Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a unique therapy that views your mind as a system of different parts, each with its own thoughts, feelings, and roles. Instead of seeing these parts as problems, IFS helps you understand and heal them, leading to inner harmony.
In IFS, there is a core or “True” Self that lies underneath all the parts and bears witness to them. The Self is the natural leader of the system, however because of past harmful events or relationships, protective parts have taken over, with good intentions, but creating dysfunctional behavior or relational patterns in the process. The main goal of IFS is to create safety, trust, and internal collaboration between the core Self and each part. This allows space for the parts that have become overburdened in protective roles, keeping you stuck in “survival mode”, to relax and step back, ultimately supporting integration of all parts with the Self.
The IFS Process
IFS therapy is a collaborative journey where you and your therapist work together to:
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Identify Parts and Their Wounds or Roles: Recognize and understand the different parts of your internal system.
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Build Trust: Seek to understand the fears and motivations of the protective parts.
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Unburden: Release or soften the negative emotions attached to memories that parts carry, allowing them to take on more positive roles.
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Integrate: Foster inner peace by bringing the Self into the leadership role to integrate all parts, including the abandoned young, vulnerable “inner child” parts that IFS refers to as the “Exiles.”
Benefits of IFS Therapy
IFS can help with:
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Trauma and PTSD: Heal from traumatic experiences by getting to know, holding space for, and ultimately integrating all parts, including abandoned parts.
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Anxiety and Depression: Increase self-awareness and facilitate healing by understanding and addressing the parts contributing to these feelings.
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Relationship Issues: Improve your relationships by fostering internal balance.
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Personal Growth: Enhance self-awareness and achieve greater fulfillment.
Is IFS Right for You?
IFS is a gentle, respectful approach that honors the complexity of your mind. Whether you’re facing specific challenges or seeking personal growth, IFS can help you find healing and balance.
Meet Janelle Fleck: Your IFS Therapist
If you’re considering IFS therapy, Janelle Fleck is an excellent choice. Trained in Internal Family Systems, Janelle is highly skilled in guiding clients toward inner harmony and personal growth. With her compassionate approach and deep understanding of the IFS model, Janelle is dedicated to helping you connect with your true Self and heal the parts of you that need care.
Learn more about Janelle
Ready to start your journey with IFS?
Contact us to schedule a session with Janelle Fleck and take the first step toward a balanced, fulfilling life.