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

Photo of Tamara Buchanan - CounsellingCo, Counsellor
CounsellingCo
Counsellor
Serves Area
I use techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT and schema therapy to help with thinking and beliefs; psychodynamic interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy and internal family systems to transform past experiences into empowerment, purpose and a redefined sense of self.
Hi, I’m Tamara Buchanan. I founded CounsellingCo as a person-centred, trauma-informed, evidence-based practice devoted to helping people with drug & alcohol issues, behavioural and social media addictions, executive stress, and mental health issues before they reach crisis point. I work with you to understand how early childhood, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, grief, and all experiences to date shape your emotions, beliefs, mood and behaviours. I will gently challenge and empower you to move forward. If you have tried everything but therapy, CounsellingCo is your first step to making a positive change.
I use techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT and schema therapy to help with thinking and beliefs; psychodynamic interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy and internal family systems to transform past experiences into empowerment, purpose and a redefined sense of self.
Hi, I’m Tamara Buchanan. I founded CounsellingCo as a person-centred, trauma-informed, evidence-based practice devoted to helping people with drug & alcohol issues, behavioural and social media addictions, executive stress, and mental health issues before they reach crisis point. I work with you to understand how early childhood, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, grief, and all experiences to date shape your emotions, beliefs, mood and behaviours. I will gently challenge and empower you to move forward. If you have tried everything but therapy, CounsellingCo is your first step to making a positive change.
(02) 8319 1091 View (02) 8319 1091
Photo of Sascha Norman, Counsellor
Sascha Norman
Counsellor
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
If life feels overwhelming, full of stress, anxiety, trauma or uncertainty I want you to know that healing is possible with the right support. I’m Sascha, and I help adults and teens work through life's challenges with compassion and practical tools. It’s work I truly love. I help my clients feel clearer, more hopeful, and empowered to move forward. I use a holistic approach, combining talk therapy with optional kinesiology to help fast-track healing and release the tension you’ve been holding. Together, we can build greater confidence and resilience. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
If life feels overwhelming, full of stress, anxiety, trauma or uncertainty I want you to know that healing is possible with the right support. I’m Sascha, and I help adults and teens work through life's challenges with compassion and practical tools. It’s work I truly love. I help my clients feel clearer, more hopeful, and empowered to move forward. I use a holistic approach, combining talk therapy with optional kinesiology to help fast-track healing and release the tension you’ve been holding. Together, we can build greater confidence and resilience. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
(02) 8403 1163 View (02) 8403 1163
Photo of Veerle van Weelden - Van Weelden Therapy, Counsellor, PACFA
Van Weelden Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Somatic Psychotherapy - (complex) PTSD/ Trauma - Addiction - Relationship Issues - Do you sense that something within you is ready to shift? If you have felt stuck in anxiety, depression, painful dynamics in your relationship with yourself and others, or if you battle with addiction and compulsive behaviours, know that you are not alone and there is a way through. My integrative somatic and compassionate approach provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore the different parts of yourself, gently process past pain and trauma, and move toward greater balance and well-being. Start with a free 15-minute call
Somatic Psychotherapy - (complex) PTSD/ Trauma - Addiction - Relationship Issues - Do you sense that something within you is ready to shift? If you have felt stuck in anxiety, depression, painful dynamics in your relationship with yourself and others, or if you battle with addiction and compulsive behaviours, know that you are not alone and there is a way through. My integrative somatic and compassionate approach provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore the different parts of yourself, gently process past pain and trauma, and move toward greater balance and well-being. Start with a free 15-minute call
(02) 8403 2961 View (02) 8403 2961
Photo of Christine Hughes, Counsellor, PACFA
Christine Hughes
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Qualified and experienced Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor specialising in treatment for a broad range of people from adolescents to adults of all ages.- If you are struggling with Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD) - Addictions (Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling, Sex, Gaming, Work and Eating Disorders) - Trauma (Childhood Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse) - Grief and Loss (Unresolved Grief and Empty Chair Work Therapy) - Co-Dependency in Relationships (Conflict, Boundaries and Communication Issues) then I have the skill set to help you overcome these challenges if you are willing to do the work.
Qualified and experienced Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor specialising in treatment for a broad range of people from adolescents to adults of all ages.- If you are struggling with Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD) - Addictions (Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling, Sex, Gaming, Work and Eating Disorders) - Trauma (Childhood Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse) - Grief and Loss (Unresolved Grief and Empty Chair Work Therapy) - Co-Dependency in Relationships (Conflict, Boundaries and Communication Issues) then I have the skill set to help you overcome these challenges if you are willing to do the work.
