Feeling run by an inner critic, an anxious part, or a part that shuts down in conflict? IFS helps you understand these parts and lead from a calm, grounded place — in English or Farsi, individually or as a couple.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is an evidence-based, non-pathologizing approach that helps you understand the different “parts” of yourself — the inner critic, the protector, the anxious part, the part that shuts down in conflict — and lead them from a place of calm, grounded Self. At Dr. Samuel’s downtown Vancouver practice, IFS is offered for individuals and couples, in English and Farsi.
What Is Internal Family Systems (IFS)?
Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS understands the mind as a system of sub-personalities, or “parts,” each carrying its own feelings, beliefs, and protective strategies. Rather than fighting these parts, IFS helps you build a trusting relationship with them. Research supports IFS for depression, trauma symptoms, and anxiety, and it was added to the U.S. National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices.
Parts and the Self
Protectors work hard to keep you safe — the perfectionist, the people-pleaser, the part that gets angry or goes numb. Exiles hold the younger, more vulnerable pain that protectors are trying to guard. Self is the calm, curious, compassionate core that is never damaged — and from which real healing happens. The goal of IFS is not to get rid of parts, but to help them relax and trust your Self to lead.
What IFS Helps With
Trauma and PTSD — IFS gently unburdens the parts that carry traumatic memories, without forcing you to relive them. Anxiety and the inner critic — Understand the protective intention behind self-criticism and chronic worry. Emotional reactivity — Recognize which part takes over in stressful moments so you can respond instead of react. Shame and low self-worth — Reach and heal the exiled parts that carry “I’m not enough.”
IFS for Couples and Families
Most painful arguments are not really between two people — they are between their protective parts. When your protector collides with your partner’s protector, the same fight repeats. IFS-informed couples work helps each partner notice which part is speaking, soften it, and speak from Self instead. Conversations slow down, defensiveness drops, and you can finally hear each other. This pairs naturally with Gottman Method couples therapy for couples who want both structure and depth.
IFS for the Iranian-Canadian Community
Many Iranian-Canadians carry parts shaped by migration, intergenerational expectation, and آبرو (face/honour) — a part that performs strength, a part that fears judgment, a part loyal to family duty. IFS offers a respectful, non-shaming way to honour these parts while freeing you from being run by them. Dr. Samuel works in both Farsi and English and understands this cultural context first-hand.
See also: Couples & Family Therapy | Farsi Therapist Vancouver | Trauma Therapy Vancouver
What Clients Say
I was unsure about the whole “parts” idea at first, but it quickly made sense and felt surprisingly natural. Dr. Samuel guided me gently, and for the first time I stopped fighting myself and started understanding why I react the way I do. It has been one of the most freeing experiences of my life.
Amir, Google review (5★)
Book a Free IFS Consultation in Vancouver
You don’t need to understand the theory to benefit. IFS is a gentle, well-established approach — Dr. Samuel guides you through it step by step, at your own pace.
No cost to you if you’re covered by ICBC, FNHA, CVAP, VAC, or RCMP — and we direct-bill to most extended health plans. Many clients pay nothing out of pocket. Just ask and we’ll confirm your coverage before you book.
What to expect on your first call: it’s confidential, there’s no pressure, and nothing is expected of you. It’s simply a chance to talk and see if IFS feels right.
Start with a free 20-minute consultation to talk through what you are struggling with and whether IFS is a good fit — individually or as a couple.
Call or text: (604) 721-0604
Email: info@drsamuel.ca
Location: Suite 1300, 1500 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC (downtown)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IFS the same as having multiple personalities?
No. IFS is not about a disorder or split identity. “Parts” simply describes the normal, everyday inner voices we all have — like the part that pushes you to achieve and the part that wants rest. IFS helps these parts work together instead of against you.
What actually happens in an IFS session?
You and Dr. Samuel gently explore the different “parts” of you — what they’re trying to protect and what they need. It’s a calm, curious process, not reliving trauma. You stay in control the whole time.
Is IFS evidence-based?
Yes. Internal Family Systems is a recognized, research-supported model used widely for trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. It’s listed as an evidence-based practice in several clinical registries.
Can IFS help with couple or family issues?
Yes. IFS is powerful for relationships — it helps each person understand their own reactions and their partner’s, reducing blame and creating space for real connection.
Do you offer IFS sessions in Farsi?
Yes. Dr. Samuel offers IFS therapy in both English and Farsi, with sensitivity to the cultural context many Iranian-Canadian clients bring.
Further Reading
Related services: Gottman Method couples therapy, healing from a narcissistic or emotionally abusive relationship, and EMDR therapy.