Internal Family Systems (IFS) Counselling in Wooloowin, QLD

Photo of Caitlin Hughes - Caitlin - Cathartic Collaborations, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Caitlin - Cathartic Collaborations
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
You may be a late-identified Autistic or ADHD adult, feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or disconnected after years of masking and misattunement. You’re navigating big questions around identity, self-worth, and how to live in a way that feels authentic and sustainable. You want a therapist who sees the whole of you—not as a diagnosis, but as a complex and creative person. Together, we’ll create a space that honours your neurodivergence, supports your healing, and helps you build a life that fits you.
You may be a late-identified Autistic or ADHD adult, feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or disconnected after years of masking and misattunement. You’re navigating big questions around identity, self-worth, and how to live in a way that feels authentic and sustainable. You want a therapist who sees the whole of you—not as a diagnosis, but as a complex and creative person. Together, we’ll create a space that honours your neurodivergence, supports your healing, and helps you build a life that fits you.
(07) 3130 0244 View (07) 3130 0244
Photo of Sage Wilde - Soma & Sage by Sexologist Sage Wilde, Counsellor, PACFA
Soma & Sage by Sexologist Sage Wilde
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Want better personal and sexual relationships? Soma & Sage (body and wisdom) was founded by sexologist and relationship counsellor Sage Wilde, to help people with their sexual wellbeing and relationship goals. Sage works with individuals and couples, providing sex therapy and relationship counselling. She guides and educates people to feel empowered about their personal and sexual relationships. As a certified sexologist, sex therapist and relationship counsellor, Sage can help you build greater intimacy, deeper connections and stronger relationships.
Want better personal and sexual relationships? Soma & Sage (body and wisdom) was founded by sexologist and relationship counsellor Sage Wilde, to help people with their sexual wellbeing and relationship goals. Sage works with individuals and couples, providing sex therapy and relationship counselling. She guides and educates people to feel empowered about their personal and sexual relationships. As a certified sexologist, sex therapist and relationship counsellor, Sage can help you build greater intimacy, deeper connections and stronger relationships.
(07) 2100 4415 View (07) 2100 4415

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lena Lundell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Lena Lundell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Windsor, QLD 4030
I often use Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) as this is a respectful approach to lasting and profound transformation.
I believe in collaborative and person-focused counselling, and I work to tailor my approach to fit your strength in order to bring understanding, meaning, and fulfilment to both the therapeutic process and your ongoing life. My key strength as a counsellor is my authenticity, as this drives the connection and trust that underpins a successful session. I support people to access their
I often use Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) as this is a respectful approach to lasting and profound transformation.
I believe in collaborative and person-focused counselling, and I work to tailor my approach to fit your strength in order to bring understanding, meaning, and fulfilment to both the therapeutic process and your ongoing life. My key strength as a counsellor is my authenticity, as this drives the connection and trust that underpins a successful session. I support people to access their
(07) 3186 5685 View (07) 3186 5685
Photo of Fernanda Megda, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Fernanda Megda
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in somatic, body-based therapies such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EFT tapping, Somatic Experiencing, and other evidence-based approaches.
Hi, I’m Fernanda! I’m a compassionate counsellor and somatic therapist passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges, heal from the past, and step into their fullest potential. My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply attuned to your unique journey. Many of my clients come to me seeking support with: Relationship challenges Anxiety or depression Childhood trauma Phobias and OCD Parenting struggles Low self-esteem Personal growth and self-discovery
I specialize in somatic, body-based therapies such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EFT tapping, Somatic Experiencing, and other evidence-based approaches.
Hi, I’m Fernanda! I’m a compassionate counsellor and somatic therapist passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges, heal from the past, and step into their fullest potential. My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply attuned to your unique journey. Many of my clients come to me seeking support with: Relationship challenges Anxiety or depression Childhood trauma Phobias and OCD Parenting struggles Low self-esteem Personal growth and self-discovery
(02) 9100 0179 View (02) 9100 0179
Photo of Dr Arthur David Stabolidis - Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
CBT/ACT/ IFS/Schema Therapy for ADHD, anxiety and depression.
You have come here with a concern you want some help with. Understanding that concern, its impact on your life, and its place within the story of your life is an integral part of the therapy process. My specialty clinical interests include adult ADHD and ASD, anxiety, depression, stress management, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS, and which I use as a therapy to help promote fertility.
CBT/ACT/ IFS/Schema Therapy for ADHD, anxiety and depression.
You have come here with a concern you want some help with. Understanding that concern, its impact on your life, and its place within the story of your life is an integral part of the therapy process. My specialty clinical interests include adult ADHD and ASD, anxiety, depression, stress management, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS, and which I use as a therapy to help promote fertility.
