Internal Family Systems (IFS) Counselling in Glastonbury

Photo of Elaine Hutchinson, Counsellor
Elaine Hutchinson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, TraumaPlay and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, TraumaPlay and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
01749 605317 View 01749 605317
Photo of Samantha Jones, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Samantha Jones
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, recognizing how abuse and neglect can deeply impact the mind, emotions, and nervous system. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or more complex mental health challenges, trauma-informed care is essential for healing. My approach focuses on understanding relational patterns shaped by past trauma. We’ll explore how current triggers connect to past experiences, helping you reframe memories in a way that promotes healing. This process allows you to access difficult emotions and integrate them in a healthy way.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, recognizing how abuse and neglect can deeply impact the mind, emotions, and nervous system. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or more complex mental health challenges, trauma-informed care is essential for healing. My approach focuses on understanding relational patterns shaped by past trauma. We’ll explore how current triggers connect to past experiences, helping you reframe memories in a way that promotes healing. This process allows you to access difficult emotions and integrate them in a healthy way.
01258 444857 View 01258 444857

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Coral Westaway, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Coral Westaway
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Online Only
I blend Energy Psychology and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help you heal and integrate different parts of yourself.
Do you find yourself reacting instead of calmly responding to life's challenges. Are you struggling to reach your full potential, feeling there's a better way forward but unsure how to get there? Do you sense these issues may not have started with you? Are you looking to incorporate body, mind and energy to enhance therapy? I help you understand what's keeping you out of flow, how to heal and clear blocks, enabling you to show up in the way that you want to in your relationships. This work connects you more deeply to your inner wisdom, improves connection with self and others, and brings you back to ease and joy.
I blend Energy Psychology and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help you heal and integrate different parts of yourself.
Do you find yourself reacting instead of calmly responding to life's challenges. Are you struggling to reach your full potential, feeling there's a better way forward but unsure how to get there? Do you sense these issues may not have started with you? Are you looking to incorporate body, mind and energy to enhance therapy? I help you understand what's keeping you out of flow, how to heal and clear blocks, enabling you to show up in the way that you want to in your relationships. This work connects you more deeply to your inner wisdom, improves connection with self and others, and brings you back to ease and joy.
01275 403078 View 01275 403078
Photo of Billie-Jude Thorpe, Counsellor, MBACP
Billie-Jude Thorpe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Frome BA11
Internal Family Systems is a psychotherapeutic approach that helps people deal with the legacy of trauma.
I am pleased to offer IFS Therapy for individuals and IFIO for couple/dyads. I have worked in agency settings which include SARSAS- a specialist sexual violence service. Turning Point/Wiltshire Substance Misuse Service. Affordable Low Cost Counselling- Bristol. I reserve some spaces for concessions, please enquire whether these are available at this moment.
Internal Family Systems is a psychotherapeutic approach that helps people deal with the legacy of trauma.
I am pleased to offer IFS Therapy for individuals and IFIO for couple/dyads. I have worked in agency settings which include SARSAS- a specialist sexual violence service. Turning Point/Wiltshire Substance Misuse Service. Affordable Low Cost Counselling- Bristol. I reserve some spaces for concessions, please enquire whether these are available at this moment.
View
Photo of Sarah Louise Davies - The Rose May Practice - Sarah Davies , Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
The Rose May Practice - Sarah Davies
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS5
I currently work internationally online operating from a range of modalities including EMDR and IFS (informed) as a member of the IFS Online Circle in an integrative approach.
As a therapist I have clinical experience working with adolescents and adults with a range of issues including Trauma, attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, looked after children, county lines, FGM, CSE, CCE, Child on Child abuse, eating disorders, gaming addictions, substance misuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence.
I currently work internationally online operating from a range of modalities including EMDR and IFS (informed) as a member of the IFS Online Circle in an integrative approach.
As a therapist I have clinical experience working with adolescents and adults with a range of issues including Trauma, attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, looked after children, county lines, FGM, CSE, CCE, Child on Child abuse, eating disorders, gaming addictions, substance misuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence.
