Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Sharon, ON

Photo of Alexia Andersen, Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Alexia Andersen
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Alexia is an integrative, holistic & passionate psychotherapist committed to providing clients with a support, and safe environment to explore, learn, release and grow. Alexia's goal is to assist clients in gaining insight and personal awareness, discovering and accepting their total self, learning methods of self-care, setting boundaries with self and others, processing emotions as well as trauma(s), and transforming pain into healing. There is tremendous healing power in having a safe, confidential and non judgmental space to release and express what we have gone through, or are currently going through in our lives.
Alexia is an integrative, holistic & passionate psychotherapist committed to providing clients with a support, and safe environment to explore, learn, release and grow. Alexia's goal is to assist clients in gaining insight and personal awareness, discovering and accepting their total self, learning methods of self-care, setting boundaries with self and others, processing emotions as well as trauma(s), and transforming pain into healing. There is tremendous healing power in having a safe, confidential and non judgmental space to release and express what we have gone through, or are currently going through in our lives.
(647) 952-1202 View (647) 952-1202
Photo of Emily LeMoine, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Emily LeMoine
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
7 Endorsed
Sharon, ON L0G
I’m a psychotherapist who is passionate about supporting individuals who feel stuck in patterns of chronic anxiety, depression, substance use or dissociation in response to past experiences and current triggers. My ideal client is looking to improve their regulation skills while gaining self-understanding through a compassionate collaborative exploration. I offer an empathic, non-judgmental, lighthearted space where you can build trust in your body's automatic responses while improving your capacity for growth towards specific psychotherapy goals.
I’m a psychotherapist who is passionate about supporting individuals who feel stuck in patterns of chronic anxiety, depression, substance use or dissociation in response to past experiences and current triggers. My ideal client is looking to improve their regulation skills while gaining self-understanding through a compassionate collaborative exploration. I offer an empathic, non-judgmental, lighthearted space where you can build trust in your body's automatic responses while improving your capacity for growth towards specific psychotherapy goals.
(289) 302-6878 View (289) 302-6878
Photo of Bruce Jensen, Counsellor, MACP, CCC
Bruce Jensen
Counsellor, MACP, CCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer online sessions exclusively through Strength Counselling Services. I firmly believe that everyone has the capacity for healing and growth—no matter where they are in life. I work with individuals aged 13 and up, supporting clients through a wide range of challenges including mood-related concerns, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and personal development. Whether you’re navigating addiction, trauma, C-PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, grief and loss, attachment wounds, criminality, or religious, cult, or spiritual abuse, you don’t have to face it alone.
I offer online sessions exclusively through Strength Counselling Services. I firmly believe that everyone has the capacity for healing and growth—no matter where they are in life. I work with individuals aged 13 and up, supporting clients through a wide range of challenges including mood-related concerns, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and personal development. Whether you’re navigating addiction, trauma, C-PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, grief and loss, attachment wounds, criminality, or religious, cult, or spiritual abuse, you don’t have to face it alone.
(289) 278-0265 View (289) 278-0265
Photo of Julia Papadopoulos, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MTA
Julia Papadopoulos
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MTA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Infra-Low Frequency (ILF) Neurofeedback, and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to support nervous system regulation, uncover subconscious patterns, and promote emotional balance.
Healing happens when we support the whole person, caring for not only the symptoms but also what's further beneath the surface. Emotional pain and trauma leave lasting marks on both the mind and body. That's why my work goes beyond traditional talk therapy, weaving in holistic practices to help promote deeper healing. I support teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, C-PTSD, personality and mood disorders, ADHD/ADD, self-esteem and perfectionism struggles, life transitions, and peer relationship challenges.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Infra-Low Frequency (ILF) Neurofeedback, and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to support nervous system regulation, uncover subconscious patterns, and promote emotional balance.
Healing happens when we support the whole person, caring for not only the symptoms but also what's further beneath the surface. Emotional pain and trauma leave lasting marks on both the mind and body. That's why my work goes beyond traditional talk therapy, weaving in holistic practices to help promote deeper healing. I support teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, C-PTSD, personality and mood disorders, ADHD/ADD, self-esteem and perfectionism struggles, life transitions, and peer relationship challenges.
