Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a compassionate and deeply respectful way of understanding the different parts of ourselves.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) online
and in Carrickfergus near Belfast
These "parts" might show up as:
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a part that worries or anticipates problems
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a part that avoids difficult feelings
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a part that feels overwhelmed or hurt
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a part that pushes you to keep going no matter what
When our "parts" are attended to therapeutically they will often become less intense which creates more space for balance and autonomy.
Who might benefit from IFS Therapy?
Many people come to this work because they feel caught between different inner experiences, perhaps one part of them wants change, while another part feels stuck, protective, or overwhelmed.
IFS can be particularly helpful for people working through:
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trauma or difficult past experiences
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anxiety, stress or emotional overwhelm
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recurring relational patterns
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internal conflict or self-criticism
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burnout or emotional exhaustion
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identity exploration and personal growth
How IFS Therapy Works
In Internal Family Systems therapy, we begin by gently noticing the different inner experiences that show up in your life.
You might recognise moments when:
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one part of you wants to speak up while another holds you back
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you feel pulled between conflicting emotions
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a strong inner critic takes over
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certain situations trigger reactions that feel bigger than the moment itself
IFS therapy doesn’t view these inner experiences as problems to eliminate or fight against. Instead, they are understood as meaningful responses that developed to help us survive, cope, or protect ourselves at different points in our lives.
Rather than asking “What’s wrong with me?”, the work invites a different question: “What part of me is communicating right now?”
This allows us to work with the root memories, beliefs and experiences which have caused pain and become stuck in our minds, brains and bodies.
Over time, we then begin to feel less conflicted internally and long-standing patterns start to soften and shift naturally. Ultimately, this helps us approach and respond to life with clarity, steadiness, and choice instead of being swept along at the mercy of strong reactions, fears or indecision.
An Integrative Approach to IFS
I have completed official training programmes via the Internal Family Systems Institute, currently the only organisation which can validate IFS courses.
While I draw strongly from Internal Family Systems therapy, my overall approach to psychotherapy is integrative and I do not practise IFS without appropriate assessment and ongoing attention to other factors and circumstances.
This means the work often includes elements of:
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relational psychotherapy
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creative therapy
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trauma-aware and "safer" practice based on relevant up to date neuroscience
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nervous system awareness
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reflective dialogue
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other "parts work" theory and models
Rather than applying a rigid protocol, then, we adapt to what feels both meaningful and manageable for you. Life happens. The most important part of successful therapy which yields sustainable outcomes is that the relationship and pace of the work provide enough attunement and security for you to do the work without being overwhelmed.
I've written a blog further explaining my approach to IFS and parts work here
Starting IFS therapy
If you’re interested in Internal Family Systems therapy, the next step is usually a simple conversation.
This allows us to explore what you’re looking for, discuss any questions you may have, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.
My therapy practice is based in Carrickfergus, approximately 12 miles from Belfast, and I also offer online therapy via Zoom.