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

Photo of Ashlee Helene, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ashlee Helene
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Hurstville, NSW 2220
I’m a psychologist who works from a relational, trauma-informed, and body-aware perspective. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and not rushed into “fixing” yourself. My role isn’t to tell you what to do, but to walk alongside you as we make sense of your experiences, patterns, and nervous system responses. I typically work with adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, overwhelm, emotional reactivity, or disconnection, often shaped by complex trauma, attachment wounds, difficult relationships, or long-standing stress.
I’m a psychologist who works from a relational, trauma-informed, and body-aware perspective. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and not rushed into “fixing” yourself. My role isn’t to tell you what to do, but to walk alongside you as we make sense of your experiences, patterns, and nervous system responses. I typically work with adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, overwhelm, emotional reactivity, or disconnection, often shaped by complex trauma, attachment wounds, difficult relationships, or long-standing stress.
(02) 7501 1620 View (02) 7501 1620
Photo of Sandra Garcia, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sandra Garcia
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I am a therapist and coach dedicated to helping people become active participants in their own lives. I work with individuals and couples who are seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper connection with themselves and others. At the heart of my work is a simple belief: we all carry power within us. I chose this path because, during times when I felt disconnected and uncertain of my place, someone helped me reconnect with my own inner strength. Today, I support others on their journey of self-discovery and psychological growth, walking alongside them with care and curiosity.
I am a therapist and coach dedicated to helping people become active participants in their own lives. I work with individuals and couples who are seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper connection with themselves and others. At the heart of my work is a simple belief: we all carry power within us. I chose this path because, during times when I felt disconnected and uncertain of my place, someone helped me reconnect with my own inner strength. Today, I support others on their journey of self-discovery and psychological growth, walking alongside them with care and curiosity.
0492 970 291 View 0492 970 291
Photo of Christine Zammit, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Christine Zammit
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Christine Zammit is a warm and down-to-earth psychologist who supports adults through a wide range of concerns, including anxiety (generalised, social, and phobias), trauma, relationship issues, workplace stress, depression, and grief. She also has a special interest in supporting neurodivergent clients with strengths-based coaching and tailored psychological support.
Christine Zammit is a warm and down-to-earth psychologist who supports adults through a wide range of concerns, including anxiety (generalised, social, and phobias), trauma, relationship issues, workplace stress, depression, and grief. She also has a special interest in supporting neurodivergent clients with strengths-based coaching and tailored psychological support.
0409 985 253 View 0409 985 253
Photo of Jackson Goding - Jackson Goding - Find Reason Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jackson Goding - Find Reason Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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, trust yourself, or connect with others? At Find Reason Therapy, we help people understand the patterns, beliefs, and emotional wounds that may be keeping them stuck. Through a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, we create a space to build self-worth, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with who you are beneath the pain. Together, we work toward greater clarity, confidence, purpose, and meaningful connection.
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, trust yourself, or connect with others? At Find Reason Therapy, we help people understand the patterns, beliefs, and emotional wounds that may be keeping them stuck. Through a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, we create a space to build self-worth, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with who you are beneath the pain. Together, we work toward greater clarity, confidence, purpose, and meaningful connection.
(02) 9100 0013 View (02) 9100 0013
Photo of Wade Eames - Next Steps Counselling and Psychotherapy , Counsellor, PACFA
Next Steps Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm an IFS therapist and PACFA registered counsellor, with over 13 years across hospitals, rehabs and community services and a Graduate Diploma in Mental Health and Neuroscience.
Most people who reach out to me are holding it together on the outside. Working, showing up, doing the things. Underneath, something has been carrying too much for too long. Trauma, addiction, anxiety, burnout, grief, relationship stress, or that stuck feeling that's hard to name. Some don't know where to begin, only that things can't keep going the way they have. Therapy is a place to slow down and make sense of what's been happening, at your pace.
I'm an IFS therapist and PACFA registered counsellor, with over 13 years across hospitals, rehabs and community services and a Graduate Diploma in Mental Health and Neuroscience.
Most people who reach out to me are holding it together on the outside. Working, showing up, doing the things. Underneath, something has been carrying too much for too long. Trauma, addiction, anxiety, burnout, grief, relationship stress, or that stuck feeling that's hard to name. Some don't know where to begin, only that things can't keep going the way they have. Therapy is a place to slow down and make sense of what's been happening, at your pace.