View

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Guite - Ashley Guite Psychotherapist and Supervisor, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Ashley Guite Psychotherapist and Supervisor
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Grounded in a compassionate, trauma-informed psychodynamic approach, I integrate attachment-focused therapy, somatic work, DBT, IFS, and mindfulness.
Virtual appointments only. Ashley is away June 4 - 14. Many people come to therapy carrying emotional patterns, relationship experiences, or inner conflicts they understand intellectually but still feel stuck in emotionally. Therapy can offer a space to explore how past experiences shape present-day emotions, attachment patterns, relationships, and ways of coping. I particularly support clients navigating relationship difficulties, anxiety, trauma, self-criticism, and longstanding emotional patterns. I am accepting new online clients—book a free 15-minute consultation or an initial session on my website.
Grounded in a compassionate, trauma-informed psychodynamic approach, I integrate attachment-focused therapy, somatic work, DBT, IFS, and mindfulness.
Virtual appointments only. Ashley is away June 4 - 14. Many people come to therapy carrying emotional patterns, relationship experiences, or inner conflicts they understand intellectually but still feel stuck in emotionally. Therapy can offer a space to explore how past experiences shape present-day emotions, attachment patterns, relationships, and ways of coping. I particularly support clients navigating relationship difficulties, anxiety, trauma, self-criticism, and longstanding emotional patterns. I am accepting new online clients—book a free 15-minute consultation or an initial session on my website.
(289) 210-7322 View (289) 210-7322
Photo of Phyllis Ng - Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Markham, ON L6C
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services values creating a therapeutic space that is culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and client-centered. We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists, social workers and masters level interns, who bring a variety of clinical expertise to support our clients with different needs. We strive to always provide clients with a safe and private experience where they are open to sharing their stories with us. At Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, our therapists are devoted to creating individualized treatment plans that fit your goals and empower you to make meaningful changes for a fulfilling life.
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services values creating a therapeutic space that is culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and client-centered. We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists, social workers and masters level interns, who bring a variety of clinical expertise to support our clients with different needs. We strive to always provide clients with a safe and private experience where they are open to sharing their stories with us. At Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, our therapists are devoted to creating individualized treatment plans that fit your goals and empower you to make meaningful changes for a fulfilling life.
(647) 643-5800 View (647) 643-5800
Photo of Adrian Gudino, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Adrian Gudino
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice is trauma informed, and incorporates Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Emotion Focused Therapy.
When I was 17 I began to have chest pains that were so sharp I couldn’t breathe. I went to the doctor thinking there was something wrong with me. His answer: "you’re just stressed". I had no idea why I was anxious, and nothing seemed to help. I began using addictions to cope with the anxiety, choosing the short-term relief despite the long-term consequences. Eventually those consequences forced me to seek help, and I began my recovery journey. That was eight years ago. Therapy has been life changing for me - I became more calm, happy and connected, and I began to wonder if this was something I could do for others as well.
My practice is trauma informed, and incorporates Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Emotion Focused Therapy.
When I was 17 I began to have chest pains that were so sharp I couldn’t breathe. I went to the doctor thinking there was something wrong with me. His answer: "you’re just stressed". I had no idea why I was anxious, and nothing seemed to help. I began using addictions to cope with the anxiety, choosing the short-term relief despite the long-term consequences. Eventually those consequences forced me to seek help, and I began my recovery journey. That was eight years ago. Therapy has been life changing for me - I became more calm, happy and connected, and I began to wonder if this was something I could do for others as well.
(437) 320-3024 View (437) 320-3024
Photo of Elina Suprunova, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BA, Honours
Elina Suprunova
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BA, Honours
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities to inform my practice, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy (EFT), Internal family systems therapy, narrative therapy, solution focused therapy, and attachment-based therapy.
My work as a counsellor is focused on helping you overcome emotional challenges and navigate through overwhelming experiences. With an unwavering belief in the power of creating a non-judgmental and authentic therapeutic environment, I strive to foster a space where you can engage in deep and transformative work that leads to genuine healing and inner peace. I work closely with each person to find and develop a treatment plan that will embrace the uniqueness of each situation and offer the attention required to achieve optimal mental wellness.
I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities to inform my practice, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy (EFT), Internal family systems therapy, narrative therapy, solution focused therapy, and attachment-based therapy.
