories, which they usually keep hidden to keep themselves safe.
Firefighter part is like an emergency responder. It tries to quickly stop the pain, fear, or shame that came out from the Exiles, past traumatic memories.
Addressing neurodivergent anxiety with IFS
Anxiety in neurodivergent individuals
Anxiety is typically experienced differently by neurodivergent people compared to neurotypical people. Sensory sensitivities, social interactions, and difficulties in managing executive tasks can all trigger this anxiety in them. Traditional anxiety treatments may not always be helpful for neurodivergent people, therefore there is a need for special techniques like Internal Family Systems model that consider their specific experiences and symptoms. We cover all of these flows in-depth in our the ifs approach to spotting anxiety and depression early.
In Canada, there is an increasing awareness of the necessity of providing mental health services specifically for neurodivergent individuals, with a focus on inclusivity and accessibility.
How IFS therapy can address neurodivergent anxiety?
Recognizing parts specific to neurodivergence
Sensory Protectors: Parts that experience anxiety as a result of overstimulation.
Social Guardians: The parts that struggle in social situations in order to avoid rejection.
Routine Enforcers: Parts that set routines for comfort and stability.
Helping them connect with The Self
It is necessary for neurodivergent people to connect with their true self. This inner self offers understanding and compassion, which helps cope with social judgment and self-criticism.
Addressing Past Traumas
By addressing past traumatic experiences, such as bullying or social isolation which are common among neurodiverse individuals in predominantly neurotypical environments, we can help reduce the intensity of anxiety. Healing these deeply held emotions enables them to build healthier coping strategies.
Increasing Empowerment
Once the exiles and traumas are healed, IFS therapist assists in integrating new core beliefs into the individual's overall internal system. Instead of being hidden away, these parts can take on new, healthier roles within the person's mind and gain a greater sense of control and empowerment over their internal world.
Conclusion
Internal Family Systems therapy is an extremely beneficial method for comprehending and improving your inner world. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who are dealing with autism and neurodiversity in the workplace. An increasing number of individuals are realizing the incredible impact IFS has, transforming lives all across Canada.
Contact Luna Psychotherapy!
If you're looking for a therapist in Canada who knows about IFS, then contact
Luna Psychotherapy. We have expert practitioners who provide life-changing therapy sessions using various methods, including IFS. Reach out to us today to begin your journey towards greater self-understanding and harmony.
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