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

Photo of Scout Smith-O'Leary - The Love Scout, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
The Love Scout
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Hey, I'm Scout, a relationship therapist. You're probably here because something in your relationship feels stuck, hard, uncomfortable, painful or alarming. You're seeking support, and I'm here to help. Whether it's communication issues, conflict, betrayal, infidelity, sex, trauma, separation, divorce, conflict, self-esteem, codependency, addiction, intimacy, attachment, ENM, family stuff or your relationship to yourself, I offer a down-to-earth therapeutic approach to help you develop awareness, gain clarity and leave with tools to feel more confident in how you navigate relationships moving forward.
Hey, I'm Scout, a relationship therapist. You're probably here because something in your relationship feels stuck, hard, uncomfortable, painful or alarming. You're seeking support, and I'm here to help. Whether it's communication issues, conflict, betrayal, infidelity, sex, trauma, separation, divorce, conflict, self-esteem, codependency, addiction, intimacy, attachment, ENM, family stuff or your relationship to yourself, I offer a down-to-earth therapeutic approach to help you develop awareness, gain clarity and leave with tools to feel more confident in how you navigate relationships moving forward.
0481 531 555 View 0481 531 555
Photo of Julie Anne Preston - Julie Preston Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Julie Preston Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Julie is an experienced Registered Psychologist with a strong background in substance and process addictions, PTSD and developmental trauma, relationships issues, mood disorders and eating disorders. Julie’s empathic and wholehearted approach creates an environment for clients to feel safe to be able to be vulnerable and explore underlying issues to their presenting problems. She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and has been a member of the Australian Psychological Society. Julie also received training from The Institute for the Psychology of Eating and is a qualified Eating Psychology Coach.
Julie is an experienced Registered Psychologist with a strong background in substance and process addictions, PTSD and developmental trauma, relationships issues, mood disorders and eating disorders. Julie’s empathic and wholehearted approach creates an environment for clients to feel safe to be able to be vulnerable and explore underlying issues to their presenting problems. She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and has been a member of the Australian Psychological Society. Julie also received training from The Institute for the Psychology of Eating and is a qualified Eating Psychology Coach.
(02) 9909 6171 View (02) 9909 6171
Photo of Tori McCarthy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Tori McCarthy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I have an approach to treating addiction and trauma through the lens of attachment, utilising inner child work and internal family systems in my therapeutic style.
I have extensive experience working in the field of Addiction and Trauma and believe whole heartedly that recovery is possible. I am a creative therapist who works intuitively and experimentally. I believe in treating the underlying causes not just the symptoms. I have held various senior clinical roles and continue to work as a Senior therapist at South Pacific Private where I run the sex and love addiction intensive programs. Working with Addiction and intimacy related disorders is an area I am passionate about as I love witnessing the profound change that can occur when we get vulnerable, trust and become our authentic selves.
I have an approach to treating addiction and trauma through the lens of attachment, utilising inner child work and internal family systems in my therapeutic style.
I have extensive experience working in the field of Addiction and Trauma and believe whole heartedly that recovery is possible. I am a creative therapist who works intuitively and experimentally. I believe in treating the underlying causes not just the symptoms. I have held various senior clinical roles and continue to work as a Senior therapist at South Pacific Private where I run the sex and love addiction intensive programs. Working with Addiction and intimacy related disorders is an area I am passionate about as I love witnessing the profound change that can occur when we get vulnerable, trust and become our authentic selves.
(02) 8403 1332 View (02) 8403 1332
Photo of Jodie Gale, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jodie Gale
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
(02) 8294 7627 View (02) 8294 7627

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Freya Bronwin, Psychotherapist, MA
Freya Bronwin
Psychotherapist, MA
Online Only
I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Family Therapy, a Postgrad Diploma in Systemic Therapy and Certificates in Advanced Narrative therapy, IFS, and Coaching
Starting therapy isn't an admission of defeat. It's a vote for change. You might be here because something has shifted. A relationship feels complicated. You feel anxious, stuck, or not where you hoped you'd be. Your usual coping strategies aren't working. You're questioning who you are or what comes next. Therapy is a space to take the reins - to gain deeper understanding and move forward with a sense of agency.
