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

Lana Sussman Davis
Counsellor, MA, AASW
Serves Area
Lana brings a rich and integrative skill set to her therapeutic work, drawing from both evidence-based psychological approaches & creative, embodied practices. Her training in Social Work provides a strong foundation in trauma-informed, relational, and systemic practice, enabling her to support individuals, couples, and families with sensitivity to the broader contexts of their lives.Through her Masters in Drama and Movement Therapy, Lana incorporates creative and body-based methods that help clients access emotions, memories, and insights that may be difficult to express through words alone.
Lana brings a rich and integrative skill set to her therapeutic work, drawing from both evidence-based psychological approaches & creative, embodied practices. Her training in Social Work provides a strong foundation in trauma-informed, relational, and systemic practice, enabling her to support individuals, couples, and families with sensitivity to the broader contexts of their lives.Through her Masters in Drama and Movement Therapy, Lana incorporates creative and body-based methods that help clients access emotions, memories, and insights that may be difficult to express through words alone.
0413 389 620 View 0413 389 620
Emma Gerasimatos Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
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
Jess O'Sullivan
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My work is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing from Person-Centred Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Hi, I’m Jess! I’m really glad you’ve found your way here. I see therapy as a quiet, steady space where you can lay down what feels heavy, untangle what feels confusing, and begin to hear your own voice more clearly. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, identity shifts, relationship challenges, grief, or a season of change that feels uncertain, you don’t have to move through it alone. I take a collaborative approach, working with you to explore patterns, honour your strengths, and create space for witnessing meaningful change.
My work is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing from Person-Centred Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Hi, I’m Jess! I’m really glad you’ve found your way here. I see therapy as a quiet, steady space where you can lay down what feels heavy, untangle what feels confusing, and begin to hear your own voice more clearly. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, identity shifts, relationship challenges, grief, or a season of change that feels uncertain, you don’t have to move through it alone. I take a collaborative approach, working with you to explore patterns, honour your strengths, and create space for witnessing meaningful change.
(02) 9100 0798 View (02) 9100 0798
Gottman's Trained Couples Therapist
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Marina (Ri) is a compassionate & experienced trauma therapist specialising in couples, complex trauma, PTSD, attachment difficulties, and neurodivergence, including adult ADHD. Trained in advanced EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, she offers a range of trauma-focused treatments including Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, and Gottman's Couples Therapy. Marina provides both standard and intensive EMDR trauma treatment via secure Telehealth, using modern digital tools for effective bilateral stimulation. Her virtual practice ensures clients can access high-quality, evidence-based care.
Marina (Ri) is a compassionate & experienced trauma therapist specialising in couples, complex trauma, PTSD, attachment difficulties, and neurodivergence, including adult ADHD. Trained in advanced EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, she offers a range of trauma-focused treatments including Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, and Gottman's Couples Therapy. Marina provides both standard and intensive EMDR trauma treatment via secure Telehealth, using modern digital tools for effective bilateral stimulation. Her virtual practice ensures clients can access high-quality, evidence-based care.
(07) 5230 8412 View (07) 5230 8412
Rebecca Stern Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
The primary modalities that I work in are Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy and Internal Family Systems to assist individuals recovering from trauma.
I am a Clinical Psychologist passionate about supporting individuals who are trying to heal from childhood trauma. I also work with individuals who have experienced single incident trauma. I also have ten years of experience supporting individuals who are working on their relationship with eating and body image concerns. I have supported many people diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder. I also have a wealth of experience with anxiety, including OCD and depression, self esteem concerns as well as identity concerns. I am also a Psychology Board approved supervisor.
The primary modalities that I work in are Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy and Internal Family Systems to assist individuals recovering from trauma.
I am a Clinical Psychologist passionate about supporting individuals who are trying to heal from childhood trauma. I also work with individuals who have experienced single incident trauma. I also have ten years of experience supporting individuals who are working on their relationship with eating and body image concerns. I have supported many people diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder. I also have a wealth of experience with anxiety, including OCD and depression, self esteem concerns as well as identity concerns. I am also a Psychology Board approved supervisor.
