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

Fernanda Tinelli
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I help couples, families and individuals seeking to achieve healthy relationships and improved mental health. I specialise in marriage, family counselling, during/post-separation, infidelity, communication and conflict resolution. I also provide individual counselling to support clients struggling with anxiety, depression and trauma. My work is very solution focused so my clients can achieve fast results. Over the years, I've transitioned from a legal career into counselling/psychology so my clients can expect high ethical standards, high academic competency as well as a modern and fresh approach to relationships and psychotherapy.
I help couples, families and individuals seeking to achieve healthy relationships and improved mental health. I specialise in marriage, family counselling, during/post-separation, infidelity, communication and conflict resolution. I also provide individual counselling to support clients struggling with anxiety, depression and trauma. My work is very solution focused so my clients can achieve fast results. Over the years, I've transitioned from a legal career into counselling/psychology so my clients can expect high ethical standards, high academic competency as well as a modern and fresh approach to relationships and psychotherapy.
(02) 8403 2742 View (02) 8403 2742
Susana Newcombe
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many children and adolescents, especially those with ADHD or autism, face anxiety, big emotions, and social or school pressures. I provide a caring, confidential space where they feel understood and can explore strategies to manage emotions. Using evidence-based programs, such as Cool Kids, play therapy, and creative, solution-focused approaches, I help young people develop coping skills, confidence, resilience, and a positive sense of self, while partnering with parents to support growth at home.
Many children and adolescents, especially those with ADHD or autism, face anxiety, big emotions, and social or school pressures. I provide a caring, confidential space where they feel understood and can explore strategies to manage emotions. Using evidence-based programs, such as Cool Kids, play therapy, and creative, solution-focused approaches, I help young people develop coping skills, confidence, resilience, and a positive sense of self, while partnering with parents to support growth at home.
(02) 8403 1537 View (02) 8403 1537
Vidhi Thakkar
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Therapy in English, Hindi and Gujarati; online across Australia, with early-morning and evening appointments. No referral, no diagnosis, nothing on your medical record. On paper, you may have arrived, and still feel emotionally stretched and known only in fragments. Perhaps you're navigating a major life transition, or relying on coping patterns including substance use, work, or simply holding it together that once protected you but now feel too heavy.
Therapy in English, Hindi and Gujarati; online across Australia, with early-morning and evening appointments. No referral, no diagnosis, nothing on your medical record. On paper, you may have arrived, and still feel emotionally stretched and known only in fragments. Perhaps you're navigating a major life transition, or relying on coping patterns including substance use, work, or simply holding it together that once protected you but now feel too heavy.
(02) 4703 7394 View (02) 4703 7394
Voices of Hope
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I draw from a range of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Narrative Therapy — tailored to your needs.
I am here to help you heal from trauma — whether it’s PTSD, CPTSD, narcissistic abuse, betrayal trauma, or the pain of a relationship breakdown. Life is not always fair, but together we can focus on your self-growth, identify areas for change, and work towards a more fulfilling, grounded, and meaningful life. My approach is client-centred and attachment-based, with a focus on understanding and working with your emotions. By learning to recognise, process, and regulate your emotions, you can begin to navigate challenges with greater clarity and confidence. Every story is unique and worth continuing, with the potential to flourish.
I draw from a range of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Narrative Therapy — tailored to your needs.
I am here to help you heal from trauma — whether it’s PTSD, CPTSD, narcissistic abuse, betrayal trauma, or the pain of a relationship breakdown. Life is not always fair, but together we can focus on your self-growth, identify areas for change, and work towards a more fulfilling, grounded, and meaningful life. My approach is client-centred and attachment-based, with a focus on understanding and working with your emotions. By learning to recognise, process, and regulate your emotions, you can begin to navigate challenges with greater clarity and confidence. Every story is unique and worth continuing, with the potential to flourish.
(02) 7804 4150 View (02) 7804 4150

More Therapists Nearby

Tania Nadine Fahey
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Newport, NSW 2106
As a therapist I aim to help clients learn how to honour and understand their resistance and difficulty with life challenges as an outdated coping mechanism which originally was formed to serve as a self-preservation and adaptive function. In facilitating a pathway for change by walking alongside my client creating a safe and supportive environment towards self-awareness and the discovery that you are the expert in your life. My practice is trauma informed with a humanistic person centred approach. I will meet you with compassion , curiosity and connection, working towards your future goals, innate healing, health and happiness.