I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Family Therapy, a Postgrad Diploma in Systemic Therapy and Certificates in Advanced Narrative therapy, IFS, and Coaching
Starting therapy isn't an admission of defeat. It's a vote for change. You might be here because something has shifted. A relationship feels complicated. You feel anxious, stuck, or not where you hoped you'd be. Your usual coping strategies aren't working. You're questioning who you are or what comes next. Therapy is a space to take the reins - to gain deeper understanding and move forward with a sense of agency.
0493 617 474 View 0493 617 474
Photo of Matt White, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Matt White
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I am a registered psychologist in Crows Nest providing therapy for anxiety, trauma, depression, addiction, anger, men’s mental health and life transitions. I offer practical, evidence-based therapy using CBT, ACT, DBT and schema-informed approaches. My style is collaborative and focused on helping you understand patterns, build resilience and create meaningful, lasting change in a supportive, non-judgmental space.
I am a registered psychologist in Crows Nest providing therapy for anxiety, trauma, depression, addiction, anger, men’s mental health and life transitions. I offer practical, evidence-based therapy using CBT, ACT, DBT and schema-informed approaches. My style is collaborative and focused on helping you understand patterns, build resilience and create meaningful, lasting change in a supportive, non-judgmental space.
0485 974 816 View 0485 974 816
Photo of Gabrielle McCann - Beyond Birth Therapy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Beyond Birth Therapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Using Internal Family Systems, Gottman Therapy, somatic therapy, and a trauma-informed lens, I offer grounded support for postnatal challenges, identity loss, relationship strain, and the mental load.
You're a mum who’s overwhelmed, burnt out, and wondering where you went in all of this. You’re carrying the mental load, trying to do everything “right,” but still feel resentful, anxious, or low. You want to feel more like yourself again - calm, connected, and understood. Or maybe you’re a couple stuck in the same arguments - disconnected, resentful, unsure how to fix it. You both want to feel heard again, to stop fighting over chores, and to rebuild a sense of closeness and teamwork without blame.
Using Internal Family Systems, Gottman Therapy, somatic therapy, and a trauma-informed lens, I offer grounded support for postnatal challenges, identity loss, relationship strain, and the mental load.
You're a mum who’s overwhelmed, burnt out, and wondering where you went in all of this. You’re carrying the mental load, trying to do everything “right,” but still feel resentful, anxious, or low. You want to feel more like yourself again - calm, connected, and understood. Or maybe you’re a couple stuck in the same arguments - disconnected, resentful, unsure how to fix it. You both want to feel heard again, to stop fighting over chores, and to rebuild a sense of closeness and teamwork without blame.
(02) 4210 5417 View (02) 4210 5417
Photo of Danka Fiedor, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Danka Fiedor
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
Danka is EMDR Accredited Practitioner working with individuals and couples, attachment Informed EMDR, IFS informed, Gottman’s Therapy Method, Workers Compensation & CTP (SIRA), Eating Disorder Clinician, Resource Therapist (Advanced Ego State Therapy).
Danka Fiedor Psychology is offering integrated and customised to client needs therapy such as EMDR & EMDR 2.0 & EMDR Intensives for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed EMDR & "parts work" & Gottman Method Workers Compensation/CTP (SIRA) & Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
Danka is EMDR Accredited Practitioner working with individuals and couples, attachment Informed EMDR, IFS informed, Gottman’s Therapy Method, Workers Compensation & CTP (SIRA), Eating Disorder Clinician, Resource Therapist (Advanced Ego State Therapy).
Danka Fiedor Psychology is offering integrated and customised to client needs therapy such as EMDR & EMDR 2.0 & EMDR Intensives for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed EMDR & "parts work" & Gottman Method Workers Compensation/CTP (SIRA) & Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
(02) 9100 0959 View (02) 9100 0959
Photo of Cecile Pierron, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Cecile Pierron
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there! I offer warm, attuned care and pride myself in my ability to guide with a mix of whip fast evidence based problem solving, and unconditional encouragement and support. My biggest professional and personal flex is my unwavering commitment to joy, whimsy, and light, and I marry that to a depth of training to tailor interventions. Neurodivergent embracing, LGBTQ celebrating, I invite you at your most authentic. Book through my website to be seen ASAP, I have after hours availability at the moment!
