Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy in Calgary
What is Internal Family Systems Therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals understand and heal the different "parts" of their personality, such as the inner critic, the wounded child, or the protector. These parts can influence how we think, feel, and behave, often in ways that create inner conflict. IFS helps us address these conflicts by fostering better communication and understanding between these parts. In practice, a therapist guides the client to identify and engage with these parts, encouraging them to work together in a more harmonious way. The goal is to connect with the "Self," which is seen as the calm, compassionate, and wise core of our being, to heal and integrate these different parts.
What Issues Can IFS Therapy Help With?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Anxiety and Panic Disorders
Depression
Grief and Loss
Childhood Trauma
Sexual Assault or Abuse Survivors
Addiction and Substance Abuse
Body Image Issues
Low Self-Esteem and Negative Self-Beliefs
Relationship Issues (e.g. attachment issues)
Shame and Guilt
Anger and Rage
Too Long, Didn’t Read:
Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps heal inner conflicts by working with different "parts" of ourselves, fostering harmony to heal emotional wounds and improve well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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In IFS therapy, the "Self" is like the true, authentic you. It’s the wise, compassionate part of you that’s non-judgmental and able to guide your healing. Think of it as the core of who you are - the part that helps you connect with and heal the different parts of yourself.
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The number of sessions needed can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the issues being addressed.
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Unlike traditional talk therapies that focus on cognitive or behavioral change, IFS therapy centers around identifying and healing internal parts of the self. IFS works on a deeper emotional level, addressing the root causes of negative behavior, beliefs, and emotional pain, rather than just the symptoms
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It helps you access and heal the parts of yourself that hold traumatic memories and emotions. IFS can be a helpful way to process trauma as it externalizes some of your experiences - making it easier to cope through and process.