Internal Family Systems (IFS) Counselling in Ringwood East, VIC

Photo of Petra van Vliet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Petra van Vliet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Serves Area
I work from a trauma-informed framework which incorporates Attachment theory, Schema Theory and IFS.
I work with older folk who are facing life-transitions, grief and loss and bereavement. I work with carers who struggle with the stresses of the caring role, and I work with individuals who have a history of trauma, severe mental health concerns and who access services through NDIS. I am office-based, I do home visits and I offer telehealth services.
I work from a trauma-informed framework which incorporates Attachment theory, Schema Theory and IFS.
I work with older folk who are facing life-transitions, grief and loss and bereavement. I work with carers who struggle with the stresses of the caring role, and I work with individuals who have a history of trauma, severe mental health concerns and who access services through NDIS. I am office-based, I do home visits and I offer telehealth services.
(03) 8203 5194 View (03) 8203 5194
Photo of Danielle Tichelaar, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Danielle Tichelaar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Danielle. Reaching out for support can feel daunting, and I want you to know that you're not alone. As a psychologist, my priority is creating a space where you feel safe, heard, and truly understood. Therapy isn’t just about working through challenges—it’s about having someone walk alongside you, supporting you with warmth, compassion, and genuine care. I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in supporting self-understanding and growth, and I am committed to taking the time to understand individuals' unique needs and challenges.
Hi, I'm Danielle. Reaching out for support can feel daunting, and I want you to know that you're not alone. As a psychologist, my priority is creating a space where you feel safe, heard, and truly understood. Therapy isn’t just about working through challenges—it’s about having someone walk alongside you, supporting you with warmth, compassion, and genuine care. I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in supporting self-understanding and growth, and I am committed to taking the time to understand individuals' unique needs and challenges.
(03) 8203 5977 View (03) 8203 5977
Photo of Caroline Burrows - Mindful Living Counselling and Psychology, Counsellor, AMHSW
Mindful Living Counselling and Psychology
Counsellor, AMHSW
Serves Area
If you are struggling with the impact of trauma, or are interested in trying EMDR Therapy, we are here to help! We are a psychology and counselling practice located in Croydon, Victoria. We have a special focus on the treatment of PTSD and trauma, with a particular interest in EMDR Therapy. EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based method of trauma treatment that is endorsed by the World Health Organisation and Medicare Australia. Our Practice Director, Caroline Burrows, is a leading accredited EMDR trainer in Australia. We are proud to offer traditional, intensive and group EMDR Therapy.
If you are struggling with the impact of trauma, or are interested in trying EMDR Therapy, we are here to help! We are a psychology and counselling practice located in Croydon, Victoria. We have a special focus on the treatment of PTSD and trauma, with a particular interest in EMDR Therapy. EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based method of trauma treatment that is endorsed by the World Health Organisation and Medicare Australia. Our Practice Director, Caroline Burrows, is a leading accredited EMDR trainer in Australia. We are proud to offer traditional, intensive and group EMDR Therapy.
(03) 6146 3217 View (03) 6146 3217

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michal deWilloughby, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Michal deWilloughby
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Point Cook, VIC 3030
My expertise is in Mindful Based Somatic (trauma & body based) Therapy, Family Constellations, IFS Therapy, Bereavement, Grief, and Loss Interventions
My therapeutic work is dedicated to empowering clients in such a way that they feel more connected to their authentic humanness, have confidence about their inner resources and strengths, as well as their ability to impactfully move forward in their life’s journey in a more meaningful and fulfilling way. I am committed to helping clients accomplish their specific therapeutic goals and to become the author of their own life’s journey by drawing on my years of integrated therapeutic experience and extensive knowledge of evidence-based practices.
My expertise is in Mindful Based Somatic (trauma & body based) Therapy, Family Constellations, IFS Therapy, Bereavement, Grief, and Loss Interventions
My therapeutic work is dedicated to empowering clients in such a way that they feel more connected to their authentic humanness, have confidence about their inner resources and strengths, as well as their ability to impactfully move forward in their life’s journey in a more meaningful and fulfilling way. I am committed to helping clients accomplish their specific therapeutic goals and to become the author of their own life’s journey by drawing on my years of integrated therapeutic experience and extensive knowledge of evidence-based practices.
