IFS is a therapeutic approach that sees the mind as made up of different parts, like a family. These parts are different aspects of ourselves, such as our inner critic, the part of us that feels sad, or the part that is protective. IFS helps us understand these parts and how they interact, aiming to heal the wounded parts and bring the system into balance. The goal is to be more connected with our true, calm self, so we can better cope with life’s challenges.

According to Dr. Richard Schwartz, the founder of IFS, there are three main types of components:

“Managers” are parts that try to keep the person in control of situations and avoid emotional pain. They often manifest as perfectionism, anxiety, or hyper-vigilance.

“Exiles” are parts that carry wounds from past traumas or painful experiences. They are often buried deep because they hold intense emotions like shame, fear, or sadness.

“Firefighters” are parts that react when exiles are triggered, working to soothe or numb the pain, often through impulsive or addictive behaviors.

“The Self” is the core, compassionate, and centered part of a person, and it is believed that the Self can lead the internal system once the person is able to connect with it. The goal of IFS therapy is to have the Self lead, allowing the parts to heal and harmonize.

In IFS, the goal is not to eliminate parts but to listen to and understand them. By doing so, parts can let go of their extreme roles and feel safe, and the person can function with more balance and harmony. Overall, IFS helps people resolve inner conflicts, heal past traumas, and achieve a greater sense of self-awareness and emotional well-being by working with and understanding these internal parts.