(02) 9538 7432 View (02) 9538 7432
Photo of Mona Mattar - Lighthouse Therapeutic, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Lighthouse Therapeutic
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Are you finding it hard to cope with day-to-day stressors? Are you struggling with food and body image, such as restricting, bingeing, purging, or yo-yo dieting? Do intrusive thoughts, images, or compulsions feel like they are taking over your life? Perhaps your use of drugs or alcohol has increased or feels out of control, or your anxiety is holding you back. Maybe you are wanting to foster stronger relationships and find more effective ways to deal with conflict, regulate emotions, or assert boundaries.
Are you finding it hard to cope with day-to-day stressors? Are you struggling with food and body image, such as restricting, bingeing, purging, or yo-yo dieting? Do intrusive thoughts, images, or compulsions feel like they are taking over your life? Perhaps your use of drugs or alcohol has increased or feels out of control, or your anxiety is holding you back. Maybe you are wanting to foster stronger relationships and find more effective ways to deal with conflict, regulate emotions, or assert boundaries.
0460 832 082 View 0460 832 082
Photo of Kelly Hunt, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Kelly Hunt
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in supporting First Responders and their families while also welcoming clients from all backgrounds and presentations. I create personalised therapeutic strategies in collaboration with my clients, drawing on my expertise in CBT, ACT, and EMDR to support diagnoses from Adjustment Disorder, anxiety, and depression, to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and grief and loss. I will always focus on what works best for you and partner with you to ensure you receive high quality and evidence-based care.
I specialise in supporting First Responders and their families while also welcoming clients from all backgrounds and presentations. I create personalised therapeutic strategies in collaboration with my clients, drawing on my expertise in CBT, ACT, and EMDR to support diagnoses from Adjustment Disorder, anxiety, and depression, to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and grief and loss. I will always focus on what works best for you and partner with you to ensure you receive high quality and evidence-based care.
(02) 8105 5490 View (02) 8105 5490
Photo of Hong (Helen) Qin - Helen Qin Counselling (English, Mandarin), Psychotherapist, PACFA
Helen Qin Counselling (English, Mandarin)
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hello, I am a registered Medicare provider, highly professional and compassionate bilingual psychotherapist/counsellor (English, Mandarin) and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than 12 years of clinical experience. I am also a professionally trained and qualified relationship/marriage counsellor (Dr. John Gottman method of couple counselling level 3 trained).
Hello, I am a registered Medicare provider, highly professional and compassionate bilingual psychotherapist/counsellor (English, Mandarin) and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than 12 years of clinical experience. I am also a professionally trained and qualified relationship/marriage counsellor (Dr. John Gottman method of couple counselling level 3 trained).
(02) 9098 5155 View (02) 9098 5155
Photo of Ruben Hadges, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Ruben Hadges
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I primarily use the IFS model which is clinically proven to be effective in the alleviation of symptoms of mood disorders such as PTSD, anxiety and depression.
I specialise in treating addictions, anxiety and depression disorders, PTSD and family and couples issues. These areas can feel overwhelming and isolating, often impacting many areas of life. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to better understand your experiences and patterns. I use contemporary and traditional, evidence-based techniques tailored to your needs. This focuses on creating sustainable change in your mental health and relationships.
I primarily use the IFS model which is clinically proven to be effective in the alleviation of symptoms of mood disorders such as PTSD, anxiety and depression.
I specialise in treating addictions, anxiety and depression disorders, PTSD and family and couples issues. These areas can feel overwhelming and isolating, often impacting many areas of life. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to better understand your experiences and patterns. I use contemporary and traditional, evidence-based techniques tailored to your needs. This focuses on creating sustainable change in your mental health and relationships.
0493 207 380 View 0493 207 380
Photo of Amanda Dounis - Positive Thinking Clinic, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Positive Thinking Clinic
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
“Everybody is important; everybody deserves to live their best life. I am here to help you connect with yourself and others, to solve your requests as quickly and effectively as possible, in a way that is long lasting and sustainable”. Her approach is unique. She integrates therapies and customises them to suit the needs of the client. She aims to work with clients to co-create individually tailored and sustainable solutions. Amanda’s interventions aim to address the important relationship between the mind and body. She enjoys helping clients attain a greater wellbeing.
“Everybody is important; everybody deserves to live their best life. I am here to help you connect with yourself and others, to solve your requests as quickly and effectively as possible, in a way that is long lasting and sustainable”. Her approach is unique. She integrates therapies and customises them to suit the needs of the client. She aims to work with clients to co-create individually tailored and sustainable solutions. Amanda’s interventions aim to address the important relationship between the mind and body. She enjoys helping clients attain a greater wellbeing.