Hi there! I offer warm, attuned care and pride myself in my ability to guide with a mix of whip fast evidence based problem solving, and unconditional encouragement and support. My biggest professional and personal flex is my unwavering commitment to joy, whimsy, and light, and I marry that to a depth of training to tailor interventions. Neurodivergent embracing, LGBTQ celebrating, I invite you at your most authentic. Book through my website to be seen ASAP, I have after hours availability at the moment!
0424 407 968 View 0424 407 968
Photo of Bianca Rosin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Bianca Rosin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
My work integrates Internal Family Systems ( IFS) helping you understand and gently relate to protective parts carrying fear, shame, anger, or self criticism.
You might be living with the impact of complex trauma - feeling on edge, emotionally overwhelmed, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Maybe you’ve done therapy before and understand your story, but your nervous system still reacts as if the danger is present. I work with adults healing from complex trauma (CPTSD), developmental trauma, and repeated relational wounds. My approach integrates mind and body - supporting both insight and nervous system regulation so change feels sustainable, not forced. Trauma doesn’t only live in memory. It lives in the body and in protective patterns that once helped you survive.
My work integrates Internal Family Systems ( IFS) helping you understand and gently relate to protective parts carrying fear, shame, anger, or self criticism.
You might be living with the impact of complex trauma - feeling on edge, emotionally overwhelmed, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Maybe you’ve done therapy before and understand your story, but your nervous system still reacts as if the danger is present. I work with adults healing from complex trauma (CPTSD), developmental trauma, and repeated relational wounds. My approach integrates mind and body - supporting both insight and nervous system regulation so change feels sustainable, not forced. Trauma doesn’t only live in memory. It lives in the body and in protective patterns that once helped you survive.
(02) 4077 0486 View (02) 4077 0486
Photo of Georgia J MacNevin, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Georgia J MacNevin
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Queenscliff, NSW 2096
My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based modalities including Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR, somatic therapies, ACT, DBT, CBT, trauma-focused therapies, mindfulness, Attachment Theory, Systemic Family Therapy, and psychodynamic models, tailored to support insight, emotional regulation, resilience, and lasting change.
I’m a warm, compassionate, and open-hearted Clinical Psychologist with 10 years of experience in private practice. I believe in creating a safe, collaborative, and supportive therapeutic relationship where clients feel able to openly explore their experiences, overcome challenges, and create a rich and meaningful life. I work with anxiety, panic attacks, stress, PTSD, complex trauma, depression, relationship and family difficulties, and also offer couples therapy.
My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based modalities including Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR, somatic therapies, ACT, DBT, CBT, trauma-focused therapies, mindfulness, Attachment Theory, Systemic Family Therapy, and psychodynamic models, tailored to support insight, emotional regulation, resilience, and lasting change.
I’m a warm, compassionate, and open-hearted Clinical Psychologist with 10 years of experience in private practice. I believe in creating a safe, collaborative, and supportive therapeutic relationship where clients feel able to openly explore their experiences, overcome challenges, and create a rich and meaningful life. I work with anxiety, panic attacks, stress, PTSD, complex trauma, depression, relationship and family difficulties, and also offer couples therapy.
(02) 5502 7216 View (02) 5502 7216
Photo of Patricia Beckenham, Counsellor, PACFA
Patricia Beckenham
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I integrate Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST), which looks at how past trauma is affecting your present, with Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy combined with IFS, Somatic, and Compassion focused therapy to help you manage living in your best way.
My ideal counselling client is someone who may be late-diagnosed or curious about being an Autistic or an ADHD person who needs support in figuring out how to deal with life their way. They are willing to actively participate in the therapeutic process by becoming aware, curious, and nonjudgemental toward themselves and others. They may have experienced trauma through growing up and want to find a safe person to help them heal and find better ways of living in the present.
I integrate Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST), which looks at how past trauma is affecting your present, with Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy combined with IFS, Somatic, and Compassion focused therapy to help you manage living in your best way.
My ideal counselling client is someone who may be late-diagnosed or curious about being an Autistic or an ADHD person who needs support in figuring out how to deal with life their way. They are willing to actively participate in the therapeutic process by becoming aware, curious, and nonjudgemental toward themselves and others. They may have experienced trauma through growing up and want to find a safe person to help them heal and find better ways of living in the present.
