Internal Family Systems (IFS) Counselling in Alexandria, NSW

Photo of Jase Dimos, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jase Dimos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw on CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS to tailor evidence-based therapy to each client’s needs.
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all.
I draw on CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS to tailor evidence-based therapy to each client’s needs.
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all.
0468 375 150 View 0468 375 150
Photo of Alex Dunwoodie, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Alex Dunwoodie
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Serves Area
I utilise several evidence-based modalities from my training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Focusing, Applied Polyvagal Theory for Trauma, the Safe and Sound Protocol.
I am a Psychotherapist and Counsellor committed to create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their strengths, develop coping strategies, and enhance their self-awareness. I provide support for a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting and personal growth.
I utilise several evidence-based modalities from my training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Focusing, Applied Polyvagal Theory for Trauma, the Safe and Sound Protocol.
I am a Psychotherapist and Counsellor committed to create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their strengths, develop coping strategies, and enhance their self-awareness. I provide support for a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting and personal growth.
(02) 8000 0822 View (02) 8000 0822
Photo of Nell Campbell, Counsellor, PACFA
Nell Campbell
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our sessions will be adapted to your needs and preferences, drawing from person-centred therapy, internal family systems therapy, somatic therapy, EFT tapping, polyvagal theory, attachment theory and more.
Take a moment to check in with yourself and your body right now. What emerges? No matter what it is, know that you do not have to explore this alone. As human beings we are naturally self-protecting. Often this means that we attempt to bypass emotional discomfort in an effort to protect ourselves from pain. This avoidance tends to mean our suffering lingers and manifests in ways we have little control over such as; anxiety, depression, destructive relationships, unhealthy ways to cope and physical symptoms. I am here to help you safely feel into yourself, and release the parts that no longer serve you.
Our sessions will be adapted to your needs and preferences, drawing from person-centred therapy, internal family systems therapy, somatic therapy, EFT tapping, polyvagal theory, attachment theory and more.
Take a moment to check in with yourself and your body right now. What emerges? No matter what it is, know that you do not have to explore this alone. As human beings we are naturally self-protecting. Often this means that we attempt to bypass emotional discomfort in an effort to protect ourselves from pain. This avoidance tends to mean our suffering lingers and manifests in ways we have little control over such as; anxiety, depression, destructive relationships, unhealthy ways to cope and physical symptoms. I am here to help you safely feel into yourself, and release the parts that no longer serve you.
(02) 8599 2275 View (02) 8599 2275
Photo of Sagar Aadarsh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sagar Aadarsh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
As I've developed my practice, I've come to incorporate IFS (Internal Family Systems) and Somatic therapy with CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy), allowing for both self-understanding and acceptance, as well as a useful way forward.
Heya, I’m Sagar! I understand how nerve-wracking it can be to walk into a psychologist’s office. That’s why I aim to be warm, empathetic and approachable, to build a genuine relationship as the foundation of our therapeutic process. I work across the lifespan, and I love helping clients navigate those big life changes— adolescence into adulthood; career into retirement; or any of those big, overwhelming events that seem to just come with life. My approach is to give clients insight into their thoughts & emotions, warmth and space to help process and heal, then collaboratively create tools and strategies to lay problems to rest.
As I've developed my practice, I've come to incorporate IFS (Internal Family Systems) and Somatic therapy with CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy), allowing for both self-understanding and acceptance, as well as a useful way forward.
Heya, I’m Sagar! I understand how nerve-wracking it can be to walk into a psychologist’s office. That’s why I aim to be warm, empathetic and approachable, to build a genuine relationship as the foundation of our therapeutic process. I work across the lifespan, and I love helping clients navigate those big life changes— adolescence into adulthood; career into retirement; or any of those big, overwhelming events that seem to just come with life. My approach is to give clients insight into their thoughts & emotions, warmth and space to help process and heal, then collaboratively create tools and strategies to lay problems to rest.
(08) 7008 7438 View (08) 7008 7438
Photo of Elizabeth Alvanos, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Elizabeth Alvanos
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
A family systems approach to couples therapy along with other modalities enables therapeutic progress and lasting change
Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or emotionally disconnected—often appearing capable and in control on the outside. They may be dealing with relationship issues, family estrangement, anxiety, or questions of identity and purpose. Counselling offers a space to reflect, process difficult emotions, and reconnect with what matters. The goal isn’t just symptom relief, but lasting change—building self-awareness, healthier relationships, and a more meaningful life.
A family systems approach to couples therapy along with other modalities enables therapeutic progress and lasting change
Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or emotionally disconnected—often appearing capable and in control on the outside. They may be dealing with relationship issues, family estrangement, anxiety, or questions of identity and purpose. Counselling offers a space to reflect, process difficult emotions, and reconnect with what matters. The goal isn’t just symptom relief, but lasting change—building self-awareness, healthier relationships, and a more meaningful life.
