Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Concord, CA

Photo of Raven Westhoelter, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raven Westhoelter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94520  (Online Only)
These include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, Exposure Therapy, Attachment Theory and Mindfulness.
I specialize in treating Complex PTSD, Panic, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, gender and sexuality exploration, monogamous and poly relationships, and sexual difficulties. I help people explore and discover who they want to be, what kind of life they want to live, and what they can do to make it their reality. I enjoy helping clients discover who they are and how to find and engage with community.
These include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, Exposure Therapy, Attachment Theory and Mindfulness.
I specialize in treating Complex PTSD, Panic, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, gender and sexuality exploration, monogamous and poly relationships, and sexual difficulties. I help people explore and discover who they want to be, what kind of life they want to live, and what they can do to make it their reality. I enjoy helping clients discover who they are and how to find and engage with community.
(510) 768-8044 View (510) 768-8044
Photo of Amanda Yates, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Yates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94521  (Online Only)
I’m centered in Existential, Humanistic psychotherapy with experience in Harm Reduction, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems/Somatic Parts Work, Trauma Informed Care, Psychedelic Integration Therapy, Grief Work, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Psychodynamic.
A cornerstone of my approach to therapeutic work is relational healing. By being in healthy, authentic connection and communication with others we can discover more about ourselves and heal wounds of disconnection. Connection to our Selves, and to others in a fulfilling way is critical to mental wellness and life fulfillment. Somatic Parts Work is incorporated to support empowerment and wholeness. We all hold within us the capacity to heal. I look forward to the opportunity to support your Path.
I’m centered in Existential, Humanistic psychotherapy with experience in Harm Reduction, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems/Somatic Parts Work, Trauma Informed Care, Psychedelic Integration Therapy, Grief Work, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Psychodynamic.
A cornerstone of my approach to therapeutic work is relational healing. By being in healthy, authentic connection and communication with others we can discover more about ourselves and heal wounds of disconnection. Connection to our Selves, and to others in a fulfilling way is critical to mental wellness and life fulfillment. Somatic Parts Work is incorporated to support empowerment and wholeness. We all hold within us the capacity to heal. I look forward to the opportunity to support your Path.
(530) 461-5819 View (530) 461-5819
Photo of Cynthia A Zecic, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia A Zecic
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94519
Welcome to a space where healing begins and resilience flourishes. I offer a unique blend of expertise in trauma-informed modalities, (i.e. Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems). My approach is rooted in the belief that safety is the cornerstone of transformative therapy. With a background in drama therapy, I integrate movement-based experiential exercises into traditional talk therapy. This dynamic method allows for a deeper exploration of the self, encouraging clients to embody their experiences and unlock new pathways to wellness.
Welcome to a space where healing begins and resilience flourishes. I offer a unique blend of expertise in trauma-informed modalities, (i.e. Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems). My approach is rooted in the belief that safety is the cornerstone of transformative therapy. With a background in drama therapy, I integrate movement-based experiential exercises into traditional talk therapy. This dynamic method allows for a deeper exploration of the self, encouraging clients to embody their experiences and unlock new pathways to wellness.
(925) 393-0433 View (925) 393-0433
Photo of Sveta Alshvang, PsyD, MBA, MA, Psychologist
Sveta Alshvang
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94521
I use effective methods such as EMDR, IFS, DBT, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, tailored to your needs.
Do you feel haunted by feelings of anxiety, anger, sadness, or shame? Are there moments where memories from the past overwhelm you in the present? Perhaps you’re also dealing with a strong fear of failure and self-criticism, despite achieving outward success. Maybe you’re someone who always strives to excel and manage everything top notch. Carrying the weight of perfection and constantly supporting others while neglecting your own needs can be draining. I’m here to help you find relief. Among my clients are educators, engineers, managers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and artists, all seeking to make meaningful changes in their lives.
I use effective methods such as EMDR, IFS, DBT, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, tailored to your needs.
Do you feel haunted by feelings of anxiety, anger, sadness, or shame? Are there moments where memories from the past overwhelm you in the present? Perhaps you’re also dealing with a strong fear of failure and self-criticism, despite achieving outward success. Maybe you’re someone who always strives to excel and manage everything top notch. Carrying the weight of perfection and constantly supporting others while neglecting your own needs can be draining. I’m here to help you find relief. Among my clients are educators, engineers, managers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and artists, all seeking to make meaningful changes in their lives.