(03) 7302 8073 View (03) 7302 8073
Photo of Nikki Black, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Nikki Black
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Newport, VIC 3015
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based techniques like iRest Yoga Nidra.
Life can be tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Counselling can help you navigate your way back to feeling better about life. I’m a compassionate counsellor with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can be—whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, or any other personal issues. Taking that first step toward change is often the hardest, but with new strategies and support change is possible.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based techniques like iRest Yoga Nidra.
Life can be tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Counselling can help you navigate your way back to feeling better about life. I’m a compassionate counsellor with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can be—whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, or any other personal issues. Taking that first step toward change is often the hardest, but with new strategies and support change is possible.
0461 467 981 View 0461 467 981
Photo of Michele Mary Hughes, Counsellor, MA, AAFT
Michele Mary Hughes
Counsellor, MA, AAFT
Ringwood, VIC 3134
With a focus on family systems I find that individuals, parents and families are able to identify their own issues that can be strengthened.
I can offer an in person Single Session/ one off appointment for 90 minutes with a follow up phone call if you would like to work on something specific. Ongoing sessions are also available. You choose what suits you best and what you would like to focus on. I can assist you to get to the core of your concerns in a short time. You are the expert of your life
With a focus on family systems I find that individuals, parents and families are able to identify their own issues that can be strengthened.
I can offer an in person Single Session/ one off appointment for 90 minutes with a follow up phone call if you would like to work on something specific. Ongoing sessions are also available. You choose what suits you best and what you would like to focus on. I can assist you to get to the core of your concerns in a short time. You are the expert of your life
(03) 8203 5413 View (03) 8203 5413
Photo of Henry Fowkes, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Henry Fowkes
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I integrate other evidence-based and trauma-informed techniques such as Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, and Mindfulness, to support my clients.
I am a PACFA registered Gestalt psychotherapist passionate about change, embodiment, and relationships. My approach is grounded in Gestalt's holistic, non-pathologising philosophy, believing in your inherent wholeness, resilience, and interconnectedness. I aim to create a welcoming environment that supports you in expanding your awareness and developing inner resources needed to embrace life's challenges. Drawing on my decade as an Open Floor teacher—a therapeutic movement practice—I foster greater mind-body awareness. This embodied approach helps address root issues, supporting your healing, growth, and increased agency in life.
I integrate other evidence-based and trauma-informed techniques such as Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, and Mindfulness, to support my clients.
I am a PACFA registered Gestalt psychotherapist passionate about change, embodiment, and relationships. My approach is grounded in Gestalt's holistic, non-pathologising philosophy, believing in your inherent wholeness, resilience, and interconnectedness. I aim to create a welcoming environment that supports you in expanding your awareness and developing inner resources needed to embrace life's challenges. Drawing on my decade as an Open Floor teacher—a therapeutic movement practice—I foster greater mind-body awareness. This embodied approach helps address root issues, supporting your healing, growth, and increased agency in life.
(03) 7003 2161 View (03) 7003 2161
Photo of Dr Max Lee, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Max Lee
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Eltham, VIC 3095
I use an eclectic approach, drawing on elements of CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, DBT, EMDR, Schema Therapy and IFS to tailor an optimal approach for every client.
I work individually (face-to-face and/or telehealth) with adults (18-70yo) struggling with symptoms of anxiety, stress, depression, childhood trauma, PTSD and OCD, as well as relationship difficulties, life transitions and other life challenges. I strive to help my clients experience symptom reduction, develop more effective ways of managing symptoms, enhance self-understanding and insight, develop greater self-acceptance and self-compassion, increase a sense of control, purpose, vitality and fulfilment. I am happy to offer both short and long term therapy depending on the individual's needs, circumstances and preferences.
I use an eclectic approach, drawing on elements of CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, DBT, EMDR, Schema Therapy and IFS to tailor an optimal approach for every client.