0117 463 3666 View 0117 463 3666
Photo of Nancy Southcott, Psychotherapist
Nancy Southcott
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS20
I utilise EMDR and other modalities for a variety of conditions including but not limited to: DBT, CBT skills, solution-focused, Internal Family Systems, family systemic therapy, etc to bring about recovery.
My mission in psychotherapy is to help individuals recover from their trauma and attachment wounds. It involves a therapeutic partnership, and through our work together I am confident that we can change the narratives of your memories. You will feel a new sense of balance and freedom from what brings you down. I have 27 years experience as a psychotherapist, and specialise in PTSD, anxiety/depression, OCD and phobias, and a variety of other presentations. I have years of experience working in statutory organisations including the NHS. I am guided by your personal goals, and look forward to meeting you on your recovery journey
I utilise EMDR and other modalities for a variety of conditions including but not limited to: DBT, CBT skills, solution-focused, Internal Family Systems, family systemic therapy, etc to bring about recovery.
My mission in psychotherapy is to help individuals recover from their trauma and attachment wounds. It involves a therapeutic partnership, and through our work together I am confident that we can change the narratives of your memories. You will feel a new sense of balance and freedom from what brings you down. I have 27 years experience as a psychotherapist, and specialise in PTSD, anxiety/depression, OCD and phobias, and a variety of other presentations. I have years of experience working in statutory organisations including the NHS. I am guided by your personal goals, and look forward to meeting you on your recovery journey
01275 402790 View 01275 402790
Photo of Phil Bruce, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Phil Bruce
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS39
I practice using EMDR and integrating elements from Internal Family Systems and Schema Therapy.
Life can sometimes feel harder than it needs to. You might be struggling with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Relationships can feel challenging—maybe you unintentionally push people away, or you find yourself people-pleasing to keep the peace. Certain situations might leave you feeling on edge, disconnected, or emotionally charged, but you're unsure why. You may have been through tough experiences—maybe a difficult childhood, a painful breakup, a stressful job, or a situation that left you feeling powerless. You might not label it as “trauma,” but something just feels off.
I practice using EMDR and integrating elements from Internal Family Systems and Schema Therapy.
Life can sometimes feel harder than it needs to. You might be struggling with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. Relationships can feel challenging—maybe you unintentionally push people away, or you find yourself people-pleasing to keep the peace. Certain situations might leave you feeling on edge, disconnected, or emotionally charged, but you're unsure why. You may have been through tough experiences—maybe a difficult childhood, a painful breakup, a stressful job, or a situation that left you feeling powerless. You might not label it as “trauma,” but something just feels off.
01761 258287 View 01761 258287
Photo of Fardijah Treacher-Morley, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Fardijah Treacher-Morley
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
  Blending neuroscience, somatic enquiry, psychoanalysis, transpersonal, gestalt, internal family systems, attachment theory, breath work, CBT, mindfulness and creative practice.
I am an experienced Integrative Psychotherapist with over 20 years guiding people to face challenges and transform and confront personal difficulties. I follow a holistic and humanistic approach and work with people who may be feeling depressed, anxious, or who may have difficulties with relationships, early attachment wounding and trauma. I provide a safe, gentle and non judgemental space for you to lean into areas of discomfort which is often where the magic happens and the deepest insights occur.
  Blending neuroscience, somatic enquiry, psychoanalysis, transpersonal, gestalt, internal family systems, attachment theory, breath work, CBT, mindfulness and creative practice.
I am an experienced Integrative Psychotherapist with over 20 years guiding people to face challenges and transform and confront personal difficulties. I follow a holistic and humanistic approach and work with people who may be feeling depressed, anxious, or who may have difficulties with relationships, early attachment wounding and trauma. I provide a safe, gentle and non judgemental space for you to lean into areas of discomfort which is often where the magic happens and the deepest insights occur.
View
Photo of louise Riley, Psychotherapist, MA
louise Riley
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My name is Louise and I’m a qualified Private practitioner holding a Masters Degree in Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP) and Internal Family Systems Level one trained.
