Healing From the Inside Out
What is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a powerful and compassionate approach to healing that helps you understand and heal the different “parts” within yourself. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS is based on the idea that we all have a core Self and a variety of internal parts that serve different roles to help us navigate life. Some parts may protect us from pain, while others carry difficult emotions and memories.
In IFS therapy, you’ll learn to access your core Self — the calm, confident, and compassionate center within you — and create a healing relationship with your parts. Instead of trying to get rid of “negative” thoughts and feelings, IFS helps you understand and heal the underlying wounds driving them.
How Does IFS Work?
During an IFS session, you may be guided to:
✅ Identify different parts of yourself that may be activated (e.g., inner critic, perfectionist, controlling, anxious part).
✅ Get curious about your parts, helping you understand the role different parts are playing and how they may be trying to protect you.
✅ Witness and bring compassion to parts of you that carry painful feelings or suffering.
✅ Develop a relationship with your parts from the perspective of your compassionate Self.
✅ Help your parts release old burdens and shift into healthier roles.
The goal of IFS is not to eliminate your parts but to help them feel heard and supported so they can relax and allow your Self to lead with confidence and clarity.
Example: A perfectionist part might be working hard to protect you from feelings of inadequacy. Through IFS, you’ll explore how this part developed and help it feel safe enough to soften its grip, leading to more ease and self-acceptance.
Who Can Benefit from IFS Therapy?
IFS is highly effective for a wide range of emotional and psychological issues, including:
✔️ Anxiety and depression
✔️ Trauma and PTSD
✔️ Self-criticism and low self-esteem
✔️ Relationship challenges
✔️ Perfectionism and burnout
✔️ Emotional overwhelm and sensitivity
✔️ Inner conflict and indecision
✔️ Childhood wounds and attachment issues
IFS is especially well-suited for highly sensitive people (HSPs) and empaths because it honors your deep emotional world and helps you build a sense of inner peace and resilience.
What Are the Benefits of IFS Therapy?
Deep Self-Understanding – You’ll discover why certain patterns keep showing up and how to shift them.
Greater Emotional Regulation – As your parts feel heard and supported, you’ll experience less inner conflict and more emotional balance.
Increased Confidence and Self-Trust – When your Self leads, you feel more grounded and secure in your decisions and relationships.
Healing from Trauma – IFS allows you to process trauma at a gentle pace, helping you feel safe as you heal.
Stronger Relationships – As you create harmony within yourself, you’ll naturally improve your relationships with others.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is IFS different from traditional therapy?
IFS goes beyond surface-level thoughts and behaviors by working directly with the deeper emotional parts of you. Instead of analyzing or fixing, it’s about understanding and healing from within.
Do I need to know my “parts” before starting IFS?
No — that’s what therapy is for! I’ll help you identify and work with your parts at a pace that feels safe and comfortable for you.
Can IFS work for trauma?
Yes! IFS is particularly effective for trauma because it allows you to process difficult experiences without becoming overwhelmed. Your Self will act as a steady, calming presence throughout the healing process.
How long does IFS therapy take?
The length of therapy depends on your goals and the complexity of the issues you want to address. Some clients see meaningful changes within a few months, while others benefit from longer-term work.
Why Work With Me?
I have extensive training in Internal Family Systems therapy and have been an IFS practitioner over 20 years. I have seen time and again how it transforms lives. I have trained with the originator of the method, Richard Schwartz.
My mindfulness-based, body-centered approach creates a safe space for you to explore your inner world with compassion and curiosity. Together, we’ll uncover the deeper roots of your challenges and help you access your innate capacity for healing and growth.
Ready to Explore IFS Therapy?
Take the first step toward healing and self-acceptance. Reach out to schedule a free 15-minute consultation or book your first session. Your inner world is waiting to be understood — let’s explore it together.
Contact me to schedule a consultation for this powerful healing method today.