Internal Family Systems (IFS) Counselling in Glasgow

Photo of Miranda Lo - Miranda Lo (MCouns) Counselling, CBT & Coaching, Psychotherapist, MBACP
You are just feeling fed up with self-doubt & rumination; and you are worrying about your continual procrastination & your escape from opportunities. You feel like you are finally ready to move forward. I understand what it feels like when encountering emotional issues and stress. I embarked on a journey of self-exploration, which has allowed me to find what I am passionate about. I work with an Integrative Therapeutic Approach to draw benefits from various modalities to suit You. I am dedicated in collaboratively assisting YOU in overcoming self doubts & unleashing YOUR potential FULLY, be it in your life, career and relationships.
You are just feeling fed up with self-doubt & rumination; and you are worrying about your continual procrastination & your escape from opportunities. You feel like you are finally ready to move forward. I understand what it feels like when encountering emotional issues and stress. I embarked on a journey of self-exploration, which has allowed me to find what I am passionate about. I work with an Integrative Therapeutic Approach to draw benefits from various modalities to suit You. I am dedicated in collaboratively assisting YOU in overcoming self doubts & unleashing YOUR potential FULLY, be it in your life, career and relationships.
01357 510614 View 01357 510614
Photo of Nicola Toye - Nicola Toye Relationship Therapy , Counsellor, MSc, COSRT General
Nicola Toye Relationship Therapy
Counsellor, MSc, COSRT General
Online Only
This allows us, at a gentle pace, to look at how your past, present, and family systems contribute to your intimate relationships.
Do you feel you would like your relationship to be in a better place? Perhaps you're going through a life transition, such as becoming parents, or you're raising a family and you would love to find that spark between you as a couple again. Have you noticed a distance between you, and that you miss the closeness and intimacy you once shared? Maybe your relationship has reached a crisis point such as an affair and you're looking to help your relationship heal. Or maybe communication has become an issue, leaving you feeling that your true needs are not being met and you would like to understand each other better.
This allows us, at a gentle pace, to look at how your past, present, and family systems contribute to your intimate relationships.
Do you feel you would like your relationship to be in a better place? Perhaps you're going through a life transition, such as becoming parents, or you're raising a family and you would love to find that spark between you as a couple again. Have you noticed a distance between you, and that you miss the closeness and intimacy you once shared? Maybe your relationship has reached a crisis point such as an affair and you're looking to help your relationship heal. Or maybe communication has become an issue, leaving you feeling that your true needs are not being met and you would like to understand each other better.
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Photo of Elizabeth Walsh - Healthy Mind Healthy Body Therapeutic Services , Psychotherapist, MBABCP
I am a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist (PGDip University of Dundee) as well as a sex and relationship therapist (PGDip/University of Hull/RELATE). I specialise in the treatment of OCD, particularly as it relates to relationships, sex, and sexuality. I use tailored exposure and response prevention therapy. I also offer a complimentary accountability service, whereby people can check in daily when trying to change habits or compulsive behaviours. I deliver effective, evidence-based interventions for anxiety disorders with warmth, compassion and gentle humour.
I am a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist (PGDip University of Dundee) as well as a sex and relationship therapist (PGDip/University of Hull/RELATE). I specialise in the treatment of OCD, particularly as it relates to relationships, sex, and sexuality. I use tailored exposure and response prevention therapy. I also offer a complimentary accountability service, whereby people can check in daily when trying to change habits or compulsive behaviours. I deliver effective, evidence-based interventions for anxiety disorders with warmth, compassion and gentle humour.
0141 673 8072 View 0141 673 8072
Photo of Dr Nick Lake - Dr Nick Lake, Consultant Clinical Psychologist , Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Nick Lake, Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I draw on extensive specialist training in Trauma, EMDR, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Couples Therapy, CBT, Short Term Psychodynamic Therapy and Mindfulness.
When you need support, accessing the right help is important. Whether you’re concerned about your mental health, seeking to address past traumas, or noticing unhelpful patterns in your relationships, I am here to help. When working together I will draw on over 30 years experience working in senior clinical roles in both the NHS and private practice. I always offer a specialist psychological assessment that will help you gain a clearer understanding of the issues affecting you, then focused evidenced based psychological therapy, typically between 8 to 12 sessions, targeted to help you address what’s troubling you.
I draw on extensive specialist training in Trauma, EMDR, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Couples Therapy, CBT, Short Term Psychodynamic Therapy and Mindfulness.
