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

Photo of Natasha Martin, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Natasha Martin
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Marrickville, NSW 2204
I use art psychotherapy as a tool in therapy alongside IFS, CBT, DBT, Narrative therapy and ACT frameworks
My counselling room is a space that can hold your fears, your anger, your grief, and even your happiest moments, the whole of you. It is a space where you no longer have to hold onto the mask. A space where you can take it off, feel seen, and explore your experiences without judgment. My role is to be present alongside you, offering support, curiosity, and compassion as we make sense of what has brought you here.
I use art psychotherapy as a tool in therapy alongside IFS, CBT, DBT, Narrative therapy and ACT frameworks
My counselling room is a space that can hold your fears, your anger, your grief, and even your happiest moments, the whole of you. It is a space where you no longer have to hold onto the mask. A space where you can take it off, feel seen, and explore your experiences without judgment. My role is to be present alongside you, offering support, curiosity, and compassion as we make sense of what has brought you here.
0403 639 080 View 0403 639 080
Photo of Anthony Arpino - Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy), Counsellor, ACA-L2
Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy)
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Marrickville, NSW 2204
I provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only). I identify with both of these communities myself and can help with stress, anxiety (including panic attacks) & depression management, relationship challenges, identity issues (including sexual orientation and gender identity), confidence and self-esteem, big life transitions and changes.
I provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only). I identify with both of these communities myself and can help with stress, anxiety (including panic attacks) & depression management, relationship challenges, identity issues (including sexual orientation and gender identity), confidence and self-esteem, big life transitions and changes.
(02) 9100 0554 View (02) 9100 0554
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 Jase Dimos, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jase Dimos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw on CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS to tailor evidence-based therapy to each client’s needs.
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all nationalities and spiritual dispositions.
I draw on CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS to tailor evidence-based therapy to each client’s needs.
Finding the right fit with a psychologist is not only important, but sometimes daunting. My name is Jase, and I opened Psychology in Balance with the vision of creating a space where clients can be well understood and motivated to become the best version of themselves - for themselves. I work with individuals and couples on a range of concerns, including anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, emotional burnout, acute stress, attachment injuries, emotion regulation difficulties, and a lack of meaning or purpose. My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all nationalities and spiritual dispositions.
0468 375 150 View 0468 375 150
Photo of Ramya Avvari, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Ramya Avvari
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities including EFT, ACT, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, IFS, Gottman Method & SFT, tailoring support to each individual and couple’s unique needs & goals.
Have you ever experienced moments in life where you’re in the middle of a crisis, or feeling isolated and misunderstood, or feeling like your inner child is crying out for help, and wanted to just feel seen and heard? Sometimes, you may even feel like you’re just a speck in the ocean, pushing you to shutdown, feel overwhelmed, or silently retreat into your “bubble.” But what if you didn’t have to go through this alone? That’s where A Safe Space With Ramya comes into the picture, providing a compassionate, warm, and non-judgemental therapeutic space for adults and couples, where you can truly feel seen, heard, supported, and safe.
I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities including EFT, ACT, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, IFS, Gottman Method & SFT, tailoring support to each individual and couple’s unique needs & goals.
Have you ever experienced moments in life where you’re in the middle of a crisis, or feeling isolated and misunderstood, or feeling like your inner child is crying out for help, and wanted to just feel seen and heard? Sometimes, you may even feel like you’re just a speck in the ocean, pushing you to shutdown, feel overwhelmed, or silently retreat into your “bubble.” But what if you didn’t have to go through this alone? That’s where A Safe Space With Ramya comes into the picture, providing a compassionate, warm, and non-judgemental therapeutic space for adults and couples, where you can truly feel seen, heard, supported, and safe.
(02) 7804 4038 View (02) 7804 4038
Photo of Amanda Joy Robb, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Amanda Joy Robb
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
EMDR/Trauma-Informed/CBT/Narrative Therapies & Clinical Supervision Offered. Joy Through Therapy is founded by Amanda Joy Robb, a renowned and innovative Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. Amanda specialises in Trauma, Sexology, Sexual Health and Relationships, and Supervision. Throughout these three domains, Amanda offers services for Trauma based Therapies, Sex & Relationship Therapy and Clinical Individual and Group Supervision, as well as Consultation training services.
EMDR/Trauma-Informed/CBT/Narrative Therapies & Clinical Supervision Offered. Joy Through Therapy is founded by Amanda Joy Robb, a renowned and innovative Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. Amanda specialises in Trauma, Sexology, Sexual Health and Relationships, and Supervision. Throughout these three domains, Amanda offers services for Trauma based Therapies, Sex & Relationship Therapy and Clinical Individual and Group Supervision, as well as Consultation training services.
