Internal Family Systems (IFS)

IFS starts from a simple idea: we are made up of many parts. You might notice inner critics, perfectionists, carers, worriers, angry protectors, numb or shut-down parts, and younger parts that carry pain. None of these parts are mistakes. They developed for reasons that make sense.

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In IFS we:

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• get to know each part without shaming it

• understand what it is trying to protect you from

• meet the younger, hurting parts it is guarding

• help your system feel less burdened and less at war with itself

 

The aim is not to “get rid” of any part of you. Instead, we help your “Self” take the lead: the calmer, steadier, more compassionate presence inside you that can listen rather than react.

 

IFS integrates naturally with relational and psychodynamic work. Parts often show up in the therapy relationship itself. When that happens, it is not a problem; it is valuable information and an opportunity to heal at depth.