What is Internal Family Systems (IFS)?

Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, Internal Family Systems (IFS) is an evidence-based therapeutic model often referred to as “parts work.” The IFS model views the mind as an internal system made up of different parts, each with its own beliefs, emotions, and protective roles. At Ananda Experience, Julia integrates IFS-informed coaching to help professionals navigate their inner world, reduce reactivity, break recurring patterns, and lead from greater clarity and Self-leadership.

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Is this you?

  • You've done meaningful healing work in therapy, and you're ready for what comes next
  • You know the language of parts and Self, and you want a coach who speaks it too
  • You want a clear plan for your relationships, work and life, not just insight
  • Part of you is ready to move forward, and another part still holds back
  • You do better with structure and someone to keep you accountable
  • You want to live more fully, on your own terms


IFS-informed coaching helps you understand these parts, ease the tug-of-war inside, and reconnect with the steady, confident you that's already there.

Understanding IFS

  • How does IFS work?

    Internal Family Systems (IFS) works by helping you understand and build a relationship with the different “parts” of your inner world.


    Some parts are Protectors, which try to keep you safe by managing risk, controlling outcomes, or avoiding discomfort. Other parts are called Exiles, which carry older pain, fear, shame, or unmet needs from past experiences.


    At the center of this system is the Self, a calm, compassionate, and confident inner leader. When you are connected to Self, you can respond with clarity rather than react from fear or pressure.

  • What is the difference between IFS therapy and coaching?

    IFS therapy goes deeper into healing past wounds, trauma, and emotional patterns with the support of a licensed mental health professional.


    IFS-informed coaching, on the other hand, focuses on present-day patterns, decision-making, clarity, and aligned action. We work with your protective parts to understand what’s blocking you, strengthen your Self-leadership, and create meaningful forward movement without treating, diagnosing, or processing trauma.

  • Is IFS suitable for everyone?

    Yes, IFS can be beneficial for anyone looking to enhance their self-awareness and emotional well-being. It is particularly effective for those dealing with obstacles to move forward or self-doubt.

  • How does IFS relate to mindfulness?

    IFS and mindfulness complement each other beautifully. While IFS focuses on understanding and integrating different parts of the self, mindfulness encourages present-moment awareness, helping you observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

  • Is IFS evidence-based?

    Yes, IFS is an evidence-based model used in trauma therapy and personal development.

  • What happens in an IFS coaching session?

    In an IFS session, we identify which protective parts are active, understand what they’re trying to protect, and build trust with them. 


    Rather than fighting your thoughts or trying to “fix” yourself, IFS helps you lead your inner system with curiosity, compassion, and clarity.

Woman with eyes closed, hands to forehead, wearing a fitness tracker, outside in the sun.

How this work can help

Less inner tug-of-war

Understand the parts pulling you in different directions, so decisions feel clearer.

More self-awareness

Notice the beliefs and patterns that shape your reactions and choices.

A calmer response under pressure

Learn to pause, get curious, and respond from Self instead of reacting.

Confidence rooted in self-trust

Turn the inner critic from an obstacle into information.

Momentum you can sustain

Take steady action toward what you're building, without running yourself to the ground.

Choices that reflect your values

Use insights from IFS to live intentionally, making decisions that feel like yours, in work and in life.

A note on IFS therapy vs coaching

IFS is an evidence-based model in therapy settings. In coaching, Julia uses IFS-informed principles to support growth, clarity and Self-leadership, not to treat mental health conditions.

Real Stories, PERSONAL Growth

Client experiences with IFS programs

Five black stars in a row.

I went into our first coaching session feeling unsure about my abilities as a people manager. I was in a career transition stage where I was taking on more direct reports in my role. She talked me through my insecurities, helped me to recognize where they stemmed from, and gave me the tools I needed to help me overcome them.

Christine W.

3 months ago

Five black stars arranged horizontally.

