Internal Family Systems, or IFS, is a therapeutic approach that understands every person as having different “parts” within them — protective parts, wounded parts, reactive parts, and deeply wise parts. It’s not about having multiple personalities; it’s more like the familiar image of having an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other. We all have inner voices, inner reactions, and inner roles that show up depending on what we’ve lived through.

IFS teaches that this inner multiplicity is completely normal and healthy. Just like members of a family, our parts often take on roles meant to protect us — even if those roles become automatic or outdated over time. Some parts may try to keep us safe by avoiding pain, while others may carry old hurts or beliefs. Even when these parts feel overwhelming, they each have value and a purpose.

The heart of IFS is helping people reconnect with their core Self — the calm, compassionate, grounded part of us that isn’t damaged by life’s experiences. From that place of inner leadership, people can understand their parts with curiosity instead of judgment, helping those parts release old burdens and take on healthier roles.

IFS creates space for healing from the inside out, fostering a sense of inner harmony and deeper connection with yourself and others.