What is Internal Family Systems?
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
What is Internal Family Systems?
Internal Family Systems℠ (IFS℠) is a therapeutic model that views every human being as a system of protective and wounded inner parts guided by a core Self. It teaches that the mind is naturally multiple — and that this multiplicity is healthy — because, like members of a family, inner parts can be pushed into extreme roles but also have valuable inherent qualities.
IFS helps people access their undamaged, compassionate Self, which knows how to heal, and from that inner leadership, understand and transform their parts, fostering both inner and outer connectedness.
IFS is a non-pathologizing psychotherapy used in clinical settings and was developed by the founder of the IFS Institute, Dr. Richard Schwartz. For decades, the IFS Institute has been the sole provider of training and certification in Internal Family Systems.
The 8 Cs of Self-Leadership
IFS provides a way of better understanding personal and intimate relationships and stepping into life with the 8 Cs:
Who Can Benefit from IFS?
Professionals from many different backgrounds — body workers, mediators, school administrators, life coaches, and religious leaders — have used IFS as a lens to inform and guide their work. In addition to being a psychotherapy, IFS is also a powerful framework for personal growth, relationships, and professional practice.
Research Base
Early randomized trials and quasi-experimental studies suggest that IFS may benefit patients with depression and/or PTSD, including consistent improvements in self-compassion. However, the evidence base remains small, and more condition-specific research is needed. The IFS Institute is committed to continuing to develop and expand this research base.
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