An Overview of Internal Family Systems (IFS)
What is IFS?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a transformative approach that helps individuals understand and navigate their inner world of thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS views the mind as composed of various sub-personalities or "parts," each with its own unique perspective and role. By fostering self-awareness, IFS empowers individuals to heal emotional wounds, resolve inner conflicts, and cultivate greater harmony within themselves.
Individual Therapy with IFS
In individual therapy, IFS provides a framework for exploring and integrating different parts of the self. Therapists trained in IFS help clients identify and understand the various parts that make up their internal system, including protective parts, wounded parts, and exiled parts. Through guided visualization and dialogue, clients learn to connect with and heal wounded parts, while cultivating self-compassion and acceptance. IFS helps individuals develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their inner dynamics, leading to greater self-esteem, resilience, and inner peace.
Couples Therapy with IFS
In couples therapy, IFS helps partners explore and understand the internal dynamics that impact their relationship. Therapists trained in IFS work with couples to identify and communicate their individual parts and how they interact with each other. By fostering empathy and curiosity, IFS helps couples recognize and empathize with each other's inner experiences, fostering greater understanding and connection. Through collaborative dialogue and exploration, couples learn to navigate conflicts more effectively and strengthen their bond.
Family Therapy with IFS
In family therapy, IFS provides a framework for understanding and addressing family dynamics and intergenerational patterns. Therapists trained in IFS help families explore the internal dynamics of each family member and how they contribute to family interactions. By fostering empathy and curiosity, IFS helps family members recognize and validate each other's experiences, promoting greater understanding and cohesion. IFS also helps families identify and heal relational wounds, leading to healthier communication and relationships.
Why Choose IFS?
Choosing IFS means choosing a therapy approach that honors the complexity of the human psyche and promotes self-discovery and healing. IFS offers a gentle and thoughtful pathway to understanding and integrating the various parts of the self. Whether you're seeking individual therapy to explore your inner world, couples therapy to improve your relationship, or family therapy to strengthen family bonds, IFS provides a powerful framework for healing and growth. With the support of a skilled IFS therapist, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation, leading to greater harmony and wholeness within yourself and your relationships.
Meet Our IFS Therapy Team
Shiva Safari Clinical Director - MA, RP, MFT
- Clinical Director - MAMFT, Registered Psychotherapist, Marriage and Family Therapist
- She/Her/Hers