(02) 8294 5710 View (02) 8294 5710

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of William Escobar - Anima Hub, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Anima Hub
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
At Anima Hub, we believe therapy is more than just conversation—it’s about creating a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes. Our approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, tailored to your unique needs, and designed to help you navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence.
At Anima Hub, we believe therapy is more than just conversation—it’s about creating a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes. Our approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, tailored to your unique needs, and designed to help you navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence.
0426 926 171 View 0426 926 171
Photo of Cate Simpson, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Cate Simpson
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I utilise a 'parts' or 'Internal Family Systems' approach to trauma therapy.
I specialise in working with people who have experienced Trauma and Anxiety. Many of my clients have difficulty in managing emotions and personal relationships and may have been diagnosed with Complex Trauma, Dissociative disorders or BPD but people also come to see me for many other reasons as well. Some of the the other concerns that I see clients for on a regular basis include Depression, Anxiety, Relationship concerns and Grief and Loss. I've been around for a while and worked in a diverse range of areas including community mental health, Youth, suicide/self harm programs, sexual assault and LGBTQIA .
I utilise a 'parts' or 'Internal Family Systems' approach to trauma therapy.
I specialise in working with people who have experienced Trauma and Anxiety. Many of my clients have difficulty in managing emotions and personal relationships and may have been diagnosed with Complex Trauma, Dissociative disorders or BPD but people also come to see me for many other reasons as well. Some of the the other concerns that I see clients for on a regular basis include Depression, Anxiety, Relationship concerns and Grief and Loss. I've been around for a while and worked in a diverse range of areas including community mental health, Youth, suicide/self harm programs, sexual assault and LGBTQIA .
(08) 7078 8218 View (08) 7078 8218
Photo of Carlie Pottington, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Carlie Pottington
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
As a trauma-informed therapist, I also incorporate Internal Family Systems and Polyvagal Theory into my practice.
We all have our reasons for seeking therapy—maybe you’re feeling stuck, lonely, or need a bit of direction in life. Whatever your reason, know that it comes from a desire to make a change and improve the aspects of your life that no longer serve you. Taking that first step to reach out can be a little scary, but it’s also an incredible display of courage. I genuinely believe everyone wants to be heard, seen, and accepted just as they are. Therapy offers a welcoming space to find acceptance and lead a more fulfilling life.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I also incorporate Internal Family Systems and Polyvagal Theory into my practice.
We all have our reasons for seeking therapy—maybe you’re feeling stuck, lonely, or need a bit of direction in life. Whatever your reason, know that it comes from a desire to make a change and improve the aspects of your life that no longer serve you. Taking that first step to reach out can be a little scary, but it’s also an incredible display of courage. I genuinely believe everyone wants to be heard, seen, and accepted just as they are. Therapy offers a welcoming space to find acceptance and lead a more fulfilling life.
View
Photo of Maddy Goodwolf - Maddy Goodwolf - IFS Therapist, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Maddy Goodwolf - IFS Therapist
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I’m a Level 3 trained Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapist.
I use IFS alongside trauma-informed and somatic approaches to support emotional regulation, self-trust, and clarity. In a safe, attuned space, we explore patterns and responses without judgement, helping change unfold in a way that is sustainable, compassionate, and deeply personal.
I’m a Level 3 trained Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapist.
I use IFS alongside trauma-informed and somatic approaches to support emotional regulation, self-trust, and clarity. In a safe, attuned space, we explore patterns and responses without judgement, helping change unfold in a way that is sustainable, compassionate, and deeply personal.
(02) 5604 7531 View (02) 5604 7531
Photo of Ruth Minkov, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Ruth Minkov
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
In therapy, I use an integrative toolkit: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, Schema, and Somatic work, to move past talk-therapy and towards real change.
I currently have immediate availability for both assessment and therapy. I offer neuroaffirming, trauma-informed neuropsychological, academic, autism and ADHD assessment, as well as psychological therapy, and ADHD coaching. I work with adolescents and adults, in Melbourne, VIC. My assessments take into consideration cultural differences and "masking". I am experienced in working with the NDIS and Centrelink, and am Medicare registered.
In therapy, I use an integrative toolkit: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, Schema, and Somatic work, to move past talk-therapy and towards real change.
