Internal Family Systems (IFS) Psychologists and Therapists in Somerville, VIC

Photo of Kara Lee John, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Kara Lee John
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Somerville, VIC 3912
I specialise in trauma informed care and have a deep understanding of the complex and long-lasting impacts it can have on you. In some cases, therapy itself can be a source of more trauma. Your safety is my highest priority as we work together and empower you to have a say in how we approach your symptoms. There is no one size fits all and so with your feedback, we will find the best suited interventions for you.
I specialise in trauma informed care and have a deep understanding of the complex and long-lasting impacts it can have on you. In some cases, therapy itself can be a source of more trauma. Your safety is my highest priority as we work together and empower you to have a say in how we approach your symptoms. There is no one size fits all and so with your feedback, we will find the best suited interventions for you.
(03) 7500 5629 View (03) 7500 5629
Photo of Emma Lowe, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Emma Lowe
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I wholeheartedly believe in therapeutic healing through safety, compassion & acceptance in the present moment. If we are in distress, feeling lost, alone, sad, anxious or angry it can be hard to know whom to talk with or, what to talk about. Sometimes we don't want to talk at all to start with and, would prefer to do a creative/movement exercise to express ourselves. Maybe we know exactly what we want to talk about and explore, maybe learning new skills to integrate into daily life. I can be there to support you, whatever stage you are at.
I wholeheartedly believe in therapeutic healing through safety, compassion & acceptance in the present moment. If we are in distress, feeling lost, alone, sad, anxious or angry it can be hard to know whom to talk with or, what to talk about. Sometimes we don't want to talk at all to start with and, would prefer to do a creative/movement exercise to express ourselves. Maybe we know exactly what we want to talk about and explore, maybe learning new skills to integrate into daily life. I can be there to support you, whatever stage you are at.
(08) 9025 3270 View (08) 9025 3270
Photo of Priyanka Malhotra - Rewire Psychology , Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Rewire Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
As an experienced Clinical & Counselling Psychologist and Supervisor with specialised training in mental health I offer counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, and couples. For families, I work with child mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, ARFID and provide neuro-affirming care and advocacy, support children through parental separation, and school challenges. I empower families to advocate for their neurodivergent young person in educational settings. For adults and couples, the aim is to enhance communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional responses.
As an experienced Clinical & Counselling Psychologist and Supervisor with specialised training in mental health I offer counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, and couples. For families, I work with child mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, ARFID and provide neuro-affirming care and advocacy, support children through parental separation, and school challenges. I empower families to advocate for their neurodivergent young person in educational settings. For adults and couples, the aim is to enhance communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional responses.
(03) 5905 7130 View (03) 5905 7130
Photo of Jacqui Snooks, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Jacqui Snooks
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I am a qualified IAT (Integrative Attachment Therapy) therapist which specialises in adult attachment repair. Attachment repair effectively treats anxious, avoidant and disorganised attachment in adults, helping clients to achieve inner security, relationship satisfaction, and emotional well-being.​ I use a combination of emotional, cognitive and somatic therapeutic approaches in my work, because not everyone is the same, and I find as a therapist I need a variety of tools in my kit to meet the unique needs of each client.
I am a qualified IAT (Integrative Attachment Therapy) therapist which specialises in adult attachment repair. Attachment repair effectively treats anxious, avoidant and disorganised attachment in adults, helping clients to achieve inner security, relationship satisfaction, and emotional well-being.​ I use a combination of emotional, cognitive and somatic therapeutic approaches in my work, because not everyone is the same, and I find as a therapist I need a variety of tools in my kit to meet the unique needs of each client.