(02) 9159 6074 View (02) 9159 6074
Photo of Emily Lewis - Emily Lewis - Neuro-affirming Psychologist, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Emily Lewis - Neuro-affirming Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
My approach blends Humanistic Psychology, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Polyvagal Theory, Somatics and Eastern healing philosophies with a coaching framework.
Hello! I’m Emily Lewis, an online neurodivergent psychologist, counsellor and coach. I support Autistic, ADHD or AuDHD women, and those beyond the binary, who feel exhausted from years of masking, burnout, or trying to live by expectations that never fit. You may be seeking to explore your neurodivergent identity after self-identification or a diagnosis, or looking for support with executive function, emotional regulation, sensory needs or self-compassion.
My approach blends Humanistic Psychology, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Polyvagal Theory, Somatics and Eastern healing philosophies with a coaching framework.
Hello! I’m Emily Lewis, an online neurodivergent psychologist, counsellor and coach. I support Autistic, ADHD or AuDHD women, and those beyond the binary, who feel exhausted from years of masking, burnout, or trying to live by expectations that never fit. You may be seeking to explore your neurodivergent identity after self-identification or a diagnosis, or looking for support with executive function, emotional regulation, sensory needs or self-compassion.
View
Photo of Lidia Georgy, Psychotherapist, MA
Lidia Georgy
Psychotherapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Castle Hill, NSW 2154
I use several tools including positive psychology, play therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Focusing Therapy to heal emotional and relational wounds, foster stronger connections, regulate emotions, create healthy boundaries, and increase self-worth and self-esteem.
I bring skills in play therapy, Internal Family Systems, Focusing Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I use several tools including positive psychology, play therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Focusing Therapy to heal emotional and relational wounds, foster stronger connections, regulate emotions, create healthy boundaries, and increase self-worth and self-esteem.
I bring skills in play therapy, Internal Family Systems, Focusing Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
(02) 8403 2005 View (02) 8403 2005
Photo of louise Jennifer Wallace Walsh - Hawkesbury Trauma Counselling Centre PTY LTD, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Hawkesbury Trauma Counselling Centre PTY LTD
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Windsor, NSW 2756
Louise is a Medicare registered practitioner with an empathetic and holistic approach to treatment. This approach includes assisting people to clarify what matters most through reflection and open self expression She has a keen interest in working with people suffering from depression, anxiety, loss/grief, adjustment issues and childhood trauma. She also has experience working with couples and conflict resolution. Louise currently has an office in Windsor, NSW where she facilitates groups in perinatal mental health and trauma processing. She uses an eclectic approach to treatment using client focused therapeutic interventions.
Louise is a Medicare registered practitioner with an empathetic and holistic approach to treatment. This approach includes assisting people to clarify what matters most through reflection and open self expression She has a keen interest in working with people suffering from depression, anxiety, loss/grief, adjustment issues and childhood trauma. She also has experience working with couples and conflict resolution. Louise currently has an office in Windsor, NSW where she facilitates groups in perinatal mental health and trauma processing. She uses an eclectic approach to treatment using client focused therapeutic interventions.
(02) 4501 9818 View (02) 4501 9818
Photo of Vanessa Kredler, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Vanessa Kredler
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Online Only
My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and deeply rooted in Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
Tired of "food noise" or emotional burnout? Trapped in compulsive habits with food, drinking, Internet use, overspending or overworking just to get by? Maybe you have external success but feel anxious, stuck, or empty? You are welcome here. Many of my clients are individuals navigating complex trauma or active addictions. I specialise in supporting those with food addiction, binge eating and compulsive eating. Some of my clients are on metabolic health and weight loss journeys, including GLP-1 medications. I support them in building sustainable lifestyle changes, including emotion and nervous system regulation.
My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and deeply rooted in Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
Tired of "food noise" or emotional burnout? Trapped in compulsive habits with food, drinking, Internet use, overspending or overworking just to get by? Maybe you have external success but feel anxious, stuck, or empty? You are welcome here. Many of my clients are individuals navigating complex trauma or active addictions. I specialise in supporting those with food addiction, binge eating and compulsive eating. Some of my clients are on metabolic health and weight loss journeys, including GLP-1 medications. I support them in building sustainable lifestyle changes, including emotion and nervous system regulation.
