“Setting boundaries and stillness are two ways I’m working on taking better care of myself. Establishing limits provides you with the stillness in your life to be able to sit with yourself.”
— Maryam Ajayi
IFS
What is IFS (Internal Family Systems)?
We all have different parts of ourselves that want different things, hold unique beliefs, and have developed to help us navigate life. When you feel conflicted or emotionally stuck, it may be because these parts need your attention and care. IFS helps you reconnect with your inner resource—your Self—which naturally brings curiosity, compassion, and calm to these parts. As you build a trusting relationship with them, healing can unfold, often leading to greater inner harmony, resilience, and a deeper sense of peace.
What does an IFS therapist do during a session?
My role is to gently guide you in getting to know your parts with curiosity rather than judgment. Through thoughtful questions and a supportive presence, I help you build trust with the parts of you that have been working hard to protect you. As trust grows, more vulnerable parts often feel safe enough to share the burdens they've been carrying. These burdens may show up as challenges in your relationships, work, or everyday life. Together, we create space for healing so you can release painful beliefs and make room for greater freedom, confidence, and connection.
What makes IFS different from other therapeutic approaches?
IFS is an experiential approach, meaning we don't just talk about your experiences—we gently explore them as they arise in the present moment. This often allows for deeper healing than insight alone. Together, we pay attention to what's happening within you, including your relationship with your different parts, while also noticing what unfolds in our therapeutic relationship. This combination can be profoundly healing. Many people find that IFS reaches places that words alone cannot, offering an experience that feels deeply authentic, meaningful, and sometimes even spiritual.
What can you expect from doing IFS work?
As you continue this work, you'll likely experience more Self energy—the calm, compassionate center within you. Self is often described through the 8 C's: confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. Over time, you may notice your parts more easily and respond to life's challenges with less reactivity and more understanding. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by difficult emotions, you'll develop a greater capacity to meet yourself with kindness, helping you move through life with more ease, balance, and self-compassion.
Next Steps
Please book a free 15-20 minute consultation with Ash Gangadean or email them at ashley@mosiaccounselingcollective.com for more information.