Dr. Richard C. Schwartz introduced the theory of Internal Family Systems (IFS) in the 1980s. The theory of IFS is founded on the principle that each person has several "parts" within himself or herself, each playing a certain role.
What it helps with
How it works
Early on
You and your counsellor notice the different parts of you, like a part that worries or a part that criticizes, and get curious about what each one is trying to do.
As you go
With your counsellor's help, you may speak with a part from a calmer place in you, called the Self, and learn what it fears or needs instead of fighting it.
Over time
Between sessions, you can notice when a part takes over, like an urge to please others. You and your counsellor decide together how long to keep going.
Not sure? A free consultation can help you choose.
Where
About
Dr. Richard C. Schwartz introduced the theory of Internal Family Systems (IFS) in the 1980s. The theory of IFS is founded on the principle that each person has several "parts" within himself or herself, each playing a certain role. Rather than being critical of these various parts, IFS allows an individual to comprehend his/her "parts" from a place of understanding and compassion. At No Fear Counselling, IFS assists clients in healing past traumas and becoming more self-aware.
The internal family systems model indicates that the mind is composed of various parts that have different thoughts, emotions, and intentions. While some parts work to keep one from experiencing emotional pain, others are responsible for carrying the hurtful or difficult memories and emotions of the past.
If such parts are rigid and overcharged, they may affect functioning in daily life, personal relationships, and the individual's emotional health. In IFS, instead of eliminating such parts, individuals are assisted in understanding them and dealing with them in a caring way.
As a result of becoming more connected to the inner Self, clients usually report emotional harmony and confidence.
The Internal Family Systems model enables clients to analyze various parts that exist within them in an encouraging environment. Clients will come to realize the effects of each part in their thought processes, emotions, and behaviors during therapy sessions.
Therapists teach the clients about the functions of each part instead of criticizing them or opposing them. The therapists will gain the confidence of their clients, and then the protective parts will be less aggressive while wounded parts will be healed.
In the process, the clients will gain self-awareness and emotional balance.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) can assist individuals to:
Individuals suffering from:
Could find internal family systems useful
The Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach is one that our expert therapists use at No Fear Counselling to help clients learn about their emotions, recover from their experiences and find healthier coping mechanisms.
The IFS approach may be used alone or together with other scientifically proven treatment methods in order to treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and personal development. We provide our counselling services both in person and online in a secure way throughout Canada.
Healing starts with knowing yourself. Internal Family Systems (IFS) is an approach that can help you become more self-aware, emotionally balanced and positive.
No Fear Counselling provides Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy in Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, Langley, Victoria, Kelowna, Penticton, and through our online counselling services throughout Canada.
Make your appointment for a free consultation today and learn more about IFS.
Schwartz, R. C. (2021). No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems Model. Boulder, CO: Sounds True.
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
Counselling Therapist
In an Internal Family Systems (IFS) session, you and your counsellor talk about what is going on in your life and notice the parts of you that show up, such as a part that feels anxious or a part that shuts down. You may close your eyes or simply talk, and get curious about what a part wants for you. The aim is to listen to each part with care, not to get rid of it.
No, you choose what to share and when. Your counsellor goes at your pace and helps you feel steady and calm before any deeper work with painful memories or strong feelings. If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8, call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433), or call 911 if you are in danger.
Both approaches are warm and follow your lead, but IFS adds a clear way of looking at your inner world as a set of parts. In person-centred therapy, your counsellor mainly listens and reflects back what you share. In IFS, your counsellor may also guide you to speak with a worried or angry part and ask what it is trying to protect you from.
IFS may suit you if you notice parts of you pulling in different directions, such as a part that wants closeness and a part that pulls away. Many people come to IFS for anxiety, low self-esteem, grief or relationship concerns. If you are not sure, our intake team suggests counsellors who fit what you need, your language, your budget and where you want to meet.
Yes, many people do IFS by video, because much of it is talking and noticing what happens inside you. You can meet in person or online from anywhere in BC, whichever feels more comfortable. If you want help deciding, we offer a free 15-minute consultation by phone or video.
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