Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Del Mar, CA

Photo of Jessie Schaffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessie Schaffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Del Mar, CA 92014
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and self-harming, using evidence-based methods like DBT, IFS, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Finding the right support for your teen can seem daunting, I'm here to help. Hi there, my name is Jessie! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7+ years of experience, I've helped teens and families thrive in settings like residential treatment, outpatient care, and community programs. I specialize in helping teens ages 12-17 reduce anxiety, cope with depression, manage ADHD, address behavioral issues, navigate family conflict, handle school or social challenges, reduce self-harm and suicidal thoughts, or recover from substance use. I provide individualized care unique to your teen.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and self-harming, using evidence-based methods like DBT, IFS, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Finding the right support for your teen can seem daunting, I'm here to help. Hi there, my name is Jessie! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7+ years of experience, I've helped teens and families thrive in settings like residential treatment, outpatient care, and community programs. I specialize in helping teens ages 12-17 reduce anxiety, cope with depression, manage ADHD, address behavioral issues, navigate family conflict, handle school or social challenges, reduce self-harm and suicidal thoughts, or recover from substance use. I provide individualized care unique to your teen.
(858) 293-8911 View (858) 293-8911
Photo of Helen Citrin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Helen Citrin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about what comes next? Many of the clients I work with are young women in their 20s and 30s who are navigating the process of becoming more deeply connected to themselves whether that means understanding their relationships with their parents, exploring who they are and what they truly want, navigating dating and relationships, preparing for marriage, or redefining what success and fulfillment look like for them. Often, anxiety shows up during these seasons of self-discovery leaving you feeling unsure of your decisions.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about what comes next? Many of the clients I work with are young women in their 20s and 30s who are navigating the process of becoming more deeply connected to themselves whether that means understanding their relationships with their parents, exploring who they are and what they truly want, navigating dating and relationships, preparing for marriage, or redefining what success and fulfillment look like for them. Often, anxiety shows up during these seasons of self-discovery leaving you feeling unsure of your decisions.
(650) 539-6975 View (650) 539-6975
Photo of Denise O'Neil, Marriage & Family Therapist, MPH, MS, LMFT
Denise O'Neil
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPH, MS, LMFT
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Life has a way of covering up our true selves. We can become buried under discouragement or self-blame for past mistakes. There are dreams hidden behind unfulfilling jobs or low self-esteem, we just need to tap into all the wonderful potential on the inside. Just because you might have given up at one point, and even if that point is right now, it doesn't mean that your dream is dead. The fact you're here shows the dream still alive, and it’s not too late for you to uncover it. If deep down you're not satisfied with your life, you have the ability to make changes.
Life has a way of covering up our true selves. We can become buried under discouragement or self-blame for past mistakes. There are dreams hidden behind unfulfilling jobs or low self-esteem, we just need to tap into all the wonderful potential on the inside. Just because you might have given up at one point, and even if that point is right now, it doesn't mean that your dream is dead. The fact you're here shows the dream still alive, and it’s not too late for you to uncover it. If deep down you're not satisfied with your life, you have the ability to make changes.
View
Photo of Brenda Beach Gomez, Psychologist, PsyD
Brenda Beach Gomez
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults who are struggling with mental health and need a space to be heard, understood and want to develop the skills to "hear" their inner voice and move through their lives in a grounded way that can honor their choices. Many of my clients experience emotional, psychological or physical stressors and dx with CPTSD, depression, anxiety, or bipolar. and struggle in relationships. I help them develop a sense of safety in their bodies, reclaim their voice, and learn to love and value themselves. "AI free zone" is available as an option.
I work with adults who are struggling with mental health and need a space to be heard, understood and want to develop the skills to "hear" their inner voice and move through their lives in a grounded way that can honor their choices. Many of my clients experience emotional, psychological or physical stressors and dx with CPTSD, depression, anxiety, or bipolar. and struggle in relationships. I help them develop a sense of safety in their bodies, reclaim their voice, and learn to love and value themselves. "AI free zone" is available as an option.
