Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Otago
Vanishar Jayaprakash
Counsellor, MA, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Queenstown 9300
I use a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
Hi, I’m Vani, and I’m here to support you—whether you’re processing the past, navigating the present, or planning for the future. With a background in psychology and counselling, I take a down-to-earth, client-focused approach. My experience includes working with diverse communities, from volunteering with Bluebird Pluho to establishing a counselling unit at an international high school and working in private practice. I support clients through anxiety, depression, burnout, and life transitions, creating a safe space where you can explore, heal, and grow at your own pace.
I use a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
Hi, I’m Vani, and I’m here to support you—whether you’re processing the past, navigating the present, or planning for the future. With a background in psychology and counselling, I take a down-to-earth, client-focused approach. My experience includes working with diverse communities, from volunteering with Bluebird Pluho to establishing a counselling unit at an international high school and working in private practice. I support clients through anxiety, depression, burnout, and life transitions, creating a safe space where you can explore, heal, and grow at your own pace.
My primary therapy modality is Internal Family Systems (L1 Trained), however I understand that each client's needs are unique, so I integrate theories and techniques from a range of counselling approaches (ERP, ACT, CBT) to develop tailored treatment plans that are suited to each individual.
Kia ora, I am an experienced Counsellor with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology. I support clients with varying issues, from anxiety, relationship difficulties and body image to disordered eating and OCD. Growing up in several different countries has given me a deep appreciation for people of diverse cultures, identities and backgrounds, and has informed my open-minded understanding and acceptance of others. With experience providing long-term, trauma-informed counselling, I offer a safe, collaborative and non-judgemental space where you can feel heard, supported and work towards your goals.
My primary therapy modality is Internal Family Systems (L1 Trained), however I understand that each client's needs are unique, so I integrate theories and techniques from a range of counselling approaches (ERP, ACT, CBT) to develop tailored treatment plans that are suited to each individual.
Kia ora, I am an experienced Counsellor with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology. I support clients with varying issues, from anxiety, relationship difficulties and body image to disordered eating and OCD. Growing up in several different countries has given me a deep appreciation for people of diverse cultures, identities and backgrounds, and has informed my open-minded understanding and acceptance of others. With experience providing long-term, trauma-informed counselling, I offer a safe, collaborative and non-judgemental space where you can feel heard, supported and work towards your goals.
My practice is rooted in Internal Family Systems ( IFS), integrated with somatic healing.
As Bessel van der Kolk notes, trauma is specifically an event that overwhelms the central nervous system, altering the way we process and recall memories. “Trauma is not the story of something that happened back then," he adds. "It's the current imprint of that pain, horror, and fear living inside people.” I am a well-established health professional who has dedicated my professional life working on releasing trauma in a natural, nurturing way, returning my clients to their natural state of wholeness. I call this "The Journey Home". I work from a neuroscience perspective. Harmonizing all aspects of our being Mind, Body and Soul
My practice is rooted in Internal Family Systems ( IFS), integrated with somatic healing.
As Bessel van der Kolk notes, trauma is specifically an event that overwhelms the central nervous system, altering the way we process and recall memories. “Trauma is not the story of something that happened back then," he adds. "It's the current imprint of that pain, horror, and fear living inside people.” I am a well-established health professional who has dedicated my professional life working on releasing trauma in a natural, nurturing way, returning my clients to their natural state of wholeness. I call this "The Journey Home". I work from a neuroscience perspective. Harmonizing all aspects of our being Mind, Body and Soul
Kia ora, my name is Glen, I'm a fully qualified therapist with extensive training in Internal Family Systems ( IFS) with IFSCA and have become part of their training team.
I am passionate about Internal Family Systems therapy ( IFS). IFS is a complete, cutting-edge form of individual growth and therapy. It is unfailingly kind, compassionate and accepting, and is effective whatever our personal goal, whether it’s healing from trauma, dealing with everyday problems, or personal growth. It also teaches us to be our own healer.
Kia ora, my name is Glen, I'm a fully qualified therapist with extensive training in Internal Family Systems ( IFS) with IFSCA and have become part of their training team.
I am passionate about Internal Family Systems therapy ( IFS). IFS is a complete, cutting-edge form of individual growth and therapy. It is unfailingly kind, compassionate and accepting, and is effective whatever our personal goal, whether it’s healing from trauma, dealing with everyday problems, or personal growth. It also teaches us to be our own healer.
