Internal Family Systems (IFS) Psychologists and Therapists in Ashfield, NSW

Photo of Kylie Andersen, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Kylie Andersen
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Ashfield, NSW 2131
I use a relational, somatic approach informed by parts work ( IFS).
Are you someone who thinks deeply about your life but feels stuck? You try to get traction but keep finding yourself back in the same place? Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control. Maybe anxiety sits in the background, making life feel harder than it should. Maybe you're over-adapting in relationships, working hard to keep others happy, and losing sight of what you actually want. Or maybe there's just a nagging sense that the life you're living isn't quite yours.
I use a relational, somatic approach informed by parts work ( IFS).
Are you someone who thinks deeply about your life but feels stuck? You try to get traction but keep finding yourself back in the same place? Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control. Maybe anxiety sits in the background, making life feel harder than it should. Maybe you're over-adapting in relationships, working hard to keep others happy, and losing sight of what you actually want. Or maybe there's just a nagging sense that the life you're living isn't quite yours.
(02) 9158 6206 View (02) 9158 6206
Photo of John Hristoforidis, Social Worker, AMHSW
John Hristoforidis
Social Worker, AMHSW
Ashfield, NSW 2131
While my approach is tailored to each person's unique self and circumstances, my practice tends to draw on trauma informed approaches including internal family systems, schema therapy and EMDR.
Clients present to therapy for a variety of reasons. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space that meets where the client is at, and gently explores what's happening in their life. Together we can work towards goals that are alligned with their hopes, aspirations, desires or needs; to improve connection with the self, interpersonal relationships and the interplay with their surrounding social world.
While my approach is tailored to each person's unique self and circumstances, my practice tends to draw on trauma informed approaches including internal family systems, schema therapy and EMDR.
Clients present to therapy for a variety of reasons. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space that meets where the client is at, and gently explores what's happening in their life. Together we can work towards goals that are alligned with their hopes, aspirations, desires or needs; to improve connection with the self, interpersonal relationships and the interplay with their surrounding social world.
(02) 9100 0965 View (02) 9100 0965
Photo of Dana Mitrovic - Exclusive Wellbeing, Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Exclusive Wellbeing
Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Serves Area
Support for Life’s Challenges At Exclusive Wellbeing in Parramatta, therapy is about you—your life, your story, and the changes you want to see. No concern is ever too small to bring into the room. You are welcome to come exactly as you are, and together we’ll explore what matters most to you. Our psychologists and psychotherapists offer a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. We’ll help you make sense of your experiences, uncover personal insights, and find practical ways forward—whether that means easing the weight of trauma, navigating anxiety or depression, or coping with stress from work, study, family
Support for Life’s Challenges At Exclusive Wellbeing in Parramatta, therapy is about you—your life, your story, and the changes you want to see. No concern is ever too small to bring into the room. You are welcome to come exactly as you are, and together we’ll explore what matters most to you. Our psychologists and psychotherapists offer a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. We’ll help you make sense of your experiences, uncover personal insights, and find practical ways forward—whether that means easing the weight of trauma, navigating anxiety or depression, or coping with stress from work, study, family
(02) 9630 0451 View (02) 9630 0451
Photo of Maria Simonetta, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I often use Internal Family Systems ( IFS) in my practice in conjunction with Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprogramming (EMDR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
I often use Internal Family Systems ( IFS) in my practice in conjunction with Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprogramming (EMDR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
(02) 8073 9397 View (02) 8073 9397
Photo of Kate Mackie, Social Worker, AMHSW
Kate Mackie
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions and life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions and life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
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Photo of Paula Barham, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Paula Barham
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I’m honoured to have been recognised as one of the top 3 therapists in Sydney in 2025, serving as the principal therapist specialising in relationship therapy. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse cultures, I strive to provide compassionate support to couples. We all lose our way at times and may need support to get back on track and reignite our relationship, no matter how long or short you have been together. My aim is not for you to keep coming to me but to empower you to develop skills—such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection—so you can navigate life independently.
I’m honoured to have been recognised as one of the top 3 therapists in Sydney in 2025, serving as the principal therapist specialising in relationship therapy. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse cultures, I strive to provide compassionate support to couples. We all lose our way at times and may need support to get back on track and reignite our relationship, no matter how long or short you have been together. My aim is not for you to keep coming to me but to empower you to develop skills—such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection—so you can navigate life independently.
(02) 9100 0945 View (02) 9100 0945
Photo of Alex Dunwoodie, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Alex Dunwoodie
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I bring a holistic lense to therapy as a level 1 IFS practitioner with specialisation in trauma informed and Neuro affirming practices.
I currently work out of Birth Time offering pre and post natal support to women and families, specialised care for clients with complex trauma and nervous system disorders through the organisation FND support service Australia, and providing equine and art assist therapy with families and children at Heads and Tails Psychology.
I bring a holistic lense to therapy as a level 1 IFS practitioner with specialisation in trauma informed and Neuro affirming practices.
I currently work out of Birth Time offering pre and post natal support to women and families, specialised care for clients with complex trauma and nervous system disorders through the organisation FND support service Australia, and providing equine and art assist therapy with families and children at Heads and Tails Psychology.
