IFS – Resource Therapy

January 21, 2025January 21, 2025

Resource Therapy vs Internal Family Systems – All the Good Parts.

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Resource Therapy (RT) vs. Internal Family Systems (IFS): A Comparative Analysis

As parts-based therapeutic models continue to gain recognition and take the therapy world by storm, two approaches have emerged as leaders in the field: Resource Therapy (RT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).

Both methodologies recognise the multiplicity of the human mind and offer powerful tools for psychological healing. However, they differ significantly in theory, application, and outcomes. For psychologists, therapists and other mental health clinicians, understanding these differences can guide the choice of approach for optimising client outcomes.

So let’s explore some of the key differences and similarities between RT and IFS to help you determine which approach might best suit your practice. Parts therapy and the power work it offers is huge game changer and a lot of fun at times. Whatever floats your boat!

1. Theoretical Framework

IFS: Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS views the psyche as an internal family system composed of parts categorised as “managers,” “firefighters,” and “exiles.” Central to IFS is the concept of the “Self,” a core, compassionate entity that can lead the internal system toward harmony. The model often involves identifying burdens carried by parts and helping them release these through unburdening techniques.

RT: Conceived by Professor Gordon Emmerson, RT identifies distinct “Resources, as personality parts” each with a specific role, such as protector, nurturer, or performer. The part is respectfully asked what it would like to be called. Unlike IFS, RT does not rely on a central “Self” but instead empowers individual Resources to fulfill their intended functions. RT emerges from the Ego State Therapy tradition, offering a well-established theoretical foundation with a lengthy history. It emphasizes action while acknowledging past trauma with a theory that underpins it and provides therapists with a clear roadmap of 15 RT actions to take to resolve trauma.

Comparison: While both models embrace the idea of internal multiplicity, IFS leans heavily on introspection and abstract concepts, whereas RT provides a straightforward, actionable framework. For clinicians seeking a clear and practical approach, RT is often the preferred choice.

2. Accessing Parts

IFS: Accessing parts in IFS often involves talking to many parts within internal environment for parts to emerge through exploratory techniques. This process can be time-intensive and may require strong reflective capacities from clients.

RT: RT excels in both short-term and long-term therapeutic settings. It works directly with the part holding pain or distress. Addressing the client’s presenting issue while incorporating attachment-focused strategies for holistic healing.

Unlike other methods, RT uniquely identifies and directly engages the active Resource in distress, offering compassion, acknowledgement, and empowerment with targeted interventions that result in rapid and meaningful progress. Its versatility ensures lasting impact across a wide spectrum of client needs. This leads to lasting results.

Comparison: IFS offers depth and exploration, while RT delivers speed and precision. Clients seeking transformative, evidence-based solutions will find RT particularly effective. Its structured and action-oriented approach not only addresses immediate concerns but also fosters deep, sustainable healing, making it an unparalleled choice for comprehensive care.

3. Addressing Client Issues

IFS: IFS often delves into the historical origins of parts, working to release the burdens they carry from past experiences. This approach fosters deep insight and emotional healing but may require extended sessions to achieve significant progress.

RT: RT works with the presenting issue and is centred on a client’s goals to address their needs using a variety of techniques. These may involve floating back to the original historical issue or working contemporarily. RT’s extensive framework includes a catalogue of ways states can be impacted, such as Vaded, Retro, Dissonant, Conflicted, or in normal condition. Tools like Retro State Negotiation ensure comprehensive and lasting change. Similar to unburdening, when our parts are free they can enjoy life, and we feel a sense of inner harmony.

Comparison: Both RT and IFS are ideal for clients seeking deep historical insight. RT’s Client values-focused approach to access these stories is better suited for clients prioritizing immediate, practical solutions.

4. Therapist Role and Client Empowerment

IFS: In IFS, the therapist acts as a guide, helping clients connect with their Self and create a safe space for parts to express themselves. This requires the client to take an introspective role, which may not suit all individuals. Sometimes clients find it hard to access and utilise the Self energy.

