Internal Family Systems (IFS) Counselling in Newtown, NSW

Photo of IFS Therapy Sydney, Counsellor in Newtown, NSW
IFS Therapy Sydney
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
Hi, I'm Suze Ingram a counsellor in Sydney with a specialisation in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. IFS is different to other therapies. Your thoughts aren’t faulty and your feelings aren’t just a pesky part of being human. They have important messages for you. They matter. Every part of you matters. You don’t feel the way you do by accident. There are reasons why you’re experiencing pain, numbness, depression, reactivity, anxiety, or other distress. And reasons why you’ve developed certain ways of coping when life gets tough.
Hi, I'm Suze Ingram a counsellor in Sydney with a specialisation in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. IFS is different to other therapies. Your thoughts aren’t faulty and your feelings aren’t just a pesky part of being human. They have important messages for you. They matter. Every part of you matters. You don’t feel the way you do by accident. There are reasons why you’re experiencing pain, numbness, depression, reactivity, anxiety, or other distress. And reasons why you’ve developed certain ways of coping when life gets tough.
(02) 9100 0229 View (02) 9100 0229
Photo of Megan Buys, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Megan Buys
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
I work with Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, arts-based practices, and imagery work, combining these creative approaches together with CBT, ACT, Solutions-Focused Therapy (SFT), and Motivational Interviewing.
Hey there! I’m so glad you found me here. My name is Megan Buys and I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I am the founder of Finding Space: a therapy practice which blends both creative and empowering modalities for those seeking guidance, excitement, and deep care, where I see adults, teenagers/adolescents, couples, and therapists seeking support. I have completed a Master of Counselling, with registration through the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. I am also a PhD candidate, a writer, an academic, a university teacher, a yogi, a tea-drinker, and an ocean-lover.
I work with Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, arts-based practices, and imagery work, combining these creative approaches together with CBT, ACT, Solutions-Focused Therapy (SFT), and Motivational Interviewing.
Hey there! I’m so glad you found me here. My name is Megan Buys and I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I am the founder of Finding Space: a therapy practice which blends both creative and empowering modalities for those seeking guidance, excitement, and deep care, where I see adults, teenagers/adolescents, couples, and therapists seeking support. I have completed a Master of Counselling, with registration through the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. I am also a PhD candidate, a writer, an academic, a university teacher, a yogi, a tea-drinker, and an ocean-lover.
(02) 9100 0798 View (02) 9100 0798
Photo of Johnny Kieran-Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newtown, NSW
Johnny Kieran-Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
I specialise in Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and EMDR, interweaving Internal Family Systems (parts) Theory, Polyvagal Theory, Group Schema Therapy, DBT, Open Dialogue, and ACT.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
I specialise in Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and EMDR, interweaving Internal Family Systems (parts) Theory, Polyvagal Theory, Group Schema Therapy, DBT, Open Dialogue, and ACT.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
(02) 9100 0621 View (02) 9100 0621
Photo of Kelly Breen, Psychologist in Newtown, NSW
Kelly Breen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
Kelly has extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma, addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. Kelly also helps people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. Kelly has an integrative therapy style, she utilizes evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic, Mindfulness, and ACT. Kelly’s a yoga teacher, she weaves these practices along with somatic work into therapy. She is appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration support.
Kelly has extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma, addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. Kelly also helps people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. Kelly has an integrative therapy style, she utilizes evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic, Mindfulness, and ACT. Kelly’s a yoga teacher, she weaves these practices along with somatic work into therapy. She is appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration support.
(03) 9007 2718 View (03) 9007 2718
Photo of Jacob Lee, Psychologist in Newtown, NSW
Jacob Lee
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Predominantly in appointments, I will utilize ideas from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Bowen Family Systems Theory.
Everyone can live a more fulfilling life, although thoughts and feelings make it easy to get stuck. I believe therapy offers space to take a step back and do our best thinking about 'whats working well?' and 'whats not working well?', when it comes to thoughts, feelings, and relationships. I work with people experiencing a wide range of difficult thoughts, feelings, and situations such as: anxiety, low mood, relationship stress, and low motivation.