(02) 9100 0471 View (02) 9100 0471
Photo of Dr Maria-Elena Lukeides, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Maria-Elena Lukeides
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Leveraging years of experience and continuous advancement in psychological science,I offer cutting-edge treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy.
As a psychologist with 25 years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping you navigate the complexities of trauma, PTSD, attachment-related issues, low self-esteem, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, and depression. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I strive to provide a warm, compassionate, and safe space for healing and self-discovery. In my practice, I blend evidence-based clinical psychology with other evidence based wellness practices such as somatic therapy, breathwork and mindfulness to bring profound healing and change.
Leveraging years of experience and continuous advancement in psychological science,I offer cutting-edge treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy.
As a psychologist with 25 years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping you navigate the complexities of trauma, PTSD, attachment-related issues, low self-esteem, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, and depression. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I strive to provide a warm, compassionate, and safe space for healing and self-discovery. In my practice, I blend evidence-based clinical psychology with other evidence based wellness practices such as somatic therapy, breathwork and mindfulness to bring profound healing and change.
(02) 9100 0525 View (02) 9100 0525
Photo of Anthea Cottee, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Anthea Cottee
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, NSW 2015
“I’d love to help you develop a supportive, kind and caring relationship with yourself, and secure and fulfilling relationships with others. Working with you to understand why you respond to the world like you do, what really matters to you, and supporting behaviour that back up your ambitions is my jam. We all face challenges in how we relate to ourselves and the world. I believe developing a sense of psychological safety and flexibility, and nurturing emotional intelligence and agility are key to recovering, striving and thriving in all parts of your life”
“I’d love to help you develop a supportive, kind and caring relationship with yourself, and secure and fulfilling relationships with others. Working with you to understand why you respond to the world like you do, what really matters to you, and supporting behaviour that back up your ambitions is my jam. We all face challenges in how we relate to ourselves and the world. I believe developing a sense of psychological safety and flexibility, and nurturing emotional intelligence and agility are key to recovering, striving and thriving in all parts of your life”
(02) 9100 0198 View (02) 9100 0198
Photo of Dr Joshua Comyn, Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L3
Dr Joshua Comyn
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Something isn’t quite right. It may be that you can’t stop yourself from worrying. Or you are compulsively avoiding things (places, people, certain situations). Perhaps you find yourself flying into a sudden, uncontrollable, panic. It may be that you are feeling down: you can’t shake the sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness in your life. You may be feeling worthless and guilty too. It could be your relationships that aren’t working (partner, friends, family, boss, or colleagues). Perhaps past experiences are haunting you so that you lose your connection to the present and the people in it. Perhaps it's all of the above.
Something isn’t quite right. It may be that you can’t stop yourself from worrying. Or you are compulsively avoiding things (places, people, certain situations). Perhaps you find yourself flying into a sudden, uncontrollable, panic. It may be that you are feeling down: you can’t shake the sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness in your life. You may be feeling worthless and guilty too. It could be your relationships that aren’t working (partner, friends, family, boss, or colleagues). Perhaps past experiences are haunting you so that you lose your connection to the present and the people in it. Perhaps it's all of the above.
(03) 7003 2150 View (03) 7003 2150
Photo of Jamie De Bruyn, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Jamie De Bruyn
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
Photo of Atia Burian Tani, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Atia Burian Tani
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I bring four decades of experience in psychotherapy, counselling and art. 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 psychotherapy, counselling and art. 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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Patrick Rory John Hukins, Psychotherapist
Patrick Rory John Hukins
Psychotherapist
Online Only
I approach therapy from a trauma-informed perspective, using narrative, gestalt and internal family systems therapy.
Hi, I’m Patrick Hukins (they/them), a Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique journeys. My practice focuses on sexuality, gender, and relationship therapy. I work with individuals experiencing a wide variety of concerns from navigating complex relationships, sexuality, and gender affirming care, to coping with trauma, disability and mental health struggles. I am passionate about creating an environment where clients feel respected heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
I approach therapy from a trauma-informed perspective, using narrative, gestalt and internal family systems therapy.
Hi, I’m Patrick Hukins (they/them), a Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique journeys. My practice focuses on sexuality, gender, and relationship therapy. I work with individuals experiencing a wide variety of concerns from navigating complex relationships, sexuality, and gender affirming care, to coping with trauma, disability and mental health struggles. I am passionate about creating an environment where clients feel respected heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
(02) 9100 0428 View (02) 9100 0428
Photo of Madeleine Jablonski, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Madeleine Jablonski
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
However I love incorporating other modalities such as parts work like Resource Therapy and IFS, to help participants get the most out of therapy.