When you need support, accessing the right help is important. Whether you’re concerned about your mental health, seeking to address past traumas, or noticing unhelpful patterns in your relationships, I am here to help. When working together I will draw on over 30 years experience working in senior clinical roles in both the NHS and private practice. I always offer a specialist psychological assessment that will help you gain a clearer understanding of the issues affecting you, then focused evidenced based psychological therapy, typically between 8 to 12 sessions, targeted to help you address what’s troubling you.
0141 673 7751 View 0141 673 7751
Photo of Dr Naomi 'oliver' Saint Martin, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Naomi 'oliver' Saint Martin
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm Oliver. Making the decision to reach out for therapy can be a difficult and even daunting task. As your therapist, I will provide you with a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space where you can be unapologetically yourself and talk about whatever you want. I will help you decide how you want to use your time for therapy, and what you want to work towards together. I am committed to anti-discriminatory and anti-oppressive practice and aim to always provide a safe and affirmative space for my clients. I will always work with you to understand both our similarities and differences, without making assumptions.
Hi! I'm Oliver. Making the decision to reach out for therapy can be a difficult and even daunting task. As your therapist, I will provide you with a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space where you can be unapologetically yourself and talk about whatever you want. I will help you decide how you want to use your time for therapy, and what you want to work towards together. I am committed to anti-discriminatory and anti-oppressive practice and aim to always provide a safe and affirmative space for my clients. I will always work with you to understand both our similarities and differences, without making assumptions.
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Photo of Laura Beech, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Laura Beech
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I mainly use EMDR therapy and combine it with attachment focus and/or Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Do you feel like past events are affecting how you cope with life today leaving you feeling stuck and anxious or depressed? Are you having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep? Do you keep repeating the same negative patterns in relationships? My primary therapeutic approach is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a powerful and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of psychological distress stemming from traumatic experiences and other adverse life events. EMDR facilitates the brain's natural healing processes, allowing you to reprocess distressing memories and reduce their emotional impact.
I mainly use EMDR therapy and combine it with attachment focus and/or Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Do you feel like past events are affecting how you cope with life today leaving you feeling stuck and anxious or depressed? Are you having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep? Do you keep repeating the same negative patterns in relationships? My primary therapeutic approach is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a powerful and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of psychological distress stemming from traumatic experiences and other adverse life events. EMDR facilitates the brain's natural healing processes, allowing you to reprocess distressing memories and reduce their emotional impact.
0121 817 7042 View 0121 817 7042
Photo of Jodi Duncan, Counsellor, MCOSCA Accred
Jodi Duncan
Counsellor, MCOSCA Accred
3 Endorsed
I’ve been an integrative counsellor for 10 years and have worked with all kinds of different people with all kinds of different stories. We all need a space to talk and be heard, really heard, and have our inherent value recognised. In a world where people are busy and preoccupied, I provide a confidential space that is for you, where you can be held in the things you want to work with and where there are no preconceptions about who you are or how you operate. I provide a safe, warm and kind environment where you can work through the difficulties you may be experiencing with openness and honesty, and experience change.
I’ve been an integrative counsellor for 10 years and have worked with all kinds of different people with all kinds of different stories. We all need a space to talk and be heard, really heard, and have our inherent value recognised. In a world where people are busy and preoccupied, I provide a confidential space that is for you, where you can be held in the things you want to work with and where there are no preconceptions about who you are or how you operate. I provide a safe, warm and kind environment where you can work through the difficulties you may be experiencing with openness and honesty, and experience change.
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Photo of Saad Malik, Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
Saad Malik
Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
Glasgow G41
I am a Glasgow based integrative counsellor specialising in anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse and LGBTQIA+ issues. Working with me will allow you to understand the impact of the past on your current situation and find creative ways for moving forward. I have lived in different parts of the world which has given me a diverse understanding of the lived experience. I believe that talking through our issues can provide a deep sense of relief. Its my passion to support my clients as they come to terms with their inner truth and find meaning in their life.
I am a Glasgow based integrative counsellor specialising in anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse and LGBTQIA+ issues. Working with me will allow you to understand the impact of the past on your current situation and find creative ways for moving forward. I have lived in different parts of the world which has given me a diverse understanding of the lived experience. I believe that talking through our issues can provide a deep sense of relief. Its my passion to support my clients as they come to terms with their inner truth and find meaning in their life.
0141 673 4833 View 0141 673 4833
Photo of Dr Aisha Tariq, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Aisha Tariq
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
7 Endorsed
Glasgow G77
Hi, I'm Aisha, the director of Illuminated Thinking and a dedicated clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in adult mental health. I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice, where we understand that sometimes everyone needs a little extra support to navigate psychological pain and build resilience for the future. At Illuminated Thinking, my welcoming and friendly practice serves as your safe space to explore, heal, and grow. Here, you can delve into the present, learn from the past, and focus on becoming the person you aspire to be.
