What Is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy? | Video by Dr Millia Begum

Short Video: What Is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy?

In this short video, Dr Millia Begum explains:

• Why we all experience different “parts” of ourselves.
• Why protective behaviours often make sense in the context of past experiences.
• The difference between Self and protective parts.
• How Internal Family Systems approaches emotional healing with curiosity rather than judgment.
• Why IFS can be particularly valuable for people living with trauma, attachment wounds, and persistent self-criticism.

Summary: Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy Explained

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a compassionate, evidence-informed psychotherapy developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz. Rather than viewing difficult emotions or behaviours as problems to eliminate, IFS understands the mind as naturally made up of different parts, each trying to protect us in its own way. At the centre of every person is the Self—a calm, compassionate, curious core that cannot be damaged by trauma and has the capacity to heal the internal system.

In this video, Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Millia Begum explains the key concepts of IFS, how trauma influences our protective patterns, and why developing Self-leadership can lead to lasting emotional healing.