Direct Access: A Key Tool for Unblending
By: Michael Mailloux, LMSW
Peer Reviewed By: Sabrina Spotorno, LCSW
When most individuals are introduced to the Internal Family Systems model, they are often introduced to the concept of “going inside” and engaging with their inner parts. This process is commonly referred to as gaining insight. However, there are instances when this conventional approach may not be feasible, typically occurring when an individual is experiencing what is known as “blending.” Blending refers to a situation where a part of the person’s psyche occupies the forefront of their consciousness.
Blending can take on varying degrees of intensity. In some cases, individuals may be mildly blended, meaning they are aware of the presence of this inner part, but the relationship between their true Self and the part is less than 70%. In more extreme cases, complete blending occurs, where the inner part begins to believe that it is the client itself. In such situations, practitioners resort to a technique called “Direct Access,” wherein they engage with the blended part directly. Direct Access can be categorized into two distinct approaches: Implicit and Explicit.
Implicit Direct Access is often considered one of the more challenging aspects of Internal Family Systems, as it closely resembles traditional therapeutic dialogue. In Implicit Direct Access, practitioners converse with the inner part as if it were the client. The aim is to understand how this particular part is safeguarding the client and to allow it to share its story. After gaining insight into its protective role and establishing trust, practitioners may gently inquire, “What if I told you that you are not the client but merely a part of the client?” or “What fears do you have if you were just recognized as a part of the client?” If the blended part is willing to connect with the client’s true Self, the process of gaining insight can commence.
On the other hand, Explicit Direct Access involves speaking directly to the inner part, with the key distinction being that the part is aware of its role as a part but may be reluctant to disengage from the client’s identity. Before proceeding with Explicit Direct Access, it is crucial to seek permission from the part. There can be several reasons why a part resists unblending, such as fear that doing so will expose another part that could overwhelm the client. In an Explicit Direct Access scenario, one might inquire about the reasons for the part’s fear, asking questions like, “How do you believe this other part would overwhelm the client if we acknowledged it?” or “How long have you been protecting the client from this part?” Usually, the response is that it has been performing this protective role for a considerable amount of time. In such cases, practitioners may gently propose an alternative approach, suggesting that trying something different might be less taxing for the part, with the assurance that it can return if the client becomes overwhelmed. If granted permission, the process of gaining insight can then proceed.
These are just a few examples of how Direct Access can be employed in Internal Family Systems therapy, depending on the specific dynamics and needs of the individual.
About the Author: Michael Mailloux graduated from Fordham University where he earned his master’s degree in social work. Michael is a 15-year Navy Veteran which contributes to his ability to be compassionate and understanding of PTSD and trauma symptoms. Michael is a Level 3 trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) clinician who trained directly with Richard Schwartz, the creator of the IFS modality. He also participated as a Program Assistant in IFS trainings, helping other therapists to learn and implement the model and has advanced training in Intimacy from The Inside Out (IFIO), a couple’s approach to IFS therapy.
Reference: Schwartz, R. C. (Year). Internal Family Systems model (2nd ed.). Publisher.