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Photo of Jennifer Rees Brown, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jennifer Rees Brown
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
She works under the non-pathologising model of Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Therapy and has completed Level 1 and 2 of the IFS Institute's Official Training.
Jennifer treats adults experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma resulting from abuse and neglect, and stress and burnout. She enjoys supporting clients as they navigate challenging life transitions and move toward a life aligned with their values. Jennifer brings warmth and genuine compassion to her therapeutic work and ensures clients' goals remain at the centre of their personalised treatment plan. Attachment theory and humans' deep need for connection underpins her approach and her work is always trauma-informed.
She works under the non-pathologising model of Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Therapy and has completed Level 1 and 2 of the IFS Institute's Official Training.
Jennifer treats adults experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma resulting from abuse and neglect, and stress and burnout. She enjoys supporting clients as they navigate challenging life transitions and move toward a life aligned with their values. Jennifer brings warmth and genuine compassion to her therapeutic work and ensures clients' goals remain at the centre of their personalised treatment plan. Attachment theory and humans' deep need for connection underpins her approach and her work is always trauma-informed.
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Photo of Lynette Cullen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Lynette Cullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use a variety of proven therapies such as CBT, Schema, IFS and EMDR and more.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, overwhelm or past trauma? Do you want to deepen your self-awareness, explore challenges or behaviours that are holding you back from achieving your goals? Maybe you are transitioning to another life stage and feel lost. I offer a respectful, safe, supportive, non-judgemental space to explore your concerns; bringing 15 years experience, personal character strengths of Love, Kindness, Honesty, Creativity and Humour
I use a variety of proven therapies such as CBT, Schema, IFS and EMDR and more.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, overwhelm or past trauma? Do you want to deepen your self-awareness, explore challenges or behaviours that are holding you back from achieving your goals? Maybe you are transitioning to another life stage and feel lost. I offer a respectful, safe, supportive, non-judgemental space to explore your concerns; bringing 15 years experience, personal character strengths of Love, Kindness, Honesty, Creativity and Humour
(08) 7184 0205 View (08) 7184 0205
Photo of Tim Murray, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tim Murray
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I specialise in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, stress), neurological disorders (autism, ADHD, learning difficulties), and family systems.
I may be the right fit for you if you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, depression, anxiety, or challenging relationships. I can also help if you’re struggling to navigate personal identity or feeling like an imposter in your own life. Bulk billing is available for clients with a Mental Health Treatment Plan (GP referral).
I specialise in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, stress), neurological disorders (autism, ADHD, learning difficulties), and family systems.
I may be the right fit for you if you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, depression, anxiety, or challenging relationships. I can also help if you’re struggling to navigate personal identity or feeling like an imposter in your own life. Bulk billing is available for clients with a Mental Health Treatment Plan (GP referral).
(03) 7003 2101 View (03) 7003 2101
Photo of Oliver Szymanski, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Oliver Szymanski
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Oliver practices from the strength-based approach, using a biopsychosocial model in all of his case formulation as well as family systems theory.
Oliver is a Registered Psychologist and who has worked closely with young people of various presentations in both an intervention and cognitive assessment capacity. Oliver has extensive experience working with Neurodevelopmental Disorders in particular, and assessing complex presentations across childhood to young adulthood. He also undertaken numerous trainings and workshops on Eating Disorders, which remains a key area of professional interest.
Oliver practices from the strength-based approach, using a biopsychosocial model in all of his case formulation as well as family systems theory.
Oliver is a Registered Psychologist and who has worked closely with young people of various presentations in both an intervention and cognitive assessment capacity. Oliver has extensive experience working with Neurodevelopmental Disorders in particular, and assessing complex presentations across childhood to young adulthood. He also undertaken numerous trainings and workshops on Eating Disorders, which remains a key area of professional interest.
(03) 9068 5778 View (03) 9068 5778
Photo of Lukas Starling, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Lukas Starling
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Windsor, QLD 4030
I am also Internal Family Systems ( IFS) informed and find a multi-mind or parts approach to be very supportive in therapy.
I can support you with depression; anxiety and panic; isolation and loneliness, climate change grief and anxiety, queer/gay male or trans support; sexuality and sex; childhood sexual abuse and incest; family neglect and estrangement; procrastination; pronography use.
I am also Internal Family Systems ( IFS) informed and find a multi-mind or parts approach to be very supportive in therapy.
I can support you with depression; anxiety and panic; isolation and loneliness, climate change grief and anxiety, queer/gay male or trans support; sexuality and sex; childhood sexual abuse and incest; family neglect and estrangement; procrastination; pronography use.