Predominantly in appointments, I will utilize ideas from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Bowen Family Systems Theory.
Everyone can live a more fulfilling life, although thoughts and feelings make it easy to get stuck. I believe therapy offers space to take a step back and do our best thinking about 'whats working well?' and 'whats not working well?', when it comes to thoughts, feelings, and relationships. I work with people experiencing a wide range of difficult thoughts, feelings, and situations such as: anxiety, low mood, relationship stress, and low motivation.
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Photo of Pip Eve, Psychologist in Newtown, NSW
Pip Eve
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
These include attachment-based therapies, mindfulness meditation, schema therapy, internal family systems, ACT, CBT and trauma-sensitive yoga.
Pip is a warm and down-to-earth Clinical Psychologist. From the outset, Pip values the importance of developing a safe, therapeutic relationship, holding space for a person to explore their inner and external worlds. Pip has a particular interest in supporting people navigate the perinatal period (fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum), in addition to supporting people with chronic health conditions (e.g., chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune conditions), stress/burnout, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Individual telehealth sessions and online groups available (Meditation group and Mothers Nurture Circle).
These include attachment-based therapies, mindfulness meditation, schema therapy, internal family systems, ACT, CBT and trauma-sensitive yoga.
Pip is a warm and down-to-earth Clinical Psychologist. From the outset, Pip values the importance of developing a safe, therapeutic relationship, holding space for a person to explore their inner and external worlds. Pip has a particular interest in supporting people navigate the perinatal period (fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum), in addition to supporting people with chronic health conditions (e.g., chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune conditions), stress/burnout, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Individual telehealth sessions and online groups available (Meditation group and Mothers Nurture Circle).
(02) 9100 0572 View (02) 9100 0572
Photo of Lisa Barrett - Leichhardt Counselling, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Lisa Barrett - Leichhardt Counselling
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
IFS (Internal Family Systems) is a leading evidence-based model of therapy that incorporates elements of Somatic Therapy, Hakomi, Family Systems, Mindfulness and Neuroscience.
Do you experience challenging thoughts or behaviour patterns, overwhelming emotions, relationship issues, doubts around your self-worth or life direction that cause you concern? There are countless obstacles, internally and externally that prevent us from living the life we wish to. They may vary from compulsive or anxiety-driven behaviour, stress and anger, or may be felt as a sense of confusion and doubt, overwhelming pain, fear or grief . They could be due to unanticipated or undesired life circumstances or events or simply a general pervading sense of dissatisfaction and unhappiness. It is possible for life to be different.
IFS (Internal Family Systems) is a leading evidence-based model of therapy that incorporates elements of Somatic Therapy, Hakomi, Family Systems, Mindfulness and Neuroscience.
Do you experience challenging thoughts or behaviour patterns, overwhelming emotions, relationship issues, doubts around your self-worth or life direction that cause you concern? There are countless obstacles, internally and externally that prevent us from living the life we wish to. They may vary from compulsive or anxiety-driven behaviour, stress and anger, or may be felt as a sense of confusion and doubt, overwhelming pain, fear or grief . They could be due to unanticipated or undesired life circumstances or events or simply a general pervading sense of dissatisfaction and unhappiness. It is possible for life to be different.
(02) 8806 0454 View (02) 8806 0454
Photo of Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
I also have training in various psychological modalities (DBT, IFS, Gestalt, for example) but feel this is just therapist babble!.
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
I also have training in various psychological modalities (DBT, IFS, Gestalt, for example) but feel this is just therapist babble!.
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
(02) 9100 0566 View (02) 9100 0566
Photo of Ess Binet, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Ess Binet
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
I work with a gestalt therapy foundation and favour parts work (IFS), somatic psychotherapy, creativity and ACT.
Hey, I'm stoked you've stopped by! I'm Ess, an introverted, dance obsessed, spiritual being who will drop an F-bomb in solidarity or celebration. I'm genuinely interested in learning about you and hearing your story. I'm excited for you, to be more YOU! Whether that's supporting you to: express yourself more fully, learn tools to practice self-acceptance, work through past experiences so you can embrace you now, unlearn and relearn behaviours so you can thrive... I have approx 10 years experience working in trauma/mental health, and enjoy working with folks curious about deeper self exploration + growth.