(02) 9100 0256 View (02) 9100 0256
Fiona Giles
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You are looking for a caring and professional counsellor/psychotherapist to listen compassionately to your concerns, validate your feelings and empathise with your challenges. Working together, we can collaboratively discover how best to fulfil your potential and live your best life. You might be struggling with overwhelming changes, such as grief and loss or life-stage transitions. Or you might be feeling stuck with behaviours that have outlived their usefulness. As Jung said, 'Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.' Self-awareness brings the freedom of making new choices.
You are looking for a caring and professional counsellor/psychotherapist to listen compassionately to your concerns, validate your feelings and empathise with your challenges. Working together, we can collaboratively discover how best to fulfil your potential and live your best life. You might be struggling with overwhelming changes, such as grief and loss or life-stage transitions. Or you might be feeling stuck with behaviours that have outlived their usefulness. As Jung said, 'Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.' Self-awareness brings the freedom of making new choices.
(02) 9100 0309 View (02) 9100 0309
Anne Siret
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Experienced registered psychotherapist/counsellor/coach passionate about supporting the wellbeing and growth of her clients building with them a safe, therapeutic and compassionate relationship.
Experienced registered psychotherapist/counsellor/coach passionate about supporting the wellbeing and growth of her clients building with them a safe, therapeutic and compassionate relationship.
(02) 8403 0070 View (02) 8403 0070
Preeti Phartiyal
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
My practice is also informed by Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS), mindfulness based interventions and humanistic frameworks.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist working with adults navigating challenges related to trauma, identity, and relationships. My approach integrates parts work and humanistic frameworks alongside evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness, to help clients notice patterns, develop coping strategies, and create meaningful change. I provide a safe, supportive space to explore your experiences and work toward a life aligned with your values. Only accepting Telehealth clients.
My practice is also informed by Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS), mindfulness based interventions and humanistic frameworks.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist working with adults navigating challenges related to trauma, identity, and relationships. My approach integrates parts work and humanistic frameworks alongside evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness, to help clients notice patterns, develop coping strategies, and create meaningful change. I provide a safe, supportive space to explore your experiences and work toward a life aligned with your values. Only accepting Telehealth clients.
(02) 9100 0564 View (02) 9100 0564
We Heal - Counselling & Trauma Therapy
Social Worker, AMHSW
Online Only
Life doesn’t always unfold the way we expect. Relationships change, stress builds, or past experiences begin to surface in ways we didn’t anticipate. Many of the people I work with feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns that are hard to shift on their own. Some are navigating difficult relationships, trauma, life transitions, or simply a sense that something isn’t working anymore. Therapy can be a space to slow things down, make sense of what you’ve been carrying, and begin moving forward with more clarity and support.
Life doesn’t always unfold the way we expect. Relationships change, stress builds, or past experiences begin to surface in ways we didn’t anticipate. Many of the people I work with feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns that are hard to shift on their own. Some are navigating difficult relationships, trauma, life transitions, or simply a sense that something isn’t working anymore. Therapy can be a space to slow things down, make sense of what you’ve been carrying, and begin moving forward with more clarity and support.
0415 464 811 View 0415 464 811
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
Eleni Kefalas
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may be navigating anxiety or overwhelm, relationship difficulties, dating or being single, grief and loss, motherhood or changes in identity, self-esteem and body image, high sensitivity, or a significant life transition. I also work with people who feel stuck or notice the same patterns repeating in their lives. I offer depth-oriented counselling for those who want to understand themselves, their relationships and recurring patterns, rather than only learning strategies to manage symptoms.
