In Internal Family Systems therapy, we work from the premise that we all have an authentic Self we are born with. However, as we’re exposed to emotional wounding in life, we develop subpersonalities to help protect ourselves. For instance, we may have a part that is people-pleasing, a part that isolates, a part that remains hypervigilant, or a part that is highly controlling. Although they’re well-meaning with only our safety in mind, when these parts take the wheel, it can inadvertently lead to isolation, emotional reactivity, and misunderstanding. 

In IFS therapy, the goal is to acknowledge how your experiences have informed the characteristics of your protective parts. Once you better understand the purpose they serve and how they aim to support you, you can help them relax and step out of the driver’s seat. With more awareness and appreciation of your parts, they become integrated in a way that fosters a deeper connection with your authentic Self and with others. 

As you learn to have more compassion and empathy for all aspects of Self, internal conflict, self-criticism, and shame begin to wane. Fostering self-awareness can be transformational, leading to stronger boundaries, better communication, emergence from painful patterns, and healthier and more satisfying relationships characterized by freedom and choice.

IFS therapy is user-friendly. As you practice new ways of relating to Self and others in session, this becomes increasingly easier to do in daily life. Soon, you’ll be able to communicate your needs more effectively to others and increase clarity and connection.

The IFS model of therapy is one of the fastest-growing modalities in the world. Although many therapists offer it, they haven’t necessarily received adequate training. At Love Heal Grow, we have a certified IFS therapist on staff who not only works with individuals and couples but also trains other practitioners on our team and around the world. 

We encourage all of our therapists to integrate IFS into their practice due to how effectively it helps clients gain deeper self-acceptance and insights that break them out of limiting beliefs. Our practice was first introduced to IFS therapy through a team member who shares this story: “When I found IFS, I had been in therapy for many years for unresolved trauma. Although therapy helped me survive, I still carried a lot of shame and felt stuck. 

IFS helped me realize that my behaviors were not bad and that I was not bad. I was able to get curious about what had happened to me and understand how I had responded. Before IFS, therapy felt like walking across a continent. But with IFS, I felt like I was flying.”

In the short term, many of our clients experience relief just by having a safe place to explore their inner world. Over time, they discover that lasting change is possible. 

Even deep wounds can heal, and stuck patterns can shift. IFS helps you to connect with your authentic Self, which is wise, calm, and compassionate. From this place of wholeness, you can connect with others, make decisions, and build a life that truly reflects who you are.