(619) 432-4955 View (619) 432-4955
Photo of Monica Arango, Psychologist, PhD
Monica Arango
Psychologist, PhD
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Change is the essence of life, however within this fast paced world that we live in, it may prove stressful and at times overwhelming. So why struggle when you can get back to feeling great about yourself and your life. Do not to put yourself last!! and take the first step toward improving your overall wellbeing.
Change is the essence of life, however within this fast paced world that we live in, it may prove stressful and at times overwhelming. So why struggle when you can get back to feeling great about yourself and your life. Do not to put yourself last!! and take the first step toward improving your overall wellbeing.
(760) 840-2052 View (760) 840-2052
Photo of Sarah Vita, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, KAP
Sarah Vita
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, KAP
3 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
As a trauma-informed therapist trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), somatic therapy, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), I take a holistic, body-based approach to healing.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or weighed down by self-doubt or past experiences, you’re not alone. You may notice it not only in your thoughts, but in your body — tension, restlessness, or feeling disconnected from yourself. Whether you’re a teen navigating big emotions or an adult wanting to feel more grounded and secure, something within you is ready for change. Together, we’ll create a compassionate space where you can slow down, explore what’s coming up, and reconnect with your mind, your body, and your sense of self.
As a trauma-informed therapist trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), somatic therapy, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), I take a holistic, body-based approach to healing.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or weighed down by self-doubt or past experiences, you’re not alone. You may notice it not only in your thoughts, but in your body — tension, restlessness, or feeling disconnected from yourself. Whether you’re a teen navigating big emotions or an adult wanting to feel more grounded and secure, something within you is ready for change. Together, we’ll create a compassionate space where you can slow down, explore what’s coming up, and reconnect with your mind, your body, and your sense of self.
(760) 615-3376 View (760) 615-3376
Photo of Esther Wolf, Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, MA
Esther Wolf
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, MA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I custom tailor every treatment plan by borrowing from evidence based modalities: most often Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems and somatic exercises.
Let's break your streak of health professionals who don't actually listen to you! As someone living with chronic illnesses, I don't have to use my imagination to believe you when you tell me that you're not being taken seriously, you're frustrated with the adjustments you have to make, and you're exhausted from managing all of it. I only offer remote sessions, and I am available to see clients living across all of California.
I custom tailor every treatment plan by borrowing from evidence based modalities: most often Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems and somatic exercises.
Let's break your streak of health professionals who don't actually listen to you! As someone living with chronic illnesses, I don't have to use my imagination to believe you when you tell me that you're not being taken seriously, you're frustrated with the adjustments you have to make, and you're exhausted from managing all of it. I only offer remote sessions, and I am available to see clients living across all of California.
(858) 203-2068 View (858) 203-2068
Photo of Erica Bruckner, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Erica Bruckner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
5 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Hi there! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with young adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, identity exploration, and life transitions. I also enjoy working with adolescents and adults. My goal is to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and able to show up just as you are. Together, we'll better understand what's keeping you stuck, strengthen your relationships, build confidence, and help you navigate life's challenges with greater clarity and self-compassion.
Hi there! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with young adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, identity exploration, and life transitions. I also enjoy working with adolescents and adults. My goal is to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and able to show up just as you are. Together, we'll better understand what's keeping you stuck, strengthen your relationships, build confidence, and help you navigate life's challenges with greater clarity and self-compassion.
(805) 514-1594 View (805) 514-1594
Photo of Erika Kao, Psychologist, PhD
Erika Kao
Psychologist, PhD
Del Mar, CA 92014
Completed training in DBT, IFS, Narcissistic Abuse RO-DBT, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Children's Emotions), and Schema Therapy
Do you struggle with anxiety? Does your motivation seem blocked in terms of advancing your career? Would you like to improve your relationships? Are there difficult people in your life that overwhelm you? What patterns would you like to change? Gain insight on what keeps you from feeling calm and happiness. I provide evidence based therapeutic interventions individualized to you. A licensed psychologist since 2001, I am experienced in helping individuals cope with major life changes and every day stress in their busy lives.
