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

Photo of Hitika Bhatia - Blossoming Minds Therapy, Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
Blossoming Minds Therapy
Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Blossoming Minds Therapy, we offer a warm, depth-oriented approach to therapy grounded in Psychosynthesis and psychodynamic psychotherapy. We support individuals, couples, families, and clinicians to explore patterns that may be shaping their relationships, wellbeing, and sense of self. By understanding how past experiences influence the present, clients can develop greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and more meaningful connections. Our work provides a safe and reflective space to navigate life's challenges, foster personal growth, and reconnect with purpose, authenticity, and lasting change.
At Blossoming Minds Therapy, we offer a warm, depth-oriented approach to therapy grounded in Psychosynthesis and psychodynamic psychotherapy. We support individuals, couples, families, and clinicians to explore patterns that may be shaping their relationships, wellbeing, and sense of self. By understanding how past experiences influence the present, clients can develop greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and more meaningful connections. Our work provides a safe and reflective space to navigate life's challenges, foster personal growth, and reconnect with purpose, authenticity, and lasting change.
(02) 8203 8768 View (02) 8203 8768
Photo of Azaan Vhora, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Azaan Vhora
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily use Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) approaches which makes therapy an experiential process centred towards deep, meaningful and lasting change.
Mental health challenges don’t appear out of nowhere, and they are never just a personal failing. The distress you feel today has roots—shaped by experiences, relationships, and messages you’ve absorbed over time. From childhood, you learned ways to navigate pain, disappointment, or fear, often without even realising it. Whether it was through pushing emotions down, always staying in control, or constantly meeting others’ expectations, these responses were once necessary to ensure you mattered or to prevent pain. But survival isn’t the same as living freely.
I primarily use Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) approaches which makes therapy an experiential process centred towards deep, meaningful and lasting change.
Mental health challenges don’t appear out of nowhere, and they are never just a personal failing. The distress you feel today has roots—shaped by experiences, relationships, and messages you’ve absorbed over time. From childhood, you learned ways to navigate pain, disappointment, or fear, often without even realising it. Whether it was through pushing emotions down, always staying in control, or constantly meeting others’ expectations, these responses were once necessary to ensure you mattered or to prevent pain. But survival isn’t the same as living freely.
(02) 8609 3543 View (02) 8609 3543
Photo of Susana Newcombe, Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L2
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
Photo of Fernanda Tinelli, Counsellor, ACA-L2
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Andrea Szasz - Brave Therapy TM, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Brave Therapy TM
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Woollahra, NSW 2025
I draw from relational psychotherapy, attachment theory, Somatic Experiencing SE), Brainspotting (BSP), EMDR, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), and IFS parts work, tailoring therapy to your unique needs.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? You could be feeling depressed, maybe you suffer from anxiety. You might feel overwhelmed by your emotions at times. Sadness. Anger. Confusion. Sometimes they all mix together into one big negative feeling that threatens to overtake you. Or, maybe you just feel numb–you go about your life… like you are living in a daze not knowing what you feel or what you want. Maybe you feel simply just not good enough.
I draw from relational psychotherapy, attachment theory, Somatic Experiencing SE), Brainspotting (BSP), EMDR, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), and IFS parts work, tailoring therapy to your unique needs.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? You could be feeling depressed, maybe you suffer from anxiety. You might feel overwhelmed by your emotions at times. Sadness. Anger. Confusion. Sometimes they all mix together into one big negative feeling that threatens to overtake you. Or, maybe you just feel numb–you go about your life… like you are living in a daze not knowing what you feel or what you want. Maybe you feel simply just not good enough.
(02) 9100 0322 View (02) 9100 0322
Photo of Harshani Algiriya, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Harshani Algiriya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach integrates EMDR, CBT-informed strategies, IFS, Gottman Method couples therapy, mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I provide trauma-informed therapy for individuals and couples, with a focus on supporting meaningful and lasting change. My work is grounded in evidence-based approaches, particularly EMDR therapy, and is tailored to each person’s unique experiences and goals. I support clients who may be experiencing: Trauma and complex or unresolved past experiences, Anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm, Depression and low mood, Relationship and family challenges, Burnout, life transitions, and work-related stress, Sleep difficulties and patterns linked to emotional distress.