(650) 215-6194 View (650) 215-6194
Photo of Lisa Case, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Case
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94521  (Online Only)
My work is intuitive, and may include somatic experiencing, IFS, mindfulness, experiential exercises, CBT, and DBT.
I specialize in helping individuals who experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interrelational/ interfamilial conflicts. My aim is to support you in a safe and non-judgmental container, where we can explore the roots of your issues, as well as provide you skills which can help to alleviate any symptoms/ conflicts you may have. I believe that you are the expert of your story and hold a space that is of compassion and unconditional positive regard. I also offer online ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, when indicated for various diagnoses that may have been treatment-resistant with traditional forms of talk therapy.
My work is intuitive, and may include somatic experiencing, IFS, mindfulness, experiential exercises, CBT, and DBT.
I specialize in helping individuals who experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interrelational/ interfamilial conflicts. My aim is to support you in a safe and non-judgmental container, where we can explore the roots of your issues, as well as provide you skills which can help to alleviate any symptoms/ conflicts you may have. I believe that you are the expert of your story and hold a space that is of compassion and unconditional positive regard. I also offer online ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, when indicated for various diagnoses that may have been treatment-resistant with traditional forms of talk therapy.
(510) 949-5329 View (510) 949-5329
Photo of Christopher Dean Coble, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Dean Coble
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94519  (Online Only)
I have a lot of success using EMDR, IMTT and IFS - each of these modalities helps with deep healing so my clients can move from a burdened past, or inner experience, into a fulfilling, healthy and whole present.
Are you struggling to live the life you want and hope for? Are your relationships failing, or bringing you disappointment and pain? Are you feeling defeated, overwhelmed? I've walked alongside clients for over 19 years, and I know that by the time someone reaches out to a therapist, they really need help. I consider it a privilege and honor to work with clients and I do so in a collaborative, compassionate, educational and efficient manner. Therapy utilizes precious resources (time, money, energy) and I respect and honor clients through ethical, quality care that brings about healing and growth at the deepest levels.
I have a lot of success using EMDR, IMTT and IFS - each of these modalities helps with deep healing so my clients can move from a burdened past, or inner experience, into a fulfilling, healthy and whole present.
Are you struggling to live the life you want and hope for? Are your relationships failing, or bringing you disappointment and pain? Are you feeling defeated, overwhelmed? I've walked alongside clients for over 19 years, and I know that by the time someone reaches out to a therapist, they really need help. I consider it a privilege and honor to work with clients and I do so in a collaborative, compassionate, educational and efficient manner. Therapy utilizes precious resources (time, money, energy) and I respect and honor clients through ethical, quality care that brings about healing and growth at the deepest levels.
(925) 438-6455 View (925) 438-6455
Photo of Kimberly Marshall, LCPC
Kimberly Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94521
Kim's approach draws on Psychodynamic therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Attachment based Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems.
Kim Marshall Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Kim works with a variety of individuals and couples. She provides an inviting and warm space to explore client’s goals and address areas where they feel stuck or hopeless. She believes that through a safe and caring therapeutic relationship, hope, change and flourishing will emerge. Kim works with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, parenting, parenting adult children, and relational conflicts.
Kim's approach draws on Psychodynamic therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Attachment based Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems.
Kim Marshall Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Kim works with a variety of individuals and couples. She provides an inviting and warm space to explore client’s goals and address areas where they feel stuck or hopeless. She believes that through a safe and caring therapeutic relationship, hope, change and flourishing will emerge. Kim works with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, parenting, parenting adult children, and relational conflicts.
(626) 887-0206 View (626) 887-0206
Photo of Teresa Trias, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teresa Trias
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94523
My hope is to create an empathic and supportive space with the use of client centered and IFS informed approaches.
My name is Teresa Trias, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I offer an integrated approach in order to tailor my interventions to each unique person and circumstance. I also have specialized training in helping people make health behavior changes, learn the tools and skills needed to increase stress management, and recover from difficult and traumatic past experiences.
My hope is to create an empathic and supportive space with the use of client centered and IFS informed approaches.