Hi, I'm Aisha, the director of Illuminated Thinking and a dedicated clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in adult mental health. I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice, where we understand that sometimes everyone needs a little extra support to navigate psychological pain and build resilience for the future. At Illuminated Thinking, my welcoming and friendly practice serves as your safe space to explore, heal, and grow. Here, you can delve into the present, learn from the past, and focus on becoming the person you aspire to be.
0141 471 3632 View 0141 471 3632
Photo of Stefan Credidio - SC Holistic Counselling / Stefan Credidio, Counsellor, MSc, BACP
SC Holistic Counselling / Stefan Credidio
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
With approaches ranging from Somatic Trauma Therapy , CBT and Psychodynamic Therapy to Inner Child Work, and IFS / Parts Work, we’ll find what works best for you.
Have you ever felt unseen or misunderstood in traditional therapy spaces? Do you long for a therapist who truly gets you—your identity, your relationships, your experiences? Whether you’re navigating neurodivergence, kink,exploring non-traditional relationships, healing from trauma,or reconnecting with pleasure and intimacy, you deserve a space where you don’t have to explain or justify yourself—just be. And if you’re an artist, musician,or creative soul struggling with mental health, I know the pressures, burnout,and the deep emotional currents that come with your world. You don’t have to navigate it alone. I'm also a DJ myself.
With approaches ranging from Somatic Trauma Therapy , CBT and Psychodynamic Therapy to Inner Child Work, and IFS / Parts Work, we’ll find what works best for you.
Have you ever felt unseen or misunderstood in traditional therapy spaces? Do you long for a therapist who truly gets you—your identity, your relationships, your experiences? Whether you’re navigating neurodivergence, kink,exploring non-traditional relationships, healing from trauma,or reconnecting with pleasure and intimacy, you deserve a space where you don’t have to explain or justify yourself—just be. And if you’re an artist, musician,or creative soul struggling with mental health, I know the pressures, burnout,and the deep emotional currents that come with your world. You don’t have to navigate it alone. I'm also a DJ myself.
0141 673 9620 View 0141 673 9620
Photo of Tracey Wilson, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Tracey Wilson
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Life can feel meaningless living without a connection with ourselves, our bodies and each other. Traumatic events and stress can lock us in a state of fear or helplessness causing us to behave reactively or to withdraw from life. The prolonged stress / anxiety of continously trying to suppress symptoms or figure everything out alone can feel completely exhausting right? As we continously battle the many 'shoulds' and judgements we ourselves and others place upon us, decision making becomes a terrifying process, preventing us from living - merely existing. I understand how isolating this can feel going through alone. I am here.
Life can feel meaningless living without a connection with ourselves, our bodies and each other. Traumatic events and stress can lock us in a state of fear or helplessness causing us to behave reactively or to withdraw from life. The prolonged stress / anxiety of continously trying to suppress symptoms or figure everything out alone can feel completely exhausting right? As we continously battle the many 'shoulds' and judgements we ourselves and others place upon us, decision making becomes a terrifying process, preventing us from living - merely existing. I understand how isolating this can feel going through alone. I am here.
0141 673 2428 View 0141 673 2428
Photo of Karin Usher, Counsellor, BACP
Karin Usher
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
I use an integrative, trauma-informed approach drawing from IFS, somatic work, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and relational work.
You might be someone who looks like they’re coping—holding things together, supporting others—but inside, you feel anxious, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. You may have a history of childhood abuse, neglect, or sexual trauma, or just a sense that something from the past is still shaping how you feel now. You might struggle with trust, boundaries, or feeling safe in your own body. You want space to understand what’s going on, to feel less overwhelmed or numb, and to start making sense of what you’ve been through. You want to feel more connected to yourself and others—not fixed, but more whole.
I use an integrative, trauma-informed approach drawing from IFS, somatic work, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and relational work.
You might be someone who looks like they’re coping—holding things together, supporting others—but inside, you feel anxious, shut down, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense. You may have a history of childhood abuse, neglect, or sexual trauma, or just a sense that something from the past is still shaping how you feel now. You might struggle with trust, boundaries, or feeling safe in your own body. You want space to understand what’s going on, to feel less overwhelmed or numb, and to start making sense of what you’ve been through. You want to feel more connected to yourself and others—not fixed, but more whole.
