What Can IFS Help With?

IFS can be helpful in treating a wide range of issues, including:

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Relationship challenges

  • Grief and loss

  • Eating disorders

  • Substance use

  • Self-esteem and identity struggles

By working with all the parts of yourself, IFS helps you move toward balance, healing, and greater emotional freedom.

Our IFS Trained Clinicians Trained via IFS Institute are:

EAC Clinicians who have received training in IFS:

What is Internal Family Systems (IFS)?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a compassionate, evidence-based type of therapy which facilitates a greater understanding of oneself and healing of one’s inner emotional world.

People often come to therapy to better understand or manage feelings and behaviors that seem at odds with their true Self. IFS provides a non-judgmental way to explore why these "parts" can take over and prevent us from acting in line with our values.

IFS sees the mind as made up of different parts that have helped us survive at different times in life. Each part is trying to help in its own way, and our goal is to connect with these parts so they can support us, rather than disrupt us.

Different parts of us can have conflicting desires, such as, "I want to start therapy and heal" and also, "I'm scared nothing will help or opening up will make things worse." This creates internal tension and emotional distress— and the two can become locked in a standoff, preventing any action. IFS is based on the belief that everyone has a "Self" that can lead and heal these parts when given the chance. By connecting with your true Self, which IFS believes is connected to your Higher Power, you can help these parts find harmony.

What to Expect in an IFS Session

In an IFS session, your therapist will guide you to explore your internal system of parts, helping you connect with your true Self to lead the healing process. The goal is not to "get rid" of any parts, but to understand their roles and work towards a more harmonious relationship between them. This process encourages deep self-compassion and allows clients to heal wounds that have long affected their emotional well-being. IFS believes every human has a core, loving Self, and that every person already has what they need in them to heal themselves. You may just need a therapist as a guide to help you connect to it..

Is IFS Right for Me?

If you’re feeling stuck, confused by your own thoughts and behaviors, or find yourself repeating patterns despite wanting change, IFS could be a transformative tool. It's particularly powerful for individuals looking to heal trauma, develop self-compassion, and create deeper self-understanding.