My experience with Julia as a coach has been excellent. Conversations are in depth and very thought provoking. Her focus is on you and where you are at in your journey. She listens intently, asks the right questions and provides feedback when appropriate. She is very skilled in what she does. I highly recommend her!!

Janice O.

2 months ago

Five black stars in a row.



She woke me up. She is so relatable, helpful and awesome! 😊


Jenn M.

A week ago

Five black stars in a row, rating or ranking indicator.

I started coaching with Julia during a major career shift and felt internally divided. Through IFS, she helped me understand the different parts of me pulling in opposite directions. That clarity changed everything.

I stopped making decisions from fear. The work was deep and very practical. I left with a clear path forward.

Shelly P.

2 weeks ago

Investment

Select the program that feels aligned with your current goals. You can always extend or deepen the work as you grow.

Ready for your

next chapter?

Limited sliding scale spots available

Payment plans are available

Best for professionals navigating:

  • A transition
  • Burnout
  • Separation/divorce
  • A specific challenge
  • Approaching retirement

Includes:

  • 12 × 60-minute 1:1 sessions
  • Personalized support
  • Text or voice-note support
  • Session summaries
  • Reflection prompts
  • Career-focused support
  • Optional integration with work goals
  • Practical tools and frameworks

$1,800

12-week program

Payment plans are available

Best for professionals navigating:

  • Navigating a major career shift
  • Experiencing recurring burnout
  • Stepping into senior leadership
  • Leading through restructuring
  • Ready for long-term change

Includes everything in the 12-week program, plus:

  • Deeper IFS-informed integration
  • Long-term strategic career mapping
  • Behavioral pattern rewiring
  • Stakeholder navigation strategy
  • Executive presence development
  • Optional 360-style reflection exercises
  • Accountability partner

$3,600

24-week program

FAQs

Personal Development

  • What are your qualifications?

    I am an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC), hold an MBA, and bring over 15 years of professional experience in leadership, organizational development, and executive coaching. 


    I completed the Foundations of IFS for Coaches and erned a certificate. 


    My background spans corporate leadership, talent development, and people strategy, which allows me to integrate strategic thinking with IFS-informed inner work.

  • Is this therapy?

    No. This is IFS-informed coaching, not psychotherapy. Coaching focuses on growth,  personal and professional development, identity integration, and forward movement. If you are seeking clinical treatment for mental health conditions, I recommend working with a licensed therapist.

  • Are sessions confidential?

    Yes. All sessions are confidential. As a coach, I maintain professional confidentiality standards. Please note that coaching is not therapy, and therefore confidentiality protections differ from clinical settings.

  • Where do sessions take place?

    Sessions are primarily held over video call. Link will be provided upon registration.

  • How often do we meet?

    Most clients meet weekly, especially during the 12-week program. Bi-weekly sessions may be appropriate for the 24-week program depending on your goals and schedule. We will determine the best cadence during your consultation.

  • What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

    To honor our committed time, I require at least 24 hours’ notice for any cancellations or rescheduling requests.


    If a session is cancelled or moved with less than 24 hours' notice, or if it is missed entirely, the full session fee will be required. 


    Please note that all payments are non-refundable. This policy allows me to maintain a consistent schedule and offer open sessions to others who may be seeking support.

  • Do you offer payment plans?

    Yes. Payment plans are available for both the 12-week and 24-week programs. Details can be discussed during your consultation.

  • What happens after the program ends?

    At the conclusion of your program, we’ll review your growth, assess next steps, and determine whether continued support or integration sessions would be beneficial. There is no automatic renewal, future work is intentional and collaborative.

  • Do you offer a consultation before committing?

    Yes. I offer a complimetary 30-minute call to explore your goals, assess fit, and determine the right program for you. This conversation ensures clarity on both sides before beginning.

Ready to begin?

Reach out to explore how IFS-informed development programs can support your emotional healing and growth. Schedule a session to begin your journey toward inner balance and authentic leadership.

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