(02) 9158 6068 View (02) 9158 6068
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 Safari Lee - Safari Lee - Sex Therapist and Counsellor, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Safari Lee - Sex Therapist and Counsellor
Counsellor, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello. I'm an accredited psychosexual therapist, relationship therapist, and counsellor. I offer in-person therapy sessions in Annandale, in the Inner West of Sydney, and online and telephone sessions around the world. I am registered with Australian private health insurers. I can support you to manage your anxiety, low mood and loss of direction, whether it has been a recent or long-term experience. I can help you understand changes in your libido and desire, sexual urges and addictions including online porn, sexual services, social media and substance use, understanding fetishes and kinks, and pain and fear of sex and intimacy.
Hello. I'm an accredited psychosexual therapist, relationship therapist, and counsellor. I offer in-person therapy sessions in Annandale, in the Inner West of Sydney, and online and telephone sessions around the world. I am registered with Australian private health insurers. I can support you to manage your anxiety, low mood and loss of direction, whether it has been a recent or long-term experience. I can help you understand changes in your libido and desire, sexual urges and addictions including online porn, sexual services, social media and substance use, understanding fetishes and kinks, and pain and fear of sex and intimacy.
(02) 9100 0930 View (02) 9100 0930
Photo of Jordi Tome, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jordi Tome
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Families and adults come to me for clarity. Often a child is struggling at school, a teenager has hit a wall, or an adult has spent years sensing something was missed. Most of my work is assessment: autism, ADHD, FASD, cognitive, educational, memory, and broader neuropsychological assessment, for every age. I use gold-standard instruments, then take time to explain what the results mean and what to do next. I also work with vulnerable children and families in child protection and out-of-home care, and I see clients for trauma-informed therapy alongside assessment.
Families and adults come to me for clarity. Often a child is struggling at school, a teenager has hit a wall, or an adult has spent years sensing something was missed. Most of my work is assessment: autism, ADHD, FASD, cognitive, educational, memory, and broader neuropsychological assessment, for every age. I use gold-standard instruments, then take time to explain what the results mean and what to do next. I also work with vulnerable children and families in child protection and out-of-home care, and I see clients for trauma-informed therapy alongside assessment.
0478 261 970 View 0478 261 970
Photo of Jennifer Perkins - Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Serves Area
EMDR Certified, IFS trained and a vision towards social justice, Jennifer is excellent with loss, PTSD, trauma, abuse and other difficult experiences.
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate some barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships, anxiety, stress & challenging work situations. If you are looking for strength + compassion, understanding + the blunt truth, empathy + solutions, you have found the right space. With a belief and passion that you are your best resource, she helps you find that inner strength & wisdom you thought was missing.
EMDR Certified, IFS trained and a vision towards social justice, Jennifer is excellent with loss, PTSD, trauma, abuse and other difficult experiences.
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate some barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships, anxiety, stress & challenging work situations. If you are looking for strength + compassion, understanding + the blunt truth, empathy + solutions, you have found the right space. With a belief and passion that you are your best resource, she helps you find that inner strength & wisdom you thought was missing.
(02) 8074 5705 View (02) 8074 5705
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 Mathew Roland Bergan, Psychotherapist
Mathew Roland Bergan
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome, I am Mathew Bergan (he, they), a therapist for individuals with a somatic focus. I hold a Graduate Diploma in Gestalt psychotherapy, EMDR, Brainspotting. My practice specialises in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties, including the impacts of early developmental experiences. I draw from an integrative, body-aware approach that supports awareness, agency, and self-direction. Our work together centres on what is happening in the present moment, allowing insight to emerge through a relational process.
Welcome, I am Mathew Bergan (he, they), a therapist for individuals with a somatic focus. I hold a Graduate Diploma in Gestalt psychotherapy, EMDR, Brainspotting. My practice specialises in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties, including the impacts of early developmental experiences. I draw from an integrative, body-aware approach that supports awareness, agency, and self-direction. Our work together centres on what is happening in the present moment, allowing insight to emerge through a relational process.
0413 738 684 View 0413 738 684
Photo of Daniela Cristofaro
Daniela Cristofaro
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling unsure how to move forward? Maybe you're navigating relationship struggles or trying to make sense of your life? Most people come to therapy because they want something to change. But lasting transformation starts with understanding how things are right now. From a young age, our nervous systems adapt to help us navigate the world, creating automatic patterns of feeling and reacting. Whilst they once served us, they can become limiting over time, keeping us stuck in ways that no longer align with who we are or what we need. I am here to help you gently uncover and understand these ingrained patterns.
Are you feeling unsure how to move forward? Maybe you're navigating relationship struggles or trying to make sense of your life? Most people come to therapy because they want something to change. But lasting transformation starts with understanding how things are right now. From a young age, our nervous systems adapt to help us navigate the world, creating automatic patterns of feeling and reacting. Whilst they once served us, they can become limiting over time, keeping us stuck in ways that no longer align with who we are or what we need. I am here to help you gently uncover and understand these ingrained patterns.
