IFS, or Internal Family Systems, is a way of understanding yourself that sees your inner world as made up of many different parts — like a family living inside of you. Each part has a role. Some try to keep you safe, some carry pain, and some might show up in ways that feel extreme, like people-pleasing, shutting down, or lashing out.

These parts aren’t bad — in fact, they’re often doing their best to help. But many of them are stuck in old roles. They hold onto beliefs that were formed during difficult or painful moments in your life — things like ‘I’m not lovable,’ ‘I have to be perfect to be safe,’ or ‘I’m too much.’ Even if those beliefs aren’t true, the parts carry them like heavy backpacks.

The heart of IFS is about helping these parts feel seen, understood, and most importantly, unburdened — which means they no longer have to carry the pain, shame, or fear they picked up along the way. And when that happens, those parts can transform. The protector can become a guide, the inner critic can become a motivator, the scared part can become playful.

Underneath all these parts is your true Self — this calm, compassionate, wise presence that’s never been broken, no matter what you’ve been through. IFS helps you reconnect with that Self, and from there, lead your inner system with love. It’s not about fixing yourself — it’s about coming home to who you really are.