Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of therapy that understands the mind as a system of different parts, each with its own unique qualities and roles. The IFS approach sees individuals as having a multicellular mind, where different parts hold different emotions, beliefs, and behaviors. These parts can develop in response to life experiences and aim to protect the core self.

In IFS, the core self is considered to be the true, compassionate, and calm center of an individual's internal system. The model suggests that everyone has this core self, but it can become obscured by the protective parts that develop in response to trauma or challenging experiences. These protective parts may take on roles such as controlling, caretaking, or avoiding emotions in an effort to shield the individual from pain.

The goal of IFS therapy is to help individuals unblend from these protective parts so that they can connect with and heal the wounded parts they were originally designed to protect. This process involves accessing the core self's natural qualities of curiosity, compassion, and calmness to facilitate understanding and healing within the internal system.

The therapist in IFS acts as a guide to help the individual explore their internal parts, understand their origins, and work towards harmonizing the internal system. This process often involves helping the individual build a relationship with their parts, understand their perspectives, and develop a compassionate and curious attitude towards them.

Internal Family Systems is often used in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. It can also be used to explore and understand the internal dynamics of individuals and families, as well as in personal growth and development work.

The approach has gained recognition for its non-pathologizing view of symptoms and its focus on the multiplicity of the mind. It can be a powerful tool for individuals seeking to understand and integrate different aspects of themselves, leading to increased self-awareness and a greater sense of wholeness.

Overall, IFS provides a framework for individuals to explore the complexity of their inner world, offering a path towards self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. As a therapeutic approach, it honors the various parts of an individual's experience and aims to bring balance and harmony to the internal system, ultimately fostering resilience and well-being.