What Are the Common Myths About IFS Therapy?

Despite its growing popularity, Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is often misunderstood. One of the biggest myths is that IFS is only for people with serious mental health issues or complex diagnoses. In reality, IFS is a powerful, compassionate approach that can help anyone—whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, or simply feeling stuck.

Another common myth is that IFS is too “abstract” or “spiritual.” While the language of “parts” and “Self” may sound unfamiliar at first, IFS is grounded in neuroscience, attachment theory, and clinical experience. Our therapists use IFS in structured, evidence-based ways that are accessible and practical.

Some also believe that IFS takes too long or lacks clear direction. On the contrary, IFS therapy often produces profound insights early on as clients begin connecting with their internal system. At Gold Counseling, IFS is explained clearly and used flexibly to match each client’s needs. It’s a science-backed, gentle therapy that helps people heal emotional wounds without being overwhelmed. Debunking these myths allows more people to discover how effective and empowering IFS therapy truly is.

No, this is one of the most persistent myths about IFS therapy—and it’s completely false. IFS therapy is not just for people with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) or “multiple personalities.” In fact, the IFS model was designed for everyone, based on the understanding that all minds are made up of different parts. We all have inner voices, emotions, and impulses that seem to pull us in different directions. For example, one part may want to take a risk while another part holds back in fear. IFS normalizes this internal dialogue and helps people develop a healthy, compassionate relationship with their parts.

According to our team, clients are often relieved to find out that having different “parts” is a natural part of being human—not a sign of disorder. At Gold Counseling, therapists explain that IFS doesn’t pathologize clients but instead honors the complexity of the human experience. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, past trauma, indecision, or negative self-talk, IFS helps you explore the inner system we all have—regardless of diagnosis. It’s not about fragmentation—it’s about reconnection and self-leadership.

Not necessarily. Another common myth is that IFS therapy requires years of ongoing work to see results. While IFS can be used for long-term personal growth, many clients begin experiencing meaningful change within just a few sessions. The timeline depends on your goals, the depth of emotional wounds, and how frequently you attend sessions. If you’re working through deep trauma, therapy may take longer, but that’s true of most therapeutic approaches. What sets IFS apart is how quickly it helps clients access healing insights by building trust with their parts and releasing emotional burdens.

We emphasize that healing is not about speed but about transformation. At Gold Counseling, IFS is tailored to fit the client—some may do shorter-term work focused on a specific issue, while others may stay longer for continued integration and growth. IFS doesn’t require lifetime therapy. Its goal is to help you build a strong internal system so you can manage life confidently on your own. In many cases, clients walk away with tools and self-awareness that lead to long-term emotional freedom—even after therapy ends.

IFS therapy involves emotional work, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Unlike traditional trauma therapies that may require re-experiencing painful events, IFS offers a safer, more gradual approach to healing. It meets you where you are emotionally and helps you go at your own pace. The emotional depth of IFS comes from connecting with the parts of yourself that carry pain, fear, shame, or anger. However, this process is supported by your “Self”—a calm, compassionate inner state that guides healing. This means that even difficult emotions are approached with curiosity and care, not force.

Our therapists explain that IFS sessions are designed to be gentle, non-retraumatizing, and empowering. You’re not pushed into vulnerability; you’re invited to explore it when you’re ready. At Gold Counseling, therapists work to ensure clients feel safe and emotionally regulated during every session. While some emotional discomfort may arise—as it does in most effective therapies—IFS helps you form a new relationship with your emotions. You learn to care for them, not fear them. The result? Emotional work that is meaningful, manageable, and ultimately liberating.

Kasha Puzey, ACMHC, is passionate about demystifying IFS therapy and helping people understand its healing potential. She believes that many people miss out on the benefits of IFS due to myths that are simply not true.

Here are the top myths Kasha helps debunk:

● “IFS is only for people with trauma or disorders.” In reality, it works for everyday stress, decision-making, and emotional growth.
● “Talking to ‘parts’ is childish or weird.” Actually, it’s an advanced form of emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
● “IFS is too emotional or intense,” Kasha explains that IFS creates safety first and gives the client full control over the process.
● “IFS takes too long.” Many clients experience rapid insight, clarity, and emotional relief early in the process.

At Gold Counseling, Kasha and other IFS-trained therapists guide clients with care, helping them develop trust in their inner system. Instead of pushing through pain, clients learn to befriend the parts of themselves they’ve ignored or judged. For more information, contact us to book an appointment. We have convenient locations to serve you in Riverdale UT, Kaysville UT, Draper UT, and St. George, UT. We serve patients from Riverdale UT, Washington Terrace UT, Clinton UT, Kaysville UT, Layton UT, Clearfield UT, Farmington UT, Draper UT, Riverton UT, Sandy UT, St. George UT, Washington City UT, Santa Clara UT, and surrounding areas.