(02) 8403 1536 View (02) 8403 1536
Photo of Jamie De Bruyn, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Jamie De Bruyn
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Integrating Schema Therapy, CBT, IFS/Inner Child, mindfulness, I help clients understand patterns, regulate emotions and build practical tools for change.
I‘m passionate about helping people restore their sense of self-worth and confidence in order to regain control over their lives. I work with adults and adolescents in crisis, and people experiencing ongoing mental health issues (such as, depression, anxiety, and PTSD) as a result of adversity, trauma, and violence. I empower individuals who have experienced adversity through exploring existing competencies, strengths and resilience. I’m person-centred, flexible and practical, ensuring you feel supported, and your needs are met in a non-judgemental and open environment. I work collaboratively with LGBTQIA+ and Indigenous communities
Integrating Schema Therapy, CBT, IFS/Inner Child, mindfulness, I help clients understand patterns, regulate emotions and build practical tools for change.
I‘m passionate about helping people restore their sense of self-worth and confidence in order to regain control over their lives. I work with adults and adolescents in crisis, and people experiencing ongoing mental health issues (such as, depression, anxiety, and PTSD) as a result of adversity, trauma, and violence. I empower individuals who have experienced adversity through exploring existing competencies, strengths and resilience. I’m person-centred, flexible and practical, ensuring you feel supported, and your needs are met in a non-judgemental and open environment. I work collaboratively with LGBTQIA+ and Indigenous communities
(02) 7201 5086 View (02) 7201 5086
Photo of Jessie Booth, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Jessie Booth
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Jessie’s unwavering belief in the possibility of change and optimal health is contagious and will enable you to make positive and meaningful changes in your life. Successful therapy is about connection, and this is one of Jessie’s particular strengths. Her aim is to make your session comfortable and productive, without over-reliance on worksheets and psychological theory. With her down to earth approach it becomes easy for you to slip into “doing the work”. With warmth and curiosity, Jessie will gently challenge you to face the hard stuff, providing the space you need to begin to heal.
Jessie’s unwavering belief in the possibility of change and optimal health is contagious and will enable you to make positive and meaningful changes in your life. Successful therapy is about connection, and this is one of Jessie’s particular strengths. Her aim is to make your session comfortable and productive, without over-reliance on worksheets and psychological theory. With her down to earth approach it becomes easy for you to slip into “doing the work”. With warmth and curiosity, Jessie will gently challenge you to face the hard stuff, providing the space you need to begin to heal.
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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 Vanessa Steele, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Vanessa Steele
Counsellor, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As your counsellor, I work with you to meet the challenges in your life as you experience them. In a safe, caring space you are free to express your feelings, be heard and understood: where you can honestly explore your concerns. Together, we can clarify what kind of life you want to live, recognise your strengths and resources, discover your options, increase your self-awareness, and develop strategies to help you live your life the way you choose. My background in the performing arts has given me an appreciation of the incredible diversity in perspectives and choices we make as individuals, and to truly value the human spirit.
As your counsellor, I work with you to meet the challenges in your life as you experience them. In a safe, caring space you are free to express your feelings, be heard and understood: where you can honestly explore your concerns. Together, we can clarify what kind of life you want to live, recognise your strengths and resources, discover your options, increase your self-awareness, and develop strategies to help you live your life the way you choose. My background in the performing arts has given me an appreciation of the incredible diversity in perspectives and choices we make as individuals, and to truly value the human spirit.
(02) 8403 1873 View (02) 8403 1873
Photo of Alison Glass - Alison Glass - EMDR & Trauma Treatment, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Alison Glass - EMDR & Trauma Treatment
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Alison uses an integrative approach to enable her to tailor therapy to the individual client’s needs, she uses Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to create emotional stability before addressing the underlying causes of instability with EMDR, IFS and EGO state therapies.
Alison is passionate about the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, addictions and eating disorders with a particular interest and training in treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Alison uses an integrative approach to enable her to tailor therapy to the individual client’s needs, integrating EMDR with other therapies. She is experienced in working with older adolescents and adults presenting with eating disorders, mood, anxiety disorders, grief and phobias.
Alison uses an integrative approach to enable her to tailor therapy to the individual client’s needs, she uses Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to create emotional stability before addressing the underlying causes of instability with EMDR, IFS and EGO state therapies.