My name is Teresa Trias, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I offer an integrated approach in order to tailor my interventions to each unique person and circumstance. I also have specialized training in helping people make health behavior changes, learn the tools and skills needed to increase stress management, and recover from difficult and traumatic past experiences.
(619) 771-0248 View (619) 771-0248
Photo of Janelle Webster, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Janelle Webster
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94521
By utilizing skills from IFS (Internal Family Systems) as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) we will stabilize your nervous system and bring your body back to a peaceful center.
Are you concerned your unresolved trauma is holding you back from truly healing? Are you worried that you and your family are not meeting their full potential and are blocked from progression? Is your marriage or relationship not as close as it used to be and a constant source of stress? Together, we can find a path to healing you and your relationships. If you are seeking greater peace from trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues please reach out today.
By utilizing skills from IFS (Internal Family Systems) as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) we will stabilize your nervous system and bring your body back to a peaceful center.
Are you concerned your unresolved trauma is holding you back from truly healing? Are you worried that you and your family are not meeting their full potential and are blocked from progression? Is your marriage or relationship not as close as it used to be and a constant source of stress? Together, we can find a path to healing you and your relationships. If you are seeking greater peace from trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues please reach out today.
(925) 268-7917 View (925) 268-7917
Photo of Keasha Pittman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keasha Pittman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94520  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like everything is in place, yet something deep within remains unsettled? You have what you hoped for; the career, relationships, material possessions, stability, and the opportunities. Though it all looks good, it keeps you up at night, disrupts relationships, breeds unfulfillment, and manifests physically. All you want is to live authentically where your inner and outer worlds align. Your journey shapes your ideal life, and I'm here to support you in defining and achieving it. Together, we may tackle negative thoughts, heal attachments, regulate emotions, improve communication, or explore subconscious influence.
Do you ever feel like everything is in place, yet something deep within remains unsettled? You have what you hoped for; the career, relationships, material possessions, stability, and the opportunities. Though it all looks good, it keeps you up at night, disrupts relationships, breeds unfulfillment, and manifests physically. All you want is to live authentically where your inner and outer worlds align. Your journey shapes your ideal life, and I'm here to support you in defining and achieving it. Together, we may tackle negative thoughts, heal attachments, regulate emotions, improve communication, or explore subconscious influence.
(925) 397-0749 View (925) 397-0749
Photo of Diana L Jones - A Step Forward Inc., Psychologist
A Step Forward Inc.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94519
About Us - We are an incorporated psychotherapy group practice established in 1985. We specialize in working with children, adults, families who are dealing with issues of sexual abuse and/or other forms of trauma. We also provide co-parenting, custody evaluation, forensic evaluation, family reunification, and general psychotherapy services, including couples counseling.
About Us - We are an incorporated psychotherapy group practice established in 1985. We specialize in working with children, adults, families who are dealing with issues of sexual abuse and/or other forms of trauma. We also provide co-parenting, custody evaluation, forensic evaluation, family reunification, and general psychotherapy services, including couples counseling.
(925) 278-6160 x101 View (925) 278-6160 x101
Photo of Amanda C Blatchford, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda C Blatchford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94520
Welcome! My therapy practice offers services to families, adults, teens and children looking for guidance and support. I provide a blend of psycho-education, skill-building, deep listening and analyzation, client-centered reflection, and creative arts healing opportunities. I utilize evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EFT. I also bring in elements of more traditional psychodynamic practices, and existential, spiritual & meaning-making inquiries. I believe that each client deserves a customized approach, based on their needs and desires.
Welcome! My therapy practice offers services to families, adults, teens and children looking for guidance and support. I provide a blend of psycho-education, skill-building, deep listening and analyzation, client-centered reflection, and creative arts healing opportunities. I utilize evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EFT. I also bring in elements of more traditional psychodynamic practices, and existential, spiritual & meaning-making inquiries. I believe that each client deserves a customized approach, based on their needs and desires.
(925) 886-0512 View (925) 886-0512
Photo of Rebeca Baculpo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebeca Baculpo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94521  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with life transitions, facing anxiety or are haunted by past traumas? Would you like to gain skills to manage your anxiety, be more mindful and present and change behaviors that are not benefitting you?
Are you struggling with life transitions, facing anxiety or are haunted by past traumas? Would you like to gain skills to manage your anxiety, be more mindful and present and change behaviors that are not benefitting you?