Completed training in DBT, IFS, Narcissistic Abuse RO-DBT, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Children's Emotions), and Schema Therapy
Do you struggle with anxiety? Does your motivation seem blocked in terms of advancing your career? Would you like to improve your relationships? Are there difficult people in your life that overwhelm you? What patterns would you like to change? Gain insight on what keeps you from feeling calm and happiness. I provide evidence based therapeutic interventions individualized to you. A licensed psychologist since 2001, I am experienced in helping individuals cope with major life changes and every day stress in their busy lives.
(858) 225-4616 View (858) 225-4616
Photo of Morgan Betterton, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Morgan Betterton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I love working with married or dating couples who want to strengthen their relationship. These couples may love each other very much, but struggle with communication and often feel disconnected, frustrated, criticized, rejected, lonely, or disappointed. They yearn for more emotional and physical intimacy, yet fall into negative patterns that create more distance. They often want to rekindle their romantic spark and cultivate more playfulness, curiosity, exploration, and fun in their sexual relationship. These couples want to heal from past hurts to nurture a safe and secure bond built on trust, commitment, and mutual respect.
I love working with married or dating couples who want to strengthen their relationship. These couples may love each other very much, but struggle with communication and often feel disconnected, frustrated, criticized, rejected, lonely, or disappointed. They yearn for more emotional and physical intimacy, yet fall into negative patterns that create more distance. They often want to rekindle their romantic spark and cultivate more playfulness, curiosity, exploration, and fun in their sexual relationship. These couples want to heal from past hurts to nurture a safe and secure bond built on trust, commitment, and mutual respect.
(760) 387-5143 View (760) 387-5143
Photo of Leon F. Seltzer, PhD
Leon F. Seltzer
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
As a 16-year blogger for PsychToday, as of July '24 I've written some 590 posts--see http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/evolution-the-self--which have received over 54 million views. My specialties are suggested by the topics I've written on: from an anger & self-image deficits, to stress & problematic relationships. I've also published a book on psychotherapy, and in 40 years plus have amassed over 40,000 hours of hands-on therapy experience. While I'm now retired from my clinical psychology practice, I'm still available for a single life consultation, or a series of same.
As a 16-year blogger for PsychToday, as of July '24 I've written some 590 posts--see http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/evolution-the-self--which have received over 54 million views. My specialties are suggested by the topics I've written on: from an anger & self-image deficits, to stress & problematic relationships. I've also published a book on psychotherapy, and in 40 years plus have amassed over 40,000 hours of hands-on therapy experience. While I'm now retired from my clinical psychology practice, I'm still available for a single life consultation, or a series of same.
(858) 771-0321 View (858) 771-0321
Photo of Ilana Molkner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Ilana Molkner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Del Mar, CA 92014
I incorporate helpful skills and approaches like EMDR, IFS, ACT, and CBT.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Have you had a life transition, trauma or adversity and you're trying to figure out how to cope? Has your sleep, mood or daily functioning been impacted? Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety, relationships, parenting/caregiving stress, low self-esteem, or addictive behaviors and feel ready to prioritize your own needs. I believe positive change is always possible! I’m a dedicated and experienced therapist committed to guiding you on a journey towards healing. I offer a safe space to process thoughts, feelings and experiences, and develop increased capacity for positive growth.
I incorporate helpful skills and approaches like EMDR, IFS, ACT, and CBT.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Have you had a life transition, trauma or adversity and you're trying to figure out how to cope? Has your sleep, mood or daily functioning been impacted? Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety, relationships, parenting/caregiving stress, low self-esteem, or addictive behaviors and feel ready to prioritize your own needs. I believe positive change is always possible! I’m a dedicated and experienced therapist committed to guiding you on a journey towards healing. I offer a safe space to process thoughts, feelings and experiences, and develop increased capacity for positive growth.
(858) 365-8039 View (858) 365-8039
Photo of M'lissa Trent, Psychologist, M'Lissa Trent, PhD
M'lissa Trent
Psychologist, M'Lissa Trent, PhD
Del Mar, CA 92014
Therapy is a wonderful collaborative relationship that can help you to identify and clarify internal conflicts and struggles, help access and find solutions to current challenging situations and lead you to a more positive state of mind and sense of well being. My passion is to work with individuals and couples through life transitions, relationship issues and to help you create your best life that is aligned with your truest self. I also work with past and current life traumas and losses and am a certified EMDR therapist.