RT: The self is usually known as “inner strength” and is a form of a guidance system within or what the part names itself. It may be more of a nonjudgmental part offering wisdom as opposed to taking action.

RT therapists at times take on a more active role, guiding clients to directly interact with their Resources and equipping them with tools for resolution with respect and cooperation. RT emphasizes validating all parts, empowering clients to address challenges autonomously in future scenarios.

When we have the best Captain of our ship out on deck driving us in the direction we wish to go.

Comparison: RT provides a more structured, therapist-client facilitated approach, which can be especially beneficial for clients who feel overwhelmed or uncertain.

5. Practicality for Clinicians

IFS: Mastering IFS training can be confusing to navigate its complex framework and techniques. While rewarding, this can be a barrier for new practitioners or those with limited time.

RT: RT offers straightforward protocols that are easy to learn and implement. Its user-friendly structure allows clinicians to integrate RT seamlessly into existing practices, providing immediate value to their clients. RT’s Clinical Therapy Certification is 10 days and you can become an Advanced Clinician with a further 5 days of training. RT gets you up and running from your first training session.

Comparison: RT is more accessible for clinicians seeking an efficient, adaptable therapeutic model, while IFS may appeal to those with the time and resources to delve into its framework.

6. Outcomes and Applications

IFS: IFS is useful cases where clients benefit from exploring deep-seated trauma and achieving insight into their internal world. Its unburdening process is particularly effective for those with a strong reflective capacity.

RT: RT excels in addressing acute issues such as anxiety, trauma, and relational conflicts. Its focus on immediate problem-solving makes it ideal for clients seeking quick, tangible results.

Comparison: Both approaches deliver transformative outcomes, but RT’s practical focus makes it a standout choice for busy clinics and clients with pressing concerns. Rewriting the historical origins clears the path for other parts to take the wheel who have the skills and ability.

Choosing the Right Approach

While IFS and RT share a common goal of fostering internal harmony, their methods and applications differ significantly. For clinicians prioritising a straightforward, efficient, and action-oriented model, Resource Therapy offers unparalleled advantages. Its direct access to Resources, client solution-focused framework, and ease of integration make it a powerful tool for addressing a wide range of client needs.

Advance Your Practice with RT

If you’re ready to enhance your therapeutic practice, consider joining our Clinical Resource Therapy Training Program. Whether you prefer online sessions or an immersive Bali experience, our program equips you with the skills to transform lives.

Don’t miss out. Spaces filling fast.

Sign up today and discover how Resource Therapy can revolutionise your approach to client care.

December 3, 2023

Navigating the World of Parts Therapy: Finding Your Perfect Fit

REsource Therapy will have you and your client smiling !Image by pikisuperstar on Freepik

In the ever-evolving field of psychology, the emergence of Parts Therapy has been nothing short of revolutionary. As a dedicated psychologist with a deep-rooted passion for this approach, I am thrilled to share insights into the diverse world of Parts Therapy.

Among the myriad of methods like Resource Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Transactional Analysis, Voice Dialogue, and more, choosing the right one can seem daunting. Let’s delve into these fascinating therapies and discover which resonates with your unique values and beliefs.

The Diverse Landscape of Parts Therapy

Parts Therapy has become a cornerstone in the practices of psychologists, therapists, counselors, and other professionals. With various approaches like Resource Therapy, IFS, Ego State Therapy, and others, the field is rich with options. Each method offers a unique perspective on personality parts, catering to different needs and therapeutic goals.

Celebrating the Differences: IFS and Resource Therapy

As someone deeply involved in Resource Therapy (RT), I find it enlightening to compare it with other methods like IFS. While IFS focuses on increasing SELF-energy and unburdening wounded parts, RT emphasizes direct engagement with wounded parts for healing and empowerment. This distinction highlights the diverse ways these therapies approach the concept of inner parts.

IFS vs. RT: Diverse Approaches to Healing

IFS views the mind in terms of parts as exiles, managers, firefighters, and Self Energy.