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Photo of Alain Moulay, Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Alain Moulay
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer adult clients the possibility to work through and resolve all types issues, questions, experiences & situations related to sexuality and relationships. Using CBT and other therapeutic modalities, i treat sexuality issues in individual & relationship context, alongside psychological & medical conditions. I also help clients with concerns around the experience of sexuality, in the context of personal history, life experiences, social environment and health.
I offer adult clients the possibility to work through and resolve all types issues, questions, experiences & situations related to sexuality and relationships. Using CBT and other therapeutic modalities, i treat sexuality issues in individual & relationship context, alongside psychological & medical conditions. I also help clients with concerns around the experience of sexuality, in the context of personal history, life experiences, social environment and health.
(02) 9159 6682 View (02) 9159 6682
Photo of John Hristoforidis, Social Worker, AMHSW
John Hristoforidis
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
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 Cassie Sell, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Cassie Sell
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
You might be feeling stuck, anxious, or a bit lost - doing your best to keep going but ready for something to shift. My clients often crave being calm, connected, and having space to just be themselves. Together we slow things down, explore what’s underneath, and use creativity and nature to find steadiness and clarity again. Therapy doesn’t have to feel clinical - it can feel human, grounding and real.
You might be feeling stuck, anxious, or a bit lost - doing your best to keep going but ready for something to shift. My clients often crave being calm, connected, and having space to just be themselves. Together we slow things down, explore what’s underneath, and use creativity and nature to find steadiness and clarity again. Therapy doesn’t have to feel clinical - it can feel human, grounding and real.
0488 259 326 View 0488 259 326
Photo of Marzena Diard - Marzena Diard Therapy, Psychotherapist
Marzena Diard Therapy
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
This integrative method combines the latest in pain neuroscience with gentle somatic and holistic therapies—including Gestalt Therapy, IFS, Emotional Awareness and Expression, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy.
Living with chronic pain can feel exhausting, confusing, and lonely—especially when it doesn’t improve with conventional treatments. If you're navigating conditions like endometriosis, fibromyalgia, migraines, IBS, back or neck pain, or medically unexplained symptoms, you're not alone—and meaningful support is available..
This integrative method combines the latest in pain neuroscience with gentle somatic and holistic therapies—including Gestalt Therapy, IFS, Emotional Awareness and Expression, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy.
Living with chronic pain can feel exhausting, confusing, and lonely—especially when it doesn’t improve with conventional treatments. If you're navigating conditions like endometriosis, fibromyalgia, migraines, IBS, back or neck pain, or medically unexplained symptoms, you're not alone—and meaningful support is available..
(02) 9100 0784 View (02) 9100 0784
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 Sagar Aadarsh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sagar Aadarsh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
As I've developed my practice, I've come to incorporate IFS (Internal Family Systems) and Somatic therapy with CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy), allowing for both self-understanding and acceptance, as well as a useful way forward.
Heya, I’m Sagar! I understand how nerve-wracking it can be to walk into a psychologist’s office. That’s why I aim to be warm, empathetic and approachable, to build a genuine relationship as the foundation of our therapeutic process. I work across the lifespan, and I love helping clients navigate those big life changes— adolescence into adulthood; career into retirement; or any of those big, overwhelming events that seem to just come with life. My approach is to give clients insight into their thoughts & emotions, warmth and space to help process and heal, then collaboratively create tools and strategies to lay problems to rest.
As I've developed my practice, I've come to incorporate IFS (Internal Family Systems) and Somatic therapy with CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy), allowing for both self-understanding and acceptance, as well as a useful way forward.
Heya, I’m Sagar! I understand how nerve-wracking it can be to walk into a psychologist’s office. That’s why I aim to be warm, empathetic and approachable, to build a genuine relationship as the foundation of our therapeutic process. I work across the lifespan, and I love helping clients navigate those big life changes— adolescence into adulthood; career into retirement; or any of those big, overwhelming events that seem to just come with life. My approach is to give clients insight into their thoughts & emotions, warmth and space to help process and heal, then collaboratively create tools and strategies to lay problems to rest.
(08) 7008 7438 View (08) 7008 7438
Photo of Joseph Makdessi - Joseph Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Joseph Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Individuals and couples seeking deeper self-understanding, emotional healing, and healthier relationships. Many come with anxiety, stress, grief, trauma, life transitions, or ongoing relational challenges, often feeling stuck or overwhelmed. They are motivated for meaningful change but need the right support. We help through evidence-based therapy and empathic listening, creating a safe space to build insight, regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, and move forward with clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.
Individuals and couples seeking deeper self-understanding, emotional healing, and healthier relationships. Many come with anxiety, stress, grief, trauma, life transitions, or ongoing relational challenges, often feeling stuck or overwhelmed. They are motivated for meaningful change but need the right support. We help through evidence-based therapy and empathic listening, creating a safe space to build insight, regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, and move forward with clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.
(02) 8105 5030 View (02) 8105 5030

See more therapy options for Marrickville

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.