Internal Family Systems Model

The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model is a non-pathologizing approach to individual psychotherapy developed by Richard C. Schwartz. It combines systems thinking with the view that the mind is composed of relatively discrete subpersonalities, or parts, each with its own unique viewpoint and qualities, and the goal of the therapy is to help clients access their Self, a core state of compassion and clarity said to remain undamaged by trauma, to heal and integrate these parts. In 2015 IFS was listed on the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices as an evidence-based practice, and it is frequently applied in the treatment of complex post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression.