Internal Family Systems Therapy in Burr Ridge

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative, evidence-based therapy that helps individuals understand and heal the various “parts” of themselves, particularly those that carry pain, fear, or self-criticism. Rather than seeing emotions or behaviors as problems, IFS views them as protective parts of an inner system, each trying to help in its own way.

IFS enables individuals to relate to themselves with more compassion, curiosity, and clarity, fostering lasting emotional healing from the inside out.

What Is Internal Family Systems?

Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS is based on the idea that the mind is made up of many inner parts, much like a family. These parts might include:

• A critical part that pushes you to achieve or avoid failure
• A protective part that numbs feelings or shuts you down
• A wounded part that holds sadness, fear, or shame
• A people-pleasing part that avoids conflict at all costs

According to IFS, every part has a positive intention, even if its actions are unhelpful or painful. These parts form a system that tries to keep you safe, especially in response to past trauma, stress, or emotional wounds.

At the core of every person is the Self: a calm, confident, compassionate inner leader. The goal of IFS therapy is to help the Self take the lead, so all parts feel seen, heard, and supported.

How IFS Works

IFS is a gentle, non-pathologizing approach that helps you develop a better relationship with your inner world. In a typical session, you might:

• Identify different parts of yourself that are active in certain thoughts, emotions, or behaviors
• “Unblend” from intense parts, so you can observe them without being overwhelmed
• Listen to and understand each part’s role and history
• Heal wounded parts that carry pain or trauma from the past
• Help protective parts relax, once they trust that healing is possible

Unlike some therapies that focus on analyzing or changing behavior, IFS helps you establish a profound inner connection with your parts, leading to lasting emotional integration and peace.

What Can IFS Help With?

IFS is effective for a wide range of emotional and mental health concerns, including:

• Trauma and PTSD
• Anxiety and depression
• Grief and loss
• Shame and low self-worth
• Addictions or compulsive behaviors
• Eating disorders
• Relationship difficulties
• Chronic inner conflict or self-sabotage

Many people also use IFS for personal growth, self-discovery, or spiritual development.

Is IFS Evidence-Based?

Yes. While it may sound abstract at first, IFS is backed by growing clinical research showing its effectiveness, particularly in treating complex trauma, PTSD, and emotional regulation issues. Mental health professionals increasingly recognize it as a powerful, holistic approach to deep healing.

What to Expect

IFS is collaborative and compassionate. You won’t be told what to do or judged for your thoughts or feelings. Instead, your therapist will guide you inward, helping you meet your parts with curiosity and respect. There’s no need to relive painful memories in detail. The process focuses on building trust within your internal system, allowing healing to happen from a place of safety and self-leadership.

Healing Starts Within

We all carry many parts, and we all have a Self capable of healing and harmony. Internal Family Systems offers a respectful, empowering path toward emotional balance, self-compassion, and inner peace.