07983 600451 View 07983 600451
Photo of Yvonne Mcneill - The Psychology Rooms clinic , Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
The Psychology Rooms clinic
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
The Psychology Rooms is large mental health clinic with expertise in CAMHS, adult mental health and physical health (pain and medical conditions). Our clinic is friendly and our clinic rooms are designed specifically for adults, teens or children. We are open from 9am to 8pm to suit school and work hours. We offer are: • Evidence based psychological therapies for all ages, families and couples • Psychological assessment for surgery (cosmetic and medical) • Psychological preparation for coping with surgery or genetic testing • Expert witness reports for court, tribunals and compensation. • Mental health first aid training
The Psychology Rooms is large mental health clinic with expertise in CAMHS, adult mental health and physical health (pain and medical conditions). Our clinic is friendly and our clinic rooms are designed specifically for adults, teens or children. We are open from 9am to 8pm to suit school and work hours. We offer are: • Evidence based psychological therapies for all ages, families and couples • Psychological assessment for surgery (cosmetic and medical) • Psychological preparation for coping with surgery or genetic testing • Expert witness reports for court, tribunals and compensation. • Mental health first aid training
0141 673 3254 View 0141 673 3254
Photo of Jem Crawley, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Jem Crawley
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
I largely draw on Person-Centred Therapy (PCT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Existential Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, I'm Jem. In the counselling room, I welcome the whole self, mind, body, and spirit. Metaphors and analogies often help make sense of complex emotions, and I see therapy as a journey. In our sessions, we’ll map the inner landscape of your life: understanding what shaped its mountains and valleys, how its well-worn paths were formed, and where new routes might lead. My aim is to help you process your experiences, clarify your goals, and help you step into your role as an active agent of change, empowered to create the shifts you want in your life.
I largely draw on Person-Centred Therapy (PCT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Existential Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, I'm Jem. In the counselling room, I welcome the whole self, mind, body, and spirit. Metaphors and analogies often help make sense of complex emotions, and I see therapy as a journey. In our sessions, we’ll map the inner landscape of your life: understanding what shaped its mountains and valleys, how its well-worn paths were formed, and where new routes might lead. My aim is to help you process your experiences, clarify your goals, and help you step into your role as an active agent of change, empowered to create the shifts you want in your life.
0141 673 7142 x44 View 0141 673 7142 x44
Photo of Lisa Christie, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Lisa Christie
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G40
Waitlist for new clients
People that come along to therapy may be be looking for support with difficult experiences in their life, and feel open to expanding their way of noticing and responding to their difficulties. I work with people who are open to finding more about themselves, and seeing how living in the modern world can impact our mental health. In wanting to understand more about themselves, people can also develop radical self-acceptance. I take an anti-oppressive approach to therapy. Therapy can be a source of affirmation, but also of challenge. I will challenge harmful patterns, and provide support to reduce the risk of harm.
People that come along to therapy may be be looking for support with difficult experiences in their life, and feel open to expanding their way of noticing and responding to their difficulties. I work with people who are open to finding more about themselves, and seeing how living in the modern world can impact our mental health. In wanting to understand more about themselves, people can also develop radical self-acceptance. I take an anti-oppressive approach to therapy. Therapy can be a source of affirmation, but also of challenge. I will challenge harmful patterns, and provide support to reduce the risk of harm.
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Photo of Dr Rasa Butrimaviciute, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Rasa Butrimaviciute
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
She uses evidence-based gold-standard therapeutic approaches in her practice, including Compassion Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
Dr Rasa is a Clinical Psychologist registered with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) which is a professional regulatory body aimed to ensure that you get safe and effective care. She holds a professional interest in working with people who have experienced traumatic life events as well as those who have been affected by narcissistic parenting, and have difficulties with relationships, feel they need to please people in order to be liked, feel anxious, stuck, lack confidence and joy from everyday life. Dr Rasa also works with women who are high-achievers but nevertheless struggle with low self-esteem, low mood or anxiety.
She uses evidence-based gold-standard therapeutic approaches in her practice, including Compassion Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
Dr Rasa is a Clinical Psychologist registered with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) which is a professional regulatory body aimed to ensure that you get safe and effective care. She holds a professional interest in working with people who have experienced traumatic life events as well as those who have been affected by narcissistic parenting, and have difficulties with relationships, feel they need to please people in order to be liked, feel anxious, stuck, lack confidence and joy from everyday life. Dr Rasa also works with women who are high-achievers but nevertheless struggle with low self-esteem, low mood or anxiety.
