Internal Family Systems Therapy: A Compassionate Approach
A Compassionate Approach
I draw from a range of frameworks, with Internal Family Systems (IFS) at the heart. IFS views the mind as a system of parts—each with its own thoughts, feelings, and protective strategies. These parts often work hard to help us cope or succeed, but despite their best intentions, they can leave us feeling stuck, reactive, or disconnected.
Rather than managing these behaviours, IFS helps us understand and heal the underlying wounds that drive them. When we listen to these parts with compassion, rather than judgment, lasting change becomes possible, and life begins to flow with greater ease, clarity, and confidence.
How it Works
IFS aligns with a belief I hold deeply: that you are already whole.
While we often identify with the parts of ourselves that are anxious, critical, driven, or shut down, IFS invites us to look beyond them—to connect with a deeper, wiser, true Self that has always been there.
Self is not something we need to create—it’s something we uncover. It embodies the qualities of calmness, compassion, clarity, and courage that enable genuine healing to occur from the inside out.
In our work together, I support you in accessing your True Self so that you can begin to lead your healing. With your Self at the centre, and me as your guide, you can shift out of old patterns, reclaim your strength, and move forward with greater alignment.
The Goal
The goal of our work together is to help your internal system become more balanced, more compassionate, and more Self-led.
Through the IFS process, we aim to:
Liberate protective and wounded parts from the extreme roles they’ve taken on—so they no longer have to react out of fear, control, or pain
Restore trust in your Self, the calm, wise, and grounded presence within you that can lead with clarity
Re-harmonise your internal system, so your parts feel supported, connected, and no longer in conflict
Healing isn’t about perfection. It’s about inner harmony. And happiness isn’t about striving. It’s about accepting who you are and living in accordance with your values.
“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive—and go do that. Because what the world needs is more people who have come alive.”
— Howard Thurman
⭐ FAQS
What happens in the first session?
In our first session, we’ll explore what brought you here and what you’d like to change or understand about your life. You can share at whatever pace feels right for you. Together, we’ll begin to get a sense of the parts of your experience that feel most present or in need of care.
What is Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy?
IFS is a gentle, evidence-based approach that helps you understand the different “parts” of your inner world—such as protectors, critics, or younger wounded parts—and connect with your core Self, which is naturally calm, compassionate, and capable of leading your healing.
For a more detailed description of Internal Family Systems, please refer to the section above on this page.
How does IFS work in sessions?
In session, we slow down and turn inward. You won’t need to analyse or perform. Instead, we gently explore the parts of you that feel stressed, overwhelmed, reactive, or shut down. As these parts feel safer and more understood, they begin to soften, allowing deeper healing to take place.
Where do sessions take place?
I offer in-person sessions in my North Sydney office, which looks out onto a peaceful garden. If you prefer, we can also work together online via Zoom.
How often should we meet?
Many people begin with weekly sessions and gradually move to fortnightly or monthly as their internal system becomes more stable and self-led. We make these decisions collaboratively.
How long is each session, and how much does it cost?
90 minutes
• Online: $170
• In-person: $210
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. Everything you share is confidential, and I follow the ethical guidelines of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No referral is necessary. You’re welcome to book directly.
Do you offer rebates?
Yes. Rebates are available through Medibank, HCF, ahm, and ARHG.
Are you trained in Internal Family Systems?
Yes. I am a Level 2 trained IFS therapist, and IFS is at the heart of my work with trauma, emotional patterns, relationship challenges, and life transitions.
How do I get started?
The easiest way to begin is with a free intro call where we can talk through your needs, answer any questions, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.