Internal Family Systems Therapy

Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) is an evidence-based therapy approach. Learn more about IFS Therapy and if it might be a good fit for you.

Internal Family Systems Therapy

Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) is an evidence-based therapy approach. Learn more about IFS Therapy and if it might be a good fit for you.

What is IFS Therapy?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative, evidence-based therapy that helps people understand and heal the different “parts” of themselves. Specifically, the parts that carry pain, fear, shame, or anger. Rather than seeing thoughts or behaviors as problems to eliminate, IFS sees them as parts of you that are trying to help or protect you in some way, even if their methods are no longer working.

At the core of IFS is the belief that everyone has a "Self," a calm, curious, compassionate center that can lead the healing process. When we connect with this Self, we can build relationships with our inner parts, help them release burdens, and restore inner harmony.

IFS therapy Journey to a Trauma Informed Life

How Does IFS Help?

Life experiences, especially trauma or attachment wounds, can cause parts of us to take on extreme roles. Roles such as the inner critic, the people-pleaser, or the anxious protector. Other parts may carry deep pain, fear, or shame and get pushed down or exiled. IFS helps you gently access and understand these parts without judgment.

Through IFS Therapy, you will:

  • Identify and connect with your internal parts in a respectful, non-pathologizing way.
  • Build trust and communication between your Self and your parts.
  • Help wounded parts release burdens they’ve been carrying for years.
  • Experience more balance, confidence, and emotional freedom.

Individual Therapy FAQs

Therapy, also called counseling or psychotherapy, is a collaborative process where you work with a trained mental health professional to explore your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences. The goal is to improve your emotional well-being, develop healthier coping skills, and create meaningful change in your life.

You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek therapy to work through anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, stress, or simply to better understand themselves. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just curious about personal growth, therapy can help.

In a typical session, you’ll talk with your therapist in a safe, nonjudgmental space. Sessions may include exploring current challenges, learning new coping strategies, working through past experiences, or setting goals. Your therapist will guide the process, but you’re always in control of what you choose to share.

The length of therapy varies depending on your goals, the type of therapy used, and your unique situation. Some people feel better in just a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. You and your therapist will regularly check in on your progress and adjust as needed.

Yes. What you share in therapy is kept private, with a few legal exceptions (such as if someone is in immediate danger or in cases of abuse). Your therapist will review confidentiality with you during your first session so you know exactly what to expect.

We offer both in-person and telehealth (online) sessions, depending on your preference and availability. Teletherapy is a convenient and secure way to access support from the comfort of your home.

Connect with Journey

Begin your healing process with the help of our services and resources at Journey to a Trauma Informed Life.

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Journey: Healing Together is a non-profit offering healing spaces to New Majority communities. Providing opportunities for diverse groups to gather, heal, restore, discover, and rebuild. Find out how to get involved and #JoinTheJourney!