You may be navigating anxiety or overwhelm, relationship difficulties, dating or being single, grief and loss, motherhood or changes in identity, self-esteem and body image, high sensitivity, or a significant life transition. I also work with people who feel stuck or notice the same patterns repeating in their lives. I offer depth-oriented counselling for those who want to understand themselves, their relationships and recurring patterns, rather than only learning strategies to manage symptoms.
0494 685 171 View 0494 685 171
Megan Buys
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Narrative Therapy, arts-based practices, and imagery work, combining these creative approaches together with CBT, ACT, Solutions-Focused Therapy (SFT), and Motivational Interviewing.
Weekends and after hours sessions now available – Hey there! I’m so glad you found me here. My name is Megan Buys and I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I am the founder of Finding Space: a therapy practice which blends both creative and empowering modalities for those seeking guidance, excitement, and deep care, where I see adults, teenagers/adolescents, couples, and therapists seeking support. I have completed a Master of Counselling, with registration through PACFA. I am also a PhD candidate, a writer, an academic, a university teacher, a yogi, a tea-drinker, and an ocean-lover.
I work with Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Narrative Therapy, arts-based practices, and imagery work, combining these creative approaches together with CBT, ACT, Solutions-Focused Therapy (SFT), and Motivational Interviewing.
Weekends and after hours sessions now available – Hey there! I’m so glad you found me here. My name is Megan Buys and I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I am the founder of Finding Space: a therapy practice which blends both creative and empowering modalities for those seeking guidance, excitement, and deep care, where I see adults, teenagers/adolescents, couples, and therapists seeking support. I have completed a Master of Counselling, with registration through PACFA. I am also a PhD candidate, a writer, an academic, a university teacher, a yogi, a tea-drinker, and an ocean-lover.
(02) 9100 0798 View (02) 9100 0798
Debbie Navara
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Debbie is a trauma-informed Counsellor and Psychotherapist with extensive experience supporting adults through complex, vulnerable and life-altering experiences. Her clinical work is grounded in a compassionate, client-centred approach and informed by contemporary evidence-based therapeutic practice. Debbie has extensive experience in trauma, crisis intervention and early psychological support, including working with individuals in the immediate aftermath of critical and highly distressing events.
Debbie is a trauma-informed Counsellor and Psychotherapist with extensive experience supporting adults through complex, vulnerable and life-altering experiences. Her clinical work is grounded in a compassionate, client-centred approach and informed by contemporary evidence-based therapeutic practice. Debbie has extensive experience in trauma, crisis intervention and early psychological support, including working with individuals in the immediate aftermath of critical and highly distressing events.
0422 467 006 View 0422 467 006
Belinda Carroll
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
My clientele are interested in developing self awareness, working on attachment issues and loss, managing their emotions and accessing their unconscious needs, feelings and passions. They are willing to work on extrinsically motivated coping mechanisms that are no longer serving or benefiting their lives. My clientele are open to developing assertive communication skills sourced from authentic desires and are committed to build a strong, confident sense of self. These clients are ready to work on deeper themes and woundings, childhood trauma's, loss, accumulative adult traumas and present day crisis and difficulties.
My clientele are interested in developing self awareness, working on attachment issues and loss, managing their emotions and accessing their unconscious needs, feelings and passions. They are willing to work on extrinsically motivated coping mechanisms that are no longer serving or benefiting their lives. My clientele are open to developing assertive communication skills sourced from authentic desires and are committed to build a strong, confident sense of self. These clients are ready to work on deeper themes and woundings, childhood trauma's, loss, accumulative adult traumas and present day crisis and difficulties.
(02) 8000 1844 View (02) 8000 1844
Elise Clement
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I weave together holistic psychotherapy, neuroscience-based coaching, and the wisdom of ancient traditions. My work is an invitation to become the fullest expression of who you are, not only to flourish as an individual, but also to be a force for good: in your family, your work, your community, and in the world at large.