I work with a gestalt therapy foundation and favour parts work (IFS), somatic psychotherapy, creativity and ACT.
Hey, I'm stoked you've stopped by! I'm Ess, an introverted, dance obsessed, spiritual being who will drop an F-bomb in solidarity or celebration. I'm genuinely interested in learning about you and hearing your story. I'm excited for you, to be more YOU! Whether that's supporting you to: express yourself more fully, learn tools to practice self-acceptance, work through past experiences so you can embrace you now, unlearn and relearn behaviours so you can thrive... I have approx 10 years experience working in trauma/mental health, and enjoy working with folks curious about deeper self exploration + growth.
(02) 8074 5874 View (02) 8074 5874
Photo of Sasha Landis, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Sasha Landis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
It is my belief that we are all worthy of a place we can go to speak the truth of who we are and be received with compassion, understanding and deep reverence. Being human is hard work and we were never made to do it all alone. I welcome every part of your identity into the room with an open heart and an open mind. I am passionate about working with individuals who are interested in knowing themselves. I am trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy and counselling and our work together is all about building a deeply therapeutic relationship and thus strengthening the relationship with self.
It is my belief that we are all worthy of a place we can go to speak the truth of who we are and be received with compassion, understanding and deep reverence. Being human is hard work and we were never made to do it all alone. I welcome every part of your identity into the room with an open heart and an open mind. I am passionate about working with individuals who are interested in knowing themselves. I am trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy and counselling and our work together is all about building a deeply therapeutic relationship and thus strengthening the relationship with self.
(02) 8806 0304 View (02) 8806 0304
Photo of Atia Burian Tani, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Atia Burian Tani
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
I bring four decades of experience in mental health, art, design. I work with individuals, couples, and family members who seek to change their relationships with themselves and others. I aim to open possibilities to people who have little hope for change, struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, feeling overwhelmed and lost. This is often accompanied by counterproductive soothing behaviours such as substance use, addiction to gambling, gaming, sex, or screen use. Further, some clients may stay in relationships that deepen their belief that they cannot become the agents of their own lives.
I bring four decades of experience in mental health, art, design. I work with individuals, couples, and family members who seek to change their relationships with themselves and others. I aim to open possibilities to people who have little hope for change, struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, feeling overwhelmed and lost. This is often accompanied by counterproductive soothing behaviours such as substance use, addiction to gambling, gaming, sex, or screen use. Further, some clients may stay in relationships that deepen their belief that they cannot become the agents of their own lives.
(02) 6189 2979 View (02) 6189 2979
Photo of Rakib Islam, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Rakib Islam
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
My personal journey towards finding my authentic self has been transformative, shaping the essence of what I offer as a counsellor to those seeking healing and growth. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, and talking to someone in a non-judgmental space can be a great support. If you are looking for a counsellor to work together on issues such as life transitions, adjustments, grief, anxiety, stress, low mood, substance misuse, relationship issues, or low self-esteem, please feel free to reach out. I also encourage you to connect if you are seeking support for spiritual and existential concerns.
My personal journey towards finding my authentic self has been transformative, shaping the essence of what I offer as a counsellor to those seeking healing and growth. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, and talking to someone in a non-judgmental space can be a great support. If you are looking for a counsellor to work together on issues such as life transitions, adjustments, grief, anxiety, stress, low mood, substance misuse, relationship issues, or low self-esteem, please feel free to reach out. I also encourage you to connect if you are seeking support for spiritual and existential concerns.
(02) 9100 0026 View (02) 9100 0026
Photo of Remona Coleman, Counsellor in Newtown, NSW
Remona Coleman
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
You might be facing challenges such as anxiety or depression, navigating change, past trauma, unresolved grief, or exploring identity. You might be supporting a child, partner or parent through crisis or difficulty; learning how to manage a health condition; wanting to change unhelpful patterns or behaviours; or be in the process of repairing a relationship. You might be working towards self-awareness, using therapy as part of your self-care plan. Or, you might not know what you need, other than that you need help finding out. As a counsellor, I offer you my empathy and my support.