As a therapist I aim to help clients learn how to honour and understand their resistance and difficulty with life challenges as an outdated coping mechanism which originally was formed to serve as a self-preservation and adaptive function. In facilitating a pathway for change by walking alongside my client creating a safe and supportive environment towards self-awareness and the discovery that you are the expert in your life. My practice is trauma informed with a humanistic person centred approach. I will meet you with compassion , curiosity and connection, working towards your future goals, innate healing, health and happiness.
(02) 8403 0752 View (02) 8403 0752
MindBodySoul Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
MindBodySoul Psychotherapy is here to help you work through life's toughest challenges. Providing you with a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your inner world. ​​​​​Therapy can help you lower your anxiety, change unhealthy habits​, regulate your emotions, process trauma and discover your strengths​. I am living proof that a toddler can know - with absolute certainty - what she wants to do with her life. ​​I have always known I wanted to be a therapist. "Let's talk about brains!" was my most popular phrase at age 3.
MindBodySoul Psychotherapy is here to help you work through life's toughest challenges. Providing you with a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your inner world. ​​​​​Therapy can help you lower your anxiety, change unhealthy habits​, regulate your emotions, process trauma and discover your strengths​. I am living proof that a toddler can know - with absolute certainty - what she wants to do with her life. ​​I have always known I wanted to be a therapist. "Let's talk about brains!" was my most popular phrase at age 3.
(02) 7804 4315 View (02) 7804 4315
Casandra Borthwick
Psychologist, MC, PsyBA General
Pymble, NSW 2073
I support young people and adults navigating psychological injury, trauma, stress, anxiety, mood difficulties, and life changes. I also work with people experiencing challenges in family, friendship, and other relationships, helping them understand patterns of relating and build healthier connections. I have experience supporting neurodivergent adults and value diverse ways of thinking and experiencing the world. My approach is flexible, validating, and tailored to each person’s strengths.
I support young people and adults navigating psychological injury, trauma, stress, anxiety, mood difficulties, and life changes. I also work with people experiencing challenges in family, friendship, and other relationships, helping them understand patterns of relating and build healthier connections. I have experience supporting neurodivergent adults and value diverse ways of thinking and experiencing the world. My approach is flexible, validating, and tailored to each person’s strengths.
(02) 8403 1473 View (02) 8403 1473
Hee Zee Lu
Counsellor, PACFA
Chatswood, NSW 2067
I hold certification with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and am an approved counsellor affiliated with NSW Victim Services. I specialize in providing tailored outpatient psychological care that effectively addresses a range of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and support for victims and caregivers navigating difficulties.
I hold certification with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and am an approved counsellor affiliated with NSW Victim Services. I specialize in providing tailored outpatient psychological care that effectively addresses a range of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and support for victims and caregivers navigating difficulties.
(02) 9100 0600 View (02) 9100 0600
Lidia Georgy
Psychotherapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Castle Hill, NSW 2154
I use several tools including positive psychology, play therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Focusing Therapy to heal emotional and relational wounds, foster stronger connections, regulate emotions, create healthy boundaries, and increase self-worth and self-esteem.
I bring skills in play therapy, Internal Family Systems, Focusing Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I use several tools including positive psychology, play therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Focusing Therapy to heal emotional and relational wounds, foster stronger connections, regulate emotions, create healthy boundaries, and increase self-worth and self-esteem.
I bring skills in play therapy, Internal Family Systems, Focusing Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
(02) 8403 2005 View (02) 8403 2005
Kerry McCarthy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Randwick, NSW 2031
Specialising in female life transitions including relationships, couples, careers, fertility, grief, parenting, peri and menopause, age-related health struggles and more. We offer online counselling nationally, and in-person and Walk+Talk therapy in Randwick and Sydney's Eastern Suburbs. All our therapists are registered with PACFA and ARCAP. If you are struggling with emotional and psychological challenges, personal or professional, Working Well provides the care you deserve, one conversation at a time. Whether you want new strategies that build a healthier happier life, or simply a safe space to vent, Working Well can help.