(02) 8000 0822 View (02) 8000 0822
Photo of Julia Ellis, Counsellor, PACFA
Julia Ellis
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Julia. I approach counselling as a place for genuine connection and meaning making. This means I work with you to explore how you make sense of your life and experiences. My style of therapy is conversational - supporting you to gain a greater sense of your preferences, hopes and befriend all parts of yourself. I have qualifications in anti-oppressive and non-pathologising approaches. I am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory. I welcome all bodies, genders and identities, and I work to problematise the privileges I hold as a cis, able-bodied woman on stolen land.
Hello, I'm Julia. I approach counselling as a place for genuine connection and meaning making. This means I work with you to explore how you make sense of your life and experiences. My style of therapy is conversational - supporting you to gain a greater sense of your preferences, hopes and befriend all parts of yourself. I have qualifications in anti-oppressive and non-pathologising approaches. I am deeply informed by social justice and critical theory. I welcome all bodies, genders and identities, and I work to problematise the privileges I hold as a cis, able-bodied woman on stolen land.
(02) 9100 0093 View (02) 9100 0093
Photo of Sylvia Suwan, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Sylvia Suwan
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I integrate Internal Family Systems ( IFS), trauma-informed, strengths-based, somatic, and person-centred approaches.
My clients are usually people who feel stuck in their relationships or after a breakup. Many already have insight—they understand their patterns but can’t seem to change them, which often leads to frustration, shame, or self-doubt. I help them understand what’s happening within their internal system—both emotionally and practically—so they can recognise their triggers, regulate their responses, and respond differently in real situations. This includes working through the patterns and reactions that keep them stuck, so they can move forward in a way that actually feels different.
I integrate Internal Family Systems ( IFS), trauma-informed, strengths-based, somatic, and person-centred approaches.
My clients are usually people who feel stuck in their relationships or after a breakup. Many already have insight—they understand their patterns but can’t seem to change them, which often leads to frustration, shame, or self-doubt. I help them understand what’s happening within their internal system—both emotionally and practically—so they can recognise their triggers, regulate their responses, and respond differently in real situations. This includes working through the patterns and reactions that keep them stuck, so they can move forward in a way that actually feels different.
(02) 8403 1472 View (02) 8403 1472
Photo of Lauren O'Donoghue, Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Lauren O'Donoghue
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Serves Area
I support Queer, Neurodivergent, Chronically ill & Disabled folk, or anyone who may have felt misunderstood in traditional/allistic clinical settings. I integrate my lived experience with professional expertise to support clients navigating AuDHD, burnout, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, anxiety, substance use concerns etc. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping people to heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is grounded in social justice principals, and guided by my values of authenticity, integrity, humour, agency, and joy.
I support Queer, Neurodivergent, Chronically ill & Disabled folk, or anyone who may have felt misunderstood in traditional/allistic clinical settings. I integrate my lived experience with professional expertise to support clients navigating AuDHD, burnout, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, anxiety, substance use concerns etc. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping people to heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is grounded in social justice principals, and guided by my values of authenticity, integrity, humour, agency, and joy.
0403 912 902 View 0403 912 902
Photo of Sarah Martin, Social Worker, AMHSW
Sarah Martin
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Specialist Grief and Bereavement Counsellor. I am passionate about creating a safe and compassionate space to walk alongside people while they navigate the complexities of life, loss and grief. With deep respect for each person’s unique journey, I hold space for the kinds of deep conversations and yarns that are often overlooked or dismissed. My practice is grounded in a strengths-based, person-centred, trauma-informed, and decolonised framework.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Specialist Grief and Bereavement Counsellor. I am passionate about creating a safe and compassionate space to walk alongside people while they navigate the complexities of life, loss and grief. With deep respect for each person’s unique journey, I hold space for the kinds of deep conversations and yarns that are often overlooked or dismissed. My practice is grounded in a strengths-based, person-centred, trauma-informed, and decolonised framework.
0406 684 917 View 0406 684 917
Photo of Von Coves, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Von Coves
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches.
Master Counselling & Psychotherapy; Mediator; B.A. (Psychology & Philosophy); Grad. Cert. Management
Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches.
Master Counselling & Psychotherapy; Mediator; B.A. (Psychology & Philosophy); Grad. Cert. Management
(02) 9100 0400 View (02) 9100 0400
Photo of Stacey Walsh, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Stacey Walsh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I draw from somatic approaches, EMDR and IFS among others to inform my work.
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. The way that your system organises itself to meet your needs is unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in the journey of self discovery and making meaning of your own experiences.
I draw from somatic approaches, EMDR and IFS among others to inform my work.
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. The way that your system organises itself to meet your needs is unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in the journey of self discovery and making meaning of your own experiences.
(02) 9100 0392 View (02) 9100 0392
Photo of Lisa Barrett, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Lisa Barrett
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer trauma-informed counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in relational therapy, neglect and developmental trauma working primarily from an IFS lens.