I weave together holistic psychotherapy, neuroscience-based coaching, and the wisdom of ancient traditions. My work is an invitation to become the fullest expression of who you are, not only to flourish as an individual, but also to be a force for good: in your family, your work, your community, and in the world at large.
(02) 9100 0736 View (02) 9100 0736
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
Lauren Evans Counselling & Consulting
Counsellor, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an experienced therapist and clinical supervisor who specialises in working with individuals and families experiencing anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space in which to explore the challenges that have brought you to counselling. Together, we will work to understand your experiences, build practical tools for coping, and help you to move forward.
I am an experienced therapist and clinical supervisor who specialises in working with individuals and families experiencing anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space in which to explore the challenges that have brought you to counselling. Together, we will work to understand your experiences, build practical tools for coping, and help you to move forward.
0402 441 397 View 0402 441 397

More Therapists Nearby

Guided Hope Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including the Internal Family System ( IFS), Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
My name is Melissa, and I’m a credentialed therapist in Australia with 16 years of professional experience. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. My approach to therapy is centred on treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I firmly believe in the power of tailoring our sessions to fit your individual needs. My experience extends across a wide range of areas, including addictions, depression, trauma relationship and family issues, self-esteem, and managing stress as a caregiver.
I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including the Internal Family System ( IFS), Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
My name is Melissa, and I’m a credentialed therapist in Australia with 16 years of professional experience. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. My approach to therapy is centred on treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I firmly believe in the power of tailoring our sessions to fit your individual needs. My experience extends across a wide range of areas, including addictions, depression, trauma relationship and family issues, self-esteem, and managing stress as a caregiver.
(03) 4150 1216 View (03) 4150 1216
Azaan Vhora
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Bella Vista, NSW 2153
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily use Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) approaches which makes therapy an experiential process centred towards deep, meaningful and lasting change.
Mental health challenges don’t appear out of nowhere, and they are never just a personal failing. The distress you feel today has roots—shaped by experiences, relationships, and messages you’ve absorbed over time. From childhood, you learned ways to navigate pain, disappointment, or fear, often without even realising it. Whether it was through pushing emotions down, always staying in control, or constantly meeting others’ expectations, these responses were once necessary to ensure you mattered or to prevent pain. But survival isn’t the same as living freely.
I primarily use Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) approaches which makes therapy an experiential process centred towards deep, meaningful and lasting change.
Mental health challenges don’t appear out of nowhere, and they are never just a personal failing. The distress you feel today has roots—shaped by experiences, relationships, and messages you’ve absorbed over time. From childhood, you learned ways to navigate pain, disappointment, or fear, often without even realising it. Whether it was through pushing emotions down, always staying in control, or constantly meeting others’ expectations, these responses were once necessary to ensure you mattered or to prevent pain. But survival isn’t the same as living freely.
Harshani Algiriya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach integrates EMDR, CBT-informed strategies, IFS, Gottman Method couples therapy, mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I provide trauma-informed therapy for individuals and couples, with a focus on supporting meaningful and lasting change. My work is grounded in evidence-based approaches, particularly EMDR therapy, and is tailored to each person’s unique experiences and goals. I support clients who may be experiencing: Trauma and complex or unresolved past experiences, Anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm, Depression and low mood, Relationship and family challenges, Burnout, life transitions, and work-related stress, Sleep difficulties and patterns linked to emotional distress.
My approach integrates EMDR, CBT-informed strategies, IFS, Gottman Method couples therapy, mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I provide trauma-informed therapy for individuals and couples, with a focus on supporting meaningful and lasting change. My work is grounded in evidence-based approaches, particularly EMDR therapy, and is tailored to each person’s unique experiences and goals. I support clients who may be experiencing: Trauma and complex or unresolved past experiences, Anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm, Depression and low mood, Relationship and family challenges, Burnout, life transitions, and work-related stress, Sleep difficulties and patterns linked to emotional distress.
(03) 8595 5442 View (03) 8595 5442
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.