​Internal Family Systems

What is IFS?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) was developed by Richard Schwartz in the 1990s based on his training in systems thinking and family therapy. The goal of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model is to help you understand your own inner world and access your innate ability to transform and heal. It is based on the principle that there is an undamaged and resourceful Self within each and every person, and that by becoming in tune with that Self, you can harness the ability to heal the wounded parts of the mind.

How does IFS work?

Internal Family Systems focuses on the idea that everyone is comprised of a variety of “parts,” and that in order to heal ourselves and our lives, we must identify and tend to the root of the issues we’re facing. By honoring your uniqueness and the infinite understanding of yourself — that only you possess — you can experience healing and transformation on a deep level.

IFS is a compassionate form of therapy that welcomes all parts of the Self. The main principles that are at the core of IFS are:

• All parts of you have good intentions even though their effects may be unhelpful

• Our parts carry burdens and take on protective roles in our system

• We all have what is called Self Energy. This is an innate form of energy that we are born with and do not need to create on our own.

• By exploring all parts of ourselves, we are able to let go of the outdated, unproductive facets of these parts and create a new future​

What is the “Self” that keeps being mentioned? ​

In IFS therapy, the Self is different from our parts.  The Self is what is sometimes referred to as our Soul or Core or a spiritual state of being. IFS offers the opportunity to experience this state of Self. An IFS Therapist supports and helps someone to maintain a state of Self so they can become their own therapist.

What issues can IFS help with? ​

• Trauma and PTSD

• Anxiety

• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

• Depression

• Body image issues & eating disorders

• Substance dependency

What happens in an IFS therapy session? ​

While IFS can be integrated into a traditional talk therapy session, it is typical for the primary focus of the session to be helping you connect with your inner world and explore your different parts with the support of Self Energy. Your therapist may guide you to go inward as you close your eyes and experience the process of accessing your parts, which will help you become more in tune with the inner wisdom of these parts. This may be in the form of sensation, feeling, movement, or visual image to name a few. 

 What makes IFS different from other forms of therapies?

IFS places an extra emphasis on being in tune with your inner Self and encourages you to look within. While the therapist is your guide, you are the one steering the ship and finding the treasures in all your parts.