Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy

What Is IFS?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a transformative, evidence-based model of psychotherapy that helps individuals understand and harmonize the many parts of their inner world. This approach is grounded in the idea that the mind is naturally made up of different “parts,” and that each of us has a core Self that can lead those parts with wisdom and compassion.

Everyone Has a Self

At the heart of IFS is the belief that everyone has a true “Self.” The Self is not a part—it is the centered, calm, compassionate core within each of us. The Self has natural qualities like:

• Kindness
• Curiosity
• Confidence
• Clarity
• Connection
• Courage
• Compassion

When we are connected to our Self, we can approach our inner experiences with greater understanding, patience, and care.

Understanding Our Parts

IFS sees our inner world as made up of different parts—each with its own thoughts, feelings, and roles. These parts develop naturally over the course of our lives. Some protect us, some carry pain, and others try to manage our day-to-day functioning.

While parts may appear in extreme forms—such as self-criticism, numbing, or emotional overwhelm—they are not inherently “bad.” Every part has a positive intention, even if its method is unhelpful. These parts often become polarized, burdened, or stuck due to past trauma or difficult life experiences.

The Goal of IFS Therapy

IFS therapy helps you:

• Develop compassionate internal dialogue with your parts
• Understand the positive intention behind each part’s behavior
• Help parts release extreme beliefs, emotions, or roles they’ve taken on
• Re-establish the Self as the leader of your internal system
• Foster harmony and cooperation between parts

By learning to differentiate the Self from your parts, you can stop feeling overtaken by anxiety, inner conflict, or shame—and instead respond to challenges with grounded clarity and self-trust.

Healing Through Inner Relationship

IFS is not about fixing you—it’s about helping you build relationships with the parts of you that have been misunderstood, exiled, or overburdened. When these parts feel heard and supported by the Self, healing can begin.

Many clients describe IFS as deeply validating, especially if they’ve struggled with feeling fragmented or overwhelmed. It provides a gentle, non-pathologizing approach that honors the complexity of being human.

Interested in Exploring IFS?

If you’re curious about how IFS therapy might support your healing or growth, we’d love to talk more.

Schedule a consultation today to learn how this compassionate and empowering approach can help you reconnect with your Self—and begin healing from the inside out.