What Is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy?
Have you ever felt like one part of you wants to move forward, while another part holds you back? Maybe you find yourself saying things like, "Part of me wants to change, but another part is scared," or "I know what I should do, but I just can't make myself do it." These kinds of internal conflicts are completely normal—and they’re exactly what Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is designed to help with.
What is IFS Therapy?
IFS therapy, or Internal Family Systems, is a powerful, evidence-based approach to psychotherapy that helps people heal by working with their inner "parts." Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS is based on the idea that our minds are made up of different sub-personalities, or parts, each with its own role, emotions, and history.
These parts aren’t pathological—they’re protective. For example, you may have a part that criticizes you to keep you from getting hurt, or a part that avoids relationships because it learned early on that closeness can be painful. Beneath these protective parts, IFS recognizes that everyone has a core Self—a wise, calm, compassionate inner leader who can guide the healing process.
How IFS Therapy Works
IFS therapy helps you get to know your parts, understand their intentions, and build a relationship with them from the seat of your Self. Rather than trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts or feelings, IFS invites curiosity: Why is this part showing up? What is it protecting? What does it need?
In session, your therapist will help you slow down and turn inward, creating a safe space for these parts to be heard and healed. Over time, protective parts can learn to trust your Self and let go of extreme roles, and wounded parts can release their pain and transform.
Who Can Benefit from IFS Therapy?
IFS is helpful for a wide range of issues, including:
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety and panic
Depression
Eating disorders
Shame and self-criticism
Relationship challenges
Spiritual and existential concerns
Many people find IFS especially effective when they’ve tried other forms of therapy and still feel stuck. It’s a deeply respectful, non-pathologizing approach that honors your inner experience.
Why Choose IFS?
Unlike some therapies that focus solely on behavior change or symptom relief, IFS goes deeper—helping you heal from the inside out. By working with your parts rather than against them, you’ll gain a greater sense of internal harmony, emotional freedom, and self-acceptance.
At Healing Parts Therapy, we specialize in IFS-informed therapy to support your healing journey. Whether you're struggling with trauma, anxiety, or just want to understand yourself better, we're here to help you reconnect with your Self and live with greater clarity and compassion.
Ready to Begin?
If you're curious about IFS therapy and how it might help you, we invite you to reach out for a free consultation. Healing is possible—and it starts with understanding the parts of you that have been trying to protect you all along.