Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a model of psychotherapy developed by Dr Richard Schwartz that understands the mind as made up of multiple sub-personalities or parts, each with its own perspective, feelings, and role. Some parts carry pain or trauma from past experiences. Others have developed as protectors, often using strategies like avoidance, self-criticism, or numbing to prevent that pain from surfacing. At the centre of the model is the Self: a compassionate, curious, and calm core that is always present regardless of how chaotic the inner world feels. IFS therapy helps you develop a relationship between your Self and your parts, healing the wounds they carry and restoring inner harmony.
Understanding Your Parts
IFS helps you identify and understand the different parts of yourself with curiosity rather than judgment. Whether a part is critical, fearful, angry, or numb, each one has a positive intention and a story to tell. Understanding them changes your relationship with your inner experience.
Healing from the Self
The goal of IFS is not to eliminate difficult parts but to heal the wounds they carry, led by the compassion and clarity of the Self. As parts are understood and their burdens lifted, the inner system becomes less reactive and more harmonious.
How IFS Can Help You
Specialised support for a wide range of modern mental health challenges.
Self-Criticism and Shame
IFS helps you understand and transform the critical inner voice rather than fight it.
Anxiety and Inner Conflict
IFS resolves the internal conflicts between parts that drive anxiety and emotional overwhelm.
NI Counselling
Trained IFS Practitioners
Our IFS therapists have completed recognised training in the Internal Family Systems model and work within the framework established by the IFS Institute. You will be matched with a practitioner who has genuine depth of experience with this approach and the presentations it addresses.
Local NI Expertise
Born and bred in Northern Ireland, we understand the specific cultural context of our communities and how that shapes people's relationship with their mental health and wellbeing.
No GP Referral Required
We believe mental health support should be accessible. We offer appointments within 7 days of referral, with no GP letter or waiting list required to get started.