I currently have immediate availability for both assessment and therapy. I offer neuroaffirming, trauma-informed neuropsychological, academic, autism and ADHD assessment, as well as psychological therapy, and ADHD coaching. I work with adolescents and adults, in Melbourne, VIC. My assessments take into consideration cultural differences and "masking". I am experienced in working with the NDIS and Centrelink, and am Medicare registered.
(03) 7003 2743 View (03) 7003 2743
Photo of Julia Martz, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Julia Martz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic trauma therapies, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Attachment therapies, Exposure Therapy and EMDR.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Supervisor providing online services. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
I commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic trauma therapies, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Attachment therapies, Exposure Therapy and EMDR.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Supervisor providing online services. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
(03) 7003 2371 View (03) 7003 2371
Photo of Yao Yao Chen, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Yao Yao Chen
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My passion is in working with trauma, addiction, relationships, anger, grief, neurodiversity, and LGBTGIA+ topics. All topics are welcome regardless if it's controversial or taboo. I have been described as quirky/weird, eclectic, clinical, calm, funny, and inquisitive. Dark humour appreciated. I approach things in a practical and philosophical way so that clients can have different perspectives to make decisions that are right for them. I value "informed consent": good or bad, decisions are for the client to make. It is important for my clients to have a safe space, whether they've been through a few therapists or is a first-timer.
My passion is in working with trauma, addiction, relationships, anger, grief, neurodiversity, and LGBTGIA+ topics. All topics are welcome regardless if it's controversial or taboo. I have been described as quirky/weird, eclectic, clinical, calm, funny, and inquisitive. Dark humour appreciated. I approach things in a practical and philosophical way so that clients can have different perspectives to make decisions that are right for them. I value "informed consent": good or bad, decisions are for the client to make. It is important for my clients to have a safe space, whether they've been through a few therapists or is a first-timer.
(02) 4214 8112 View (02) 4214 8112
Photo of Chauncey Mauva Sjostedt, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Chauncey Mauva Sjostedt
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
My name is Chauncey Sjostedt (she/her) and I am a PACFA certified Gestalt Therapist who offers a warm, compassionate space where you can feel truly seen, supported and safe to explore life’s challenges.
My name is Chauncey Sjostedt (she/her) and I am a PACFA certified Gestalt Therapist who offers a warm, compassionate space where you can feel truly seen, supported and safe to explore life’s challenges.
0403 557 717 View 0403 557 717
Photo of Kit Pope - Wild & Precious therapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Wild & Precious therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Mona Vale, NSW 2103
Many of my clients benefit from Attachment, Internal Family Systems (parts), Gestalt and CBT.
Affirming, effective therapy for individuals and couples, tailored to your unique needs and with a special interest in ADHD. Therapy isn't a one size fits all. I take great care to deeply understand you and draw together the most effective methods to suit you. I bring deep understanding of the challenges and strengths of ADHD and can support your journey of self-understanding and growth. Whether you're seeking deeper discovery, fresh insight, relief from 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. Kit Pope, Wild & Precious therapy
Many of my clients benefit from Attachment, Internal Family Systems (parts), Gestalt and CBT.
Affirming, effective therapy for individuals and couples, tailored to your unique needs and with a special interest in ADHD. Therapy isn't a one size fits all. I take great care to deeply understand you and draw together the most effective methods to suit you. I bring deep understanding of the challenges and strengths of ADHD and can support your journey of self-understanding and growth. Whether you're seeking deeper discovery, fresh insight, relief from 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. Kit Pope, Wild & Precious therapy
(02) 8403 1797 View (02) 8403 1797
Photo of Joanne McCarthy, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Joanne McCarthy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Online Only
If you’re questioning your relationship, replaying conversations, or wondering how things became so confusing, you’re not alone. I’m Joanne, and I work with individuals making sense of complex relationship dynamics, particularly following unhealthy or overwhelming experiences. My approach is practical, clear, and grounded. Together, we build understanding, strengthen boundaries, and take steps to move forward with confidence. I offer both ongoing trauma informed, individual counselling and focused single-session appointments for immediate clarity and support.
If you’re questioning your relationship, replaying conversations, or wondering how things became so confusing, you’re not alone. I’m Joanne, and I work with individuals making sense of complex relationship dynamics, particularly following unhealthy or overwhelming experiences. My approach is practical, clear, and grounded. Together, we build understanding, strengthen boundaries, and take steps to move forward with confidence. I offer both ongoing trauma informed, individual counselling and focused single-session appointments for immediate clarity and support.
(08) 6206 8634 View (08) 6206 8634
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.