IFS Therapy in Paignton and Online | Internal Family Systems
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is an approach to therapy that helps you develop a deeper understanding of yourself, your emotions and the different parts of your personality that influence how you think, feel and respond.
IFS recognises that we all have different “parts” within us, (as shown in the video linked here), each with its own feelings, beliefs and intentions. Sometimes, these parts develop protective ways of responding because of experiences we have had, and they may continue to react in ways that no longer feel helpful.
The film 'Inside Out' ('Inside Out 2' image featured here), offered a brilliant insight into how different parts of us want to help but can get stuck in fixed ways of being.
Through IFS therapy, you can begin to understand these parts with curiosity and compassion, helping you develop greater self-awareness, make choices from a calmer place, and create meaningful change.
I work with individuals and couples using IFS, both face-to-face in Paignton and online. If you would like to explore how IFS can support relationship therapy, please visit my couples therapy page here.
Integrating Other Ways of Working with IFS
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) explores how the way we connect with those we love is shaped by our past experiences. It helps us understand what might prevent us from reaching out for connection in the present day and how these feelings show up in our bodies. By gaining insight into these emotional patterns, EFT empowers us to build stronger, more meaningful connections in our relationships.
I’ve trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), which helps couples identify and break negative cycles, offering support to rebuild connection. In this process, I also use Internal Family Systems (IFS) to explore the parts of each person influencing the dynamic and guide shifts toward deeper understanding.
Creative Therapy
Creative therapy can be a way to make space for our different parts, thoughts and feelings outside of ourselves. Sometimes when we are going through a challenging time, parts of us that are used to resolving problems through logic and analysis can become worn out or confused. Drawing, using a sand tray, or moulding play dough can help us make sense of our inner world by putting it in front of us on the outside and being able to observe it with a little space.
Online Therapy
I offer online therapy for individuals ages 18 and over. This work can be very different than working face to face, but has been shown to offer just as much value to clients.
I am qualified as a Certified Cyber Therapist with the Online Therapy Institute who offer a broad and comprehensive training about working online and all the different ways this may suit different individuals.