Internal Family Systems

IFS — What It Is & Who It’s For

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a compassionate, non-pathologizing approach that views you as made up of different “parts,” each with its own role, story, and intention. Rather than seeing symptoms as something broken, IFS understands anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing, emotional shutdown, or inner criticism as protective strategies/parts that developed to help you survive difficult experiences. At the core of IFS is the belief that everyone has an innate, grounded Self — a calm, curious, and compassionate part that can lead healing once protective parts feel safe enough to step back.

IFS can be especially supportive for people who:

Have experienced complex or developmental trauma
Feel “stuck” in repeating emotional or relational patterns
Struggle with anxiety, shame, inner criticism, or emotional overwhelm
Feel conflicted internally (part of me wants change, part of me is scared)
Are curious about understanding themselves with more compassion rather than judgment

IFS tends to work well for people who appreciate insight, self-reflection, and a gentle pace, especially those who want to build a more trusting relationship with their inner world.

In sessions, we’ll slow things down and get curious together. You’ll learn to notice different parts of yourself — not to get rid of them, but to understand what they’re protecting and why. Therapy often involves guided reflection, gentle questions, and tuning into emotions, thoughts, and body sensations as they arise. Over time, many clients experience less inner conflict, increased self-compassion, and a deeper sense of clarity and calm.