I work individually (face-to-face and/or telehealth) with adults (18-70yo) struggling with symptoms of anxiety, stress, depression, childhood trauma, PTSD and OCD, as well as relationship difficulties, life transitions and other life challenges. I strive to help my clients experience symptom reduction, develop more effective ways of managing symptoms, enhance self-understanding and insight, develop greater self-acceptance and self-compassion, increase a sense of control, purpose, vitality and fulfilment. I am happy to offer both short and long term therapy depending on the individual's needs, circumstances and preferences.
(03) 8400 0019 View (03) 8400 0019
Photo of Margaret Baker, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Margaret Baker
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Chelsea Heights, VIC 3196
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) therapy can help you to process this distress, while increasing your self-compassion and curiosity.
Creating a therapeutic space that feels warm, caring and compassionate is my primary focus. People come to therapy with a desire to feel better, typically at times of change and transition, when they may feel stuck, unmotivated or unfulfilled in their lives. This is a hard place to be, so finding a Psychologist who understands you is important. I help adults experiencing challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and grief to find clarity. Together, we can process your distressing experiences while creating an internal sense of security and confidence, so you can lead the life you want to live.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) therapy can help you to process this distress, while increasing your self-compassion and curiosity.
Creating a therapeutic space that feels warm, caring and compassionate is my primary focus. People come to therapy with a desire to feel better, typically at times of change and transition, when they may feel stuck, unmotivated or unfulfilled in their lives. This is a hard place to be, so finding a Psychologist who understands you is important. I help adults experiencing challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and grief to find clarity. Together, we can process your distressing experiences while creating an internal sense of security and confidence, so you can lead the life you want to live.
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Photo of Elise Zijai - Hart&Seek, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Hart&Seek
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Essendon North, VIC 3041
My therapeutic approach is eclectic, drawing upon a range of modalities including CBT, IFS, Person-Centered, and Existential therapies.
Hello, I am glad you have arrived. If you are in need of connection, understanding and empowerment, you have come to the right place. My work supports those experiencing relationship issues, anxiety, self-worth struggles, academic pressure, balancing multiple roles, burnout, defensive responses and transitional moments. My approach is grounded in emotional safety and the mind-body-soul connection. I honour the philosophy of 'no bad parts' and I hope to inspire my clients to accept themselves wholly, because every part of us has a story to tell, a story to be held and honoured, and new stories to be made.
My therapeutic approach is eclectic, drawing upon a range of modalities including CBT, IFS, Person-Centered, and Existential therapies.
Hello, I am glad you have arrived. If you are in need of connection, understanding and empowerment, you have come to the right place. My work supports those experiencing relationship issues, anxiety, self-worth struggles, academic pressure, balancing multiple roles, burnout, defensive responses and transitional moments. My approach is grounded in emotional safety and the mind-body-soul connection. I honour the philosophy of 'no bad parts' and I hope to inspire my clients to accept themselves wholly, because every part of us has a story to tell, a story to be held and honoured, and new stories to be made.
(03) 8104 9305 View (03) 8104 9305
Photo of Ruth Adams - Ruth Adams Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ruth Adams Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Oakleigh, VIC 3166
I have trained in the following therapeutic modalitites: CBT, ACT, IFS, DBT, schema, narrative, and family therapy
I am a holistic Psychologist with ten years experience working with people who have experienced trauma, complex relationships, financial and work related stress, as well as parenting and generational tension.
I have trained in the following therapeutic modalitites: CBT, ACT, IFS, DBT, schema, narrative, and family therapy
I am a holistic Psychologist with ten years experience working with people who have experienced trauma, complex relationships, financial and work related stress, as well as parenting and generational tension.
(03) 7500 5881 View (03) 7500 5881
Photo of Aadhyaa Udawat, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Aadhyaa Udawat
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
I employ presence-oriented psychotherapy, integrating approaches like ACT, MBCT, MBSR, Polyvagal therapy, somatic experiencing, and trauma-informed IFS.
Navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, I specialize in supporting adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged individuals. From attachment and trauma to anxiety, relationship challenges, career stress, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, substance abuse, low self-esteem, ADHD, complex trauma, and BPD – I address a diverse range of concerns. With a compassionate approach, we embark on a healing journey tailored to the unique needs of each individual, fostering resilience and well-being. Together, we navigate the complexities, promoting growth and empowerment in the face of various mental health challenges.
I employ presence-oriented psychotherapy, integrating approaches like ACT, MBCT, MBSR, Polyvagal therapy, somatic experiencing, and trauma-informed IFS.
Navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, I specialize in supporting adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged individuals. From attachment and trauma to anxiety, relationship challenges, career stress, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, substance abuse, low self-esteem, ADHD, complex trauma, and BPD – I address a diverse range of concerns. With a compassionate approach, we embark on a healing journey tailored to the unique needs of each individual, fostering resilience and well-being. Together, we navigate the complexities, promoting growth and empowerment in the face of various mental health challenges.
(03) 7003 2119 View (03) 7003 2119
Photo of San Leenstra, Counsellor, MA, AThR
San Leenstra
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I work person-centred and pschotherapeutic and use EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Creative Art Therapy, Sandtray and Narrative Therapy.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
I work person-centred and pschotherapeutic and use EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Creative Art Therapy, Sandtray and Narrative Therapy.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
(03) 4422 2660 View (03) 4422 2660
Photo of Lauren Michelle Ban, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Lauren Michelle Ban
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Mornington, VIC 3931
Waitlist for new clients
Through loving presence and techniques from Focusing and Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS), I help people access their own deep sense of inner knowing.
So if you feel like 1) past experiences or traumas are holding you back 2) you have a voice inside your head judging everything you do or 3) you would like deeper connections with other people and with yourself, feel free to reach out for a free 15 min chat and we can see if you would like to go further.
Through loving presence and techniques from Focusing and Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS), I help people access their own deep sense of inner knowing.
So if you feel like 1) past experiences or traumas are holding you back 2) you have a voice inside your head judging everything you do or 3) you would like deeper connections with other people and with yourself, feel free to reach out for a free 15 min chat and we can see if you would like to go further.
(03) 5907 5849 View (03) 5907 5849
Photo of Elliott McMahon - Elliott McMahon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Elliott McMahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
1 Endorsed
Coburg North, VIC 3058
Intersectional practice, Queer theory and family systems theory underpin my practice.
I am a social worker and family therapist with over eight years post-qualifying experience, and over five years experience providing supervision and consultation to frontline practitioners and leaders in mental health, AoD, family violence and housing and homelessness sectors. I offer compassionate and non-judgemental services to people in Melbourne who have been impacted by the war on people who use drugs, the criminalisation of sex work, incarceration, and other forms of marginalisation.
Intersectional practice, Queer theory and family systems theory underpin my practice.
I am a social worker and family therapist with over eight years post-qualifying experience, and over five years experience providing supervision and consultation to frontline practitioners and leaders in mental health, AoD, family violence and housing and homelessness sectors. I offer compassionate and non-judgemental services to people in Melbourne who have been impacted by the war on people who use drugs, the criminalisation of sex work, incarceration, and other forms of marginalisation.
(03) 8104 9400 View (03) 8104 9400
Photo of Brett Mackie, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Brett Mackie
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Laverton, VIC 3028
Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS, I tailor support to what actually works for you.
My ideal client isn't perfect-they've been through things, lost confidence, or carry pain they rarely speak aloud. They're often high-functioning but exhausted, craving a circuit-breaker. They want more than just symptom relief-they want clarity, connection, and a life that actually feels like theirs. They come with questions like "Is this all there is?" or "Why can't I just move on?" —and they're ready, even if nervously, to do the real work of healing with someone who gets it.
Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS, I tailor support to what actually works for you.
My ideal client isn't perfect-they've been through things, lost confidence, or carry pain they rarely speak aloud. They're often high-functioning but exhausted, craving a circuit-breaker. They want more than just symptom relief-they want clarity, connection, and a life that actually feels like theirs. They come with questions like "Is this all there is?" or "Why can't I just move on?" —and they're ready, even if nervously, to do the real work of healing with someone who gets it.