(510) 457-0653 View (510) 457-0653
Photo of Jennifer Villena - Jennifer Villena, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Villena
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94521
I completely understand that life can be tough sometimes and we all need someone to rely on. That's where I come in. I am here to offer you a safe space, a listening ear, and support. Whether you're dealing with trauma, career challenges, relationship struggles, or low self-esteem, I am here to support you every step of the way. And if you're going through grief, loss, microaggressions, abuse, or identity issues, please know that I am here for you and I will do everything in my power to help you cope and overcome these challenges. You are not alone.
I completely understand that life can be tough sometimes and we all need someone to rely on. That's where I come in. I am here to offer you a safe space, a listening ear, and support. Whether you're dealing with trauma, career challenges, relationship struggles, or low self-esteem, I am here to support you every step of the way. And if you're going through grief, loss, microaggressions, abuse, or identity issues, please know that I am here for you and I will do everything in my power to help you cope and overcome these challenges. You are not alone.
(925) 378-4165 View (925) 378-4165
Photo of Vincent Buhagiar, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vincent Buhagiar
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94519
Not your daddy’s therapist - $190 per 50min session. If you are looking for a therapist just like every other, then keep looking. I am holistic, young, experimental, polyamorous, extremely open-minded, spiritual, transpersonal, neurodiverse, weird, provocative, quirky, heteroflexible, and a sparkle of queer. My life's work focuses on the deconstruction of social norms including gender, masculinity/femininity, mononormativity, sexuality, professionalism, and mental health as a whole. Therapy is not a one size fits all kind of gig. I customize the way I work to match the needs, strengths, and limitations of each individual client.
Not your daddy’s therapist - $190 per 50min session. If you are looking for a therapist just like every other, then keep looking. I am holistic, young, experimental, polyamorous, extremely open-minded, spiritual, transpersonal, neurodiverse, weird, provocative, quirky, heteroflexible, and a sparkle of queer. My life's work focuses on the deconstruction of social norms including gender, masculinity/femininity, mononormativity, sexuality, professionalism, and mental health as a whole. Therapy is not a one size fits all kind of gig. I customize the way I work to match the needs, strengths, and limitations of each individual client.
(925) 403-4770 View (925) 403-4770
Photo of Beverly Swann, PhD, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beverly Swann
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94521  (Online Only)
Trauma...COVID fatigue...current political climate...feeling stuck...anxiety...wanting more from life...clients come to me for many reasons. My holistic, body-oriented psychotherapy & health services are based on principles of wholeness, positive psychology, & empowerment. It's about more than venting stress. It's about identifying & transcending challenges/roadblocks/speedbumps. It's about cultivating happiness/peace/well-being, learning & expanding tools, discovering & nurturing your authentic self & the resources you already have, & seeing yourself as the complex & unique being you are. Cultivate a life of thriving!
Trauma...COVID fatigue...current political climate...feeling stuck...anxiety...wanting more from life...clients come to me for many reasons. My holistic, body-oriented psychotherapy & health services are based on principles of wholeness, positive psychology, & empowerment. It's about more than venting stress. It's about identifying & transcending challenges/roadblocks/speedbumps. It's about cultivating happiness/peace/well-being, learning & expanding tools, discovering & nurturing your authentic self & the resources you already have, & seeing yourself as the complex & unique being you are. Cultivate a life of thriving!
(925) 705-7036 View (925) 705-7036
Photo of Georgina Kasih, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgina Kasih
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94521
My name is Georgina Kasih, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in the areas of relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, ADHD, and ASD. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Problem-Solving Therapy, CBT, Seeking Safety, and somatic therapy techniques, among many other strategies, to help my clients achieve their personal goals. My therapeutic approach is tailored specifically to the needs of my clients.
My name is Georgina Kasih, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in the areas of relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, ADHD, and ASD. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Problem-Solving Therapy, CBT, Seeking Safety, and somatic therapy techniques, among many other strategies, to help my clients achieve their personal goals. My therapeutic approach is tailored specifically to the needs of my clients.
