Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative, non-pathologizing approach to healing. The IFS model offers the perspective that rather than being singular, each of us are made up of a system of parts, like a "family", each with its own unique history. Some parts in our systems carry burdens from past experience, frozen in moments of abandonment, fear, or loneliness. Others work hard to protect us with an array of strategies like numbing with addiction, criticizing ourselves or others, or staying highly organized—anything to keep us from that pain. At the center of it all is Self—the calm, clear, and compassionate core. Self, like the sun hidden behind a violent storm, is never damaged.
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Through compassionate witnessing, psychoeducation, guided self-inquiry, and somatic awareness, I support individuals and couples to deepen their connection with their parts. Relying on the clients’ intuitive wisdom, the IFS process works to build trust from our Self to our parts so that they can release their extreme roles and painful feelings. I provide practical tools to integrate this work into daily life and relational support to help you navigate interpersonal dynamics with more clarity and Self-energy. At the speed of trust, we help parts let go of the weight they carry so we can live lighter, with more balance, connection, and ease.
You can learn more about IFS on the IFS Institute’s website. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey.
"Working with Ana was transformative… Under her guidance it was shocking how quickly and comfortably I was able to access parts of me that I usually struggle to encounter. I would highly recommend a long therapeutic relationship with this incredible practitioner but Ana’s gifted attuned approach shines so brightly and nurturingly, even a session or two will likely open and heal you in some wonderful ways."
"I have always thought I had a fairly good grasp of who I am, and how my past and experiences have shaped me and continue to affect me, but working with Ana introduced me to parts of myself I had forgotten about, that were craving to be seen and heard. I am learning to interact with myself with more forgiveness, curiosity, patience and care, and I am so grateful to Ana for facilitating."
"Ana helped me to access parts of myself that I didn't even realize were there, which has helped me cultivate more peace inside of myself. As a queer and trans person, it means the world to be able to trust a care provider who can hold space for my identities in a way that feels nurturing and understanding. In past therapy experience, I've been misgendered by my therapist which created barriers to healing to say the least.​"