Therapy is a wonderful collaborative relationship that can help you to identify and clarify internal conflicts and struggles, help access and find solutions to current challenging situations and lead you to a more positive state of mind and sense of well being. My passion is to work with individuals and couples through life transitions, relationship issues and to help you create your best life that is aligned with your truest self. I also work with past and current life traumas and losses and am a certified EMDR therapist.
(858) 252-1578 View (858) 252-1578
Photo of Esther Krohner, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Esther Krohner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I help people be present, productive and realistic with tips and tricks from solution focus, mindfulness, family systems and diving into the client's world.
Are you and your partner or loved one stuck in the same painful arguments over and over, wondering how to make a change? Perhaps you aren't sure how to move through a major life transition like a move, loss or child. Maybe you're a parent watching your teen struggle—whether it’s mood swings, anxiety, defiance, or tension at home—and you're not sure what to do next. I help couples rebuild connection and communication, and I support teens and families through conflict, unwanted behavior, addiction, anxiety, school refusal and attention struggles. I will help you get out of the vicious cycle that is seemingly endless and exhausting.
I help people be present, productive and realistic with tips and tricks from solution focus, mindfulness, family systems and diving into the client's world.
Are you and your partner or loved one stuck in the same painful arguments over and over, wondering how to make a change? Perhaps you aren't sure how to move through a major life transition like a move, loss or child. Maybe you're a parent watching your teen struggle—whether it’s mood swings, anxiety, defiance, or tension at home—and you're not sure what to do next. I help couples rebuild connection and communication, and I support teens and families through conflict, unwanted behavior, addiction, anxiety, school refusal and attention struggles. I will help you get out of the vicious cycle that is seemingly endless and exhausting.
(650) 300-3891 View (650) 300-3891
Photo of Kelli Lane Redfield, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kelli Lane Redfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
You can have all the self-awareness in the world and still feel like your nervous system is fried. That's because trauma isn't stored in your thoughts alone. It lives in your body. I offer somatic EMDR intensives in San Diego for high-functioning adults who are tired of white-knuckling stress or looking fine while internally spiraling. In focused 2 to 4 hour sessions or immersive weekend intensives, we target the root beliefs keeping you stuck through EMDR trauma therapy, nervous system regulation, and somatic processing. Warm, direct, and grounded. You can't think your way out of trauma. You must feel to heal, no more avoiding.
You can have all the self-awareness in the world and still feel like your nervous system is fried. That's because trauma isn't stored in your thoughts alone. It lives in your body. I offer somatic EMDR intensives in San Diego for high-functioning adults who are tired of white-knuckling stress or looking fine while internally spiraling. In focused 2 to 4 hour sessions or immersive weekend intensives, we target the root beliefs keeping you stuck through EMDR trauma therapy, nervous system regulation, and somatic processing. Warm, direct, and grounded. You can't think your way out of trauma. You must feel to heal, no more avoiding.
(858) 295-1624 View (858) 295-1624
Photo of Dr. Amy Greaves, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Amy Greaves
Psychologist, PhD
Del Mar, CA 92014
I'm a licensed psychologist, with over 20 years of experience specializing in relationship problems, sex addictions, obsessive thinking, anxiety, and depression. I have advanced training to help couples overcome infidelity, lost connection, frequent arguments, and sexual problems. I use mindfulness and experiential approaches that rewire the brain's ability to cope with impulses, anxiety, and make sense of grief. I help people transcend the difficulties preventing them from living peaceful, joy-filled life. My work with clients is highly collaborative and tuning into your strengths will be of central importance.
I'm a licensed psychologist, with over 20 years of experience specializing in relationship problems, sex addictions, obsessive thinking, anxiety, and depression. I have advanced training to help couples overcome infidelity, lost connection, frequent arguments, and sexual problems. I use mindfulness and experiential approaches that rewire the brain's ability to cope with impulses, anxiety, and make sense of grief. I help people transcend the difficulties preventing them from living peaceful, joy-filled life. My work with clients is highly collaborative and tuning into your strengths will be of central importance.
