INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS (IFS) THERAPY SUNSHINE COAST
An approach for those seeking to explore and harmonise their inner parts of self to promote healing, self-compassion and inner balance.
WHAT IS IFS THERAPY?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy is a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps individuals address their internal struggles by exploring and harmonising the different “parts” of the self. This innovative therapy, developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, operates on the premise that each of us is composed of a complex internal system made up of distinct parts. IFS allows you to understand, heal, and integrate these parts, resulting in a more balanced, resilient, and authentic self.
THE FOUNDATIONS OF IFS
IFS Therapy is grounded in the idea that everyone has a core “Self” characterized by compassion, curiosity, calm, and confidence. Around this Self, we all develop various parts, which may take on specific roles in response to our life experiences. These parts can be grouped into three main types:
Managers: Protect you by controlling interactions and environments, often perfectionistic or self-critical.
Exiles: Hold painful emotions or memories, usually related to past trauma or wounds, and are hidden to shield you from emotional pain.
Firefighters: Act to soothe or distract from pain when exiles’ feelings become overwhelming, often through impulsive or self-soothing behaviors.
In therapy, we work with you to create a safe, non-judgmental space where each part can be acknowledged and understood. IFS is especially effective for those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and internal conflicts.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM IFS THERAPY?
IFS Therapy is well-suited for individuals dealing with:
Complex Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety and Depression
Perfectionism and Self-Criticism
Relational Issues
Self-Esteem and Identity Challenges
Whether you are facing longstanding emotional pain or seeking a deeper connection with yourself, IFS offers a transformative path to self-discovery, healing, and wholeness.
OUR IFS PSYCHOLOGIST
Josh Shalevski | Psychologist
HOW CAN IFS THERAPY HELP ME?
The main goals of IFS therapy are to help you to better understand yourself, heal old wounds, and feel more balanced emotionally. Through IFS, you will be supported to view all parts of yourself with kindness and curiosity, and learn to understand why you feel or react in certain ways. This therapy creates a safe space to explore painful feelings or memories, work through prior trauma, and develop greater awareness and compassion toward the different parts of self. Over time, IFS therapy can assist you to develop a more cohesive sense of self; allowing you to feel more confident, at ease, self-compassionate and resilient.
Our resident JCM Psychology IFS therapist, Josh Shalevski, provides a warm and supportive environment for you to explore and transform your inner world. Each journey is unique, and we are committed to guiding you in a way that aligns with your specific goals and preferences.
If you would like to book in for IFS therapy with one of Josh, or find out more about our approach to psychology and counselling, please contact us.
Are you looking for IFS therapy on the Sunshine Coast?
We’d love to hear from you.