My approach integrates EMDR, CBT-informed strategies, IFS, Gottman Method couples therapy, mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I provide trauma-informed therapy for individuals and couples, with a focus on supporting meaningful and lasting change. My work is grounded in evidence-based approaches, particularly EMDR therapy, and is tailored to each person’s unique experiences and goals. I support clients who may be experiencing: Trauma and complex or unresolved past experiences, Anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm, Depression and low mood, Relationship and family challenges, Burnout, life transitions, and work-related stress, Sleep difficulties and patterns linked to emotional distress.
(03) 8595 5442 View (03) 8595 5442
Photo of Barbara Zoroddu, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Barbara Zoroddu
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I strongly believe that psychological support should be a possibility for everyone, not just a luxury for the few. I am a trained Counselling professional with a passion for helping women like you fall in love with their minds and bodies, live their true emotions and find new ways to improve their well-being. I can support you while you learn more about your emotions and bodily resources, discover how to increase your self-esteem and become more resilient by overcoming your limiting beliefs about your beautiful self.
I strongly believe that psychological support should be a possibility for everyone, not just a luxury for the few. I am a trained Counselling professional with a passion for helping women like you fall in love with their minds and bodies, live their true emotions and find new ways to improve their well-being. I can support you while you learn more about your emotions and bodily resources, discover how to increase your self-esteem and become more resilient by overcoming your limiting beliefs about your beautiful self.
(03) 7003 2118 View (03) 7003 2118
Photo of Allira Sazdanoff, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Allira Sazdanoff
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw upon techniques from Interpersonal Therapy, EMDR, Therapies for Dissociative Processes including IFS, mindfulness and somatic practices.
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
I draw upon techniques from Interpersonal Therapy, EMDR, Therapies for Dissociative Processes including IFS, mindfulness and somatic practices.
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
(02) 4075 3896 View (02) 4075 3896
Photo of Dr Christine Ellisdon, Psychologist, PsychD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Dr Christine Ellisdon
Psychologist, PsychD, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I believe all people have an innate capacity for wisdom and, with this, a natural capacity for healing. I aim to empower people by supporting their connection to this inner wisdom while gently addressing the barriers that may limit access to it and prevent them from living a full and enriching life. Many people experience difficulties related to unresolved issues from the past, stressful relationship dynamics, work-related challenges, self-defeating behavioural patterns, and self-critical ways of thinking. Psychological counselling can help to develop insight, build on your strengths, and support meaningful and lasting change.
I believe all people have an innate capacity for wisdom and, with this, a natural capacity for healing. I aim to empower people by supporting their connection to this inner wisdom while gently addressing the barriers that may limit access to it and prevent them from living a full and enriching life. Many people experience difficulties related to unresolved issues from the past, stressful relationship dynamics, work-related challenges, self-defeating behavioural patterns, and self-critical ways of thinking. Psychological counselling can help to develop insight, build on your strengths, and support meaningful and lasting change.
(03) 9008 1947 View (03) 9008 1947
Photo of Debbie Navara - Empower Counselling, Counsellor, PACFA
Empower Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
I am a registered Clinical Counsellor dedicated to enhancing well-being and creating lasting, positive impact in individuals' lives through compassionate and personalised support. I work with a wide range of mental health issues, offering a listening presence and a safe environment, to access what clients are holding on to. I work with difficult feeling states such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship patterns, career changes, habits, addictions and weight loss.
I am a registered Clinical Counsellor dedicated to enhancing well-being and creating lasting, positive impact in individuals' lives through compassionate and personalised support. I work with a wide range of mental health issues, offering a listening presence and a safe environment, to access what clients are holding on to. I work with difficult feeling states such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship patterns, career changes, habits, addictions and weight loss.
0422 467 006 View 0422 467 006
Photo of Kaoru Sato, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Kaoru Sato
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Double Bay, NSW 2028
We tailor a treatment plan just for 'you' based on a variety of evidence-based therapies including: EMDR, CBT, mindfulness stress reduction, Internal Family Systems theory, narrative therapy and more!
A peaceful space to ‘breathe’… When life seems overwhelming and challenging, taking a moment to breathe in a comfortable, quiet space allows you to reflect, restore and rebuild. At Eastside, we strive to provide just such a ‘space to breathe’ and explore your issues together every step of the way. We will analyse the situation at your own pace and assist you to regain confidence by acquiring the necessary skills to overcome your difficulties. We address your current concerns with warm, mindful and evidence-based approaches in both English and Japanese. 日本語と英語で心理士・心理療法士による個人、カップルセッション。心理療法士として16年の経験を持つサイコロジストがエヴィデンスに基づいた心のケアを。。。
We tailor a treatment plan just for 'you' based on a variety of evidence-based therapies including: EMDR, CBT, mindfulness stress reduction, Internal Family Systems theory, narrative therapy and more!
