Understanding IFS
Understanding your reactions and feel less at war with yourself
You may find yourself torn between wanting to move forward and feeling frightened, or wanting closeness while keeping people at a distance. Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy helps you explore these different “parts” of yourself and understand the feelings and reactions behind them. Working at your pace, Louise supports you to develop greater self-understanding, compassion and more choice in how you respond.
Common experiences
Understanding What’s Happening
You might say “part of me want to, but another part is scared.” IFS uses this familiar experience to explore the different feelings, beliefs and reactions within us. These “parts” are understood as natural aspects of being human.
One part might push you to get everything right, while another criticises you when you struggle. Others might keep people happy, avoid difficult situations or shut down when emotions feel too much.
In IFS, we approach these parts with curiosity, exploring how they may have learned to protect you from hurt, rejection or overwhelming feelings. A response that once helped you cope may now leave you exhausted or affect your relationships.
The aim is to understand these parts and help then find less burdensome roles, so you can respond with greater calm, compassion and choice. Despite its name, IFS is individual therapy; your family does not need to attend.
Effects of past trauma
Self-criticism and shame
People pleasing
Anxiety and overwhelm
Grief and loss
Anger and strong reactions
Feeling numb and shut down
Conflicting feelings
Book your first appointment
Session Availability
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What to expect
Working Together with IFS
Your sessions begin with what is troubling you now. Louise will help you notice your thoughts, feelings and physical sensations connected to it, gradually getting to know the parts of you involved.
Rather than trying to silence an anxious, critical or angry part, you’ll explore what it fears and how it is trying to help. As trust develops, the work may include supporting parts that carry painful feelings or beliefs from earlier experiences.
You don’t need to know how to identify your parts before starting. Louise will guide you at a pace you agree together, with space to pause, ask questions and discuss anything that feels difficult.
Experiences you may want to explore:
Childhood sexual/physical or emotional abuse
Complex PTSD (CPTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Dissociation
Rape/sexual violence
Domestic abuse
Anxiety disorders
Attachment issues
Chronic pain
Phobias
O.C.D
Depression
Disordered eating
Personality disorders
Tics
Self-harm
Grief and loss
Low self esteem
Relationship trauma and attachment wounds
Childhood sexual/physical or emotional abuse
Complex PTSD (CPTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Dissociation
Rape/sexual violence
Domestic abuse
Anxiety disorders
Attachment issues
Chronic pain
Phobias
O.C.D
Depression
Disordered eating
Personality disorders
Tics
Self-harm
Grief and loss
Low self esteem
Relationship trauma and attachment wounds
Hope starts here
There is Hope
You may understand why you struggle and still find yourself repeating the same patterns. IFS offers a way to work with the feelings beneath those reactions, including parts of yu that remain frightened, hurt or on guard.
The aim is to build a more compassionate relationship with yourself, so difficult feelings become easier to understand and protective reactions have less control over everyday life. Progress looks different for each person.
At Grey Matters Centre in Scunthorpe, IFS is offered by Louise Fenton, a trauma therapist who has completed Levels 1, 2 and 3 of IFS training. Your first session is an opportunity to discuss your needs and whether this approach is suitable for you.
Support starts here
IFS Therapy with Louise
Louise works with adults and has completed Levels 1, 2 and 3 of IFS training. This provides substantial depth of knowledge beyond an introductory course or workshop.
Her work brings together IFS and her experience as a trauma therapist, supporting adults with complex and longstanding difficulties.
Click on Louise’s profile below to find out more and book your first session.
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Currently at full capacityLouise
View Profile: LouiseI offer a safe, compassionate and deeply trauma-informed space where you can feel heard, understood and supported.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ’s
Yes you do need an appointment to access our therapy sessions.
We offer flexible appointment times, and we always do our best to find a time that suits your schedule.
To book an appointment please go onto our therapists page and choose who you would like to work with. You are able to book your appointment on there.
Or please contact us on:
Telephone 07907613600
No-you do not need a referral to access our counselling services. If there is something you’d like support with, you are very welcome to contact us directly to discuss booking an appointment. You can reach out whenever you feel ready.
Telephone 07907613600
Each therapist at Grey Matters Centre works independently within their own private practice, so fees may vary. You can find the exact cost of sessions by visiting your chosen therapist’s individual page, where all pricing information is clearly listed.
Many people look for affordable therapy in Scunthorpe or counselling fees near me – checking your therapist’s page will give you the most accurate and up-to-date information.
The number of sessions varies from person to person and depends on your goals, the nature of the issue and the pace you feel comfortable with. Some people find short-term support helpful, while others choose longer-term therapy for deeper exploration. We will regularly review your progress together to ensure your sessions meet your needs.
Many people looking for ongoing support search for therapy sessions near me or counselling in Scunthorpe – we tailor the number of appointments to what feels right for you.
We are a confidential service but there are certain situations when we do have to break confidentiality.
We must pass on any information to the relevant authorities in cases where human safety are concerned, including the following cases:
1) If there is a risk of harm to oneself or another person. This includes any indications of suicide or self harming behaviours.
2) When it is presented that there is a risk to a child, children or protected adult, which includes neglect, physical, sexual or psychological harm.
3) Where it is the judgement of the therapist an act of terrorism or treason may be likely to occur/has occurred.
4) Where there is a disclosure of a serious crime (clients or another party) that has not previously been disclosed.
Availability depends on each therapist’s schedule, but we always aim to offer appointments as soon as possible. If your preferred theapist is fully booked, you are welcome to check back for new openings or explore other therapists within our centre who may have earlier availability.
People often find us while searching for quick counselling appointments near me or therapy availability in Scunthorpe – we do our best to offer timely support.
Tel 07907613600