Internal Family Systems (IFS)
At Seven Lion Yard
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a gentle, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps people understand and heal their inner world. It is based on the idea that the mind is made up of different “parts” – each with its own thoughts, feelings and roles – and that healing comes from getting to know these parts with curiosity, compassion and care.
Rather than seeing emotional struggles as signs of illness or dysfunction, IFS views them as the result of inner parts trying to protect us – sometimes in extreme or unhelpful ways – often because of past pain or trauma.
What Is IFS?
IFS was developed by Dr Richard Schwartz and is grounded in the belief that we all have a core “Self” – a calm, compassionate and wise inner presence. When we connect with this Self, we can listen to and care for our parts, no matter how conflicted or overwhelmed they might feel.
In IFS, every part is seen as having a positive intention, even if its behaviour is causing problems. For example, a critical inner voice might be trying to keep you safe from failure, or a part that avoids emotions might be protecting you from feeling hurt.
How Does IFS Work?
IFS helps you build a relationship with the different parts of yourself in a safe, respectful way. In therapy, you will learn to:
- Notice your inner parts – such as the critic, the people-pleaser, the angry part or the anxious part
- Understand why these parts do what they do and what they’re trying to protect
- Access your “Self” – the calm, confident inner leader who can support and guide your system
- Help parts release old roles, pain or burdens they’ve carried for too long
- Create more harmony and balance within yourself
You do not have to analyse everything or talk about the past in detail. IFS works by helping you listen inward with kindness and curiosity, which naturally leads to healing and transformation.
What Can IFS Help With?
IFS is effective for a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges, including:
- Anxiety and panic
- Depression
- Shame and low self-worth
- Relationship issues
- Inner conflict or self-sabotage
- Trauma and PTSD
It is also used by people who want to understand themselves more deeply and live with more inner clarity and peace.
Is IFS Right for You?
IFS may be a good fit if:
- You feel torn between different parts of yourself
- You struggle with harsh inner critics or overwhelming emotions
- You have experienced trauma or emotional neglect
- You want to feel more self-acceptance and less inner conflict
- You are open to exploring your internal world in a gentle, non-pathologising way
IFS can be particularly helpful if traditional talk therapy has not felt quite right or if you’re looking for a more holistic, compassionate approach.
Summary
Internal Family Systems offers a powerful way to heal by helping you connect with all parts of yourself from a place of compassion and curiosity. It encourages a deeper understanding of your inner world and supports real, lasting change by restoring balance and trust within. At its heart, IFS teaches that you are not broken – you are made up of many parts, and every part deserves to be heard, understood and cared for.
