The basis of the IFS is that human beings are naturally made up of ‘Parts’ which are also known as 'subpersonalities' and this is something we all have in common.
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For instance, if you were deciding whether to go out to a party, you might have a part that says 'yes, let's go and have fun' and another that says 'no, stay inside and rest.' This phenomenon of multiplicity of the mind is normal and can be embraced as something that makes us remarkable human beings. In IFS, we recognise that all parts have good intentions, even if their external behaviours seem less than favourable such as addictive patterns or self criticism to name but a few parts that can be painful to exist alongside. By learning how these parts have acquired their various roles and allowing them to trust your 'Self' through connection, curiosity and releasing of burdens from the past, parts can begin to work together as a harmonious orchestra instead of in opposition to each other.​​ 

In IFS we work under the premise that everyone also has a ‘Self’ that is akin to an inner healer that can support parts to return to their natural states of being before life events and traumas shaped them into their extreme roles. 

The Self is a place that holds what is known as 'The 8 'C's':
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Calm
Curiosity
Compassion
Confidence
Courage
Clarity
Connectedness
Creativity
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Self is the natural conductor of the whole system including the body and psyche, so when we’re in ‘Self-leadership’, our parts are able to be in relationship with each other. This is the essence of what is cultivated in IFS therapy sessions: the deepening of a client's connection to Self and their parts to become more and more Self-led. This emphasis is different to traditional psychotherapeutic models where the relationship between therapist and client is the key to healing. This approach of IFS is a different orientation whereby the therapist a guide supporting inner connection to Self and parts.