A peaceful space to ‘breathe’… When life seems overwhelming and challenging, taking a moment to breathe in a comfortable, quiet space allows you to reflect, restore and rebuild. At Eastside, we strive to provide just such a ‘space to breathe’ and explore your issues together every step of the way. We will analyse the situation at your own pace and assist you to regain confidence by acquiring the necessary skills to overcome your difficulties. We address your current concerns with warm, mindful and evidence-based approaches in both English and Japanese. 日本語と英語で心理士・心理療法士による個人、カップルセッション。心理療法士として16年の経験を持つサイコロジストがエヴィデンスに基づいた心のケアを。。。
0418 656 228 View 0418 656 228
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 Sandy Macken, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Sandy Macken
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Balmain East, NSW 2041
I take a trauma informed approach to the work we do, guided my my training in IFS therapy and the aliveness of the “here and now”.
Are you feeling stuck inside despite all the effort and many attempts to get it right? Do you look ok on the outside but get the sense you’re crumbling internally or are you at war with yourself? Are you facing dilemmas or change that leaves you feeling overwhelmed? Are the difficulties of your past disturbing your dreams and giving you cause to lash out, cycle though addictions or want to disappear completely?
I take a trauma informed approach to the work we do, guided my my training in IFS therapy and the aliveness of the “here and now”.
Are you feeling stuck inside despite all the effort and many attempts to get it right? Do you look ok on the outside but get the sense you’re crumbling internally or are you at war with yourself? Are you facing dilemmas or change that leaves you feeling overwhelmed? Are the difficulties of your past disturbing your dreams and giving you cause to lash out, cycle though addictions or want to disappear completely?
(02) 4501 7792 View (02) 4501 7792
Photo of Jackson Goding - Jackson Goding - Find Reason Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jackson Goding - Find Reason Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs, trust yourself, or connect with others? At Find Reason Therapy, we help people understand the patterns, beliefs, and emotional wounds that may be keeping them stuck. Through a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, we create a space to build self-worth, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with who you are beneath the pain. Together, we work toward greater clarity, confidence, purpose, and meaningful connection.
Do you ever struggle with how you see yourself and how you show up in relationships? Is something getting in the way of allowing you to meet your needs, trust yourself, or connect with others? At Find Reason Therapy, we help people understand the patterns, beliefs, and emotional wounds that may be keeping them stuck. Through a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, we create a space to build self-worth, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with who you are beneath the pain. Together, we work toward greater clarity, confidence, purpose, and meaningful connection.
(02) 9100 0013 View (02) 9100 0013
Photo of Clinton Power, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Clinton Power
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Can you relate to either of these statements? “I’m so over hurtful relationships. I’m starting to think I’ll be single forever” "We can’t keep fighting like this. If something doesn’t change we’re headed for a breakup” If you can relate to the pain of struggling in a relationship, you’re not alone. If you’re an individual in relationship pain, I can help you overcome your past relationship hurts, understand your blocks to intimacy, and help you create a successful long-term relationship. If you’re a couple, I can help you resolve long-standing issues and rebuild the loving, intimate and harmonious relationship you once had.
Can you relate to either of these statements? “I’m so over hurtful relationships. I’m starting to think I’ll be single forever” "We can’t keep fighting like this. If something doesn’t change we’re headed for a breakup” If you can relate to the pain of struggling in a relationship, you’re not alone. If you’re an individual in relationship pain, I can help you overcome your past relationship hurts, understand your blocks to intimacy, and help you create a successful long-term relationship. If you’re a couple, I can help you resolve long-standing issues and rebuild the loving, intimate and harmonious relationship you once had.
(02) 8188 3842 View (02) 8188 3842
Photo of Katalin Janssens, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L3
Katalin Janssens
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L3
5 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Drawing on Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, existential, and polyvagal-informed approaches, we’ll focus on emotional safety, self-compassion, and the skills that support lasting healing.
I help adults heal from trauma, grief, and life transitions in a space that is safe, grounded, and genuinely human. Many people reach out when anxiety feels louder, loss feels overwhelming, or unhelpful patterns keep repeating. Therapy offers a place to slow down, understand what is happening beneath the surface, and work toward depth, clarity, healing, and a more satisfying way of living. Together, we combine practical tools with thoughtful exploration so change feels steady, meaningful, and sustainable.