0141 673 6039 View 0141 673 6039
Photo of Paul Mcilvenny, Counsellor, MBACP
Paul Mcilvenny
Counsellor, MBACP
Glasgow G64
My recovery programme involves a mix of different counselling styles namely Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, Attachment focus as well as a little CBT.
My typical clients are those affected with different forms of compulsive / addictive behaviours - these might include Porn, Sex and Love Addictions; Gambling, Eating Disorders, Alcohol & Narcotics abuse; or those who are Workaholics or compulsive Gamers or Shoppers. I work with both individuals and their partners. Clients usually first see me when they have reached a major crisis point in their lives and are seeking a person who has an understanding of their issues and how to help changes. Further details on my background and approach can be found online - just look up Trusted Therapeutics online.
My recovery programme involves a mix of different counselling styles namely Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, Attachment focus as well as a little CBT.
My typical clients are those affected with different forms of compulsive / addictive behaviours - these might include Porn, Sex and Love Addictions; Gambling, Eating Disorders, Alcohol & Narcotics abuse; or those who are Workaholics or compulsive Gamers or Shoppers. I work with both individuals and their partners. Clients usually first see me when they have reached a major crisis point in their lives and are seeking a person who has an understanding of their issues and how to help changes. Further details on my background and approach can be found online - just look up Trusted Therapeutics online.
0141 280 5966 View 0141 280 5966
Liz Muir
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Glasgow G46
Do you feel like you're not in control of your own life? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck or weighed down by past experiences that affect how you think, feel or relate to others. Perhaps you're living with anxiety, trauma, addiction or the long term impact of growing up without consistent care or safety. You might be high functioning on the outside yet struggling internally, wanting greater emotional stability, resilience, clarity and a sense of control over your life. Above all you want meaningful change; not just coping but feeling more grounded, confident and able to move forward and thrive.
Do you feel like you're not in control of your own life? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck or weighed down by past experiences that affect how you think, feel or relate to others. Perhaps you're living with anxiety, trauma, addiction or the long term impact of growing up without consistent care or safety. You might be high functioning on the outside yet struggling internally, wanting greater emotional stability, resilience, clarity and a sense of control over your life. Above all you want meaningful change; not just coping but feeling more grounded, confident and able to move forward and thrive.
0141 673 8047 View 0141 673 8047
Photo of Jacquie Lyons, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Jacquie Lyons
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
The clients I work with come from all walks of life, my experience both personally and professionally has taught me that as humans we are pretty skilled at waging quiet wars within ourselves. People pleasing, sound familiar? The tendency to shy away from assertive communication/exerting ones boundaries? What potentially happens as result when we are too afraid to implement the aforementioned? We harbour internal resentments, thereby impeding our own growth & authenticity. These issues essentially bleed into all corners of our lives. The unmentionable is the unmanageable but we can, if we so wish, learn new ways.
The clients I work with come from all walks of life, my experience both personally and professionally has taught me that as humans we are pretty skilled at waging quiet wars within ourselves. People pleasing, sound familiar? The tendency to shy away from assertive communication/exerting ones boundaries? What potentially happens as result when we are too afraid to implement the aforementioned? We harbour internal resentments, thereby impeding our own growth & authenticity. These issues essentially bleed into all corners of our lives. The unmentionable is the unmanageable but we can, if we so wish, learn new ways.
0141 673 6438 View 0141 673 6438
Photo of Alison Emily - Sisto Counselling & Psychotherapy Services, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Sisto Counselling & Psychotherapy Services
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
It’s normal, at some point, to get stuck, or to struggle facing life's challenges. Sometimes we know exactly what’s wrong but at other times we might just have a nagging sense that something isn’t quite right. Therapy can help by supporting you to explore the roots of your distress, understand more clearly what’s keeping you stuck, and create new ways to think about yourself and your relationship roles and patterns. By uncovering the obstacles holding you back, you can learn to problem-solve, make better choices, practise healthier coping strategies, and turn your goals into realities to find a greater sense of peace and fulfilment.
It’s normal, at some point, to get stuck, or to struggle facing life's challenges. Sometimes we know exactly what’s wrong but at other times we might just have a nagging sense that something isn’t quite right. Therapy can help by supporting you to explore the roots of your distress, understand more clearly what’s keeping you stuck, and create new ways to think about yourself and your relationship roles and patterns. By uncovering the obstacles holding you back, you can learn to problem-solve, make better choices, practise healthier coping strategies, and turn your goals into realities to find a greater sense of peace and fulfilment.
0141 673 8761 View 0141 673 8761

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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.