(08) 9126 9430 View (08) 9126 9430
Photo of Robin Pantours, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Robin Pantours
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Master's in counselling through ECU , trained in IFS, ACT and DBT, as well as certification in creative therapies and embodied practices
Supporting clients to intergrate their lived experiences and find compassion and understanding towards their own lives
Master's in counselling through ECU , trained in IFS, ACT and DBT, as well as certification in creative therapies and embodied practices
Supporting clients to intergrate their lived experiences and find compassion and understanding towards their own lives
(03) 5910 5379 View (03) 5910 5379
Photo of Joshua Cohen - Peninsula Counselling Solutions, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Peninsula Counselling Solutions
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed? I will meet you wherever you may be and might be currently feeling. I am passionate about helping people move beyond what they feel is impacting their quality of life. I offer a safe, supportive space to help you navigate anxiety, stress, relationships, trauma, or life transitions. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or simply seeking clarity, I am here to guide you toward healing and growth.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed? I will meet you wherever you may be and might be currently feeling. I am passionate about helping people move beyond what they feel is impacting their quality of life. I offer a safe, supportive space to help you navigate anxiety, stress, relationships, trauma, or life transitions. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or simply seeking clarity, I am here to guide you toward healing and growth.
(03) 5905 7043 View (03) 5905 7043
Photo of Nicole Day, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Nicole Day
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Hi everyone! I have a strong commitment to supporting the emotional wellbeing of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I offer a calm, safe, and welcoming environment where clients can feel heard, and respected as they work through life’s challenges. I hold 10 years of combined volunteer and work experience which has enhanced my ability to support dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, loss, relationship difficulties, domestic violence, and diagnosed mental health disorders. Whilst not an art therapist, I can integrate art therapy techniques with clients as a form of expression, being mindful, or finding self.
Hi everyone! I have a strong commitment to supporting the emotional wellbeing of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I offer a calm, safe, and welcoming environment where clients can feel heard, and respected as they work through life’s challenges. I hold 10 years of combined volunteer and work experience which has enhanced my ability to support dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, loss, relationship difficulties, domestic violence, and diagnosed mental health disorders. Whilst not an art therapist, I can integrate art therapy techniques with clients as a form of expression, being mindful, or finding self.
(03) 5909 9309 View (03) 5909 9309
Photo of Jade Stubbs - Wonderings Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Wonderings Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Serves Area
I work with clients experiencing a range of difficulties, I recognise that all clients are unique and therefore approach each and every session with genuineness, curiosity and a range of therapeutic interventions that I can draw on to support my clients. My specialty is working with Children, Adolescents, Mums and Bubs and Families. This client group can benefit from attachment-based interventions, relationship and communication skills as well as emotion regulation and psychoeducation.
I work with clients experiencing a range of difficulties, I recognise that all clients are unique and therefore approach each and every session with genuineness, curiosity and a range of therapeutic interventions that I can draw on to support my clients. My specialty is working with Children, Adolescents, Mums and Bubs and Families. This client group can benefit from attachment-based interventions, relationship and communication skills as well as emotion regulation and psychoeducation.
(03) 5907 5923 View (03) 5907 5923
Photo of Eryka Rhodes - Looking Forward Counselling & Hypnotherapy, Counsellor, PACFA
Looking Forward Counselling & Hypnotherapy
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I employ an evidence-based, multi-faceted approach, working with you to create the next chapter. A qualified, registered Clinical Counsellor, based in the Mornington Peninsula, supporting couples, and adults. Helping you navigate the path to find your purpose, reframe concerns and look forward to an improved relationship with yourself and others. Passionate about empowering you to develop a set of tools to help you become your own coach. Supporting a wide range of concerns including: Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Self-esteem, Relational dynamics, Confidence, Grief, Conflict, Anger, Eating Disorder behaviour management
I employ an evidence-based, multi-faceted approach, working with you to create the next chapter. A qualified, registered Clinical Counsellor, based in the Mornington Peninsula, supporting couples, and adults. Helping you navigate the path to find your purpose, reframe concerns and look forward to an improved relationship with yourself and others. Passionate about empowering you to develop a set of tools to help you become your own coach. Supporting a wide range of concerns including: Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Self-esteem, Relational dynamics, Confidence, Grief, Conflict, Anger, Eating Disorder behaviour management
(03) 5910 1684 View (03) 5910 1684
Photo of Madeline Black, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Madeline Black
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I welcome clients across the lifespan - pre-teens, adolescents, adults and parents. With experience across a range of settings including schools, aged care, in-home family therapy, neurodivergent settings and forensic mental health supporting young people involved with the justice system. The clients I enjoy working with may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected and is ready to make sense of things and co-create change for themselves. They may be navigating relationship tension, family stress, teenage mental health and behavioural difficulties, identity questions, or a major life transition.