A holistic approach incorporates physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects as you learn to welcome all parts of yourself. IFS Therapy is a leading evidence-based model of therapy that incorporates elements of Somatic Therapy, Hakomi, Family Systems, Mindfulness and Neuroscience. This helps improve relationships & reduce anxiety & depression.
I offer trauma-informed counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in relational therapy, neglect and developmental trauma working primarily from an IFS lens.
A holistic approach incorporates physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects as you learn to welcome all parts of yourself. IFS Therapy is a leading evidence-based model of therapy that incorporates elements of Somatic Therapy, Hakomi, Family Systems, Mindfulness and Neuroscience. This helps improve relationships & reduce anxiety & depression.
(02) 8806 0454 View (02) 8806 0454
Photo of Justine Pash, Counsellor, PACFA
Justine Pash
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Life's for sure a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we hang on for the ride and know who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we can feel pummelled, adrift or alone in our experience. Being heard, seen and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who feels passionate about providing ethical, evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concern. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
Life's for sure a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we hang on for the ride and know who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we can feel pummelled, adrift or alone in our experience. Being heard, seen and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who feels passionate about providing ethical, evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concern. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
(02) 9100 0552 View (02) 9100 0552

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lorna Macaulay, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Lorna Macaulay
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
I provide a range of evidence based treatments that include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Narrative Therapy Internal Family Systems Therapy Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Mindfulness Emotion Focused Therapy Cognitive Processing Therapy Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
I specialize in supporting clients facing challenges in life and relationships due to trauma. I work with clients to explore new ways of engaging with their experiences, helping them move forward in a meaningful way. As a Queer-identifying psychologist, I am passionate about providing inclusive support that affirms my clients’ unique identities. I also have experience working with neurodiverse clients, helping them navigate the world comfortably while advocating for a more inclusive and affirming space for all.
I provide a range of evidence based treatments that include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Narrative Therapy Internal Family Systems Therapy Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Mindfulness Emotion Focused Therapy Cognitive Processing Therapy Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
I specialize in supporting clients facing challenges in life and relationships due to trauma. I work with clients to explore new ways of engaging with their experiences, helping them move forward in a meaningful way. As a Queer-identifying psychologist, I am passionate about providing inclusive support that affirms my clients’ unique identities. I also have experience working with neurodiverse clients, helping them navigate the world comfortably while advocating for a more inclusive and affirming space for all.
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Photo of Sevilay Dogan, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sevilay Dogan
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I have experience working with complex trauma, specializing in neuromodulation including neurofeedback and heart rate variability, which has been a passion of mine. I have worked extensively with presentations including but not liminted to complex PTSD, attachment disorders, depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
I have experience working with complex trauma, specializing in neuromodulation including neurofeedback and heart rate variability, which has been a passion of mine. I have worked extensively with presentations including but not liminted to complex PTSD, attachment disorders, depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
(02) 7804 4712 View (02) 7804 4712
Photo of Emma Gerasimatos - Emma Gerasimatos Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Emma Gerasimatos Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
South Coogee, NSW 2034
Individual therapy is an incredibly worthwhile and life affirming experience. It carves out a regular, secure time to work through your past, present and future with someone who is wholeheartedly by your side. Meaningful growth and lasting change come naturally when we dedicate this time and space, with a caring therapist, to uncover our deepest sorrows, hearts desires and personal difficulties. I work with relationships, couples, grief and loss, addiction, childhood trauma, Depth Enquiry, anxiety and panic, depression, mood disorders, disordered eating, ADHD, identity and belonging, sexuality to name a few examples.
Individual therapy is an incredibly worthwhile and life affirming experience. It carves out a regular, secure time to work through your past, present and future with someone who is wholeheartedly by your side. Meaningful growth and lasting change come naturally when we dedicate this time and space, with a caring therapist, to uncover our deepest sorrows, hearts desires and personal difficulties. I work with relationships, couples, grief and loss, addiction, childhood trauma, Depth Enquiry, anxiety and panic, depression, mood disorders, disordered eating, ADHD, identity and belonging, sexuality to name a few examples.
(02) 9100 0955 View (02) 9100 0955
Photo of Imogen Rose Todd - Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy, MSc
Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Gottman's Couples Therapy, EFT, and Internal Family Systems, tailoring my approach to suit each client's individual needs and preferences.
As a queer Sexologist and Mental Health Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, mismatch in desire, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support exploring gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Gottman's Couples Therapy, EFT, and Internal Family Systems, tailoring my approach to suit each client's individual needs and preferences.
As a queer Sexologist and Mental Health Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, mismatch in desire, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support exploring gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
(03) 8338 1600 View (03) 8338 1600
Photo of Sarah Dakhili, Counsellor, AMHSW
Sarah Dakhili
Counsellor, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Her approach is inclusive of Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Meditation, Mindfulness, IFS Therapy, Inner Child Work, CBT, Somatic Body Therapy, Neuroplasticity, Compassionate Inquiry
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
Her approach is inclusive of Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Meditation, Mindfulness, IFS Therapy, Inner Child Work, CBT, Somatic Body Therapy, Neuroplasticity, Compassionate Inquiry
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
(07) 3130 0085 View (07) 3130 0085
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists
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.