RT, on the other hand, says our personality holds parts that were once joyous and fun-loving, altered by wounding experiences. Our parts can be Vaded in like fear, shame, or guilt, and it aims to empower these parts to regain control over past traumas.

In RT our distinct parts are there for a reason and purpose and can be of different ages to our adult self. This perspective underscores the unique philosophies underlying each therapy.

Why Resource Therapy Might Be Your Ideal Choice

In RT, we believe in the power of communication, compassion, cooperation, and collaboration between parts. We see our parts as ‘Internal Resources’ – capable of healing, growth, and positive change. RT is not only about healing; it’s about empowering each part to play its most effective role in our lives.

The Power of Client-Centered Therapy

A cornerstone of RT is its adaptability to the client’s belief system. Whether it’s addressing Other Personalized Introjects (OPIs) or negotiating new roles for parts, RT is designed to respect and work within the individual’s unique psychological framework. This flexibility makes it a profoundly client-centered approach.

The world of Parts Therapy is vast and varied, offering a rich tapestry of methods to explore. As you navigate this landscape, consider what resonates with your personal and professional ethos. Whether it’s Richard Schwartz’s unique model of IFS or Gordon Emmerson’s empowering and empathetic techniques of Resource Therapy, there’s a parts therapy that aligns with your values.

I invite you to join the conversation. In the comments section below, share your thoughts about which parts model speaks to you and why. Your insights are invaluable as we continue to explore this fascinating field together.

Thank you for reading and engaging with this journey into Parts Therapy.

With love and Light,

Philipa Thornton
President, Resource Therapy International
Master Trainer and Consultant in Resource Therapy
Certified in EMDR
Marriage Works & the Resource Therapy Institute Australia

November 11, 2023

What’s the Benefit for Therapists in Using Parts Therapy?

Our parts are like an internal family with may relationships. They are our Resources

We know Parts Therapies are all the rage in the USA and Europe. Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and other social media.

So there must be something to this parts of therapy hype, right?

Let’s face it you came into this therapy business to help people change, while achieving healing ethically, respectfully, and compassionately.

Maybe this is your second career as you wanted to do more than work to live, you wanted greater meaning in your life and work. Imagine feeling the reward of seeing authentic shifts in your patient’s health and well-being.

You have spent hours not to mention thousands learning psychotherapy models and theories. You have practiced client-centered, narrative, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness, and hopefully EMDR.

Perhaps you have a Master’s in Counselling or are finishing your psychology or social work degree.

Don’t you want the confidence to know what to do in sticky situations, and how to handle resistance while really getting to the crux of your client’s anxieties and frustrations?

How would it be to offer your clients respectful methods for:

Memory Reconsolidation
Trauma Processing
Self-Compassion
Empowerment
End Self Sabotage
Resolve Imposter Syndrome
Cease addictive patterns
Feel in Control – emotionally and in charge of their lives
Have meaningful relationships
Remove blocking beliefs

With Resource Therapy, you can.

Resource Therapy ( RT) is a parts-therapy-based model that offers you easily learned techniques and a clear structure to support your work with clients.

One participant in our Clinical program recently said “It’s like a sleek pared down version of Ego State Therapy.” RT could be viewed as an advanced form of Ego State Therapy as it offers evolutionary new methods for State or parts work.

With 15 Treatment Actions, there is an elegant structure providing a road map for change. Clear action steps are designed to treat your patient’s issues and goals for therapeutic results.

Imagine knowing what to do, why you are doing it, and when to apply the RT Actions in your therapy rooms. Feel the sense of relief and burden of responsibility taken from you, allowing your clients to feel comfortable, safe, and supported.

When we as therapists work directly with the Personality Part stuck in patterns of pain, anxiety, abandonment, confusion, rage, or acting out of control offers rapid results. It’s like a keyboard shortcut tapping into the root of the problem and allowing for memory reconsolidation and inner healing.

Join us in 2024 to discover the power of parts therapy in this amazing modality online or in Bali! Hurry spaces filling fast.