I welcome clients across the lifespan - pre-teens, adolescents, adults and parents. With experience across a range of settings including schools, aged care, in-home family therapy, neurodivergent settings and forensic mental health supporting young people involved with the justice system. The clients I enjoy working with may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected and is ready to make sense of things and co-create change for themselves. They may be navigating relationship tension, family stress, teenage mental health and behavioural difficulties, identity questions, or a major life transition.
(03) 5906 9484 View (03) 5906 9484
Photo of Kym Anderton, Counsellor, PACFA
Kym Anderton
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The essence of my therapy is in building solid, safe relationships collaboratively with my clients, catering to the unique needs of each person in a non-judgmental way. Rather than tell someone what they need, I prefer a merging of minds to make meaningful and sustainable differences. Together we explore resources to overcome adversity and suffering whilst learning to accept and adapt to the complicated facets of life where required. My therapeutic approach is also rooted in a deep exploration of early life experiences, with a focus on understanding and facilitating the healing of trauma or patterned behaviour.
The essence of my therapy is in building solid, safe relationships collaboratively with my clients, catering to the unique needs of each person in a non-judgmental way. Rather than tell someone what they need, I prefer a merging of minds to make meaningful and sustainable differences. Together we explore resources to overcome adversity and suffering whilst learning to accept and adapt to the complicated facets of life where required. My therapeutic approach is also rooted in a deep exploration of early life experiences, with a focus on understanding and facilitating the healing of trauma or patterned behaviour.
(03) 5910 3030 View (03) 5910 3030

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sue Guzick, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Sue Guzick
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
Hello, I’m Sue. I am a Counsellor, Art Therapist, and established Bright Black Art Therapy & Counselling in 2018. You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Although you have tried many things, it’s not working as well as you would like. I offer a person-centred style, towards understanding YOU and your experiences. Together we use a range of therapeutic methods and choose what is most helpful for you. Therapy plans can include development and practicing new ways for you to work with your most challenging experiences, so they feel like less of a barrier to do what matters most to you.
Hello, I’m Sue. I am a Counsellor, Art Therapist, and established Bright Black Art Therapy & Counselling in 2018. You might be considering therapy with long experience of feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Although you have tried many things, it’s not working as well as you would like. I offer a person-centred style, towards understanding YOU and your experiences. Together we use a range of therapeutic methods and choose what is most helpful for you. Therapy plans can include development and practicing new ways for you to work with your most challenging experiences, so they feel like less of a barrier to do what matters most to you.
0439 413 858 View 0439 413 858
Photo of Tania Djipalo, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Tania Djipalo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
My ideal clients are individuals and couples ready to explore what's keeping them stuck — in old patterns, relationship struggles, or simply a life that no longer feels their own. Many carry early attachment wounds that quietly shape their present. I work relationally, creating a space where clients feel genuinely safe and heard. Together we explore what drives their patterns, rebuild trust in themselves and others, and find a way forward with greater clarity and freedom.
My ideal clients are individuals and couples ready to explore what's keeping them stuck — in old patterns, relationship struggles, or simply a life that no longer feels their own. Many carry early attachment wounds that quietly shape their present. I work relationally, creating a space where clients feel genuinely safe and heard. Together we explore what drives their patterns, rebuild trust in themselves and others, and find a way forward with greater clarity and freedom.
