Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy was developed in the 1980s by Dr. Richard Schwartz, a family therapist who was seeking a more effective way to address the complex psychological challenges his clients were facing. Working primarily with individuals with eating disorders, Schwartz observed that his clients often described their internal experiences in terms of distinct "parts" or sub-personalities, each with its own emotions, desires, and roles. He recognized that these parts often conflicted with one another, leading to inner turmoil. Inspired by these insights, Schwartz developed IFS as a model that conceptualizes the mind as an internal system of parts, all of which are guided by a central, unifying "Self." The Self, according to Schwartz, is an innate, compassionate, and wise core that can lead the internal system toward healing and harmony.

Since its introduction, IFS has gained significant traction as a therapeutic modality due to its unique approach to understanding and treating psychological distress. Unlike traditional psychotherapies that might focus on suppressing or eliminating problematic behaviors or thoughts, IFS seeks to understand and integrate all parts of the psyche, recognizing that even the most troubling parts often have protective or adaptive functions. This holistic approach has been particularly effective in treating complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of IFS, particularly in reducing symptoms of PTSD and improving emotional regulation. Clients often report a greater sense of inner peace, self-compassion, and improved relationships as they learn to interact with their internal parts in a more understanding and compassionate manner. As a result, IFS is increasingly being adopted in various therapeutic settings, reflecting its growing reputation as a powerful and transformative therapeutic model.