Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic approach that views the mind as made up of different parts or subpersonalities—each with its own thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviors. Think of it like an internal family, where different parts of you may take on different roles, such as a protective part, a vulnerable part, or a part that carries pain from past experiences. These parts may sometimes be in conflict with each other, leading to feelings of confusion, stress, or inner turmoil.

In IFS, we don’t view these parts as “problems” or “symptoms” to be fixed—instead, we approach them with curiosity and compassion, understanding that each part has a positive intention, even if its way of functioning isn’t always helpful. For example, a part of you might be acting out of fear and trying to protect you, but its actions might cause you anxiety or prevent you from connecting with others. Through IFS, we help you get to know these parts, understand their roles, and create more harmony between them.

The process of IFS begins by helping you connect with your Self—the calm, compassionate, wise, and grounded part of you that is always there, no matter how chaotic your inner experience may feel. From this centered place, we gently begin to explore your parts and their needs. The goal is to build relationships with each part, help them feel understood and validated, and work toward healing any wounded parts that may be carrying pain or trauma.

As we work together, you’ll learn to unblend from the more reactive parts of yourself, so that you can make choices from a place of calm and clarity. We’ll also work on helping your parts develop healthier ways of relating to one another and to you, creating more balance and emotional integration. Ultimately, IFS helps you develop a greater sense of internal harmony and self-compassion, allowing you to navigate life’s challenges with a deeper understanding of yourself.