(03) 7303 3771 View (03) 7303 3771
Photo of Dr Kamil Wolyniec, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Kamil Wolyniec
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Warrandyte, VIC 3113
I employ Mindfulness-based, and Somatic approaches, Internal Family Systems, Psychodrama, Compassion Focused Therapy, Adult Attachment Repair Therapy, Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, CBT and ACT.
I am an AHPRA registered psychologist. I employ a holistic, culturally sensitive approach, that is trauma-informed, attachment aware and grounded in bio-psycho-social-spiritual model. I trust in each person’s inherent potential to experience wholeness through self-compassion and self–inquiry/self-awareness. I am committed to creating a person-centred, safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and collaborative therapeutic experience.
I employ Mindfulness-based, and Somatic approaches, Internal Family Systems, Psychodrama, Compassion Focused Therapy, Adult Attachment Repair Therapy, Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, CBT and ACT.
I am an AHPRA registered psychologist. I employ a holistic, culturally sensitive approach, that is trauma-informed, attachment aware and grounded in bio-psycho-social-spiritual model. I trust in each person’s inherent potential to experience wholeness through self-compassion and self–inquiry/self-awareness. I am committed to creating a person-centred, safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and collaborative therapeutic experience.
(03) 8771 4534 View (03) 8771 4534
Photo of Tiarna Chesser, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Tiarna Chesser
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I draw on a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), tailoring her interventions to meet your needs
Tiarna is a registered psychologist who brings a wealth of experience from both forensic and community mental health settings. She works primarily with adults and has a strong background supporting individuals involved in the criminal justice system, as well as those facing complex and high-risk challenges such as co-occurring mental health and substance use issues.
I draw on a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), tailoring her interventions to meet your needs
Tiarna is a registered psychologist who brings a wealth of experience from both forensic and community mental health settings. She works primarily with adults and has a strong background supporting individuals involved in the criminal justice system, as well as those facing complex and high-risk challenges such as co-occurring mental health and substance use issues.
(03) 4420 3733 View (03) 4420 3733
Photo of Kimberley Kifun, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kimberley Kifun
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilise an integrative approach using many different modalities such as somatic, attachment and internal family systems and we collaboratively sculpt a treatment plan that suits you.
Psychotherapy is a journey of self-discovery, and I honor the complexity and richness of the human experience as a foundation for growth and change. Rather than focusing solely on problem-solving, I view therapy as a space to foster self-compassion for all parts of yourself, understand how past experiences shape present patterns, and cultivate resilience for
I utilise an integrative approach using many different modalities such as somatic, attachment and internal family systems and we collaboratively sculpt a treatment plan that suits you.
Psychotherapy is a journey of self-discovery, and I honor the complexity and richness of the human experience as a foundation for growth and change. Rather than focusing solely on problem-solving, I view therapy as a space to foster self-compassion for all parts of yourself, understand how past experiences shape present patterns, and cultivate resilience for
(03) 4427 7030 View (03) 4427 7030
Photo of Amanda Wiggs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Amanda Wiggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Scoresby, VIC 3179
I incorporate a range of therapeutic interventions including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reporcessing), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Mindfulness and stress reduction practices and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
I am dedicated to working with you from a trauma-informed, strengths based and person centred approach. I believe "change can be hard at first, seems messy in the middle, but gorgeous in the end". With this mantra in mind, I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, post traumatic and complex trauma. Providing a non-judgemental space to build a strong therapeutic and collaborative relationship with you to overcome life's obstacles
I incorporate a range of therapeutic interventions including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reporcessing), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Mindfulness and stress reduction practices and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
I am dedicated to working with you from a trauma-informed, strengths based and person centred approach. I believe "change can be hard at first, seems messy in the middle, but gorgeous in the end". With this mantra in mind, I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, post traumatic and complex trauma. Providing a non-judgemental space to build a strong therapeutic and collaborative relationship with you to overcome life's obstacles
(03) 8203 5988 View (03) 8203 5988
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.