(02) 9158 6679 View (02) 9158 6679
Photo of Olfa Hafsa - Grounded Mind Therapies, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Grounded Mind Therapies
Counsellor, ACA-L2
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
I support individuals who have come to a point in their life where things are “just not right”, whether it is a general feeling of dissatisfaction, loss of meaning, or a specific situation causing them significant distress (e.g. issues in relationships, health, workplace,…). Opening a safe space to share what is going on is a first step towards feeling better and moving forward. Sometimes, exploring past events and emotions brings an understanding that can appease and help to let go. When you are ready, I work with you to better understand your context, resources and obstacles, and help you build a more grounded and meaningful life.
I support individuals who have come to a point in their life where things are “just not right”, whether it is a general feeling of dissatisfaction, loss of meaning, or a specific situation causing them significant distress (e.g. issues in relationships, health, workplace,…). Opening a safe space to share what is going on is a first step towards feeling better and moving forward. Sometimes, exploring past events and emotions brings an understanding that can appease and help to let go. When you are ready, I work with you to better understand your context, resources and obstacles, and help you build a more grounded and meaningful life.
(07) 3179 6058 View (07) 3179 6058
Photo of Eliza Mealey, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Eliza Mealey
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I am a qualified counsellor registered with ACA and hold a BA of Creative Arts Psychotherapy from Ikon Institute Australia. The combination of having experience in both counselling and art therapy allows me to reach a diverse clientele. I work in a holistic way, guiding clients towards their strengths. I have experience working with adults who face life challenges and young children and adolescents who have social, emotional and behavioural issues. I facilitate individual counselling and group therapy/art therapy for adolescents who struggle with self identity and the pressures that come with school/family and social settings.
I am a qualified counsellor registered with ACA and hold a BA of Creative Arts Psychotherapy from Ikon Institute Australia. The combination of having experience in both counselling and art therapy allows me to reach a diverse clientele. I work in a holistic way, guiding clients towards their strengths. I have experience working with adults who face life challenges and young children and adolescents who have social, emotional and behavioural issues. I facilitate individual counselling and group therapy/art therapy for adolescents who struggle with self identity and the pressures that come with school/family and social settings.
(07) 3132 2928 View (07) 3132 2928
Photo of Scott Terry - Restarting Relationships, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Restarting Relationships
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Narara, NSW 2250
You’re a couple struggling with disconnection, recurring conflict, or you're at a turning point that needs attention, and you're ready for more than surface-level help. Or you're an individual seeking clarity, healing, or a deeper sense of alignment in your life. You might be managing stress, burnout, life transitions, or relationship pain. You need the right space to do meaningful work. You’re ready to move forward and to become more self-aware and motivated.
You’re a couple struggling with disconnection, recurring conflict, or you're at a turning point that needs attention, and you're ready for more than surface-level help. Or you're an individual seeking clarity, healing, or a deeper sense of alignment in your life. You might be managing stress, burnout, life transitions, or relationship pain. You need the right space to do meaningful work. You’re ready to move forward and to become more self-aware and motivated.
(07) 5240 9461 View (07) 5240 9461
Photo of Elisa Ajuria, Counsellor, PACFA
Elisa Ajuria
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I am a compassionate counsellor dedicated to assist in a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationships difficulties, grief, trauma, gender identity and more. I work from a solution-focused approach, helping clients identify their strengths, set meaningful goals, and create practical steps toward change. I integrate mindfulness throughout my practice, supporting clients to build awareness, regulate emotions, and develop compassion. I am dedicated to providing affordable counselling.
I am a compassionate counsellor dedicated to assist in a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationships difficulties, grief, trauma, gender identity and more. I work from a solution-focused approach, helping clients identify their strengths, set meaningful goals, and create practical steps toward change. I integrate mindfulness throughout my practice, supporting clients to build awareness, regulate emotions, and develop compassion. I am dedicated to providing affordable counselling.
0478 548 593 View 0478 548 593

See more therapy options for Freshwater

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.