Specialising in female life transitions including relationships, couples, careers, fertility, grief, parenting, peri and menopause, age-related health struggles and more. We offer online counselling nationally, and in-person and Walk+Talk therapy in Randwick and Sydney's Eastern Suburbs. All our therapists are registered with PACFA and ARCAP. If you are struggling with emotional and psychological challenges, personal or professional, Working Well provides the care you deserve, one conversation at a time. Whether you want new strategies that build a healthier happier life, or simply a safe space to vent, Working Well can help.
(02) 8424 7577 View (02) 8424 7577
Jessica Epifanio Ferreira
Social Worker, AASW
Manly, NSW 2095
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling and trying to understand themselves deeply in order to change. They’re searching for a safe, compassionate space to understand their reactions - reactions that they don't like or feel ashamed sometimes. They need evidence‑based, neuroscience‑informed support to regulate their nervous system, reconnect with their inner parts, and rebuild trust in themselves. Their goal is to move from pain and reactivity to intentional living—reclaiming their narrative and experiencing deeper connection and purpose. They are open to somatic work, not only cognitive therapy.
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling and trying to understand themselves deeply in order to change. They’re searching for a safe, compassionate space to understand their reactions - reactions that they don't like or feel ashamed sometimes. They need evidence‑based, neuroscience‑informed support to regulate their nervous system, reconnect with their inner parts, and rebuild trust in themselves. Their goal is to move from pain and reactivity to intentional living—reclaiming their narrative and experiencing deeper connection and purpose. They are open to somatic work, not only cognitive therapy.
0421 105 024 View 0421 105 024
Stonewater Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
(03) 8203 5271 View (03) 8203 5271
Kia Bishop
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Catherine Field, NSW 2557
I work with teens (13+) and adults who feel overwhelmed, burnt out, or like they’ve never quite fit the mould — including those who are autistic, ADHD, or exploring whether they might be. Many of the people I support have tried to “push through” for a long time. On the outside, things might look okay, but internally it can feel exhausting, confusing, or like you’re constantly second-guessing yourself. Therapy with me is a space where you don’t have to mask, explain everything perfectly, or be “on.”
I work with teens (13+) and adults who feel overwhelmed, burnt out, or like they’ve never quite fit the mould — including those who are autistic, ADHD, or exploring whether they might be. Many of the people I support have tried to “push through” for a long time. On the outside, things might look okay, but internally it can feel exhausting, confusing, or like you’re constantly second-guessing yourself. Therapy with me is a space where you don’t have to mask, explain everything perfectly, or be “on.”
(08) 6029 5808 View (08) 6029 5808
Rocio Sanchez
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Sydney, NSW 2000
Waitlist for new clients
I’m an IFS and EMDR accredited mental health social worker that is passionate about supporting others to come closer to themselves and the world around them.
I use a trauma-specialist lens to support people with depression, anxiety and stress, grief and loss, culture and migrant challenges, self-esteem and confidence worries, relationship difficulties , self-harm and suicidal thoughts or life transitions.
I’m an IFS and EMDR accredited mental health social worker that is passionate about supporting others to come closer to themselves and the world around them.
I use a trauma-specialist lens to support people with depression, anxiety and stress, grief and loss, culture and migrant challenges, self-esteem and confidence worries, relationship difficulties , self-harm and suicidal thoughts or life transitions.
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Naz Ersan
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
As a counsellor with over 25 years of experience, I have supported couples, adolescents, families and individuals through all stages of life. My work is rooted in compassion for the pain all humans carry, a curiosity towards the deeper truths beneath the survival stories we learn to tell, and a respect for each person’s inner wisdom to choose the pace of their own growth.
As a counsellor with over 25 years of experience, I have supported couples, adolescents, families and individuals through all stages of life. My work is rooted in compassion for the pain all humans carry, a curiosity towards the deeper truths beneath the survival stories we learn to tell, and a respect for each person’s inner wisdom to choose the pace of their own growth.
(03) 8771 4212 View (03) 8771 4212
Bianca Rosin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
My work integrates Internal Family Systems ( IFS) helping you understand and gently relate to protective parts carrying fear, shame, anger, or self criticism.