Dance movement psychotherapy is the psychotherapeutic use of movement to support intellectual, emotional, and motor functions of the body. Discovered using a variety of techniques including; body analysis, breath work, movement, mirroring, drawing and writing, to name but a few. From there discovering new neurological pathways between the body and the brain.
My name is Louise and I’m a qualified Private practitioner holding a Masters Degree in Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP) and Internal Family Systems Level one trained.
Dance movement psychotherapy is the psychotherapeutic use of movement to support intellectual, emotional, and motor functions of the body. Discovered using a variety of techniques including; body analysis, breath work, movement, mirroring, drawing and writing, to name but a few. From there discovering new neurological pathways between the body and the brain.
01404 519470 View 01404 519470
Photo of Hannah Paton, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Hannah Paton
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Level 3 trained Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Therapist, and regularly staff L1 trainings as a Programme Assistant (PA).
Has your drink or drug use started to get on top of you? Are you experiencing difficulties in relationships with those around you? Have you turned to self-destructive patterns of behaviour in an attempt to cope with low mood, difficult experiences or traumatic events? If this sounds like you then my years of experience as a Counsellor in the fields of substance misuse and in healing trauma may help to heal your fragmented parts and build your own motivation to make the behavioural changes you desire. Please follow the link to my website, where you can find out more about me and the way that I work.
I am a Level 3 trained Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Therapist, and regularly staff L1 trainings as a Programme Assistant (PA).
Has your drink or drug use started to get on top of you? Are you experiencing difficulties in relationships with those around you? Have you turned to self-destructive patterns of behaviour in an attempt to cope with low mood, difficult experiences or traumatic events? If this sounds like you then my years of experience as a Counsellor in the fields of substance misuse and in healing trauma may help to heal your fragmented parts and build your own motivation to make the behavioural changes you desire. Please follow the link to my website, where you can find out more about me and the way that I work.
0117 456 2367 View 0117 456 2367
Photo of Pablo Reina Martinez, Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Pablo Reina Martinez
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS1
I have studied and use other therapeutic approaches: ACT, CBT, Trauma Informed, IFS and EFT.
My aim is to help you explore any issues that interfere with your mental and emotional wellbeing. Together we will find the resources that enable you to live better. I am passionate in supporting people cope, heal and thrive. I provide an environment that fosters your self-reflection and growth. Fostering the alignment with your values. Counselling gives us that time and space we need to make sense of our experiences and to explore our identity. This clarifies our stressors and updates our strategies and resources.
I have studied and use other therapeutic approaches: ACT, CBT, Trauma Informed, IFS and EFT.
My aim is to help you explore any issues that interfere with your mental and emotional wellbeing. Together we will find the resources that enable you to live better. I am passionate in supporting people cope, heal and thrive. I provide an environment that fosters your self-reflection and growth. Fostering the alignment with your values. Counselling gives us that time and space we need to make sense of our experiences and to explore our identity. This clarifies our stressors and updates our strategies and resources.
0117 463 5187 View 0117 463 5187
Photo of Charlotte Deverell, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Charlotte Deverell
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My work is pluralistic which means I use tools from different schools of therapy such as Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
Life can sometimes throw many challenges our way and we may find it difficult to cope without support. I experienced in and am able to help you with many of life's difficulties such as anxiety, depression, grief & loss, trauma, self-esteem, to name a few; however, my areas of speciality are working with relationship difficulties, attachment, identity, guilt & shame, adverse childhood experiences, family difficulties, abuse, narcissistic abuse and interpersonal trauma. I'm currently completing further specialist post-qualifying training in Psychosexual therapy and therefore I can help you explore sex & intimacy concerns.
My work is pluralistic which means I use tools from different schools of therapy such as Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
Life can sometimes throw many challenges our way and we may find it difficult to cope without support. I experienced in and am able to help you with many of life's difficulties such as anxiety, depression, grief & loss, trauma, self-esteem, to name a few; however, my areas of speciality are working with relationship difficulties, attachment, identity, guilt & shame, adverse childhood experiences, family difficulties, abuse, narcissistic abuse and interpersonal trauma. I'm currently completing further specialist post-qualifying training in Psychosexual therapy and therefore I can help you explore sex & intimacy concerns.
