Internal Family systems
What is Ifs ?
A transformative approach to personal healing and growth
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a revolutionary model of psychotherapy and self-discovery that views every individual as a system of diverse inner parts, guided by a compassionate and wise core Self. This perspective celebrates the mind’s natural multiplicity as an asset, where each part has a valuable role, even when extreme circumstances have led them to take on protective or wounded states.
At the heart of IFS is the belief that the Self—a resourceful and unbreakable core present in everyone—is the source of healing. When people connect with their Self, they can access the clarity, confidence, and compassion needed to understand and nurture their inner parts, fostering transformation and inner harmony.
How IFS Works IFS provides a framework for exploring the relationships among our inner parts and cultivating a nurturing relationship with each one. By connecting with the Self, individuals can:
Heal wounded parts that hold pain or trauma.
Shift protective parts from extreme roles to their original helpful states.
Foster a sense of inner balance and collaboration.
This process not only supports personal healing but also enhances how individuals relate to others, creating more harmonious relationships and a deeper sense of connectedness.
The spirit of internal family systems
Basic Assumptions Underlying the IFS Model
The mind is naturally multiple: Everyone has a system of inner parts, each with its own perspective, feelings, and roles.
Every part has a positive intention: Even parts that seem destructive or harmful are trying to protect or serve the individual in some way.
The Self is the core of every person: The Self is a source of compassion, clarity, and healing that cannot be damaged.
Parts are forced into extreme roles by life experiences: Trauma or challenging circumstances can push parts into protective or wounded states.
Healing happens through Self-leadership: By connecting with the Self, individuals can help their parts release extreme roles and return to their valuable functions.
The system seeks balance: Inner harmony and collaboration among parts are natural states the system strives to achieve.
How can I better understand the root causes of my BEHAVIOURS and emotions?
What can I do to heal from past trauma or painful experiences?
How can I develop a deeper sense of self-compassion and acceptance?
How do I connect with and lead from my core Self?
“Healing happens in relationships—whether within our internal system or with others.”
-Dr. Richard Schwartz-