My work as a counsellor is focused on helping you overcome emotional challenges and navigate through overwhelming experiences. With an unwavering belief in the power of creating a non-judgmental and authentic therapeutic environment, I strive to foster a space where you can engage in deep and transformative work that leads to genuine healing and inner peace. I work closely with each person to find and develop a treatment plan that will embrace the uniqueness of each situation and offer the attention required to achieve optimal mental wellness.
View
Photo of Ji Yoon Kim - Integrative MindBody Therapy Centre, Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Integrative MindBody Therapy Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our approaches include EFT, IFS, EMDR, psychodynamic, and trauma-informed therapies.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by loneliness, burnout, trauma, anxiety, or depression? Do you sometimes feel like you're navigating these challenges alone, longing for a place where you can be truly seen and understood? At Integrative MindBody Therapy Centre, we understand how difficult it can be to reach out for support. We're here to walk alongside you, helping you explore your story, deepen your understanding of yourself, and build a sense of empowerment and resilience.
Our approaches include EFT, IFS, EMDR, psychodynamic, and trauma-informed therapies.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by loneliness, burnout, trauma, anxiety, or depression? Do you sometimes feel like you're navigating these challenges alone, longing for a place where you can be truly seen and understood? At Integrative MindBody Therapy Centre, we understand how difficult it can be to reach out for support. We're here to walk alongside you, helping you explore your story, deepen your understanding of yourself, and build a sense of empowerment and resilience.
(365) 360-6622 View (365) 360-6622
Photo of Brooke Cunningham - Brooke Cunningham, Full Potential Therapy, Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Brooke Cunningham, Full Potential Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4M
Life can feel overwhelming when you're navigating anxiety, life transitions, parenting, relationship challenges, or healing from trauma. You may crave deeper connections, emotional balance, or clarity. I provide therapy for individuals 14+, couples, and parents who want to care for themselves while learning to parent skillfully. Together, we’ll create a compassionate space to untangle pain, process your story, and build tools for thriving. You deserve a life that feels fulfilling, balanced, and truly your own.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're navigating anxiety, life transitions, parenting, relationship challenges, or healing from trauma. You may crave deeper connections, emotional balance, or clarity. I provide therapy for individuals 14+, couples, and parents who want to care for themselves while learning to parent skillfully. Together, we’ll create a compassionate space to untangle pain, process your story, and build tools for thriving. You deserve a life that feels fulfilling, balanced, and truly your own.
(365) 305-2516 View (365) 305-2516
Photo of Rachel Hilton, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Rachel Hilton
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We use: Harm Reduction Approach Trauma-Informed Care Identity-Affirming Care Compassion-focused Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Somatic Experiencing (SE) Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Psychodynamic Therapy Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Our psychotherapists have expertise in the following mental health challenges: Teen & Adult Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD), 2SLGBTQ+ and Gender Identity, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sober-Curiosity, Sober Coaching, Substance Use Disorder, Body Image & Self-Esteem, Stress & Burnout, Depression, Anxiety, Emotion Regulation.
We use: Harm Reduction Approach Trauma-Informed Care Identity-Affirming Care Compassion-focused Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Somatic Experiencing (SE) Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Psychodynamic Therapy Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Our psychotherapists have expertise in the following mental health challenges: Teen & Adult Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD), 2SLGBTQ+ and Gender Identity, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sober-Curiosity, Sober Coaching, Substance Use Disorder, Body Image & Self-Esteem, Stress & Burnout, Depression, Anxiety, Emotion Regulation.
(289) 395-3777 View (289) 395-3777
Photo of Eliza Fernandes - Elevare (formerly EMDR Trauma Therapy Centre), Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Elevare (formerly EMDR Trauma Therapy Centre)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Toronto, ON M2N
Our skilled and seasoned therapists offer personalized, evidence-based care using EMDR, DBR, Neurofeedback, Somatic Therapy, IFS, Ego State Therapy, Gottman Method, EFT, Mindfulness and etc.
Do you find yourself asking, "How do I get past this?" The number one struggle people often express when they talk about their emotional pain is feeling stuck. If you are experiencing an inability to move forward in your career, relationship or you are struggling to find the joy in life you once felt, you may be experiencing the effects of unresolved trauma or unmet attachment needs. This can manifest in physical symptoms such as chronic pain, headaches, and fatigue. We take the time to understand you as a person who has a lived experience that has brought you here.
Our skilled and seasoned therapists offer personalized, evidence-based care using EMDR, DBR, Neurofeedback, Somatic Therapy, IFS, Ego State Therapy, Gottman Method, EFT, Mindfulness and etc.