(07) 5655 7533 View (07) 5655 7533
Photo of Kylie Lovell, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kylie Lovell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Chelsea, VIC 3196
At the heart of my work is a belief in the strength of every persons capacity to heal and connect with their inner wisdom. My approach is warm collaborative and centred on creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard, respected and supported.
At the heart of my work is a belief in the strength of every persons capacity to heal and connect with their inner wisdom. My approach is warm collaborative and centred on creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard, respected and supported.
(03) 8771 5872 View (03) 8771 5872
Photo of Melissa Rowe, Social Worker, AASW
Melissa Rowe
Social Worker, AASW
Frankston South, VIC 3199
Evidence-based therapy that considers the whole person At Mindmap Connections, we offer personalised counselling that respects the uniqueness of each individual. Our work is grounded in evidence-based therapy and a whole-person perspective, recognising that mental health is shaped by both internal experiences and life circumstances. When beneficial, we collaborate with trusted practitioners to provide coordinated support, ensuring you receive care that reflects your full situation — not just symptoms. We exist to move mental health care beyond guesswork.
Evidence-based therapy that considers the whole person At Mindmap Connections, we offer personalised counselling that respects the uniqueness of each individual. Our work is grounded in evidence-based therapy and a whole-person perspective, recognising that mental health is shaped by both internal experiences and life circumstances. When beneficial, we collaborate with trusted practitioners to provide coordinated support, ensuring you receive care that reflects your full situation — not just symptoms. We exist to move mental health care beyond guesswork.
(03) 5907 1174 View (03) 5907 1174
Photo of To-Chau Truong, Counsellor, ACA-L1
To-Chau Truong
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Parkdale, VIC 3195
With many years of experience across the disability, mental health, psychosocial, and aged care sectors, To-Chau supports children, adolescents, adults, parents, carers, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. Her case management and NDIS Support Coordination experience, supporting individuals with complex needs, including neurodivergent individuals and those with psychosocial disability, informs her collaborative approach. She encourages clients to gently unpack their challenges, explore experiences, build capacity to develop practical strategies and skills that support emotional wellbeing, resilience, connection and growth
With many years of experience across the disability, mental health, psychosocial, and aged care sectors, To-Chau supports children, adolescents, adults, parents, carers, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. Her case management and NDIS Support Coordination experience, supporting individuals with complex needs, including neurodivergent individuals and those with psychosocial disability, informs her collaborative approach. She encourages clients to gently unpack their challenges, explore experiences, build capacity to develop practical strategies and skills that support emotional wellbeing, resilience, connection and growth
(03) 8771 5662 View (03) 8771 5662
Photo of Monica Doyle - Monica Doyle - Online Therapy
Monica Doyle - Online Therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
I also use Internal Family Systems, EMDR Flash Technique for trauma as well as mindfullness.
Do you feel on edge, easily distracted, or irritable? Do you catch yourself overanalyzing and questioning decisions or interactions with other people? Do you feel disconnected, lonely, or unsure of yourself? These are all natural feelings, and we all struggle sometimes. But occasionally life throws curve balls at us and moving forward requires a little more work. This can be especially true if you have recently experienced a significant life change. Therapy can offer the needed support and change of perspective by unveiling new insights. It can also bring lasting benefits to your relationships and interactions.
I also use Internal Family Systems, EMDR Flash Technique for trauma as well as mindfullness.
Do you feel on edge, easily distracted, or irritable? Do you catch yourself overanalyzing and questioning decisions or interactions with other people? Do you feel disconnected, lonely, or unsure of yourself? These are all natural feelings, and we all struggle sometimes. But occasionally life throws curve balls at us and moving forward requires a little more work. This can be especially true if you have recently experienced a significant life change. Therapy can offer the needed support and change of perspective by unveiling new insights. It can also bring lasting benefits to your relationships and interactions.
