How does the internal family systems model of psychotherapy support clients in the integration of their psychedelic experiences? An interpretative phenomenological analysis of clients' testimonies

People who have used psychedelics for mental health issues sometimes seek therapy afterward to integrate the experience. Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, a model that views the mind as composed of distinct sub-personalities or 'parts,' may help. Interviews with four individuals who used IFS therapy for psychedelic integration revealed that integration is a challenging, time-consuming transformational process. Participants found IFS helpful because it provides a language to describe internal experiences, treats those experiences seriously, and emphasizes self-love, though they cautioned that it is possible to lose sight of one's core self. The therapeutic relationship was also important. The findings suggest IFS can support psychedelic integration, but more diverse research is needed.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Background and aims An increasing number of individuals seek psychedelics for mental illness, and when seeking psychotherapy in the aftermath, psychotherapists have an ethical duty to attempt to reduce harms and maximise benefits from these experiences. The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model of therapy is sometimes chosen as the therapeutic approach in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. This qualitative, exploratory study aimed to understand the extent to which IFS therapy can support clients in the integration of their psychedelic experiences. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted with four individuals who attended IFS therapy as part of their psychedelic integration. Data were analysed using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results Psychedelic integration was described as a transformational process that begins with preparation, takes time, needs space and attention, and that can be challenging. Finding people to integrate with and someone to talk to were reported as important practices to support integration. Participants also alluded to a transformational process when describing their experiences of IFS therapy as “ a pathway towards wholeness ”. Their testimonies shed light on ways IFS therapy supported them: IFS creates “ a forum to take those parts seriously ”, gives a language to narrate internal experiences, is not only a talking therapy, and is “ all about self-love ”. Most participants however warned that one can “ lose sight of where that Self might be ”. The therapeutic relationship also emerged as an important enabling factor. Conclusions This study provided initial insights into ways IFS therapy can support psychedelic integration. IFS offers tailored interventions to revisit psychedelic experiences, find meanings and work through difficulties encountered during the integration process. Further phenomenological research is warranted to elaborate on the emerging themes identified in this study through the inclusion of more diverse experiences, perspectives on IFS, and participant backgrounds.