You might be facing challenges such as anxiety or depression, navigating change, past trauma, unresolved grief, or exploring identity. You might be supporting a child, partner or parent through crisis or difficulty; learning how to manage a health condition; wanting to change unhelpful patterns or behaviours; or be in the process of repairing a relationship. You might be working towards self-awareness, using therapy as part of your self-care plan. Or, you might not know what you need, other than that you need help finding out. As a counsellor, I offer you my empathy and my support.
(02) 9188 7723 View (02) 9188 7723
Photo of Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate the barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships or even offering parenting skills. She is dedicated to helping you have the most healing and positive experience possible and honored to walk this journey with you. She is committed to providing a quality experience including a strong vision towards social justice and social equality especially with LGBTQI folks.
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate the barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships or even offering parenting skills. She is dedicated to helping you have the most healing and positive experience possible and honored to walk this journey with you. She is committed to providing a quality experience including a strong vision towards social justice and social equality especially with LGBTQI folks.
(02) 8074 5705 View (02) 8074 5705
Photo of Nicole Rikos - The Heart Of Healing, Counsellor in Newtown, NSW
Nicole Rikos - The Heart Of Healing
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Hi, I’m Nicole. I’m a trauma specialist counsellor and somatic psychotherapist who works with adults. My areas of specialist experience are complex / developmental trauma and PTSD. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of chronic stress such as, anxiety, chronic pain / illness, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss. Others who are feeling "stuck" or disconnected in life. I provide a holistic approach to therapy, drawing from both traditional talk therapies and body oriented approaches to support alignment of mind, body, spirit and emotions.
Hi, I’m Nicole. I’m a trauma specialist counsellor and somatic psychotherapist who works with adults. My areas of specialist experience are complex / developmental trauma and PTSD. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of chronic stress such as, anxiety, chronic pain / illness, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss. Others who are feeling "stuck" or disconnected in life. I provide a holistic approach to therapy, drawing from both traditional talk therapies and body oriented approaches to support alignment of mind, body, spirit and emotions.
(02) 9100 0824 View (02) 9100 0824
Photo of Find Reason Therapy, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Find Reason Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs and connect with others? There is a road to finding value in yourself and an ability to be in healthy relationships when you take the step to put yourself first, increase your awareness and address your concerns. Find Reason Therapy creates a safe space to help you find the whole unique you with worth, values, and needs, guiding you to connect to stuck emotional pain in order to live a life with purpose and meaning.
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs and connect with others? There is a road to finding value in yourself and an ability to be in healthy relationships when you take the step to put yourself first, increase your awareness and address your concerns. Find Reason Therapy creates a safe space to help you find the whole unique you with worth, values, and needs, guiding you to connect to stuck emotional pain in order to live a life with purpose and meaning.
(02) 9100 0013 View (02) 9100 0013
Photo of Jacqueline Stone, Psychotherapist in Newtown, NSW
Jacqueline Stone
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety or depression? Maybe you don't feel at your best, not as in control as you'd like. Perhaps you've had angry outbursts, tears or panic attacks. It's not uncommon and can be confusing. As a counsellor and therapist, I'd like to help. We can work together to overcome painful stress and anxiety. If you're facing challenges with relocation, work or family, we can deal with those difficulties too.
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety or depression? Maybe you don't feel at your best, not as in control as you'd like. Perhaps you've had angry outbursts, tears or panic attacks. It's not uncommon and can be confusing. As a counsellor and therapist, I'd like to help. We can work together to overcome painful stress and anxiety. If you're facing challenges with relocation, work or family, we can deal with those difficulties too.
