Internal Family Systems Healing Circles

Managing Election Stress

Discover how Internal Family Systems therapy can help you identify, navigate, and manage the different parts of yourself that contribute to election stress

Series Overview

As we navigate the tumultuous terrain of another election season, we must acknowledge both the unprecedented angst we are experiencing and the collective responsibility we share to show courage and resilience despite it. 

In this workshop, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. We will not only explore how various 'parts' within us contribute to the tapestry of election stress, anxiety, and overwhelm but also learn how to identify and engage with these parts with compassion and curiosity.

Through experiential individual and small group exercises and guided reflection, you'll gain valuable insights into the role each ‘part’ plays in perpetuating election-related stress.

At the end of our six weeks together, you’ll be more clear on your intention for action, advocacy, and self-care ahead of election season and understand how the transformative power of IFS can help you cultivate inner harmony and resilience in the face of political uncertainty.

During our time together, we will…

- Get clear on the fears that led you to join this group and set intentions for the six weeks together 

- Explore the general framework of IFS and identify what is happening in our internal systems that contribute to fears about the future, democracy, etc

- Map out parts related to election-related fears, worries, and overwhelm 

- Participate in small group work and provide and receive feedback

- Participate in guided meditations and journaling

- Set intentions for action, advocacy, and conversations that will take place after the group ends and leading up to the election 

This group is a good fit for you if you are… 

- Feeling the impact of increasing socio-political crises

- Interested in deepening your own healing work AND expanding your work in the world to meet these challenging times in creative ways 

- Worried about burnout and creating sustainable engagement

- Looking for a different experience, a different way of thinking, a deeper state of being during stressful times 

- Moving operations from fear- and anxiety-based to strength- and courage-based 

- Noticing the compulsive checking for news updates, and wanting to be more intentional about your time and awareness 

- Wanting to feel empowered instead of overwhelmed 

- Looking for the balance between staying educated and informed without feeling overstimulated and anxious

What is Internal Family Systems and what does it have to do with the election? 

IFS is a highly effective, evidence-based, psycho-spiritual therapeutic model that depathologizes the multi-part personality. Most of us think of ourselves and our minds as a single part, but actually, we are made up of multiple personalities. All of these autonomous parts or “little minds” have their wants, needs, desires, and motivations. They are inside of us arguing, talking, or trying to give us advice which can sometimes look like an inner critic or perfectionist and even anxiety, fear, or shame. 

Here’s the thing…none of these parts are bad and IFS helps us unblend from these parts and invites curiosity, courage, connectedness, and calm - as well as patience and persistence, all of which are integral in managing election stress, speaking up for marginalized communities, and challenging social injustices.

Healing in Groups

Healing Circles derive from ancient practices of Native Americans, First Nations, and indigenous peoples. The circle is a key symbol in Native spirituality, family structure, gatherings of people, meetings, songs, and dances.

The concept of IFS Healing Circles was developed by senior IFS lead trainer, Chris Burris, so the IFS modality could be translated into group settings. Healing Circles in IFS have two main purposes: to bring people together when they are feeling disconnected and distracted and to foster vulnerability and Self-energy to heal inner wounds.

The Details

When: Mondays, April 29th - June 10 from 5-7 pm (we will not meet on Memorial Day)

Where: My office in Winston-Salem (address provided post-registration)

Cost: $325/pp (limited to 9 people)

Resources

Articles and tools to help you manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelm related to elections, political unrest, and more. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • While this is a non-partisan group, my work is rooted in social justice, anti-racism, and pro-democracy. This group may appeal best to like-minded individuals.

    All members will be asked to commit to keeping the group hate-free, judgment-free, and respectful of differences. If you are not aligned with these perspectives, this group is likely not the right fit for you, but you may find individual therapy services beneficial.

  • Sessions will be held on Mondays beginning April 29th and ending June 10th. The group begins at 5pm and ends at 7pm. Please note we will not meet on Memorial Day (Monday, May 27th).

  • The group will be limited to 9 people.

  • The group will be held at my office in Winston-Salem. An address will be provided upon registration.

  • The cost for the six-week series is $325 per person. If cancellation is necessary, full refunds will be given up to one day before the group begins. Once the group has started, there will be no refunds.

  • Click here to start the registration process.