(07) 2100 4016 View (07) 2100 4016
Photo of Melissa Lee McKay - Guided Hope Counselling, Counsellor, PACFA
Guided Hope Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including the Internal Family System ( IFS), Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
My name is Melissa, and I’m a credentialed therapist in Australia with 16 years of professional experience. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. My approach to therapy is centred on treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I firmly believe in the power of tailoring our sessions to fit your individual needs. My experience extends across a wide range of areas, including addictions, depression, trauma relationship and family issues, self-esteem, and managing stress as a caregiver.
I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including the Internal Family System ( IFS), Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
My name is Melissa, and I’m a credentialed therapist in Australia with 16 years of professional experience. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. My approach to therapy is centred on treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I firmly believe in the power of tailoring our sessions to fit your individual needs. My experience extends across a wide range of areas, including addictions, depression, trauma relationship and family issues, self-esteem, and managing stress as a caregiver.
(03) 4150 1216 View (03) 4150 1216
Photo of Tiffany Valente - Brainspotting, EMDR, IFS ClinPsy- Tiffany Valente , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brainspotting, EMDR, IFS ClinPsy- Tiffany Valente
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I integrate EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), somatic therapy, ACT and DBT to help you process trauma, shift long-standing patterns, and reconnect with your inner strength.
More than just a chat, I stay on the forefront of what psychology has to offer, combining tools from evidence-based treatments such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (Level 1 trained), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) & Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) - so I can empower you with practical tools to create lasting change.
I integrate EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), somatic therapy, ACT and DBT to help you process trauma, shift long-standing patterns, and reconnect with your inner strength.
More than just a chat, I stay on the forefront of what psychology has to offer, combining tools from evidence-based treatments such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (Level 1 trained), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) & Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) - so I can empower you with practical tools to create lasting change.
(03) 7003 2560 View (03) 7003 2560
Photo of Alana Rhodes, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Alana Rhodes
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing from many evidence-based methods, with particular emphasis on narrative therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Hi, I'm Alana. As an integrative wellness counsellor, I offer a gentle, trauma-informed approach to support you on your healing journey. Whether you're navigating the fog of anxiety, the weight of grief, the complexities of relationships, or an unspoken sense of disquiet and unease. Life can sometimes feel like a tangled knot of emotions and experiences. In our sessions, we'll work collaboratively to gently unravel these complexities, helping you find clarity and a grounded path forward.
My approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing from many evidence-based methods, with particular emphasis on narrative therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Hi, I'm Alana. As an integrative wellness counsellor, I offer a gentle, trauma-informed approach to support you on your healing journey. Whether you're navigating the fog of anxiety, the weight of grief, the complexities of relationships, or an unspoken sense of disquiet and unease. Life can sometimes feel like a tangled knot of emotions and experiences. In our sessions, we'll work collaboratively to gently unravel these complexities, helping you find clarity and a grounded path forward.
(07) 5241 1219 View (07) 5241 1219
Photo of Liberty Hills, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Liberty Hills
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Using a person-centred approach, Liberty tailors each session to the client's unique needs, drawing from therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Creative Arts Therapy, attachment based and Narrative Therapy.
Liberty is a dedicated and experienced counsellor committed to providing safe, supportive, and affirming counselling for all individuals seeking support. With five years of experience, they work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent people, youth, those with disabilities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They have experience supporting individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, life transitions, emotional dysregulation, ASD, ADHD, and gender identity.
Using a person-centred approach, Liberty tailors each session to the client's unique needs, drawing from therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Creative Arts Therapy, attachment based and Narrative Therapy.
Liberty is a dedicated and experienced counsellor committed to providing safe, supportive, and affirming counselling for all individuals seeking support. With five years of experience, they work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent people, youth, those with disabilities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They have experience supporting individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, life transitions, emotional dysregulation, ASD, ADHD, and gender identity.
(08) 6171 2080 View (08) 6171 2080
Photo of Elizabeth Theiler, Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Elizabeth Theiler
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
: EMDR, NLP, TA, Lacanian Psychoanalysis, Existential, Systems and Somatic based approaches, IFS, Breath Work, Integration Therapy after experiences of altered states of consciousness.
I offer above all my intentional+ deep listening to your conscious/ unconscious concerns. I specialise in tailoring individually suitable therapies. I wish to assist you to open spaces, that can allow reflection and creation towards new internal+ external potentialities+ futurities, unique only to you. I am a Registered Psychologist and Psychoanalyst (Badiou/Lacan), Phd (abd level) with 50 years of expertise. I can practice in English, German or French. I am available on line, by Skype/Zoom (from anywhere in the world) + in person (at my office), by phone (Australia), for home visits (10km radius) for short and longterm therapies.
: EMDR, NLP, TA, Lacanian Psychoanalysis, Existential, Systems and Somatic based approaches, IFS, Breath Work, Integration Therapy after experiences of altered states of consciousness.
