IFS with Vera
What is IFS?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformational and profoundly compassionate way of understanding the mind and facilitating healing. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the 1980s, IFS begins with the intuitive idea that we are not one single, unified personality—but rather a system made up of many different “parts,” each with its own perspective, emotions, and intentions. Some parts take on protective roles, helping us manage life and keep emotional pain at bay, while others—often younger, more vulnerable parts—carry the burdens of past hurts or unmet needs. In IFS, we learn that all parts have good intentions, even when their strategies (like perfectionism, people-pleasing, or overindulging) cause distress. This process of turning inside and discovering a positive intention behind even the most challenging parts of us begins a process of re-parenting ourselves. Meeting the needs of the parts of us that we had to exile in order to survive, stay safe or be accepted gradually leads to a greater sense of calm and harmony inside. Unlike some other modalities that focus on changing our behaviours or thoughts, IFS teaches us that the key to change is neither in fighting or fixing parts of ourselves, but in meeting them with curiosity and care. IFS therefore leads to a lasting change by addressing our challenges at its root and fundamentally shifting our way of relating to ourselves and others.
What does an IFS session look like?
​​An IFS session is a gentle, exploratory process that invites you to turn your attention inward and get to know the different parts of your inner world. While it can look like talk therapy at certain times, at others I may guide you to notice what’s happening inside—perhaps a feeling, an image, a thought, or a body sensation that’s calling for attention. Together, we approach this inner experience with curiosity rather than judgment. As you connect with a part, we explore its perspective, emotions, and the role it plays in your system. You might discover that a critical part is trying to protect you from being hurt, or that a younger, more vulnerable part is carrying old feelings of shame or fear. My role is to be your guide and your companion in exploring your inner world and to support you in connecting with and healing the wounded places inside. Over time, this inner dialogue fosters healing, integration, and a deeper sense of harmony within.