(02) 8324 1375 View (02) 8324 1375
Photo of Justine Pash, Counsellor in Newtown, NSW
Justine Pash
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Life can be a roller coaster. And along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, and loss. Sometimes we know how to hang on for the ride and who will be in the seat beside us; other times, we feel tossed around, adrift, and even alone in our experience. Being heard, seen, and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Counsellor/Therapist, passionate about providing ethical and evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concerns. You might like to see me in my CBD or Summer Hill rooms.
Life can be a roller coaster. And along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, and loss. Sometimes we know how to hang on for the ride and who will be in the seat beside us; other times, we feel tossed around, adrift, and even alone in our experience. Being heard, seen, and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Counsellor/Therapist, passionate about providing ethical and evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concerns. You might like to see me in my CBD or Summer Hill rooms.
(02) 9100 0552 View (02) 9100 0552
Photo of Julia Ellis, Counsellor in Newtown, NSW
Julia Ellis
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
Hi, I’m Julia. I work with people aged 17 and above. I use anti-oppressive and non-pathologising frameworks to counselling, which means I work with you to explore how you make sense of your life and experiences. I am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory. I welcome all bodies, genders and identities, and work to problematise the privileges I hold as a cis woman. I collaborate with folks to create a space where people can befriend all parts of themselves and get a sense of their preferences and hopes. I approach counselling as a place for genuine connection, meaning-making and justice.
Hi, I’m Julia. I work with people aged 17 and above. I use anti-oppressive and non-pathologising frameworks to counselling, which means I work with you to explore how you make sense of your life and experiences. I am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory. I welcome all bodies, genders and identities, and work to problematise the privileges I hold as a cis woman. I collaborate with folks to create a space where people can befriend all parts of themselves and get a sense of their preferences and hopes. I approach counselling as a place for genuine connection, meaning-making and justice.
(02) 9100 0093 View (02) 9100 0093
Photo of Jamie De Bruyn, Psychologist in Newtown, NSW
Jamie De Bruyn
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
Im passionate about helping people restore their sense of self-worth and confidence in order to regain control over their lives. I work with a wide variety of adults and adolescents in crisis, and people experiencing ongoing mental health issues (such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD) as a result of adversity, trauma, and violence. I empower individuals who have experienced adversity and oppression, through exploring existing competencies, strengths and inherent resilience. I’m person-centred, flexible and practical, ensuring you feel supported, and your individual needs are addressed in a non-judgemental and open environment
Im passionate about helping people restore their sense of self-worth and confidence in order to regain control over their lives. I work with a wide variety of adults and adolescents in crisis, and people experiencing ongoing mental health issues (such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD) as a result of adversity, trauma, and violence. I empower individuals who have experienced adversity and oppression, through exploring existing competencies, strengths and inherent resilience. I’m person-centred, flexible and practical, ensuring you feel supported, and your individual needs are addressed in a non-judgemental and open environment
(02) 7201 5086 View (02) 7201 5086

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Internal Family Systems (IFS) Counsellors

What is Internal Family Systems therapy?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on sub-personalities, or “families,” within a person, which may be made up of wounded parts and unpleasant emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities can come into conflict with each other and with an individual’s core Self, leaving the person feeling detached from positive traits such as the “8 C’s” of confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. By healing a patient’s wounded parts, a therapist aims to restore balance and bring on positive change.

How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

An IFS therapist will work with a patient to identify their particular sub-personalities, recognize the emotions powering them, and release them. By doing so, the patient should become more able to address any underlying problems their sub-personalities may have been trying to protect them from. Ultimately, a patient discovers ways to manage internal and external conflicts on their own, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, journaling, and making charts depicting the relationships between their core Self and their distinct parts.

Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

IFS therapy has been shown to help people address conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, fears and phobias, trauma, and substance use disorders. Some research has also found that it can help individuals deal with symptoms of physical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, everyday functioning, depressive feelings, and low self-compassion. There are some conditions for which IFS treatment, specifically discussions of one’s “parts,” may be less appropriate, such as schizophrenia or other states that involve psychosis or paranoia.

How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for IFS therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core concepts of IFS, some patients quickly make progress. While experiences vary, most will find that it is a relatively longer-term therapy, involving months and sometimes years of sessions.