“Internal Family Systems is a powerfully transformative, evidence-based model of psychotherapy. We believe the mind is naturally multiple and that is a good thing. Our inner parts contain valuable qualities and our core Self knows how to heal, allowing us to become integrated and whole. In IFS all parts are welcome.” -The IFS Institute

 

IFS is an experiential model of therapy. It involves focusing on yourself as a system of parts and working to support, heal and build relationships with all that you contain. Many of us have had the direct experience of two different parts of us disagreeing with one another, or taking action from one part, only to have another part feel regret or frustration.

 

In our western, medicalized ideas about the human mind we are taught that seeing ourselves as multifaceted is a symptom of illness. In IFS work, it is normal and expected that you would have multiple complex and polarized aspects of yourself. 

 

IFS organizes and makes sense of this inner experience as well as gives us tools, processes and presence to make meaningful changes in our lives. Progress is made by moving toward places we hold pain, respecting our inner protectors and working to heal parts long pushed into the shadows. 

 

IFS is trauma informed and is appropriate for a wide variety of mental health concerns. It is also useful for personal growth, development and a useful meditation tool.