You might be living with the impact of complex trauma - feeling on edge, emotionally overwhelmed, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Maybe you’ve done therapy before and understand your story, but your nervous system still reacts as if the danger is present. I work with adults healing from complex trauma (CPTSD), developmental trauma, and repeated relational wounds. My approach integrates mind and body - supporting both insight and nervous system regulation so change feels sustainable, not forced. Trauma doesn’t only live in memory. It lives in the body and in protective patterns that once helped you survive.
My work integrates Internal Family Systems ( IFS) helping you understand and gently relate to protective parts carrying fear, shame, anger, or self criticism.
You might be living with the impact of complex trauma - feeling on edge, emotionally overwhelmed, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Maybe you’ve done therapy before and understand your story, but your nervous system still reacts as if the danger is present. I work with adults healing from complex trauma (CPTSD), developmental trauma, and repeated relational wounds. My approach integrates mind and body - supporting both insight and nervous system regulation so change feels sustainable, not forced. Trauma doesn’t only live in memory. It lives in the body and in protective patterns that once helped you survive.
(02) 4077 0486 View (02) 4077 0486
Nese Sozen Psychology
Psychologist, MAPS
Drummoyne, NSW 2047
I am a Registered Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and also a member of the Australian Psychology Society. I have a Masters in Psychology in Family Therapy, a Masters in Health Education and also a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Supervision. With 35 years of experience in individual, couple, family, and relationships therapy.
I am a Registered Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and also a member of the Australian Psychology Society. I have a Masters in Psychology in Family Therapy, a Masters in Health Education and also a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Supervision. With 35 years of experience in individual, couple, family, and relationships therapy.
(02) 9100 0081 View (02) 9100 0081
Ofra Ronen
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may look like you're holding it together. Inside, it's a different story. My clients carry a low hum of tension that never quite switches off. Or they brace for the moment someone finally gets tired of them, never fully letting their guard down. Or they live with a quieter difficulty: a persistent feeling something is fundamentally wrong with them that others can see and they cannot fix. Many have tried other approaches. Too distant, too clinical, too focused on symptoms without touching what is underneath. You don't need the right words. You need to arrive willing to look.
You may look like you're holding it together. Inside, it's a different story. My clients carry a low hum of tension that never quite switches off. Or they brace for the moment someone finally gets tired of them, never fully letting their guard down. Or they live with a quieter difficulty: a persistent feeling something is fundamentally wrong with them that others can see and they cannot fix. Many have tried other approaches. Too distant, too clinical, too focused on symptoms without touching what is underneath. You don't need the right words. You need to arrive willing to look.
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Jessica Condell
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Neutral Bay, NSW 2089
For many clients, I incorporate attachment-based, Internal Family Systems and trauma-informed approaches.
I help people understand how difficult or painful relationship experiences shape connection, trust, boundaries and self-worth. You may find yourself overthinking relationships, people pleasing, struggling to trust others, fearing rejection or feeling lonely, anxious or not good enough. These patterns might show up with partners, in family relationships, workplaces, dating, friendships or parenting. Maybe you recognise similar responses surfacing in your interactions but feel unsure where to begin.
For many clients, I incorporate attachment-based, Internal Family Systems and trauma-informed approaches.
I help people understand how difficult or painful relationship experiences shape connection, trust, boundaries and self-worth. You may find yourself overthinking relationships, people pleasing, struggling to trust others, fearing rejection or feeling lonely, anxious or not good enough. These patterns might show up with partners, in family relationships, workplaces, dating, friendships or parenting. Maybe you recognise similar responses surfacing in your interactions but feel unsure where to begin.
(02) 9538 7368 View (02) 9538 7368
Sonya Cavanough Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I am a Couples Counsellor on Central Coast NSW. My approach is to provide a sense of safety, calm, and support, in a way that facilitates a better relationship for hurting couples who have experienced infidelity, through providing practical strategies to help them move forward in areas of communication, trust building and connection.
I am a Couples Counsellor on Central Coast NSW. My approach is to provide a sense of safety, calm, and support, in a way that facilitates a better relationship for hurting couples who have experienced infidelity, through providing practical strategies to help them move forward in areas of communication, trust building and connection.
(02) 4306 7178 View (02) 4306 7178
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.