At other times, after a final straw, the angrier network may take over and start saying things that we later regret. Afterward, we may not even remember exactly what we said but find ourselves feeling guilt, regret, and fear- these are other networks that have taken over after our anger network recedes. This happens constantly throughout our day in various ways. Yet, we can get into a place of mindfulness where we can observe and influence how this happens rather than experience it happening to us without any sense of agency whatsoever. 

 

Trauma is a memory stored difunctionally in memory neuro networks. But, for this memory to be stored, it is necessary to be exposed to situations classified as traumatic events. So, when there are many traumatic memories, clusters of neuro-networks of memories are maladapted. These maladaptive neuro-networks seem to form sub-minds, or what in IFS are called parts. So, by accessing these parts and talking to them, we can create new neural connections with these maladaptive memories to process them. IFS uses plain language to identify problems. For example, a patient may have a suicidal part, a self-harming part, a compulsive eating part, and a socially anxious part, a working part, a super breast part, each requiring different approaches.

 

Neuroscience has proven it is possible for networks of neurons to be accessed and modified through purposeful interactions with them. IFS provides a simple way of “hacking” into our human operating system by getting into a natural equilibrium of compassionate self-awareness (which in IFS is called Self), from which we can access and communicate with various neuron networks in ways that are intuitive and natural, helping them to relax and adjust, as well as release painful feelings and beliefs as needed. This process can reach and modify networks in us that we are often less aware of, and it is a gentle process that helps and leaves the client in complete conscious control of the process.