0485 990 706 View 0485 990 706
Photo of Rick Whitehead, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Rick Whitehead
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Emerald, VIC 3782
I tend to utilise person-centred and interpersonal approach and use experiential therapies like Internal Family Systems and Gestalt
I love working with all types of people. I have a great appreciation for the courage it takes to come to therapy and value when clients are motivated, prepared to take risks and be vulnerable, even though these can be very difficult things. I also enjoy working with clients to integrate their own spirituality into the therapy process and help not only move through whatever challenges they are facing but also work towards connection to their own authentic self. I feel that everyone had the capacity to improve the way they interact with their experiences and to minimize any unnecessary suffering.
I tend to utilise person-centred and interpersonal approach and use experiential therapies like Internal Family Systems and Gestalt
I love working with all types of people. I have a great appreciation for the courage it takes to come to therapy and value when clients are motivated, prepared to take risks and be vulnerable, even though these can be very difficult things. I also enjoy working with clients to integrate their own spirituality into the therapy process and help not only move through whatever challenges they are facing but also work towards connection to their own authentic self. I feel that everyone had the capacity to improve the way they interact with their experiences and to minimize any unnecessary suffering.
(03) 5907 5272 View (03) 5907 5272
Photo of Rachael Flack, Social Worker, AMHSW
Rachael Flack
Social Worker, AMHSW
Seaford, VIC 3198
I often draw on Acceptance and Commitment therapy & Internal Family Systems, as it offers the tools for body self awareness, practical strategies to continue to work on at home, and it is accepting of all thoughts and feelings that surface.
You're the one holding the full mental load-but lately, you're not sure how much longer you can keep it all together? Hi, I am Rachael & I have worked with a range of diverse clients, but my passion is to support women/mothers/parents to grow, heal & thrive through the rollercoaster of motherhood & life. I have personal experience of infertility & pregnancy loss, & a solo mum of 3 ND children, I know the importance of having support through all of these stages. I focus my care & support in caring for those trying to conceive, infertility, pregnancy & infant loss, pregnancy and birth & any stage of motherhood/parenting
I often draw on Acceptance and Commitment therapy & Internal Family Systems, as it offers the tools for body self awareness, practical strategies to continue to work on at home, and it is accepting of all thoughts and feelings that surface.
You're the one holding the full mental load-but lately, you're not sure how much longer you can keep it all together? Hi, I am Rachael & I have worked with a range of diverse clients, but my passion is to support women/mothers/parents to grow, heal & thrive through the rollercoaster of motherhood & life. I have personal experience of infertility & pregnancy loss, & a solo mum of 3 ND children, I know the importance of having support through all of these stages. I focus my care & support in caring for those trying to conceive, infertility, pregnancy & infant loss, pregnancy and birth & any stage of motherhood/parenting
(03) 5909 9996 View (03) 5909 9996
Photo of Berty Hills, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Berty Hills
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Using a person-centred approach, Berty tailors each session to the client's unique needs, drawing from therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), attachment based and Narrative Therapy.
Berty is a dedicated and experienced counsellor committed to providing safe, supportive, and affirming counselling for all individuals seeking support. As a queer and neurodivergent person, Berty brings lived experience and an additional layer of empathy to her practice. She has experience supporting individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, life transitions, emotional dysregulation, ASD, ADHD, gender dysphoria, disordered eating and personality disorders.
Using a person-centred approach, Berty tailors each session to the client's unique needs, drawing from therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), attachment based and Narrative Therapy.
Berty is a dedicated and experienced counsellor committed to providing safe, supportive, and affirming counselling for all individuals seeking support. As a queer and neurodivergent person, Berty brings lived experience and an additional layer of empathy to her practice. She has experience supporting individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, life transitions, emotional dysregulation, ASD, ADHD, gender dysphoria, disordered eating and personality disorders.
(08) 6171 2080 View (08) 6171 2080
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.