Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy is an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach that helps individuals understand and heal the different “parts” of themselves that influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. At Daybreak Counseling in Des Moines, IFS therapy is used to support clients in developing self-compassion, emotional clarity, and lasting internal change.
Rather than viewing symptoms as problems to eliminate, IFS sees them as parts trying to protect you.
Internal Family Systems Therapy is based on the idea that the mind is made up of distinct parts, each with its own role, perspective, and intention. Some parts work to protect, others carry emotional pain, and all are guided by the core Self — the calm, curious, and compassionate center within each person.
IFS therapy helps clients build relationships with these parts, reduce internal conflict, and promote healing from the inside out.
IFS therapy may be especially helpful for adolescents and adults experiencing:
Trauma or complex trauma
Anxiety or emotional overwhelm
Depression or low self-worth
Inner criticism or shame
Relationship patterns that feel stuck
Difficulty regulating emotions
IFS is often beneficial for clients who feel torn internally or struggle with self-blame and harsh inner dialogue.
In IFS therapy, clients learn to identify and understand different internal parts without judgment. With guidance from a trained therapist, these parts are approached with curiosity and compassion rather than control or suppression.
As protective parts feel understood and wounded parts are supported, the nervous system begins to settle and internal balance increases. Healing occurs naturally as the Self takes a more active leadership role.
Unlike therapies that focus solely on symptom reduction, IFS emphasizes understanding and healing the root causes of distress. There are no “bad” parts in IFS — every part has a purpose, even when its strategies are no longer helpful.
This approach helps reduce shame, increase self-trust, and foster a deeper sense of internal safety.
At Daybreak, IFS therapy is offered within a holistic, trauma-informed framework. Our clinicians integrate IFS with other evidence-based approaches when appropriate, tailoring treatment to each client’s goals, history, and comfort level.
IFS can be used as a primary therapy or combined with modalities such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, or mindfulness-based approaches.
IFS therapy can be adapted to meet the developmental needs of adolescents and adults. For teens, it can support identity development and emotional regulation. For adults, it often focuses on healing long-standing patterns, trauma, and relational challenges.
Sessions are collaborative and paced to ensure safety and empowerment throughout the therapeutic process.
Choosing IFS therapy at Daybreak Counseling means working with clinicians who honor your internal experience and believe healing happens through understanding, not force.
We aim to help you reconnect with your inner strengths and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
If you’re interested in Internal Family Systems therapy in Des Moines, our team is here to help you explore whether this approach is the right fit. Together, we’ll work toward healing that feels respectful, empowering, and sustainable.
Your system doesn’t need fixing — it needs understanding.