My name is Jess and, together with my therapy dog Odinn, I offer body-based and animal assisted counselling and therapy services. We work with adult clients across the whole wellbeing spectrum: from people who want to get more out of their life, find a deeper sense of self, or connect to their body; to those that have experienced trauma struggling with basic tasks of daily living. Many have found traditional cognition based talk therapy less helpful or do not know yet how to put their experiences into words. No matter your reasons, we are here to create a space in which we can explore where you are, what you want, and what you need.
My name is Jess and, together with my therapy dog Odinn, I offer body-based and animal assisted counselling and therapy services. We work with adult clients across the whole wellbeing spectrum: from people who want to get more out of their life, find a deeper sense of self, or connect to their body; to those that have experienced trauma struggling with basic tasks of daily living. Many have found traditional cognition based talk therapy less helpful or do not know yet how to put their experiences into words. No matter your reasons, we are here to create a space in which we can explore where you are, what you want, and what you need.
I work alongside clients who are struggling to find a sense of wholeness in their lives. I believe self-compassion, connecting relationships, and values congruent activities are key components to healing. I specialize is work with anxiety, depression, trauma, relational distress, chronic medical conditions and a variety of other difficulties. I offer online and in-person group, individual and relationship counseling, as well as educational workshops and professional supervision. For more information, please visit my website.
I work alongside clients who are struggling to find a sense of wholeness in their lives. I believe self-compassion, connecting relationships, and values congruent activities are key components to healing. I specialize is work with anxiety, depression, trauma, relational distress, chronic medical conditions and a variety of other difficulties. I offer online and in-person group, individual and relationship counseling, as well as educational workshops and professional supervision. For more information, please visit my website.
Have you've been carrying a lot and you're ready to finally start facing it all? Something has come to a head and you're thinking, "It's finally time." The good news is that you don't have to navigate it all on your own. The even better news is we can take it one step at a time so it doesn't feel quite as overwhelming as it may first seem. Rest assured, compassion and empathy are a core part of my approach to ensure you feel safe and supported through your healing journey. We can work together to understand your experience at a deeper level and build healthy coping skills to move forward.
Have you've been carrying a lot and you're ready to finally start facing it all? Something has come to a head and you're thinking, "It's finally time." The good news is that you don't have to navigate it all on your own. The even better news is we can take it one step at a time so it doesn't feel quite as overwhelming as it may first seem. Rest assured, compassion and empathy are a core part of my approach to ensure you feel safe and supported through your healing journey. We can work together to understand your experience at a deeper level and build healthy coping skills to move forward.
Kia ora, my name is Ros. Counselling provides a safe, non-judgemental space for you to be heard and feel understood. It might not always feel like it, but you are the expert on your own life. My counselling approach seeks to work with you to explore what’s going well and what’s proving a challenge. Together, we’ll explore your values, assumptions and beliefs and create supportive, functional strategies and solutions to help you make sense of where you are right now.
Kia ora, my name is Ros. Counselling provides a safe, non-judgemental space for you to be heard and feel understood. It might not always feel like it, but you are the expert on your own life. My counselling approach seeks to work with you to explore what’s going well and what’s proving a challenge. Together, we’ll explore your values, assumptions and beliefs and create supportive, functional strategies and solutions to help you make sense of where you are right now.
My passion is to create a space for others to explore their concerns or challenges and feel comfortable doing so as we work together towards your preferred goals ultimately supporting overall wellness.
It can be a stepping out of the boat experience to talk to a professional about what troubles us, so I try to make the 'process' as easy as possible. We all struggle in many ways (normal!) and often, don't know what we don't know so upskilling in self-care or healthy thinking or relational wellness is something we all need to do from time to time to continue moving forward in life in ways that give our lives meaning and colour.
My passion is to create a space for others to explore their concerns or challenges and feel comfortable doing so as we work together towards your preferred goals ultimately supporting overall wellness.
It can be a stepping out of the boat experience to talk to a professional about what troubles us, so I try to make the 'process' as easy as possible. We all struggle in many ways (normal!) and often, don't know what we don't know so upskilling in self-care or healthy thinking or relational wellness is something we all need to do from time to time to continue moving forward in life in ways that give our lives meaning and colour.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out to a person you don’t know to work through challenges. I will meet you with compassion, for you, and hold space for your human experiences. We will build safety and trust together as we seek to acknowledge, understand, heal, and integrate what you have been through. I am passionate about supporting the diverse humans I work with to build resilience, cope, and process their experiences. I support my clients to live a life where their minds are a bit kinder to them.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out to a person you don’t know to work through challenges. I will meet you with compassion, for you, and hold space for your human experiences. We will build safety and trust together as we seek to acknowledge, understand, heal, and integrate what you have been through. I am passionate about supporting the diverse humans I work with to build resilience, cope, and process their experiences. I support my clients to live a life where their minds are a bit kinder to them.