Do you find yourself asking, "How do I get past this?" The number one struggle people often express when they talk about their emotional pain is feeling stuck. If you are experiencing an inability to move forward in your career, relationship or you are struggling to find the joy in life you once felt, you may be experiencing the effects of unresolved trauma or unmet attachment needs. This can manifest in physical symptoms such as chronic pain, headaches, and fatigue. We take the time to understand you as a person who has a lived experience that has brought you here.
(289) 301-7852 View (289) 301-7852
Photo of Zoe Marissa Klein, Registered Social Worker, MEd, MSW
Zoe Marissa Klein
Registered Social Worker, MEd, MSW
Toronto, ON M4W
Are you a mom of a baby or toddler and feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of parenthood? Are you feeling frustrated with one of your children and unsure where to take this thought for fear of being judged? Are you desperately trying to break cycles of abuse and having trouble understanding your triggers? Or maybe none of this applies, but you are a mom wanting support . Either way, I would love to chat.
Are you a mom of a baby or toddler and feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of parenthood? Are you feeling frustrated with one of your children and unsure where to take this thought for fear of being judged? Are you desperately trying to break cycles of abuse and having trouble understanding your triggers? Or maybe none of this applies, but you are a mom wanting support . Either way, I would love to chat.
(437) 344-2918 View (437) 344-2918
Photo of Kelly Thorarinson, Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Kelly Thorarinson
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Online Only
My primary influences are from narrative therapy, expressive arts, mindfulness, CI (Gabor Mate), IFS.
Welcome to your healing space. Are you ready to be at peace within yourself? Are you ready to be truly present in your life without excess noise? I offer a respectful safe space with a wealth of life and professional experience to draw upon. I value authenticity, transparency and pace the therapuetic process to suit your needs and goals. As one of my colleagues recently commented after observing me in a practice session: I offer "palpable unconditional positive regard." If you are ready to be seen, heard and make change, I am here for you.
My primary influences are from narrative therapy, expressive arts, mindfulness, CI (Gabor Mate), IFS.
Welcome to your healing space. Are you ready to be at peace within yourself? Are you ready to be truly present in your life without excess noise? I offer a respectful safe space with a wealth of life and professional experience to draw upon. I value authenticity, transparency and pace the therapuetic process to suit your needs and goals. As one of my colleagues recently commented after observing me in a practice session: I offer "palpable unconditional positive regard." If you are ready to be seen, heard and make change, I am here for you.
(289) 277-6814 View (289) 277-6814
Photo of David Zhang, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
David Zhang
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Online Only
I draw from Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and internet memes (seriously lol) to help.
So many therapists! Who would've thought finding the right one would feel this overwhelming?
I draw from Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and internet memes (seriously lol) to help.
So many therapists! Who would've thought finding the right one would feel this overwhelming?
(289) 206-6824 View (289) 206-6824
Photo of Cathlin Martin - Cathlin Martin, MSW, RSW - Toronto | ON, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Cathlin Martin, MSW, RSW - Toronto | ON
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I use EFT to heal relational patterns and IFS to support wounded inner parts.
Are you feeling disconnected, lost, or untethered—moving through life without steady ground? Are you longing for healing, stability, and a deeper sense of wholeness? You might feel weighed down by emotions you can’t name or distant from yourself and the people who matter. If you’re craving support, clarity, and a place to feel truly understood, you may be seeking a path back to feeling grounded. You want to reconnect with what matters, feel more stable inside, and move through life with a renewed sense of purpose, peace, and wholeness.
I use EFT to heal relational patterns and IFS to support wounded inner parts.
Are you feeling disconnected, lost, or untethered—moving through life without steady ground? Are you longing for healing, stability, and a deeper sense of wholeness? You might feel weighed down by emotions you can’t name or distant from yourself and the people who matter. If you’re craving support, clarity, and a place to feel truly understood, you may be seeking a path back to feeling grounded. You want to reconnect with what matters, feel more stable inside, and move through life with a renewed sense of purpose, peace, and wholeness.
(647) 694-3466 View (647) 694-3466
Photo of Fizza Abbas, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Fizza Abbas
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Online Only
As a South Asian Shi’a Muslim therapist, I understand how culture, faith, family systems, and systemic pressures shape mental health.
