Understanding Self in IFS Therapy: The 8 C’s and 5 P’s

A central tenet of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, created by Richard Schwartz, is the concept of the Self. At the core of IFS lies the belief that each individual possesses a wise center, often referred to as the Self.

The Self in IFS is defined by the “8 C's” and “5 P's”. The 8 C’s are Curiosity, Compassion, Calm, Clarity, Courage, Confidence, Creativity, and Connectedness. The 5 P’s are Presence, Perspective, Patience, Persistence, and Playfulness. Let's take a look at what these mean and how they can help us understand ourselves better.

The 8 C's of the Self in IFS Therapy:

Curiosity: This means being open-minded and wanting to understand things instead of judging them.

Compassion: It's all about being kind and understanding, especially to our own feelings of hurt or sadness.

Calm: This is about feeling centered and peaceful inside, even when things are tough.

Clarity: It's like having a clear picture of what we want and who we are, which helps us know where we're going.

Courage: This means being brave enough to face our fears and explore our feelings.

Confidence: It's believing in ourselves and knowing we're worth it, even when we feel unsure.

Creativity: The Self is full of new ideas and ways to express ourselves.

Connectedness: Feeling connected to ourselves, others, and the world around us.

The 5 P's in IFS Therapy:

Presence: Being present and aware of what's happening inside us without getting overwhelmed.

Perspective: Seeing things from a bigger view, beyond just how we feel right now.

Patience: Being okay with taking things slow and not rushing our healing journey.

Persistence: Keep going, even when things get tough, because we know it's worth it.

Playfulness: Approaching life with a light-hearted attitude and finding joy in exploring ourselves.

In IFS therapy, these qualities help us understand and heal ourselves. By practicing the 8 C's and 5 P's, we can discover who we really are and feel better inside.To start using these qualities in your own life, try noticing moments when you feel curious, compassionate, present, courageous, etc. Then, try bringing that same energy to your thoughts and feelings. It's a personal journey, and it's okay if it takes time.

If you want help along the way, talking to an IFS-informed therapist can be really helpful. Exploring these qualities can lead us to a deeper understanding of ourselves and a more authentic way of living

*Disclaimer: The information in this blog is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for mental health care nor a recommendation or endorsement for any particular treatment plan, organization, provider, professional service, or product. The information may change without notice. No claims, promises, or guarantees are made about the completeness, accuracy, currency, content or quality of information linked. You assume all responsibility and risk for any use of the information.

IFS EMDR Therapy Group is an outpatient therapy group founded by Morgan Levine. We specialize in helping adults struggling with the effects of living in dysfunctional systems move toward healing and wholeness. We provide therapy to address symptoms such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, obsessive and compulsive thoughts and behaviors including but not limited to using work, perfectionism, substances, relationships, food, etc. We offer ongoing support as well as EMDR intensives; both of which are informed by IFS, EMDR, DBT, CBT, Polyvagal Theory, trauma-informed yoga, attachment, and other recovery principles. Our therapists work virtually with clients living throughout Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Florida.  Morgan Levine also provides trauma-informed consultation to therapists worldwide. Connect with us through our website at https://ifsemdrtherapy.com/contact-us.

For more information on IFS, visit https://ifs-institute.com/.