Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)

What does Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) help with?

Family sitting on log in forest, wearing denim jackets, facing away.

FS Therapy is a gentle, powerful approach to healing that helps people understand and work with the different “parts” of themselves — like the inner critic, the protector, or the wounded child. It’s based on the idea that we all have an inner system of parts, and that every part has a purpose, even if it’s causing distress.

At the core of IFS is the belief that every person has a true Self — a calm, compassionate, wise presence that can help lead the internal system toward healing.

  • Increases awareness of the existence of hidden parts of self

  • Promotes wholeness through the integration of rejected parts back into the self

  • Validates the experiences that led to the isolation of parts of self

  • Reduces shame associated with certain parts of self

  • Allows for the greater expression of one’s true self

  • Gives language to name and describe parts that are often experienced

  • Welcomes and organizes the various parts of self into a cohesive whole

trauma,

ptsd,

low self-esteem,

addiction,

depression,

relationship struggles,

trauma, ptsd, low self-esteem, addiction, depression, relationship struggles,

  • “Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Tiptoe if you must, but take a step.”

    -Naeem Callaway

Brick building with fire escape and mural reading 'How are you, really?' in New York City.

What you can expect at Selah

We know that every person carries unique experiences and circumstances with them to therapy.

We believe your counselling experience should integrate a process that seeks to bring you hope and change through the following steps:

  1. You will pick whether you want to attend in-person, virtual or hybrid. 

  2. You will get started with your initial session. Relationship building is the most crucial stage during this appointment, as trust and connection are vital in the therapeutic process. It takes “on average”, two or more sessions before you can determine your fit with the therapist. We always say, “Don’t give up on counselling, but connect with a new counsellor if not a good fit.” Don’t hesitate to contact our Intake Coordinator at 519-281-1845 or intake@selahsupport.ca if not a good fit. 80% of your change in therapy is about the relationship with your therapist. 

  3. During your initial sessions, you will share your current circumstances and areas you would like to see changed, and then we will go from there. We want to get to know you.  

  4. Once you and your therapist feel you are comfortable and present concerns and desires are shared, you will begin to work through various activities, skills, and treatment methods We aim to work with you in partnership, helping you gain insight and new skills that create an environment for change. 

Let’s work together.