ABSTRACT
Unburdening is a critical aspect of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Unburdening can sound like New Age mumbo jumbo, and therapist may be feeling quite skeptical at this juncture. However, the proof of the unburdening process is in the pudding. Anyone who has experienced an unburdening will attest to the internal shift that it creates. An example of unburdening a part illustrates the difference in the feeling state before and after having this experience. Parts usually have strong feelings about where they want to be in the here and now. After the part feels complete and there is more internal space, the part is asked to invite in any qualities, feelings, or imagery that will help the part in the future. It is the truth of a part's experience that matters. If therapist can help the parts have a connected relationship to the Self and unburden vulnerable or exiled parts, the whole system benefits.