Drawing on Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, existential, and polyvagal-informed approaches, we’ll focus on emotional safety, self-compassion, and the skills that support lasting healing.
I help adults heal from trauma, grief, and life transitions in a space that is safe, grounded, and genuinely human. Many people reach out when anxiety feels louder, loss feels overwhelming, or unhelpful patterns keep repeating. Therapy offers a place to slow down, understand what is happening beneath the surface, and work toward depth, clarity, healing, and a more satisfying way of living. Together, we combine practical tools with thoughtful exploration so change feels steady, meaningful, and sustainable.
(02) 9630 0451 View (02) 9630 0451
Photo of Danka Fiedor, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Danka Fiedor
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
Danka is EMDR Accredited Practitioner working with individuals and couples, attachment Informed EMDR, IFS informed, Gottman’s Therapy Method, Workers Compensation & CTP (SIRA), Eating Disorder Clinician, Resource Therapist (Advanced Ego State Therapy).
Danka Fiedor Psychology is offering integrated and customised to client needs therapy such as EMDR & EMDR 2.0 & EMDR Intensives for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed EMDR & "parts work" & Gottman Method Workers Compensation/CTP (SIRA) & Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
Danka is EMDR Accredited Practitioner working with individuals and couples, attachment Informed EMDR, IFS informed, Gottman’s Therapy Method, Workers Compensation & CTP (SIRA), Eating Disorder Clinician, Resource Therapist (Advanced Ego State Therapy).
Danka Fiedor Psychology is offering integrated and customised to client needs therapy such as EMDR & EMDR 2.0 & EMDR Intensives for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed EMDR & "parts work" & Gottman Method Workers Compensation/CTP (SIRA) & Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
(02) 9100 0959 View (02) 9100 0959
Photo of Georgina Whelan - Sexual Psychology: Clinical Psyc & Sex Therapist, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sexual Psychology: Clinical Psyc & Sex Therapist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
IFS is good for those with push pull dynamics.
Hi! I’m George. Sexual problems are common and can be resolved. As a clinical psychologist and sex therapist I am in the unique position of having experience and training in both mental health and sexual function, gender, sexuality, and relationships at the Masters level. Although my specialty is sexual issues, I take a whole person perspective and offer treatment for all metal health and relationship problems. I work with individuals, couples and poly relationships
IFS is good for those with push pull dynamics.
Hi! I’m George. Sexual problems are common and can be resolved. As a clinical psychologist and sex therapist I am in the unique position of having experience and training in both mental health and sexual function, gender, sexuality, and relationships at the Masters level. Although my specialty is sexual issues, I take a whole person perspective and offer treatment for all metal health and relationship problems. I work with individuals, couples and poly relationships
(02) 8294 6974 View (02) 8294 6974
Photo of Kylie Andersen, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Kylie Andersen
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Ashfield, NSW 2131
I use a relational, somatic approach informed by parts work ( IFS).
Are you someone who thinks deeply about your life but feels stuck? You try to get traction but keep finding yourself back in the same place? Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control. Maybe anxiety sits in the background, making life feel harder than it should. Maybe you're over-adapting in relationships, working hard to keep others happy, and losing sight of what you actually want. Or maybe there's just a nagging sense that the life you're living isn't quite yours.
I use a relational, somatic approach informed by parts work ( IFS).
Are you someone who thinks deeply about your life but feels stuck? You try to get traction but keep finding yourself back in the same place? Maybe you struggle with your body image, or you’re caught in a cycle with food that leaves you feeling out of control. Maybe anxiety sits in the background, making life feel harder than it should. Maybe you're over-adapting in relationships, working hard to keep others happy, and losing sight of what you actually want. Or maybe there's just a nagging sense that the life you're living isn't quite yours.
(02) 9158 6206 View (02) 9158 6206
Photo of Anne Siret, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Anne Siret
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Experienced registered psychotherapist/counsellor/coach passionate about supporting the wellbeing and growth of her clients building with them a safe, therapeutic and compassionate relationship.
Experienced registered psychotherapist/counsellor/coach passionate about supporting the wellbeing and growth of her clients building with them a safe, therapeutic and compassionate relationship.
(02) 8403 0070 View (02) 8403 0070
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.