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

Photo of Sophia Charlotte Laurie, Counsellor
Sophia Charlotte Laurie
Counsellor
Online Only
I work with women experiencing social and generalised anxiety, depression, low mood, or a sense of feeling disconnected from themselves and the life they want to live. I support them to build self-trust, overcome challenges, and create a life that feels more aligned, meaningful, and fulfilling.
I work with women experiencing social and generalised anxiety, depression, low mood, or a sense of feeling disconnected from themselves and the life they want to live. I support them to build self-trust, overcome challenges, and create a life that feels more aligned, meaningful, and fulfilling.
0466 884 425 x61 View 0466 884 425 x61
Photo of Paul Jessop, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Paul Jessop
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Petersham, NSW 2049
If you are looking for a safe, supportive space where you will be truly heard, accepted and empowered to move forward, I invite you to connect with me. I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction. I can walk beside you to help you navigate and integrate major life transitions and experiences.
If you are looking for a safe, supportive space where you will be truly heard, accepted and empowered to move forward, I invite you to connect with me. I am passionate about helping people through depression, anxiety, mood disorders and addiction. I can walk beside you to help you navigate and integrate major life transitions and experiences.
(02) 8000 1695 View (02) 8000 1695
Photo of Anthony Arpino - Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy), Counsellor, ACA-L2
Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy)
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Lisa Barrett, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Lisa Barrett
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer trauma-informed counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in relational therapy, neglect and developmental trauma working primarily from an IFS lens.
A holistic approach incorporates physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects as you learn to welcome all parts of yourself. IFS Therapy is a leading evidence-based model of therapy that incorporates elements of Somatic Therapy, Hakomi, Family Systems, Mindfulness and Neuroscience. This helps improve relationships & reduce anxiety & depression.
I offer trauma-informed counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in relational therapy, neglect and developmental trauma working primarily from an IFS lens.
A holistic approach incorporates physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects as you learn to welcome all parts of yourself. IFS Therapy is a leading evidence-based model of therapy that incorporates elements of Somatic Therapy, Hakomi, Family Systems, Mindfulness and Neuroscience. This helps improve relationships & reduce anxiety & depression.
(02) 8806 0454 View (02) 8806 0454
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 Marie Mooney, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Marie Mooney
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I honour the innate wisdom in all of us, and hold deep respect and compassion for people. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate and healing space, where you can talk about, explore and find solutions to what's really happening in your life and whatever brings you to counselling. I will support you to create a healthy relationship and connection with yourself and others, and will walk with you, as you overcome the obstacles, and celebrate the steps you take towards living more of the life you desire.
I honour the innate wisdom in all of us, and hold deep respect and compassion for people. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate and healing space, where you can talk about, explore and find solutions to what's really happening in your life and whatever brings you to counselling. I will support you to create a healthy relationship and connection with yourself and others, and will walk with you, as you overcome the obstacles, and celebrate the steps you take towards living more of the life you desire.
(02) 8105 5005 View (02) 8105 5005
Photo of Charlotte Ritchie - Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Charlotte Ritchie Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I also have training in various psychological modalities (DBT, IFS, Gestalt, for example) but feel this is just therapist babble!
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
I also have training in various psychological modalities (DBT, IFS, Gestalt, for example) but feel this is just therapist babble!
I am passionate about partnering with people to help them tolerate extreme emotion, to learn and grow and be free to choose new behaviours. I have decades of lived and years of clinical experience with Alcohol and Other Drugs use and abuse and the traumas that so often lead to it and arise from it. I have understanding of complex PTSD and the Autonomic Nervous System and the ways our experiences get laid down in our systems and repeat themselves, often causing relationship upsets.
(02) 9100 0566 View (02) 9100 0566
Photo of Von Coves, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Von Coves
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches.
Master Counselling & Psychotherapy; Mediator; B.A. (Psychology & Philosophy); Grad. Cert. Management
Using IFS, EMDR, Psychodynamic approaches.
Master Counselling & Psychotherapy; Mediator; B.A. (Psychology & Philosophy); Grad. Cert. Management
(02) 9100 0400 View (02) 9100 0400
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 Stacey Walsh, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Stacey Walsh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I draw from somatic approaches, EMDR and IFS among others to inform my work.
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. Your journey and the way that your system organises itself to meet your needs are unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in making meaning of your own experiences.
I draw from somatic approaches, EMDR and IFS among others to inform my work.
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. Your journey and the way that your system organises itself to meet your needs are unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in making meaning of your own experiences.
