IFS therapy: understanding your inner world

One part of you wants change; another fears losing what feels familiar. Therapy can make room for both experiences without asking you to choose a side immediately.

IFS (Internal Family Systems) is a psychotherapy model developed by Richard Schwartz. It explores inner responses as parts of the personality, each of which may have a protective role. [1]

A mobile of distinct paper forms, representing inner parts and the relationships between them

What does ‘parts’ mean?

It is a language for different experiences, such as self-criticism, a wish to control everything or an urge to withdraw. IFS also uses the concept of Self, associated with approaching experience with curiosity and compassion. [2]

What you might bring

  • Inner conflict: ‘I want this, but I am also afraid.’
  • Self-criticism, shame and demanding expectations of yourself.
  • Recurring reactions in relationships and difficulty noticing your needs.

These themes can open a conversation. Choosing a method depends on your situation, not just the name of a difficulty.

What a session may involve

  1. Clarify your needs

    We discuss what feels difficult now and what you hope for from the work.

  2. Notice your experience

    We explore responses without requiring you to change or suppress them immediately.

  3. Agree on the pace

    You can ask questions, pause or choose a less intense way of talking.

[3]

Claudia’s training

Professional training: IFS Level 2. This is a completed IFS Institute training programme.

Education and certificates

Before your first session

Do I need to bring my family?

No. Despite the name Internal Family Systems, this page describes individual work with your inner experience. Couples work has separate formats, including IFIO.

Do I have to describe traumatic experiences in detail straight away?

No. The first meeting can focus on current difficulties, expectations and boundaries. The level of detail and pace are agreed with you.

Can I find out beforehand whether IFS is right for me?

You can start with a question about the method. In a consultation, we discuss your needs and possible options, including other approaches.

Format and fee

Individual session
€50 · 1 hour

In Chișinău and online, in English, Romanian and Russian.

IFIO for couples

You can start with a question

Let me know which format interests you and when you are available. Personal details can wait until the session.

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More about the approach

  1. IFS Institute: Evolution of the Internal Family Systems Model
  2. IFS Institute: IFS Glossary of Terms
  3. IFS Institute: The Internal Family Systems Model Outline
  4. IFS Institute: Research

This is general information, not a substitute for an individual assessment of your situation.