Internal Family Systems

(IFS)

“The SELF is the healer within. It knows exactly what each part needs and how to bring about healing and harmony.”

— Richard Schwartz

IFS at Luminary Solutions

Matt Liberatore, Ed.D., LCPC, is trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) by the IFS Institute and integrates this evidence-based, compassion-centered model into his trauma work with individuals and groups.

Nidisha Kaul, LCPC, Kirk Johnson, LCPC (IFS Informed), Juan Velasquez, LPC, Janine Moore, Pre-licensed LPC, Cassidy Karlin, Professional Staff Intern, and Ryne Thacker, Professional Staff Intern are also trained in Parts Work and Informed by IFS principles, bringing curiosity and deep respect for the complexity of the human system to their work with clients.

All clinics have extensive experience applying IFS with trauma survivors, high-achieving professionals, and those navigating anxiety, depression, and identity exploration and transition.

WHAT IS IFS?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative, evidence-based model of psychotherapy that helps people access their innate capacity for healing by understanding and harmonizing the different “parts” of themselves. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS recognizes that we all have parts that carry pain, protect us, and help us function — and a core Self that is calm, compassionate, confident, and capable of leading our internal system.

Rather than pathologizing symptoms, IFS views them as protective strategies — valuable parts of us that developed to keep us safe. Through gentle exploration, IFS supports clients in getting to know their parts, helping them release old burdens and step into balance and connection.

HOW IS IFS DIFFERENT?

Unlike therapies that focus solely on changing thoughts or behaviors, IFS helps clients develop a compassionate inner relationship with the parts of themselves that feel anxious, critical, ashamed, or afraid. Healing happens not through force or logic, but through Self-leadership — the process of accessing the calm, curious, and courageous Self within each of us.

IFS therapy is non-pathologizing, collaborative, and often deeply experiential. Clients learn to engage directly with their inner system, creating lasting transformation rather than temporary coping.

WHAT IS THE THEORY BEHIND IFS THERAPY?

IFS is based on the understanding that the mind is naturally multiple — and that this multiplicity is normal and healthy.
Within each person are:

  • Protectors that manage daily life and prevent emotional pain,

  • Exiles that carry wounds and unmet needs, and

  • The Self, which embodies qualities like compassion, clarity, calm, and confidence.

When we experience trauma, parts can take on extreme roles to protect us. These roles can cause distress over time — leading to anxiety, depression, self-criticism, or disconnection.
IFS helps these parts unburden old roles and memories, allowing the Self to lead with harmony and wholeness. The result is a profound shift from internal conflict to internal collaboration.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM EMDR THERAPY?

IFS therapy supports children, adolescents, and adults navigating a wide range of emotional and relational challenges, including:

  • Anxiety, panic, and overthinking

  • Trauma and post-traumatic stress (PTSD and complex trauma)

  • Depression and mood disorders

  • Perfectionism and burnout

  • Relationship difficulties and attachment wounds

  • Grief and loss

  • Identity exploration and life transitions

  • Chronic self-criticism or shame

IFS is particularly effective for individuals who feel “stuck,” disconnected from themselves, or caught in cycles of self-sabotage or overwhelm.

RESOURCES

Services