(02) 9100 0392 View (02) 9100 0392
Photo of Justine Pash, Counsellor, PACFA
Justine Pash
Counsellor, PACFA
Petersham, NSW 2049
Not accepting new clients
Life's for sure a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we hang on for the ride and know who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we can feel pummelled, adrift or alone in our experience. Being heard, seen and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who feels passionate about providing ethical, evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concern. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
Life's for sure a roller coaster. Along with the ups, there will naturally be downs - illness, pain, worry, conflict, transitions and loss. Sometimes we hang on for the ride and know who will be in the seat beside us; at other times, we can feel pummelled, adrift or alone in our experience. Being heard, seen and validated can begin a process of deep understanding and change. I am a degree-qualified Therapist and eating disorder clinician who feels passionate about providing ethical, evidence-based support to all clients, no matter their concern. You might like to see me in my CBD or Petersham rooms.
(02) 9100 0552 View (02) 9100 0552

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rochelle Armstrong - Replenish Counselling and Training, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Replenish Counselling and Training
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our approach is grounded in both empathy, curiosity, and evidence-based practice such as; CBT, DBT, IFS and Brain Spotting (similar to EMDR) for trauma processing, and Emotional Focused Therapy, IFS for couples counselling and The Gottman Method.
Replenish grew from a simple but deeply held belief: that healing happens in relationships where people feel safe, seen, and genuinely understood. Our journey began with a desire to create a space that was both heart-led and clinically grounded, a place where evidence-based practice meets real human connection. Over time, Replenish has evolved into a community of dedicated clinicians and educators who share a common commitment to thoughtful, ethical, and trauma-informed care. We honour the complexity of each person’s story and understand that change rarely happens in straight lines.
Our approach is grounded in both empathy, curiosity, and evidence-based practice such as; CBT, DBT, IFS and Brain Spotting (similar to EMDR) for trauma processing, and Emotional Focused Therapy, IFS for couples counselling and The Gottman Method.
Replenish grew from a simple but deeply held belief: that healing happens in relationships where people feel safe, seen, and genuinely understood. Our journey began with a desire to create a space that was both heart-led and clinically grounded, a place where evidence-based practice meets real human connection. Over time, Replenish has evolved into a community of dedicated clinicians and educators who share a common commitment to thoughtful, ethical, and trauma-informed care. We honour the complexity of each person’s story and understand that change rarely happens in straight lines.
(02) 4210 5110 View (02) 4210 5110
Photo of Candyce Linington - Centred Wellness - Candyce Linington, Counsellor, PACFA
Centred Wellness - Candyce Linington
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
Centred Wellness is an online trauma‑informed counselling and psychotherapy practice supporting adults across Australia. I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or caught in old patterns that no longer serve them. Many come to therapy during times of transition, emotional intensity, or when something inside is asking for attention. I offer a calm, grounded space to explore these experiences with safety and curiosity. Together, we make sense of protective patterns, support your nervous system, and help you reconnect with clarity, steadiness, and a deeper sense of self.
Centred Wellness is an online trauma‑informed counselling and psychotherapy practice supporting adults across Australia. I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or caught in old patterns that no longer serve them. Many come to therapy during times of transition, emotional intensity, or when something inside is asking for attention. I offer a calm, grounded space to explore these experiences with safety and curiosity. Together, we make sense of protective patterns, support your nervous system, and help you reconnect with clarity, steadiness, and a deeper sense of self.
(07) 4515 2030 View (07) 4515 2030
Photo of Paula Barham, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Paula Barham
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Stanmore, NSW 2048
I’m honoured to have been recognised as one of the top 3 therapists in Sydney in 2025, serving as the principal therapist specialising in relationship therapy. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse cultures, I strive to provide compassionate support to couples. We all lose our way at times and may need support to get back on track and reignite our relationship, no matter how long or short you have been together. My aim is not for you to keep coming to me but to empower you to develop skills—such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection—so you can navigate life independently.
I’m honoured to have been recognised as one of the top 3 therapists in Sydney in 2025, serving as the principal therapist specialising in relationship therapy. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse cultures, I strive to provide compassionate support to couples. We all lose our way at times and may need support to get back on track and reignite our relationship, no matter how long or short you have been together. My aim is not for you to keep coming to me but to empower you to develop skills—such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection—so you can navigate life independently.
(02) 9100 0945 View (02) 9100 0945
Photo of Zhamilya's Stamkulova - Zhamilya's Counseling, Counsellor, PACFA
Zhamilya's Counseling
Counsellor, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am super passionate about my work as a Counsellor after many years of working in the corporate world left me searching for a more fulfilling and meaningful career. I find that so many of my clients echo this search – in addition to wanting to address their day-to-day life struggles – they are searching for something more. And this is where I love to be, fully attentive, empathising with my clients but most of all working alongside them to explore ways of improving all aspects of their lives, be that work, relationships, childhood attachment wounds or trauma.
