Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy
Understanding and Healing the Different Parts of You
What Is Internal Family Systems (IFS)?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps individuals understand and heal the different "parts" of themselves. Rooted in the idea that we all have multiple aspects of our inner world, IFS helps clients work through internal conflicts, release self-judgment, and foster self-compassion, clarity, and healing. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, self-criticism, or relationship challenges, IFS provides a structured approach to inner healing.
How IFS Works
IFS is based on the idea that our mind is made up of different parts, each playing a role in how we respond to life’s challenges. These parts include:
✔ Protectors – These parts try to keep you safe by minimizing pain, often through perfectionism, overworking, people-pleasing, or avoidance.
✔ Exiles – These are the wounded parts that hold deep emotions like shame, fear, grief, or past trauma. Protectors work hard to keep these feelings buried.
✔ Firefighters – When exiled emotions surface, these parts act impulsively to put out the emotional fire—sometimes through self-sabotage, addiction, or emotional outbursts.
✔ Self – This is your true, core self—the part of you that is calm, wise, and capable of leading with clarity and confidence.
IFS helps you build a compassionate relationship with your inner world, allowing you to understand and heal wounded parts while strengthening your connection to your core Self.
How IFS Can Help You
IFS is an effective therapy for a wide range of emotional struggles, including:
✔ Anxiety & Overthinking – Understanding why certain parts of you feel the need to worry or control.
✔ Trauma & PTSD – Gently healing past wounds by building safety within.
✔ Self-Criticism & Perfectionism – Releasing inner judgment and embracing self-compassion.
✔ Emotional Regulation – Learning to soothe overwhelmed parts and bring balance to your internal world.
✔ Relationship Challenges – Understanding how past experiences shape how you engage with loved ones.
By working with your inner parts, IFS allows you to uncover deep emotional patterns, heal past wounds, and live with more confidence, clarity, and peace.
IFS Therapy Across Montana
At Bozeman Therapy & Counseling, we offer IFS therapy virtually to clients throughout Montana. Whether you’re in Bozeman, Billings, Missoula, Helena, Great Falls, or a rural area, our IFS-trained therapists provide compassionate, personalized support to help you navigate your inner world.
Many clients choose virtual IFS therapy because it:
✔ Provides access to specialized therapy no matter your location.
✔ Allows for deep inner work from the comfort of your home.
✔ Offers flexible scheduling while maintaining the same quality of care.
Meet Our IFS Therapist
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Sarah Loux, LCPC
Specializes in IFS, EFT, and Psychodynamic Therapy, helping clients process emotional wounds and build self-compassion.