INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS
“IFS is more than a therapeutic technique. It is a conceptual framework and practice for developing love for ourselves and each other.”
Richard C. Schwartz, Ph.D.
What is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a paradigm that is quickly growing due to its revolutionary approach to understanding and relating with ourselves. Richard Schwartz, Ph.D., developed this model after decades of practice and research with clients.
What is this model and how can it help you?
IFS (often referred to as “parts work”) is “a method that brings us into inner harmony, enhances self-compassion, and opens the doors to spiritual awakening” (Schwartz, 2021). IFS is founded on an assumption that we all have a core Self that is powerful, wise, compassionate, and filled with love and gratitude. The goal of IFS is to work from this core self and learn how to approach the parts of yourself you wish would go away/be better/act differently, etc. It teaches you how to address any internal conflict within that could be inhibiting your life, relationships and ability to live out a happy healthy future.
At Nashville Counseling Associates, we incorporate “parts work” (IFS) into therapy with the goal of helping clients heal wounded parts and to help other parts transform the way they operate inside you.
IFS could be Right for you if you experience or relate to any of the following...
Addiction
Anger or persistent irritability
Anxiety/Perfectionism
Depression symptoms such as lack of motivation, low energy, self-hatred
Self-criticism, low-self esteem, or lack of confidence
Unworthiness, hopelessness, feeling "not good enough," or feeling unlovable
Relationship struggles
Suicidal thoughts
Experiences of childhood neglect/trauma and continue to experience PTSD symptoms such as hypervigilance, dissociation, guilt, loneliness, intrusive thoughts, or suicidal thoughts.
Learn directly from Dr. Richard Schwartz, the founder of Internal Family Systems by watching this video on the IFS website. https://selfleadership.org/dick-at-cap-cod.html
If you believe that IFS therapy could be helpful to you or someone you know, please contact us below.