Online Therapists
My approach is informed by Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Therapy, neurobiology of trauma and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
So often we talk or act in ways we wouldn't choose to if we were being our authentic selves. I use a 'parts approach' to help my clients make sense of their mind and bodies. With awareness, they learn to respond to stressors in their life with more choice and freedom.
My approach is informed by Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Therapy, neurobiology of trauma and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
So often we talk or act in ways we wouldn't choose to if we were being our authentic selves. I use a 'parts approach' to help my clients make sense of their mind and bodies. With awareness, they learn to respond to stressors in their life with more choice and freedom.
During therapy I will provide you with an applied experience which will suit your own needs while utilizing different effective supported modalities including client-centered approach, DBT, CBT, Mindful Somatic Approach, Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems and others.
Life can be challenging and at times one can feel overwhelmed by their problems, yet there are proven ways that could help you dealing with these challenges, and I am here to support and guide you through your healing journey. I am offering a warm, genuine, and non-judgmental collaborative approach. A safe space where you can explore your thinking and feelings and reach an understanding that will help you deal with your difficulties and find your way forward to live a fulfilled life. Whether you struggle with relationship, past or recent trauma, stress, anxiety, life transitions, physical health matters and more, I’m here to help!
During therapy I will provide you with an applied experience which will suit your own needs while utilizing different effective supported modalities including client-centered approach, DBT, CBT, Mindful Somatic Approach, Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems and others.
Life can be challenging and at times one can feel overwhelmed by their problems, yet there are proven ways that could help you dealing with these challenges, and I am here to support and guide you through your healing journey. I am offering a warm, genuine, and non-judgmental collaborative approach. A safe space where you can explore your thinking and feelings and reach an understanding that will help you deal with your difficulties and find your way forward to live a fulfilled life. Whether you struggle with relationship, past or recent trauma, stress, anxiety, life transitions, physical health matters and more, I’m here to help!
I offer trauma-sensitive therapy informed by IFS and Polyvagal Theory and tailored to your unique needs.
I really welcome all parts of you - those who are constantly overwhelmed, keep setting higher goals but still worry you're not good enough, the ones who make you small to please other people, are welcome here - we leave no one at the door.
I offer trauma-sensitive therapy informed by IFS and Polyvagal Theory and tailored to your unique needs.
I really welcome all parts of you - those who are constantly overwhelmed, keep setting higher goals but still worry you're not good enough, the ones who make you small to please other people, are welcome here - we leave no one at the door.
Psychodynamically trained, my approach is influenced by theories of attachment, intergenerational trauma, internal family systems, polyvagal theory and other approaches to trauma healing.
I seek to meet my clients where they are, sensitively feeling into what it might be like to be you, with respect, openness and warmth. I have a particular interest in guiding individuals through the intimate process of working through emotional pain and early relational trauma. I tend to focus on what is happening in the client/therapist relationship. Examining relational patterns in this immediate way can help us discover what it means to engage non-defensively and authentically with ourselves and with life.
Psychodynamically trained, my approach is influenced by theories of attachment, intergenerational trauma, internal family systems, polyvagal theory and other approaches to trauma healing.
I seek to meet my clients where they are, sensitively feeling into what it might be like to be you, with respect, openness and warmth. I have a particular interest in guiding individuals through the intimate process of working through emotional pain and early relational trauma. I tend to focus on what is happening in the client/therapist relationship. Examining relational patterns in this immediate way can help us discover what it means to engage non-defensively and authentically with ourselves and with life.
Experiential therapies such as IFS (Internal Family Systems), EMDR, and DBR (Deep Brain Reorienting) are three evidence based approaches that I can use to get to the root of your problems.
Do you long to feel safe being yourself? Is there something holding you back from your full potential? Whether you want to free yourself from the impact of trauma, childhood trauma, or are looking for personal growth, I can help you make the changes you are hoping for. Problems such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, self-criticism, perfectionism, phobias, procrastination, or low self-worth, can all be alleviated by addressing the underlying pain driving these symptoms. Transformational change is possible, and I can help you to help yourself.
Note: I am approved for ACC Sensitive Claims if you have history of sexual harm in NZ.
