IFS Therapy in Calgary: A Compassionate, Trauma-Informed Approach

A gentle introduction to how IFS therapy helps you understand and care for the different parts of your inner world.

What is IFS
Therapy?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy is a gentle, evidence-based approach that helps you understand and care for the different “parts” of your inner world. Created by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS recognizes that we all have various parts—such as the anxious part, the overwhelmed part, or the part that wants to keep everything under control. These parts have important roles, but they can sometimes feel at odds with one another.

IFS also teaches that beneath all of these parts is your Self—a calm, compassionate inner presence that can guide your system toward understanding and healing.

In IFS therapy, we move at a pace that feels safe for your nervous system, gently exploring these parts and the roles they’ve taken on. Over time, clients often experience more clarity, self-compassion, and a sense of inner harmony.

IFS is an evidence-based Therapy that can offer:

  • Improved Self-Awareness: Understand the various parts of your internal system and how they influence your feelings and actions.
  • Emotional Healing: Address unresolved trauma, grief, and other emotional wounds.
  • Reduced Inner Conflict: Resolve the tension between different parts of yourself, leading to greater internal peace.
  • Enhanced Relationships: Build stronger connections by reducing reactive behaviors and understanding yourself better.
  • Increased Self-Compassion: Cultivate a kind and nonjudgmental relationship with yourself and your inner parts.

Who Can IFS Help?

IFS Therapy can benefit a wide range of individuals, including those who:

Struggle with anxiety, depression, or stress.

Are working through past trauma or emotional wounds.

Experience internal conflicts or self-sabotaging behaviors

Seek greater self-awareness and personal growth.

Want to improve their relationships by understanding their emotional triggers.

IFS is particularly helpful for those who feel “stuck” or have difficulty connecting with their emotions, offering a gentle yet effective pathway to healing.

Why Choose IFS Therapy?

An Evidence Based Approach to Healing

  • Deep Self-Exploration: Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy helps you understand and heal different parts of yourself, leading to greater self-awareness and inner harmony.
  • Empowers Self-Leadership: IFS focuses on strengthening your “Self” so you can lead with confidence, compassion, and clarity rather than being controlled by reactive emotions.
  • Healing at the Root: Instead of just managing symptoms, IFS helps you address the core wounds and beliefs driving emotional pain, leading to lasting transformation.
  • Non-Pathologizing Approach: IFS views all parts of you as valuable (even those that may feel destructive), offering healing without judgment or labels.
  • Effective for Trauma and Emotional Blocks: Research supports IFS as a powerful approach for healing trauma, anxiety, depression, and inner conflicts in a gentle yet effective way.

Frequently Asked Questions About IFS Therapy

During an IFS session, the therapist guides you to connect with your inner world, identify your parts, and build a relationship with them. You’ll work to understand the roles these parts play and address their concerns with compassion and curiosity.

No prior knowledge is needed. Your therapist will help you explore and discover your internal system during the sessions.

While IFS is highly effective for trauma, it is also beneficial for anyone seeking emotional growth, self-understanding, or improved relationships.

The length of therapy varies depending on your goals and the complexity of your internal system. Some people notice significant changes within a few sessions, while others may continue for longer periods.

Yes, many individuals use IFS principles as a self-help tool once they have an understanding of how to connect to their parts. However, working with a trained IFS therapist can provide deeper insights and support, especially when addressing complex issues.

Location

My practice is located at 1700 Varsity Estates Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, and I offer online therapy for clients throughout Alberta. Whether you prefer in-person or virtual sessions, I’m here to meet you wherever you feel most comfortable.

Healing Is Just a Click Away

Life can be dark and stormy at times and we can end up feeling lost and alone. I am here to help you find a way back into the light.

Healing Is Just a Click Away

Life can be dark and stormy at times and we can end up feeling lost and alone. I am here to help you find a way back into the light.