No matter how much we appear to have our sh*t together, the truth is that our emotions are as complex as we are, and some days it feels like our personality is doing more outfit changes than Lady Gaga. 

On the one hand, we’re highly motivated to kick ass at work, go for that promotion, finally have an excuse to rock that Power Suit at the office—while on the other hand, we just want to take a nap. Similarly, at home, our most beloved relationships are also the source of our most debilitating headaches, ringing the old adage “can’t live with ‘em, can’t live without ‘em” true. To be human is, as they say, to contain multitudes, but boy, do those multitudes not know how to read the room sometimes. 

Internal Family Systems makes a lookbook of your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, piecing together the differing parts to facilitate a deeper sense of harmony and balance in your life. Instead of viewing your emotions as objectively “good” or “bad”—unlike your socks-and-sandals era or decision to get bangs—IFS welcomes every part with curiosity and willingness to hear what statement it has to make. 

Typically, the IFS treatment process involves:

1. Getting to know the differing parts making up your unique self, evaluating how each part may be influencing your experience. Whether these parts are protecting you, criticizing you, or carrying deep wounds from your past, a core tenet of IFS is acknowledging that each one serves a purpose. Checking out what’s in the closet.
2. Understanding the role of each part. Once identified, the goal is to no longer look at parts as being the “enemy” or “working against you,” but rather get to the bottom of why they’re doing what they’re doing—which may be protecting you, even if it’s no longer helpful. Thinking about the look you’re going for tonight.
3. Healing the wounded parts that are holding onto trauma, pain, and fear. As these parts begin to recover, you’re likely to feel more at ease, self-compassionate, and aligned with who you want to be. Putting together the outfit.
4. Bringing your whole self into the balance as your parts learn how to work together. As your core self aligns, anxiety and conflict will begin to subside. Confidently strutting out of the house in style. 

As a client-centered, deeply integrative approach, IFS is a powerful tool for fostering self-awareness, emotional healing, and sustainable growth.