Experiential therapies such as IFS (Internal Family Systems), EMDR, and DBR (Deep Brain Reorienting) are three evidence based approaches that I can use to get to the root of your problems.
Do you long to feel safe being yourself? Is there something holding you back from your full potential? Whether you want to free yourself from the impact of trauma, childhood trauma, or are looking for personal growth, I can help you make the changes you are hoping for. Problems such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, self-criticism, perfectionism, phobias, procrastination, or low self-worth, can all be alleviated by addressing the underlying pain driving these symptoms. Transformational change is possible, and I can help you to help yourself.
Note: I am approved for ACC Sensitive Claims if you have history of sexual harm in NZ.
Rhonda Powers - taking new clients (sorry no ACC)
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PBANZ
Verified Verified
Napier 4110
I offer: Psychodynamic psychotherapy (traditional talk therapy), Hakomi mindfulness-centered somatic (mind-body) psychotherapy (similar to Sensorimotor Psychotherapy), Parts work (such as Internal Family Systems), Ecotherapy (psychotherapy involving nature) and Nonviolent Communication mediation.
I work in a collaborative way, providing the space for you to gain insight into your life. Psychotherapy can help you access and change your beliefs, habits and patterns to help you gain a sense of control, ease and joy.
I offer: Psychodynamic psychotherapy (traditional talk therapy), Hakomi mindfulness-centered somatic (mind-body) psychotherapy (similar to Sensorimotor Psychotherapy), Parts work (such as Internal Family Systems), Ecotherapy (psychotherapy involving nature) and Nonviolent Communication mediation.
I work in a collaborative way, providing the space for you to gain insight into your life. Psychotherapy can help you access and change your beliefs, habits and patterns to help you gain a sense of control, ease and joy.
I utilize mindbody approaches from Sensory-motor Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory and EMDR.
I work with people on their healing journey who are over 20yrs who are not finding meaning in their life struggles. It may be despondency, fear, difficulties in relationships, a lack of self-compassion and/or other issues that fuel their troubles. Within the therapeutic relationship we explore what's been previously unheard and unacknowledged to find a place of safety, ease and peace inside and out. Difficult feelings are signals to unmet needs, and together we explore and work through unfinished business and grief to arrive at needs being met, self-acceptance and previously untapped positive energy (prev as a Health Psychologist).
I utilize mindbody approaches from Sensory-motor Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory and EMDR.
I work with people on their healing journey who are over 20yrs who are not finding meaning in their life struggles. It may be despondency, fear, difficulties in relationships, a lack of self-compassion and/or other issues that fuel their troubles. Within the therapeutic relationship we explore what's been previously unheard and unacknowledged to find a place of safety, ease and peace inside and out. Difficult feelings are signals to unmet needs, and together we explore and work through unfinished business and grief to arrive at needs being met, self-acceptance and previously untapped positive energy (prev as a Health Psychologist).
My professional journey encompasses a holistic approach, integrating various modalities such as Theraplay, Gottman's Couple Therapy, TFCBT, along with mindfulness, IFS, IST, transgenerational trauma, and narrative therapy.
I specialize in empowering clients to reclaim their sense of agency, guiding them to recognize their role in shaping their lives. By fostering self-understanding and collaboration, I help clients connect with their own histories and explore new perspectives through the integration of tales, books, archetypes, and movies. I'm ACC registered
My professional journey encompasses a holistic approach, integrating various modalities such as Theraplay, Gottman's Couple Therapy, TFCBT, along with mindfulness, IFS, IST, transgenerational trauma, and narrative therapy.
I specialize in empowering clients to reclaim their sense of agency, guiding them to recognize their role in shaping their lives. By fostering self-understanding and collaboration, I help clients connect with their own histories and explore new perspectives through the integration of tales, books, archetypes, and movies. I'm ACC registered
In 2024/25 I am engaged in IFS level 1 training (AUS/NZ) and welcome your enquiry about this therapeutic approach.
Meaningful change occurs when we feel emotionally and physically safe. It is only from a place of safety that we can navigate troubling or puzzling feelings and experiences. I work in a supportive, creative, and gently curious way to help you explore your concerns, and spark new insights and lasting ways to better navigate your life.
In 2024/25 I am engaged in IFS level 1 training (AUS/NZ) and welcome your enquiry about this therapeutic approach.
Meaningful change occurs when we feel emotionally and physically safe. It is only from a place of safety that we can navigate troubling or puzzling feelings and experiences. I work in a supportive, creative, and gently curious way to help you explore your concerns, and spark new insights and lasting ways to better navigate your life.
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.