Internal Family Systems
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a transformative, evidence-based psychotherapy approach that helps individuals understand and heal their internal emotional landscape. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS is based on the idea that the mind is naturally made up of distinct “parts,” each with its own perspective, feelings, and role. These parts often influence our behavior and emotions in ways that may feel overwhelming or conflicting.
IFS therapy integrates parts work with mindfulness, aiming to create a compassionate, non-judgmental internal environment that facilitates healing. By identifying, understanding, and working with these internal parts, individuals can achieve greater emotional balance, self-awareness, and personal growth.
How does IFS work?
IFS operates on the belief that we all have different "parts" within us—like subpersonalities or emotional states—that influence how we feel and behave. Some of these parts may hold past wounds or unresolved emotions, while others may take on protective roles to shield us from pain.
In IFS therapy, a trained therapist helps you identify these parts, which can include:
Exiles: Parts that are often associated with pain, fear, or trauma. These parts tend to carry burdens from past experiences.
Managers: Protective parts that aim to keep us safe by managing our behavior and emotions. They may prevent us from experiencing pain or distress.
Firefighters: These parts act quickly to soothe overwhelming emotions, often through distraction or impulsive behaviors.
The goal of IFS therapy is to help you establish a connection with your Self, a compassionate, wise, and centered aspect of who you are. Through this connection, you can help heal wounded parts, release old burdens, and restore harmony to your internal system.
What does IFS help?
IFS therapy has been found to be effective for a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns, including:
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
Self-criticism
Relationship issues
Childhood neglect or abuse
Addictions
Eating disorders
Grief and loss
Chronic stress
Emotional regulation issues
None of the above symptoms or experiences fit you?
Do you find yourself feeling torn between different parts of your personality or conflicting desires? Do you experience moments of self-doubt or emotional turbulence that seem to be triggered by past experiences? Are you struggling to connect with your deeper, more authentic self?
If so, you may still benefit from IFS therapy. Contact us today for a free phone consultation to see if IFS might help you gain clarity, heal old wounds, and restore balance to your inner world.