I offer above all my intentional+ deep listening to your conscious/ unconscious concerns. I specialise in tailoring individually suitable therapies. I wish to assist you to open spaces, that can allow reflection and creation towards new internal+ external potentialities+ futurities, unique only to you. I am a Registered Psychologist and Psychoanalyst (Badiou/Lacan), Phd (abd level) with 50 years of expertise. I can practice in English, German or French. I am available on line, by Skype/Zoom (from anywhere in the world) + in person (at my office), by phone (Australia), for home visits (10km radius) for short and longterm therapies.
(07) 3186 9444 View (07) 3186 9444
Photo of Jessice Taylor - Wolf Pack Health and Wellness, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Wolf Pack Health and Wellness
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Wanora, QLD 4306
Counselling: Nature-based, online, & room-based sessions utilising approaches such as person-centred therapy, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt & trauma-informed care.
Are you feeling disconnected, anxious, overwhelmed, or seeking a deeper sense of purpose? At Wolf Pack Health and Wellness, we provide a nurturing space where your true self is welcomed, seen, and heard. By embracing the healing power of nature and fostering deep connections, we guide you on a transformative journey toward personal growth and healing.
Counselling: Nature-based, online, & room-based sessions utilising approaches such as person-centred therapy, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt & trauma-informed care.
Are you feeling disconnected, anxious, overwhelmed, or seeking a deeper sense of purpose? At Wolf Pack Health and Wellness, we provide a nurturing space where your true self is welcomed, seen, and heard. By embracing the healing power of nature and fostering deep connections, we guide you on a transformative journey toward personal growth and healing.
(07) 5240 9078 View (07) 5240 9078
Photo of Daniela Dorney
Daniela Dorney
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have my own lived experience of trauma recovery and employ a combination of arts therapy, internal family systems therapy and EMDR into my practice.
Trauma Informed Therapy - Neuroaffirming Support
I have my own lived experience of trauma recovery and employ a combination of arts therapy, internal family systems therapy and EMDR into my practice.
Trauma Informed Therapy - Neuroaffirming Support
(03) 6174 1368 View (03) 6174 1368
Photo of Mary A McIntyre, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Mary A McIntyre
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bardon, QLD 4065
I employ evidence-based approaches including somatic psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing , Internal Family Systems ( IFS), mindfulness training (MBSR /MBCT) , inner child work, expressive therapies, symbol work.
The right therapy is gold. I work with somatic modalities to help people's bodymind deeply heal from stress, anxiety, PTSD, early life relational trauma and more. Trauma is more common than we think and individualised therapy can really make a difference.
I employ evidence-based approaches including somatic psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing , Internal Family Systems ( IFS), mindfulness training (MBSR /MBCT) , inner child work, expressive therapies, symbol work.
The right therapy is gold. I work with somatic modalities to help people's bodymind deeply heal from stress, anxiety, PTSD, early life relational trauma and more. Trauma is more common than we think and individualised therapy can really make a difference.
(07) 3186 8568 View (07) 3186 8568
Photo of Crawf Weir - Crawf Weir Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Crawf Weir Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I’m Crawf Weir, a psychotherapist specialising in Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
Are you feeling lost or disconnected, as if life hasn’t turned out the way you expected? Maybe you’re unsure of who you really are, struggling with past pain, or trying to find your way. Many of my clients feel stuck between their past and an uncertain future. Now is an ideal time to embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. I work with individuals who are ready to explore their emotions and reconnect with what truly matters in their lives. Together, we’ll gently let go of what’s holding you back and move toward a life filled with clarity, meaning, and purpose.
I’m Crawf Weir, a psychotherapist specialising in Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
Are you feeling lost or disconnected, as if life hasn’t turned out the way you expected? Maybe you’re unsure of who you really are, struggling with past pain, or trying to find your way. Many of my clients feel stuck between their past and an uncertain future. Now is an ideal time to embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. I work with individuals who are ready to explore their emotions and reconnect with what truly matters in their lives. Together, we’ll gently let go of what’s holding you back and move toward a life filled with clarity, meaning, and purpose.
(02) 9100 0451 View (02) 9100 0451
Photo of Jana Maddock - Jana Maddock Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Jana Maddock Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Online Only
My primary therapeutic approach is the Internal Family System Therapy ( IFS), which aims to restore trust in self-leadership, achieve harmony and balance, and bring self-energy to the system.
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
My primary therapeutic approach is the Internal Family System Therapy ( IFS), which aims to restore trust in self-leadership, achieve harmony and balance, and bring self-energy to the system.
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
(07) 5241 1842 View (07) 5241 1842
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Counsellors

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.