Alison is passionate about the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, addictions and eating disorders with a particular interest and training in treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Alison uses an integrative approach to enable her to tailor therapy to the individual client’s needs, integrating EMDR with other therapies. She is experienced in working with older adolescents and adults presenting with eating disorders, mood, anxiety disorders, grief and phobias.
(02) 8806 0772 View (02) 8806 0772

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Isabelle Truong, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Isabelle Truong
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Darling Point, NSW 2027
I apply various therapeutic methodologies such as Family Systems, Emotionally Focused, and Schema therapy to help you understand why you are triggered by certain interactions and how to change your maladaptive coping behaviours.
Are you constantly asking yourself: ‘Why can't we stop fighting?’ ‘Why do I feel disrespected/unimportant?’ ‘Why am I dissatisfied with my life?’ 'Why do I feel anxious?'. If these thoughts are recurring often, individual, couple or family counselling will help you gain clarity, improve communication and create a more satisfied life. Strong, healthy relationships, whether social or intimate, have a positive impact on our physical and mental well-being. People with poor relationships are more likely to suffer from depression and loneliness. Living in conflict or within a toxic relationship is more damaging than being on your own.
I apply various therapeutic methodologies such as Family Systems, Emotionally Focused, and Schema therapy to help you understand why you are triggered by certain interactions and how to change your maladaptive coping behaviours.
Are you constantly asking yourself: ‘Why can't we stop fighting?’ ‘Why do I feel disrespected/unimportant?’ ‘Why am I dissatisfied with my life?’ 'Why do I feel anxious?'. If these thoughts are recurring often, individual, couple or family counselling will help you gain clarity, improve communication and create a more satisfied life. Strong, healthy relationships, whether social or intimate, have a positive impact on our physical and mental well-being. People with poor relationships are more likely to suffer from depression and loneliness. Living in conflict or within a toxic relationship is more damaging than being on your own.
(02) 8074 5258 View (02) 8074 5258
Photo of Evi Perlmutter, Psychologist, MAPS
Evi Perlmutter
Psychologist, MAPS
Bellevue Hill, NSW 2023
I am a clinical psychologist who works with individuals, couples and families. I specialise in the treatment of depression, anxiety and panic disorder; PTSD; sleep difficulties; behavioural problems; parenting; relationship difficulties; life crises; stress management; trauma and abuse.
I am a clinical psychologist who works with individuals, couples and families. I specialise in the treatment of depression, anxiety and panic disorder; PTSD; sleep difficulties; behavioural problems; parenting; relationship difficulties; life crises; stress management; trauma and abuse.
(02) 8000 1693 View (02) 8000 1693
Photo of Rabia Muqtadir, Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
Rabia Muqtadir
Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At times, life can feel like a lot to handle. You might be dealing with stress, anxiety, low mood, or challenges in your relationships that leave you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to turn. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I work with individuals/couples/families from all walks of life, including those navigating cultural or family expectations that can impact confidence, relationships, and sense of self. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal and grow.
At times, life can feel like a lot to handle. You might be dealing with stress, anxiety, low mood, or challenges in your relationships that leave you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to turn. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I work with individuals/couples/families from all walks of life, including those navigating cultural or family expectations that can impact confidence, relationships, and sense of self. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal and grow.
(02) 5133 8847 View (02) 5133 8847
Photo of Sian Sugars, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Sian Sugars
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
XXXX Please note, I will be overseas from 17/6/26-10/7/26. I will respond to enquiries when I return to Albany XXXX Hi I'm Sian (pronounced 'see-arn') and I'm currently offering counselling to individuals, online and in-person. My person-centred approach provides you with a warm, safe space to explore thoughts, feelings and behaviours. With a trauma-informed and strength-based approach I use validation, gentle challenging questions and psycho-education to support you and any life changes you may want to implement.
XXXX Please note, I will be overseas from 17/6/26-10/7/26. I will respond to enquiries when I return to Albany XXXX Hi I'm Sian (pronounced 'see-arn') and I'm currently offering counselling to individuals, online and in-person. My person-centred approach provides you with a warm, safe space to explore thoughts, feelings and behaviours. With a trauma-informed and strength-based approach I use validation, gentle challenging questions and psycho-education to support you and any life changes you may want to implement.
0490 115 063 View 0490 115 063
Photo of Jessica Lorna Crowther - Wildflower Psychology and Assessments, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Wildflower Psychology and Assessments
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Jessica. I am a psychologist, a mother, neurodivergent, and a flower lover. I have been described as having a quiet confidence, calming vibe, and quirky persona. I aim to be authentic and unmasked in our interactions together so that you feel comfortable to be yourself. I am passionate about holding space for those who need it. My driving force is to be the psychologist who I would want to support my own loved ones. I believe each client is special, worthy of connection, and that their story deserves to be heard. My approach is never to fix. It is to support.