I am super passionate about my work as a Counsellor after many years of working in the corporate world left me searching for a more fulfilling and meaningful career. I find that so many of my clients echo this search – in addition to wanting to address their day-to-day life struggles – they are searching for something more. And this is where I love to be, fully attentive, empathising with my clients but most of all working alongside them to explore ways of improving all aspects of their lives, be that work, relationships, childhood attachment wounds or trauma.
(03) 9994 1757 View (03) 9994 1757
Photo of Ess Binet, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Ess Binet
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
This method utilises Gestalt therapy, parts work ( IFS), Somatic experiencing, ACT.
Hey, I'm Ess, and I'm so glad you're here. I offer therapy that honours all of you! All parts of you are met with respect and curiosity, as we follow the line of enquiry that interests and serves you. I take a non-pathologising, queer-affirming, neuro-affirming approach, that acknowledges how culture, power and social context shape our experiences. If you are yearning to know yourself more intimately, treat yourself more kindly, understand your behaviours, deepen relationships, or you sense more ease/joy/fulfilment is available to you ... I would love to support you in the process of reclaiming the fullness of who you are.
This method utilises Gestalt therapy, parts work ( IFS), Somatic experiencing, ACT.
Hey, I'm Ess, and I'm so glad you're here. I offer therapy that honours all of you! All parts of you are met with respect and curiosity, as we follow the line of enquiry that interests and serves you. I take a non-pathologising, queer-affirming, neuro-affirming approach, that acknowledges how culture, power and social context shape our experiences. If you are yearning to know yourself more intimately, treat yourself more kindly, understand your behaviours, deepen relationships, or you sense more ease/joy/fulfilment is available to you ... I would love to support you in the process of reclaiming the fullness of who you are.
(02) 8074 5874 View (02) 8074 5874
Photo of Stephanie Elizabeth Guerin, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Stephanie Elizabeth Guerin
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Mona Vale, NSW 2103
This includes family systems and Internal Family systems work, childhood trauma, attachment wounds, relationship conflicts, codependency and Inner Child work.
I work with several modalities with clients to meet the presenting needs of the client. My focus is to build rapport and a safe therapeutic relationship that fosters trust and exploration. I meet the client where they are currently at in their lives to address their concerns and needs. My professional experience covers issues relating to mental health and well-being including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, disordered eating and body issues, relationship challenges and separations, life transitions , childhood trauma and codependency . I work from a trauma informed perspective to build safety and agency with the client.
This includes family systems and Internal Family systems work, childhood trauma, attachment wounds, relationship conflicts, codependency and Inner Child work.
I work with several modalities with clients to meet the presenting needs of the client. My focus is to build rapport and a safe therapeutic relationship that fosters trust and exploration. I meet the client where they are currently at in their lives to address their concerns and needs. My professional experience covers issues relating to mental health and well-being including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, disordered eating and body issues, relationship challenges and separations, life transitions , childhood trauma and codependency . I work from a trauma informed perspective to build safety and agency with the client.
(02) 8403 2371 View (02) 8403 2371
Photo of Jessica Lau, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jessica Lau
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Cronulla, NSW 2230
I believe in creating a tailored treatment plan for reach client to support you towards your goals, drawing from a number of evidence based therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focussed Therapy, Schema and Mindfulness.
As a Registered Psychologist, I have a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, I am committed to providing a compassionate and supportive environment for all my clients. My approach is grounded in kindness and empathy, recognising that each person’s journey is unique and deserving of respect.
I believe in creating a tailored treatment plan for reach client to support you towards your goals, drawing from a number of evidence based therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focussed Therapy, Schema and Mindfulness.
As a Registered Psychologist, I have a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, I am committed to providing a compassionate and supportive environment for all my clients. My approach is grounded in kindness and empathy, recognising that each person’s journey is unique and deserving of respect.
(02) 9538 7005 x02 View (02) 9538 7005 x02
Photo of Anna Costello, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Anna Costello
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
I'm Anna, I have Clinical membership with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). I am a “BUPA recognised provider” "Medibank" and an "ahm-approved" Therapist. I work with all people and provide a safe non-judgemental space for to explore whats going on for you. ! I have worked at Headspace and have been working at Child Development Solutions and Sydney Psychology Centre for years where I facilitate social skills groups for children and young people diagnosed somewhere on the Autism Spectrum and/or ADHD.
I'm Anna, I have Clinical membership with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). I am a “BUPA recognised provider” "Medibank" and an "ahm-approved" Therapist. I work with all people and provide a safe non-judgemental space for to explore whats going on for you. ! I have worked at Headspace and have been working at Child Development Solutions and Sydney Psychology Centre for years where I facilitate social skills groups for children and young people diagnosed somewhere on the Autism Spectrum and/or ADHD.
(07) 4520 2366 View (07) 4520 2366
Photo of Ashlee Helene, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ashlee Helene
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newtown, NSW 2042
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
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.