View
Photo of Jacob Mornington, Counsellor, MBACP
Jacob Mornington
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
  I integrate my professional training and personal insights into a therapeutic approach which is led by an intention to: - understand the unique and complex experiences of your life - support you in your goals and with the challenges you face - be alongside you in your journey   My approach is informed by the latest developments and approaches including Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Informed Therapy, Schema Therapy & Transforming Touch.
As a Trauma-Informed Therapist, I focus on understanding how your nervous system has adapted to survive tough or dangerous situations. My therapeutic approach is specifically designed to support those suffering from the deep and lasting impacts of trauma.
  I integrate my professional training and personal insights into a therapeutic approach which is led by an intention to: - understand the unique and complex experiences of your life - support you in your goals and with the challenges you face - be alongside you in your journey   My approach is informed by the latest developments and approaches including Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Informed Therapy, Schema Therapy & Transforming Touch.
As a Trauma-Informed Therapist, I focus on understanding how your nervous system has adapted to survive tough or dangerous situations. My therapeutic approach is specifically designed to support those suffering from the deep and lasting impacts of trauma.
01803 222474 View 01803 222474
Photo of Martin Linton - Martin Linton - IFS Therapist & Counsellor , Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Martin Linton - IFS Therapist & Counsellor
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bath BA1
The skill-sets and experience I bring to therapy draw off my Systemic Practice, honing the skills of Internal Family System ( IFS), plus Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO), for couples.
My main training is Systemic Practice. Additionally I’ve been practicing the same ideas internally with IFS since 2011 and have completed all training levels, and would not be without it. IFS heals with embodiment of natural calm, compassion and solution focused relational systems to manifest the natural-value-states and resources of the human system.
The skill-sets and experience I bring to therapy draw off my Systemic Practice, honing the skills of Internal Family System ( IFS), plus Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO), for couples.
My main training is Systemic Practice. Additionally I’ve been practicing the same ideas internally with IFS since 2011 and have completed all training levels, and would not be without it. IFS heals with embodiment of natural calm, compassion and solution focused relational systems to manifest the natural-value-states and resources of the human system.
029 2010 4734 View 029 2010 4734
Photo of Shaheen Walker - Counsellor - Relationship And Psychosexual Specialist, Counsellor, MBACP
Working in the NHS and being a Samaritans Leader has made me conscious to offer more than a one-size-fits-all model, so alongside standard Talking Therapy I also offer IFS, EFT and Brainspotting for shame and trauma.
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect from your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, numb, or not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space supporting individuals, couples, neurodiverse and enm relationships gain confidence to change and improve wellbeing.
Working in the NHS and being a Samaritans Leader has made me conscious to offer more than a one-size-fits-all model, so alongside standard Talking Therapy I also offer IFS, EFT and Brainspotting for shame and trauma.
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect from your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, numb, or not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space supporting individuals, couples, neurodiverse and enm relationships gain confidence to change and improve wellbeing.
01895 545137 View 01895 545137
Photo of Jenny Liggins, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Jenny Liggins
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialise in working with an IFS (Internal Family Systems) approach.
All of us need to find resilience at times of stress, or just to deal with day to day issues that may cause us anxiety and impact on the quality of our lives. Life events such as bereavement or change affect us in different ways with no simple, right solutions. I offer a way to share and resolve issues within a non-judgemental therapeutic relationship.
I specialise in working with an IFS (Internal Family Systems) approach.
All of us need to find resilience at times of stress, or just to deal with day to day issues that may cause us anxiety and impact on the quality of our lives. Life events such as bereavement or change affect us in different ways with no simple, right solutions. I offer a way to share and resolve issues within a non-judgemental therapeutic relationship.
01392 537148 View 01392 537148
Photo of Mirabela Osadci, MA
Mirabela Osadci
MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Practicing Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
IFS therapy looks at our inner world as a family system of sub-personalities which all have their own needs and wants, it helps us talk to them, solve inner conflicts, remove blocks and limiting beliefs, heal trauma so that our internal system becomes balanced and functions smoothly.
