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. By learning how our parts acquired their various roles and introducing them to your 'Self', parts begin to transform and work together as a harmonious orchestra.​​ 

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

Self holds these 8 'C' qualities:

​Calm
Curiosity
Compassion
Confidence
Courage
Clarity
Connectedness
Creativity​

Self is the natural conductor of our inner landscape. When we are in ‘Self-leadership’, our parts are able to relax and work together. This is the essence of what is cultivated in IFS therapy sessions: the deepening of connection to Self and parts as well as the unburdening of parts that have experienced attachment injuries in the past.

IFS is somewhat different to traditional psychotherapy models where the relationship between therapist and client is the vehicle for healing attachment injuries. In IFS, the therapist is more like a guide supporting clients to discover their connection to their own Self who will become the primary attachment figure to their inner parts.