Discover a compassionate, evidence-based path to healing by understanding and harmonizing the different “parts” of your inner world. At Redeemed Life Counseling, we help you move from internal conflict to a state of “Self-Leadership” characterized by clarity, calm, and confidence.
What is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative model of psychotherapy that views the mind as a “family” of various sub-personalities, or “parts.” Some parts carry wounds and pain (Exiles), while others work tirelessly to protect you from that pain (Managers and Firefighters). IFS focuses on accessing your core Self—the compassionate essence of who you are—to heal these wounded parts and restore internal balance and harmony.
Who is it for?
- Individuals feeling “at war with themselves” or stuck in self-sabotaging patterns.
- Couples and Families looking to understand how their “parts” react to one another in conflict.
- Those struggling with Anxiety or Depression who want to understand the root of their emotional symptoms.
- People dealing with Shame or Trauma who feel overwhelmed by “loud” inner critics or painful memories.
- Anyone seeking a non-pathologizing approach that sees you as a whole person, not a diagnosis.
Benefits of Redeemed Life IFS Therapy
- Reduces Internal Conflict – Learn to stop the “tug-of-war” between different parts of your personality, leading to a more peaceful daily life.
- Cultivates Self-Compassion – Shift from self-criticism to curiosity, allowing you to understand why you act in certain ways rather than judging yourself.
- Heals Root Trauma – By safely accessing “Exiled” parts, IFS allows for deep emotional unburdening and permanent healing of old wounds.
- Improves Relationships – When you understand your own “inner family,” you can communicate with others from a place of calm rather than reactivity.
- Empowers “Self-Leadership” – Develop the ability to navigate life’s challenges using your core Self’s wisdom, courage, and perspective.
Talk To One of Our Counselors
Michelle Fitzhugh, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor – Supervisor
Founder & Executive Director
Specialties:
Works With:
Chris Washam, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clinical Director
Specialties:
Works With:
Jennifer Lafabregue, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Specialties:
Works With:
Courtney Osborne, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Specialties:
Works With:
Heather Love, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Specialties:
Works With:
Kassie Hitchcock, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Specialties:
Works With:
How Internal Family Systems Can Help You or a Loved One
Healing is about more than just managing behavior; it’s about creating an internal environment where all parts of you feel safe and heard.
- Silence the Inner Critic
Understand the protective intent of your self-criticism and transform it into a supportive inner voice.
- Resolve Self-Sabotage
Identify the parts of you that “act out” (through overeating, anger, or avoidance) and address their underlying needs.
- Manage Chronic Physical Symptoms
IFS has been shown to improve physical health conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, by reducing internal systemic stress.
- Deepen Emotional Resilience
Build a “Self-led” foundation that allows you to stay grounded even during high-stress situations.
- Foster Lasting Harmony
Create a mental system where your parts work together as a team rather than competing for control.
Your Path to Healing: What to Expect
Taking the first step toward a new type of therapy can feel overwhelming. We’ve designed our process to be clear, supportive, and focused on your results from day one.
1. The Discovery Call Safety & Connection
We start with a free consultation to discuss what you’re experiencing. We’ll explain the IFS approach and ensure you feel a strong sense of safety and “fit” with your counselor before beginning the work.
2. Mapping Your System Understanding Your Parts
In our initial sessions, we’ll help you identify the “parts” that are currently most active in your life—whether they are anxious, protective, or wounded. This “mapping” helps us understand the dynamics of your internal family.
3. The Healing Transformation Unburdening & Balance
Once your protective parts feel safe, we work toward “unburdening” the wounded parts of your system. This allows your core self to take the lead, resulting in a permanent shift toward mental balance and emotional freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Not at all. It is a natural part of the human experience to have different “aspects” of our personality (e.g., “A part of me wants to go out, but another part wants to stay home”). IFS simply provides a framework to organize and heal these aspects.
Instead of just talking about your problems, IFS involves a guided internal dialogue. You learn to relate to your emotions and thoughts from a place of compassion (Self), which leads to faster and deeper healing.
Yes. IFS is recognized as an evidence-based practice on the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP). It is proven effective for improving general well-being and treating specific conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Absolutely. IFS is highly effective for couples (often called IFIO – Intimacy from the Inside Out). It helps partners understand how their respective “parts” trigger one another, leading to more “Self-led” and compassionate communication.