Hi, I’m Jessica. I am a psychologist, a mother, neurodivergent, and a flower lover. I have been described as having a quiet confidence, calming vibe, and quirky persona. I aim to be authentic and unmasked in our interactions together so that you feel comfortable to be yourself. I am passionate about holding space for those who need it. My driving force is to be the psychologist who I would want to support my own loved ones. I believe each client is special, worthy of connection, and that their story deserves to be heard. My approach is never to fix. It is to support.
0434 000 116 View 0434 000 116
Photo of Jess Hodges, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jess Hodges
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
0408 486 282 View 0408 486 282
Photo of Alison Turner, Psychologist, PhD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Alison Turner
Psychologist, PhD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Hornsby, NSW 2077
Alison provides a thoughtful, respectful and caring environment for personal growth, change and well being. Alison’s approach to therapy is based on providing treatment that is tailored to the particular needs, circumstances and personality of her clients. Alison Turner PhD is a Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, she has many years of experience in private practice where she sees individuals, couples, families and children.
Alison provides a thoughtful, respectful and caring environment for personal growth, change and well being. Alison’s approach to therapy is based on providing treatment that is tailored to the particular needs, circumstances and personality of her clients. Alison Turner PhD is a Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, she has many years of experience in private practice where she sees individuals, couples, families and children.
(02) 8074 1784 View (02) 8074 1784
Photo of Evangeline Hopkinson, Occupational Therapist
Evangeline Hopkinson
Occupational Therapist
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I am a Mental Health Occupational Therapist (MHOT) with passion and experience in working with young people in their teens and twenties. As a MHOT I provide psychological and practical interventions that focus on supporting young people do the activities that are meaningful to them, which mental health challenges may be getting in the way of. My intervention approach involves passionately providing authentic, nurturing and compassionate therapeutic partnership, with a splash of humour. I also use a neurodiversity affirming approach in my practice to foster safety and person-centred care for all.
I am a Mental Health Occupational Therapist (MHOT) with passion and experience in working with young people in their teens and twenties. As a MHOT I provide psychological and practical interventions that focus on supporting young people do the activities that are meaningful to them, which mental health challenges may be getting in the way of. My intervention approach involves passionately providing authentic, nurturing and compassionate therapeutic partnership, with a splash of humour. I also use a neurodiversity affirming approach in my practice to foster safety and person-centred care for all.
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Photo of Georgie Williams, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Georgie Williams
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Erina, NSW 2250
We know that life can be challenging at times; we're passionate about supporting your mental health, life choices, and becoming the best version of you. With a warm and friendly approach, we explore values and ways of developing life skills and strategies to help increase self-esteem and emotion regulation, using evidenced-based relaxation, mindfulness, and psychological therapies. With a little humour thrown in as well - because, life, right?
We know that life can be challenging at times; we're passionate about supporting your mental health, life choices, and becoming the best version of you. With a warm and friendly approach, we explore values and ways of developing life skills and strategies to help increase self-esteem and emotion regulation, using evidenced-based relaxation, mindfulness, and psychological therapies. With a little humour thrown in as well - because, life, right?
(02) 4307 5796 View (02) 4307 5796
Photo of Imogen Rose Todd - Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy, MSc
Imogen Todd - Sex Therapy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Gottman's Couples Therapy, EFT, and Internal Family Systems, tailoring my approach to suit each client's individual needs and preferences.
As a queer Sexologist and Mental Health Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, mismatch in desire, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support exploring gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Gottman's Couples Therapy, EFT, and Internal Family Systems, tailoring my approach to suit each client's individual needs and preferences.
As a queer Sexologist and Mental Health Social Worker, I am here to support clients with a range of presenting difficulties. I offer sex therapy, relationship/couples therapy, perinatal therapy, and general counselling. I have expertise in supporting those with sexual function issues, including painful sex, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and more. I also support people experiencing performance anxiety, mismatch in desire, body image concerns, relationship issues, sexual assault survivors, sex workers, and those needing support exploring gender and sexuality. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental space to meet client needs.
(03) 8338 1600 View (03) 8338 1600
Photo of Sally Walsh, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sally Walsh
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including poly/open, narcissism
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including poly/open, narcissism
(02) 9100 0123 View (02) 9100 0123
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.