ABSTRACT
Polarization is an important concept in internal family systems (IFS) therapy. In working with polarizations, it is helpful to have parts who are engaged in conflict agree to be in the same space and take turns talking and listening to each other. Hazel's IFS therapy illustrates the polarizations that keep vulnerable exiled parts at bay. Amelia's therapy will illustrate how a polarity can take center stage in a child's mind and body. Polarities between parents' parts and children's parts can dominate family interaction. Parts are often at odds about how we should feel, think, or behave. The exiled part lives at the bottom of the triangle underneath the line, carrying the burden of negative beliefs and feelings and the concomitant bodily sensations. Often, polarized parts can come to see that they both have the intention to protect the exile and agree to relax. The Self then takes over the care of the exile, and this leads to more internal serenity.
