About Matt

IFS Therapy

How IFS Therapy WorksIFS therapy begins with the understanding that every part of us has developed for a reason. Even behaviours or feelings that cause difficulty today usually began as attempts to protect us from pain or overwhelm.In therapy, we gently bring curiosity and attention to these inner experiences. With the support of a therapist, you learn to recognise different parts of yourself and begin to relate to them from a place of calm awareness rather than judgement.As you begin to access your Self — the compassionate, grounded core within you—parts that may feel stuck, reactive, or overwhelmed can begin to relax. From this place, it becomes possible to understand what these parts are trying to protect and what they may need in order to heal.Over time, parts that carry painful memories, emotions, or beliefs can release the burdens they have been holding. As this happens, the internal system becomes more balanced, and people often experience greater clarity, emotional freedom, and connection with themselves and others.Who IFS Therapy Can HelpIFS therapy can be helpful for people who feel caught in repeating emotional patterns or inner conflicts — for example, when one part of you wants something, while another part pulls in the opposite direction.Many people seek IFS therapy when they notice experiences such as:- feeling stuck in self-criticism or shame- anxiety, overwhelm, or emotional reactivity- difficulty with relationships or trusting others- a sense of internal conflict or different parts of themselves wanting different things- feeling disconnected from themselves or from life- carrying the effects of past trauma or painful experiencesIFS can also be helpful for people who are simply curious about their inner world and want to develop a deeper relationship with themselves.Because the approach focuses on understanding and caring for the different parts within ourselves, many people find that it allows them to work with difficult emotions in a way that feels respectful and non-pathologising.Rather than trying to eliminate parts of ourselves, IFS helps us build a more compassionate relationship with them—allowing the internal system to become more balanced, flexible, and supportive of the life we want to live.
FAQ's

What happens in an IFS session?Sessions tend to be gentle, reflective, and led by your pace.We might begin by noticing what’s present for you—perhaps a feeling, a thought, or a sense in the body—and then slowly become curious about the part of you connected to that experience.Over time, this can include:- getting to know what a part is trying to do for you- understanding what it may be protecting- making space for parts that carry hurt, fear, or older emotional burdensMy role is to support you in staying connected to your Self—the steady, compassionate presence within you—while relating to these parts with curiosity and respect.People experience their parts in different ways: as thoughts, emotions, images, memories, or physical sensations. There’s no right way for this to unfold.The work moves at a pace that feels safe, allowing trust to build naturally over time.Does IFS therapy work well online?In my experience, many people find that working online is just as meaningful as meeting in person.IFS often adapts naturally to this format, as much of the work involves turning inward and paying attention to your inner experience. Being in your own space can sometimes make it easier to settle and to stay connected to what’s unfolding.Clients often appreciate the privacy and simplicity of meeting from home.What happens during an online IFS session?During our time together, we may gently explore different parts of your inner world—for example, protective parts that criticise, push, avoid, or try to keep things under control.As trust develops, we may also begin to connect with more vulnerable parts that are carrying pain or past experiences.The process is collaborative, and we move at a pace that feels right for you.What is the cost and length of sessions and how often do people come?Sessions are $180 for 75 minutes. Payment is made at the time of the session via bank transfer.
This longer session time allows for a more spacious and unhurried process, which many people find supports deeper work.Many people begin with weekly or fortnightly sessions. From there, we can adjust the frequency depending on what feels most helpful and sustainable for you.Do I need a referral or Mental Health Care Plan?You don’t need a referral to begin private therapy.I work outside of the Medicare system. If rebates are important to you, it’s best to check directly with individual practitioners about what they offer.If you hold Private Health Insurance with extras cover, you may be able to claim benefits for counselling and psychotherapy services. We will need to check with your health fund as to whether you are eligible for rebates.Is online therapy confidential?Yes. Sessions are held using secure, encrypted video platforms that meet Australian privacy standards.It’s also helpful to join from a quiet, private space where you feel comfortable speaking openly.What do I need for an online session?You’ll need:
- a quiet, private space
- a stable internet connection
- a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a cameraSome people also find headphones helpful, as they can create a greater sense of privacy and focus.
Contact
Feel free to get in touch with any questions. You can also schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me.
Thank You
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