My ideal clients are therapists seeking EMDR Consultation for accreditation with EMDRAA or therapists seeking supervision, either ongoing or ad hoc. Therapists looking for a safe and supportive environment to find their EMDR feet and gain confidence and new skills. Therapists working with dissociative presentations like DID and CPTSD, family violence, grief and loss, or neurodivergence or interested in learning more about EMDR, Parts work, and Resource Therapy. Therapists wanting a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for ALL practitioners, including First Nations peoples, LGBTQI+ clinicians, and neurodivergent therapists.
However I love incorporating other modalities such as parts work like Resource Therapy and IFS, to help participants get the most out of therapy.
My ideal clients are therapists seeking EMDR Consultation for accreditation with EMDRAA or therapists seeking supervision, either ongoing or ad hoc. Therapists looking for a safe and supportive environment to find their EMDR feet and gain confidence and new skills. Therapists working with dissociative presentations like DID and CPTSD, family violence, grief and loss, or neurodivergence or interested in learning more about EMDR, Parts work, and Resource Therapy. Therapists wanting a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for ALL practitioners, including First Nations peoples, LGBTQI+ clinicians, and neurodivergent therapists.
View
Photo of Janet Burke - The Holding Space Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Janet Burke - The Holding Space Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I use an integrative approach and am particularly passionate and informed by approaches such as Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems.
With specialist skills in grief, chronic illness and infertility I work from a somatic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about companioning people through adversity, and believe that it through support and connection that we are able to come back to ourselves. I combine my love of neuroscience with an integrative approach, drawing on a number of modalities to support healing. Initially trained as a teacher I have worked extensively in education and health, working therapeutically with children, young people and their families in hospice and hospital to support coping with chronic illness for over 25 years.
I use an integrative approach and am particularly passionate and informed by approaches such as Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems.
With specialist skills in grief, chronic illness and infertility I work from a somatic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about companioning people through adversity, and believe that it through support and connection that we are able to come back to ourselves. I combine my love of neuroscience with an integrative approach, drawing on a number of modalities to support healing. Initially trained as a teacher I have worked extensively in education and health, working therapeutically with children, young people and their families in hospice and hospital to support coping with chronic illness for over 25 years.
0402 350 782 View 0402 350 782
Photo of Elena Beutel, MPsych
Elena Beutel
Verified Verified
Online Only
My unique method, developed over 6+ years of experience, integrates IFS and CBT approaches with coaching, all grounded in Christian principles.
I am a wife, a mother of two, an immigrant, a professional, a Christian... I am here to build you up, there is nothing you can tell me that will discourage me from helping you. I have written a book "Through Thorns to Fruits", due to be published. It provides free psychotherapeutic exercises and showcases my approach. Please message me for a free copy.
My unique method, developed over 6+ years of experience, integrates IFS and CBT approaches with coaching, all grounded in Christian principles.
I am a wife, a mother of two, an immigrant, a professional, a Christian... I am here to build you up, there is nothing you can tell me that will discourage me from helping you. I have written a book "Through Thorns to Fruits", due to be published. It provides free psychotherapeutic exercises and showcases my approach. Please message me for a free copy.
(02) 5950 6462 View (02) 5950 6462
Photo of Fernanda Megda, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Fernanda Megda
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in somatic, body-based therapies such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EFT tapping, Somatic Experiencing, and other evidence-based approaches.
Hi, I’m Fernanda! I’m a compassionate counsellor and somatic therapist passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges, heal from the past, and step into their fullest potential. My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply attuned to your unique journey. Many of my clients come to me seeking support with: Relationship challenges Anxiety or depression Childhood trauma Phobias and OCD Parenting struggles Low self-esteem Personal growth and self-discovery
I specialize in somatic, body-based therapies such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EFT tapping, Somatic Experiencing, and other evidence-based approaches.
Hi, I’m Fernanda! I’m a compassionate counsellor and somatic therapist passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges, heal from the past, and step into their fullest potential. My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply attuned to your unique journey. Many of my clients come to me seeking support with: Relationship challenges Anxiety or depression Childhood trauma Phobias and OCD Parenting struggles Low self-esteem Personal growth and self-discovery
(02) 9100 0179 View (02) 9100 0179
Photo of Rachel Grosseibl - Sydney Psych Hub, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sydney Psych Hub
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Castle Hill, NSW 2154
Our psychologists are skilled across a range of therapies including CBT, DBT, ACT, Schema, EMDR, and IFS.
We are a warm, safe and compassionate psychology practice located in the heart of Castle Hill. Our highly skilled and qualified Psychologists provide the best possible treatments to help people with all types of mental health conditions. We will take the time to understand who you are as a person and help you to overcome life’s challenges to achieve your personal goals and reach your full potential. Visit our website www.sydneypsychhub.com.au
Our psychologists are skilled across a range of therapies including CBT, DBT, ACT, Schema, EMDR, and IFS.