Practicing Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
IFS therapy looks at our inner world as a family system of sub-personalities which all have their own needs and wants, it helps us talk to them, solve inner conflicts, remove blocks and limiting beliefs, heal trauma so that our internal system becomes balanced and functions smoothly.
View
Photo of Emma Harris - Emma Harris Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Emma Harris Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
I integrate various approaches with Internal Family Systems ( IFS), supporting self-understanding and self-compassion.
Do you feel like you are battling something? It may be anxiety or depression; anger or regret; a difficult relationship; a memory, grudge or sense of somehow being ‘wrong’. Maybe you find yourself repeating negative patterns of behaviour or thought, or your responses take you by surprise. You may fear talking to others about your struggles, thinking they are unreasonable or that no-one can help. I will support you with curiosity and compassion as you explore your experiences and make connections. Together we can create space for you to reflect and reconnect with yourself.
I integrate various approaches with Internal Family Systems ( IFS), supporting self-understanding and self-compassion.
Do you feel like you are battling something? It may be anxiety or depression; anger or regret; a difficult relationship; a memory, grudge or sense of somehow being ‘wrong’. Maybe you find yourself repeating negative patterns of behaviour or thought, or your responses take you by surprise. You may fear talking to others about your struggles, thinking they are unreasonable or that no-one can help. I will support you with curiosity and compassion as you explore your experiences and make connections. Together we can create space for you to reflect and reconnect with yourself.
01308 808985 View 01308 808985
Photo of Yvonne (Vonny) Prout Registered Dip Coun, Counsellor, BACP
Yvonne (Vonny) Prout Registered Dip Coun
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am also a fully qualified Level 3 'Internal Family Systems' Therapist, and my details can be found on the IFS Institute UK Register.
Maybe the reason you are here today is because you are experiencing feelings that you would rather not continue to carry alone. My practice is called ‘Accanto’ and I have built my service around this name, which translated means ‘next to or beside,’ and quite simply that is exactly where I will be for you. I do have an A-Z of what I cover but actually this is about YOU feeling that you can bring anything you need into the space that I offer. Counselling is initially about feeling better about all the different parts of yourself, learning to love your whole self so that you can then invite love and acceptance from others.
I am also a fully qualified Level 3 'Internal Family Systems' Therapist, and my details can be found on the IFS Institute UK Register.
Maybe the reason you are here today is because you are experiencing feelings that you would rather not continue to carry alone. My practice is called ‘Accanto’ and I have built my service around this name, which translated means ‘next to or beside,’ and quite simply that is exactly where I will be for you. I do have an A-Z of what I cover but actually this is about YOU feeling that you can bring anything you need into the space that I offer. Counselling is initially about feeling better about all the different parts of yourself, learning to love your whole self so that you can then invite love and acceptance from others.
01626 249676 View 01626 249676
Photo of Chris Ashworth, Counsellor, MBACP
Chris Ashworth
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I use an inclusive mixture of approaches that are based in humanistic talking therapy, including internal family systems ( IFS) and CBT.
Life events can occasionally leave us overwhelmed, feeling lost and out of control. This can be the root cause of anxiety, depression and destructive behaviours, and at these times we sometimes need a little help to get us back on the right pathway, which is where I can help. As well as unburdening, sharing your experiences during counselling can help to reconnect with your real core self and accept the realities of life. I can support you while we explore your past and present, getting in touch with your authentic self and building your resilience for the future.
I use an inclusive mixture of approaches that are based in humanistic talking therapy, including internal family systems ( IFS) and CBT.
Life events can occasionally leave us overwhelmed, feeling lost and out of control. This can be the root cause of anxiety, depression and destructive behaviours, and at these times we sometimes need a little help to get us back on the right pathway, which is where I can help. As well as unburdening, sharing your experiences during counselling can help to reconnect with your real core self and accept the realities of life. I can support you while we explore your past and present, getting in touch with your authentic self and building your resilience for the future.
01249 911043 View 01249 911043
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.