Internal Family Systems (IFS)

If you’ve ever felt like different parts of you are pulling in different directions, you’re not alone. Maybe part of you wants to rest, but another part feels guilty for slowing down. Or maybe you long for connection, but another part pushes people away. Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy helps you make sense of these inner conflicts—and find a way forward that feels balanced, whole, and true to who you are.

What is IFS?

IFS, developed by Richard Schwartz in the 1980s, is based on the idea that our minds are made up of different "parts", each with its own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Some parts are wounded and carry pain, while others protect us—sometimes in ways that cause more harm than good. At the core of every person, though, is the Self—a calm, compassionate leader that can help these parts work together instead of against each other.

IFS is a powerful and deeply healing approach—it’s not about “fixing” you because you’re not broken. It’s about understanding yourself on a whole new level and learning how to care for the parts of you that need it most.

Why combine IFS with art therapy?

Words aren’t always enough. Sometimes, we need something more tangible to connect with what’s happening inside. That’s where art therapy and IFS together can be incredibly powerful.

Making the invisible, visible Instead of just talking about your parts, you can draw, sculpt, or create them, helping them feel seen and understood in a completely different way.

A safe way to express pain Some emotions feel too big, too confusing, or too overwhelming to put into words. Art allows you to express those feelings safely and at your own pace.

Helping your parts talk to each other Sometimes, different parts of us feel stuck in a loop of fear, shame, or anger. Through art, they can interact, negotiate, and find common ground, leading to deeper healing and integration.

Working together in my studio

My studio space is designed for this kind of deep work—whether through talking, art, or a mix of both. You don’t need to be “good at art” (or have any experience with it at all!) to benefit from this process. It’s just another tool—a way to connect with yourself in a way that feels natural, personal, and powerful.

If you’re curious about IFS, art therapy, or how the two work together, let’s have a chat. I’d love to explore how we can work in a way that fits you. Get in touch and let’s see where this path takes us.