We are a warm, safe and compassionate psychology practice located in the heart of Castle Hill. Our highly skilled and qualified Psychologists provide the best possible treatments to help people with all types of mental health conditions. We will take the time to understand who you are as a person and help you to overcome life’s challenges to achieve your personal goals and reach your full potential. Visit our website www.sydneypsychhub.com.au
(02) 9054 7830 View (02) 9054 7830
Photo of Isabelle Truong, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Isabelle Truong
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Darling Point, NSW 2027
I apply various therapeutic methodologies such as Family Systems, Emotionally Focused, and Schema therapy to help you understand why you are triggered by certain interactions and how to change your maladaptive coping behaviours.
Are you constantly asking yourself: ‘Should I stay or leave?’ ‘How do we resolve conflicts?’ ‘Why can't I keep my relationships long term?’ ‘Why do I feel dissatisfied with my life?’ If the answer is ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you are likely to benefit from individual, couple or family relationship counselling. Strong, healthy relationships, whether social or intimate, have a positive impact on our physical and mental well-being. People with poor relationships are more likely to suffer from depression and loneliness. Living in conflict or within a toxic relationship is more damaging than being on your own.
I apply various therapeutic methodologies such as Family Systems, Emotionally Focused, and Schema therapy to help you understand why you are triggered by certain interactions and how to change your maladaptive coping behaviours.
Are you constantly asking yourself: ‘Should I stay or leave?’ ‘How do we resolve conflicts?’ ‘Why can't I keep my relationships long term?’ ‘Why do I feel dissatisfied with my life?’ If the answer is ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you are likely to benefit from individual, couple or family relationship counselling. Strong, healthy relationships, whether social or intimate, have a positive impact on our physical and mental well-being. People with poor relationships are more likely to suffer from depression and loneliness. Living in conflict or within a toxic relationship is more damaging than being on your own.
(02) 8074 5258 View (02) 8074 5258
Photo of Lauren Lacey - Free Your Body Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Free Your Body Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I use an individualized approach leaning on a Trauma-informed approach, Internal family systems ( IFS), Somatic, Solutions focused, Narrative therapy, and others.
Welcome….I’ve been a chronic exerciser and competitive marathon runner who had a two-decade-long struggle with food + body. Now I help people worldwide overcome eating disorder recovery, exercise addiction, and have a joyful and effortless relationship with movement and food. I also work with Athletes to manage performance pressures and mental health concerns.
I use an individualized approach leaning on a Trauma-informed approach, Internal family systems ( IFS), Somatic, Solutions focused, Narrative therapy, and others.
Welcome….I’ve been a chronic exerciser and competitive marathon runner who had a two-decade-long struggle with food + body. Now I help people worldwide overcome eating disorder recovery, exercise addiction, and have a joyful and effortless relationship with movement and food. I also work with Athletes to manage performance pressures and mental health concerns.
(02) 4504 0383 View (02) 4504 0383
Photo of Sameh Younan, Psychiatrist, MBBS, FRANZCP
Sameh Younan
Psychiatrist, MBBS, FRANZCP
Annandale, NSW 2038
I use IFS therapy to help children, adolescents and adults.
I have experience as a senior psychiatrist in the public health system, where I've spent a long time working out what works and what doesn't. I've developed an approach that integrates many therapies and puts them together.
I use IFS therapy to help children, adolescents and adults.
I have experience as a senior psychiatrist in the public health system, where I've spent a long time working out what works and what doesn't. I've developed an approach that integrates many therapies and puts them together.
(02) 8000 1635 View (02) 8000 1635
Photo of Kit Pope (Wild Precious Therapy), Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kit Pope (Wild Precious Therapy)
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Mona Vale, NSW 2103
Many of my clients benefit from Attachment, Internal Family Systems (parts), Gestalt and CBT.
Therapy for individuals and couples. Specialism in ADHD. Whether you're seeking deeper understanding, fresh insight, relief from emotional distress, or a way to break free of old patterns, I can help you navigate the complexities of life and relationships to make meaningful change. Therapy isn't a one size fits all. I take great care to deeply understand your experiences and needs. I tailor an approach that integrates the most effective therapeutic methods to benefit you, built on a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities ADHD can bring.
Many of my clients benefit from Attachment, Internal Family Systems (parts), Gestalt and CBT.
Therapy for individuals and couples. Specialism in ADHD. Whether you're seeking deeper understanding, fresh insight, relief from emotional distress, or a way to break free of old patterns, I can help you navigate the complexities of life and relationships to make meaningful change. Therapy isn't a one size fits all. I take great care to deeply understand your experiences and needs. I tailor an approach that integrates the most effective therapeutic methods to benefit you, built on a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities ADHD can bring.
(02) 8403 1797 View (02) 8403 1797
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.