The Heart of Therapy
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
"In the presence of unconditional love, our inner world begins to heal." ~ Richard Schwartz
What is Internal Family Systems? (IFS)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a holistic and non-pathologising healing modality that addresses the deep-rooted causes of psychological distress. Like Resource Therapy, IFS also views the mind as composed of various parts, each with positive intentions, even if their behaviours are maladaptive. This perspective allows you to approach your internal conflicts with compassion and understanding, which are crucial for healing.
What is the 'Self'?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) emphasises the existence of the core Self in all individuals, which is considered the core of a person's being. It represents the true essence of an individual, which, when connected to, allows qualities such as compassion, curiosity, calmness, confidence, creativity, courage, clarity, and connectedness.
The Self is distinct from the various 'parts' of a person's psyche, which may include wounded, protective, or other sub-personalities that have developed as a result of life experiences. The Self is seen as inherently good and capable of healing and leading the internal system.
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What happens in an IFS session?
In IFS the goal is to help individuals access their Self and utilise its strengths to heal and integrate their different 'parts', leading to greater harmony and well-being. The Self is a state of and an active presence that can facilitate personal growth and healing.
Unlike many therapies that focus on changing behaviours directly (top-down), IFS works from the bottom up, addressing the underlying emotional wounds and traumas that drive these behaviours. By healing the root causes, IFS helps individuals achieve lasting change and increased emotional balance and harmony.
What can IFS help with?
IFS-informed therapy is effective for a wide range of psychological issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship problems. Its flexibility and adaptability make it suitable for diverse mental health concerns.
IFS empowers individuals to explore and understand their internal world, fostering self-awareness, compassion, and self-confidence. This process of self-discovery and integration leads to a more harmonious and fulfilling life.
Combining IFS with EMDR Therapy
Parts-work therapies like IFS are commonly used in combination with EMDR Therapy to provide a powerful and effective approach to trauma therapy.
Find out more about EMDR Therapy here.
More resources on IFS
Please feel welcome to take a look at the following source list, which includes textbooks, websites and articles containing some research and information underpinning our approaches to therapy. The compilation of this list is still in progress. Thank you for being patient with us as we complete this. Schwartz, R. C. (1995). Internal Family Systems Therapy. Guilford Press.
“In IFS, we don’t pathologise the parts of us that are in pain or that engage in destructive behaviour. Instead, we work to heal and integrate these parts so they can function more positively in our lives.”
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~ Richard Schwartz
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