IFS and EMDR

What is IFS and how does it help people?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapy approach rooted in the belief that we all carry different “parts” of ourselves—some that try to keep us safe, others that hold old wounds, and many that just want to be understood. In IFS, we explore these parts with compassion and curiosity, not judgment. You might notice an inner critic, a people-pleaser, or a part that shuts down when things get overwhelming. These parts have important stories to tell, and when we learn to listen to them with care, something powerful happens: healing, clarity, and a deeper sense of connection to your true self. IFS is about creating more internal harmony and honoring the wisdom your system already holds.

What is EMDR and how does it help people?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy approach designed to help people heal from distressing experiences that may still feel “stuck” in the nervous system. Sometimes, even when we know something is in the past, our body and emotions still respond like it's happening now. EMDR helps gently reprocess those memories so they can lose their emotional intensity and settle more naturally. Using bilateral stimulation—often through eye movements, sounds, or taps—EMDR supports the brain’s natural ability to heal. Many clients find it helpful for trauma, anxiety, and other emotional wounds that have been hard to shift with talk therapy alone. You don’t have to relive everything in detail—instead, we work together at a pace that feels safe, grounded, and empowering.

How do you integrate EMDR and IFS?

In my practice, I often weave together Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR because they complement each other beautifully. IFS gives us a compassionate, structured way to understand and build trust with the different “parts” of ourselves—especially the ones that might feel scared, overwhelmed, or protective. Before we do any reprocessing with EMDR, IFS helps us create a foundation of inner safety by getting to know those parts and making sure they feel heard and respected.

When we do begin EMDR, we can bring that IFS lens with us—checking in with parts as we go, making sure nothing feels forced or rushed. If a memory brings up strong emotion, we can pause, support the part that’s reacting, and return to the work only when the system feels ready. This integration allows the healing process to move forward in a way that feels safe, connected, and deeply respectful of your internal experience.