Sometimes life looks fine on the outside, but feels like too much on the inside. You may be balancing school, work, family expectations, or relationships while feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck in cycles of procrastination and self-criticism. You might be living with ADHD and struggling with everyday tasks, or carrying burnout that has become your normal. You may also be navigating cultural or identity expectations that leave little space for you.
As a South Asian Shi’a Muslim therapist, I understand how culture, faith, family systems, and systemic pressures shape mental health.
Sometimes life looks fine on the outside, but feels like too much on the inside. You may be balancing school, work, family expectations, or relationships while feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck in cycles of procrastination and self-criticism. You might be living with ADHD and struggling with everyday tasks, or carrying burnout that has become your normal. You may also be navigating cultural or identity expectations that leave little space for you.
(548) 901-3682 View (548) 901-3682
Photo of Ruidi Zhu, Registered Psychotherapist, LMHC, MA, RP
Ruidi Zhu
Registered Psychotherapist, LMHC, MA, RP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Perhaps you are going through suffering, feeling lost or overwhelmed. Maybe you have long endured unspoken pain that needs to be seen and heard. No matter what brought you here, you are working hard to find an answer, a solution, or help to some problems that you are facing in your life. That's incredible courage and strength you already possess. No matter what's been troubling you, psychotherapy will provide a safe space to explore emotional hardships, support healing and allow growth to unfold.
Perhaps you are going through suffering, feeling lost or overwhelmed. Maybe you have long endured unspoken pain that needs to be seen and heard. No matter what brought you here, you are working hard to find an answer, a solution, or help to some problems that you are facing in your life. That's incredible courage and strength you already possess. No matter what's been troubling you, psychotherapy will provide a safe space to explore emotional hardships, support healing and allow growth to unfold.
View
Photo of Liz Harripaul - Liz Harripaul | Anxiety ADHD Trauma EMDR, Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Liz Harripaul | Anxiety ADHD Trauma EMDR
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach is collaborative and client-centered, integrating EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT, and IFS, tailored to your needs.
Welcome—I’m glad you’re here. Are you feeling stuck in familiar patterns, replaying past experiences, or finding relationships challenging? Do you feel overwhelmed, emotionally blocked, or unsure how to move forward? As an EMDR practitioner, I support clients navigating these experiences using a compassionate, trauma-informed approach. I bring both professional training and personal experience with EMDR, having seen its powerful capacity for change. Together, we’ll gently explore what’s holding you back and build insight, practical tools, and lasting relief—at your pace.
My approach is collaborative and client-centered, integrating EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT, and IFS, tailored to your needs.
Welcome—I’m glad you’re here. Are you feeling stuck in familiar patterns, replaying past experiences, or finding relationships challenging? Do you feel overwhelmed, emotionally blocked, or unsure how to move forward? As an EMDR practitioner, I support clients navigating these experiences using a compassionate, trauma-informed approach. I bring both professional training and personal experience with EMDR, having seen its powerful capacity for change. Together, we’ll gently explore what’s holding you back and build insight, practical tools, and lasting relief—at your pace.
(647) 691-0021 View (647) 691-0021
Photo of Jennifer Shield - Jenn Shields, Psychotherapy and EMDR, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Jenn Shields, Psychotherapy and EMDR
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4M
If you’ve endured a painful childhood and challenges with relationships throughout your life, you don’t have to carry the weight alone. I help adults heal from family dysfunction- narcissistic, critical, or emotionally unavailable parents- and relationship wounds that leave you feeling unseen, unworthy, or unsafe. Many of my clients are high-achieving perfectionists whose pasts interfere with calm in the present, or people whose pasts keep them from reaching their full potential. I use mind-body therapies that reach the root of emotional overwhelm, helping you feel confident, safe, and in empowered to move forward with your life.
If you’ve endured a painful childhood and challenges with relationships throughout your life, you don’t have to carry the weight alone. I help adults heal from family dysfunction- narcissistic, critical, or emotionally unavailable parents- and relationship wounds that leave you feeling unseen, unworthy, or unsafe. Many of my clients are high-achieving perfectionists whose pasts interfere with calm in the present, or people whose pasts keep them from reaching their full potential. I use mind-body therapies that reach the root of emotional overwhelm, helping you feel confident, safe, and in empowered to move forward with your life.
(647) 492-8339 View (647) 492-8339
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.