Q: What is Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)?

A: Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on understanding and healing the different parts or aspects of a person's inner self. According to IFS, individuals have various sub-personalities or “parts” within them, each with their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. These parts can be in conflict with each other, leading to distress and dysfunction. IFS aims to help individuals explore and harmonize these parts, fostering self-awareness, healing, and personal growth.

Q: How does Internal Family Systems Therapy work?

A: IFS therapy involves a collaborative process between the therapist and the client. The therapist helps the client identify and understand their different parts, which can range from protective or wounded parts to more positive and nurturing ones. Through a process called "parts work," the therapist assists the client in establishing a compassionate and curious relationship with their parts. This approach encourages the client to listen to and acknowledge the needs of each part while recognizing their core “Self” — the calm, compassionate, and wise center that can connect with and lead every part of themselves. By developing self-leadership and internal cooperation among the parts, healing and integration can occur.

Q: What are the goals of Internal Family Systems Therapy?

The primary goal of IFS therapy is to help individuals achieve internal harmony, self-acceptance, and overall well-being. By understanding and resolving conflicts between their various parts, clients can access their own inner wisdom and cultivate emotional resilience. IFS is designed to empower individuals to lead their own healing, strengthen their connection with their core Self, and develop the tools to navigate life confidently—so that therapy becomes a bridge, not a lifelong dependency. My role is to guide and support clients in learning how to help themselves, ultimately helping them stand on their own with greater self-compassion and clarity.

Q: What makes IFS different from traditional therapy?

A: While clinical diagnoses and mental health challenges are real and important, IFS doesn’t focus on labeling or pathologizing. It sees difficult thoughts, feelings, and behaviors not as flaws, but as parts of you that are hurting, scared, or trying to protect you in their own way. Every part has a reason for being, even if it shows up in ways that feel confusing or frustrating. By gently getting to know these parts and helping them feel seen and understood, you can bring compassion, healing, and balance to your inner world. This approach helps you feel more whole, more in control, and more confident in your ability to navigate life from your true Self.

Q: What issues can Internal Family Systems Therapy address?

A: IFS therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of psychological and emotional challenges. It has been used effectively in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, and low self-esteem. Additionally, IFS can be a helpful approach for personal growth, self-exploration, and improving overall emotional well-being.

Q: How long does Internal Family Systems Therapy typically last?

A: The duration of IFS therapy varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the individual's concerns, their goals, and the therapist's treatment plan. In general, therapy can last for a few months to a year or more, with sessions typically scheduled weekly or biweekly.

The length of therapy can be discussed and modified based on the client's progress and evolving needs.