What is Internal Family Systems Model? The Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model is a therapeutic approach developed by Richard Schwartz, a family therapist and social worker, in the 1980s. The IFS model is based on the premise that each person has various internal parts or sub-personalities, and that these parts can be understood and worked with in a therapeutic setting. In the IFS model, each part has its own unique perspective, emotions, and behaviors. Some parts may be more dominant than others, and some parts may be in conflict with each other. The goal of IFS therapy is to help individuals explore and understand their internal parts, and to develop a relationship with each part in order to integrate and harmonize them. IFS therapy involves several key concepts and techniques, including:

• Parts: The various internal sub-personalities that make up an individual’s personality.
• Self: The core of the person’s being, which is seen as compassionate, curious, and accepting.
• Internal System: The collection of parts and the Self that make up a person’s internal world.
• Internal Family: The analogy used to describe the internal system, where the different parts of the person are like members of a family.
• Parts work: The process of identifying and working with specific parts in therapy.
• Self-leadership: The goal of IFS therapy, where the Self takes a leadership role in managing and integrating the internal system.

IFS therapy has been used to treat a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders. It is often used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy.