Internal Family Systems Therapy
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy is a unique type of therapy that views your mind as being made up of different “parts,” each with its own feelings, beliefs, and roles. For example, you might have a part of you that’s critical, a part that feels hurt, and another that wants to protect you from pain. IFS helps you connect with these parts and understand their roles in your life, all while strengthening your connection to your "Self” — the calm, compassionate core of who you are, the essence of you. The goal is to help your parts work together in harmony, rather than feeling stuck in inner conflict.
IFS offers a powerful way to heal past wounds, build self-compassion, and create a more peaceful and balanced inner life. It’s a journey of connecting with all parts of yourself and learning to lead your life from a place of strength and compassion.
Read on to find out more...
IFS Therapy focuses on understanding and healing inner parts, strengthening the "Self", and restoring balance to your inner system
How Internal Family Systems Therapy Works
Identifying Your Parts: We’ll explore the different parts of your inner world, such as parts that feel anxious, protective, or wounded, and identify how they show up in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Building a Relationship with Your Parts: Instead of pushing parts away or judging them, we’ll get curious about their roles and intentions. Even parts that seem harmful (like self-criticism or avoidance) are often trying to protect you in their own way.
Accessing Your Self: You’ll connect with your "Self", the compassionate and wise part of you that can guide your inner system. Your Self acts as a leader, helping you care for and heal your parts.
Healing Wounded Parts: Many parts carry pain from past experiences. We’ll help these parts release their burdens and heal by addressing the root causes of their distress.
Restoring Balance: As your parts heal, they’ll adopt healthier roles and work together in a more balanced, peaceful way.
FAQs About IFS
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Inner Peace: By helping your parts heal and work together, IFS can reduce inner conflict and create a greater sense of calm and balance.
Self-Compassion: You’ll learn to approach yourself with understanding and kindness, even toward parts of you that feel challenging.
Healing Past Wounds: IFS helps you process and heal unresolved pain or trauma that your parts may be holding onto.
Improved Decision-Making: When your inner system is more harmonious, it’s easier to make decisions that align with your true values and goals.
Stronger Self-Connection: You’ll deepen your connection with your authentic Self, helping you feel more grounded and empowered.
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Emotional Vulnerability: Engaging with wounded parts can bring up painful emotions, which may feel intense at times.
Complexity: Understanding and navigating your inner system can take time and patience, especially if your parts feel stuck in protective or defensive roles.
Resistance from Parts: Some parts may resist change out of fear or mistrust, which can require ongoing work to build trust and safety.
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Individuals who…
want to understand and heal inner conflicts
struggle with self-criticism, self-doubt, or unresolved trauma
are interested in exploring their emotions and inner world
seek greater self-compassion and inner harmony
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Individuals who…
are looking for a highly structured, step-by-step approach with quick fixes
are uncomfortable with introspection or exploring their inner emotional world
prefer a more directive therapy style where the therapist takes the lead