(661) 690-0627 View (661) 690-0627
Photo of Lori Salinas, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Salinas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94518
My specialty is Domestic Violence -child abuse/sexual assault. I have been working with VOC from the DA's office for over 10 years providing services to both men and women/children in crises situations. I work with CCC Superior Court, Family and Criminal to help individuals seek visitations with their children after an arrest or involvement with CFS. I also perform as a 730 expert. I provide couples therapy, reunification therapy. I see teens who are having trouble in school and at home. I work with whole families to teach communication tools and implement behavior modification tools. I am a systems therapist.
My specialty is Domestic Violence -child abuse/sexual assault. I have been working with VOC from the DA's office for over 10 years providing services to both men and women/children in crises situations. I work with CCC Superior Court, Family and Criminal to help individuals seek visitations with their children after an arrest or involvement with CFS. I also perform as a 730 expert. I provide couples therapy, reunification therapy. I see teens who are having trouble in school and at home. I work with whole families to teach communication tools and implement behavior modification tools. I am a systems therapist.
(925) 270-0558 View (925) 270-0558
Photo of Megan Gredesky, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Gredesky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94524
I have In person and online openings! I stay up to date on the most cutting edge therapies to achieve RAPID and long lasting effects. As a Certified Brainspotting Therapist, I focus on neuroscience - YOUR brain can HEAL from trauma, grief, and anxiety. Release the shame and inner critic that is no longer serving you. I help empaths and highly sensitive people who are struggling with overwhelm. Performers and artists have benefited from Expansion Brainspotting to overcome creative blocks! I’m trained in play therapy and drama therapy and work well with children and adolescents.
I have In person and online openings! I stay up to date on the most cutting edge therapies to achieve RAPID and long lasting effects. As a Certified Brainspotting Therapist, I focus on neuroscience - YOUR brain can HEAL from trauma, grief, and anxiety. Release the shame and inner critic that is no longer serving you. I help empaths and highly sensitive people who are struggling with overwhelm. Performers and artists have benefited from Expansion Brainspotting to overcome creative blocks! I’m trained in play therapy and drama therapy and work well with children and adolescents.
(510) 694-0644 View (510) 694-0644
Photo of Katherine Jewett, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Jewett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94520
What if?. . . . What if you didn’t have to feel as though you had to hold all of those balls in the air by yourself? . . . .What if those stomach dropping, throat clenching, heart racing thoughts didn’t have to keep you up at night?. . . . What if you could figure out how to manage those difficult emotions rather than feel overwhelmed by them? What if your history didn’t have to equal your future story? I’ve got you covered! I'll help you to understand how your past got you to this place and how to use that information to connect the dots, figure things out, and design a new and better story going forward.
What if?. . . . What if you didn’t have to feel as though you had to hold all of those balls in the air by yourself? . . . .What if those stomach dropping, throat clenching, heart racing thoughts didn’t have to keep you up at night?. . . . What if you could figure out how to manage those difficult emotions rather than feel overwhelmed by them? What if your history didn’t have to equal your future story? I’ve got you covered! I'll help you to understand how your past got you to this place and how to use that information to connect the dots, figure things out, and design a new and better story going forward.
(925) 322-1681 View (925) 322-1681
1
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists

What is Internal Family Systems therapy?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on sub-personalities, or “families,” within a person, which may be made up of wounded parts and unpleasant emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities can come into conflict with each other and with an individual’s core Self, leaving the person feeling detached from positive traits such as the “8 C’s” of confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. By healing a patient’s wounded parts, a therapist aims to restore balance and bring on positive change.

How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

An IFS therapist will work with a patient to identify their particular sub-personalities, recognize the emotions powering them, and release them. By doing so, the patient should become more able to address any underlying problems their sub-personalities may have been trying to protect them from. Ultimately, a patient discovers ways to manage internal and external conflicts on their own, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, journaling, and making charts depicting the relationships between their core Self and their distinct parts.

Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

IFS therapy has been shown to help people address conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, fears and phobias, trauma, and substance use disorders. Some research has also found that it can help individuals deal with symptoms of physical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, everyday functioning, depressive feelings, and low self-compassion. There are some conditions for which IFS treatment, specifically discussions of one’s “parts,” may be less appropriate, such as schizophrenia or other states that involve psychosis or paranoia.

How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for IFS therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core concepts of IFS, some patients quickly make progress. While experiences vary, most will find that it is a relatively longer-term therapy, involving months and sometimes years of sessions.