(858) 223-1827 View (858) 223-1827
Photo of Kristina Sandler Reynosa, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Kristina Sandler Reynosa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
2 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Are you waking up each morning weighed down by worry, replaying past hurts, or wondering “Why do I continually repeat the same relationship patterns & still feel stuck?”If so you’re not alone and you don’t have to keep carrying that burden. Hi! I’m Kristina Reynosa, LMFT! I work with pre-teens, adults, couples &families who are navigating anxiety, trauma,personality disorders &relationship challenges.Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stuck or disconnected from themselves and the people they care about. Together we create a safe and supportive space where you can begin to understand your experiences!
Are you waking up each morning weighed down by worry, replaying past hurts, or wondering “Why do I continually repeat the same relationship patterns & still feel stuck?”If so you’re not alone and you don’t have to keep carrying that burden. Hi! I’m Kristina Reynosa, LMFT! I work with pre-teens, adults, couples &families who are navigating anxiety, trauma,personality disorders &relationship challenges.Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stuck or disconnected from themselves and the people they care about. Together we create a safe and supportive space where you can begin to understand your experiences!
(619) 514-4189 View (619) 514-4189
Photo of Stefanie LaMoy - Transform and Thrive Marriage & Family Therapy , Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Transform and Thrive Marriage & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
You want to look like you have it all together, but deep down you are struggling with anxiety, relationships, a breakup, or parenting a teen. You show up for everyone else, but feel constantly "on." You’re ready for change. Our diverse CA team offers statewide virtual care, with select hybrid/in-person options. Please Note: Because our therapists are scattered across the state, in-person slots depend strictly on your specific location, openings, and needs. If a local face-to-face match isn't available, we will connect you with our excellent telehealth options!
You want to look like you have it all together, but deep down you are struggling with anxiety, relationships, a breakup, or parenting a teen. You show up for everyone else, but feel constantly "on." You’re ready for change. Our diverse CA team offers statewide virtual care, with select hybrid/in-person options. Please Note: Because our therapists are scattered across the state, in-person slots depend strictly on your specific location, openings, and needs. If a local face-to-face match isn't available, we will connect you with our excellent telehealth options!
(916) 884-5130 View (916) 884-5130
Photo of Chantal Marie Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, IFS 2, CCPT
Chantal Marie Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, IFS 2, CCPT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I often use Internal Family Systems with my clients to understand different parts of themselves that come in to protect them from situations that may not feel safe or comfortable.
Are you tired of feeling alone while caring for others in your life? Are you ready to increase feelings of connections with those around you, and increase feeling connected to yourself? Many of the people that I work with are use to taking care of other people while pushing down their own feelings and challenging experiences. Many of the people I work with struggle to share their own challenge, often reporting feeling like a "burden" or that they "have to be the strong one." The people that I work with often have had to be stronger than they should have had to be. Having a space to talk about and focus on you is what I provide.
I often use Internal Family Systems with my clients to understand different parts of themselves that come in to protect them from situations that may not feel safe or comfortable.
Are you tired of feeling alone while caring for others in your life? Are you ready to increase feelings of connections with those around you, and increase feeling connected to yourself? Many of the people that I work with are use to taking care of other people while pushing down their own feelings and challenging experiences. Many of the people I work with struggle to share their own challenge, often reporting feeling like a "burden" or that they "have to be the strong one." The people that I work with often have had to be stronger than they should have had to be. Having a space to talk about and focus on you is what I provide.
(619) 345-6954 View (619) 345-6954
Photo of Carissa Lane, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Carissa Lane
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
4 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
In our therapy sessions, I employ a variety of methods including Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and more.
I specialize in assisting individuals with trauma, addiction, and life transitions. My practice integrates modern psychological techniques with traditional healing methods to foster emotional regulation and resilience. I aim to transform unhealthy coping mechanisms into strengths that support personal growth and fulfillment. I focus on nurturing the mind, body, and spirit—guiding clients through personal challenges and turning them into opportunities for growth. I believe in empowering you to discover and strengthen your inner resilience, facilitating not just recovery but a profound journey toward self-discovery and lasting change.
In our therapy sessions, I employ a variety of methods including Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and more.
I specialize in assisting individuals with trauma, addiction, and life transitions. My practice integrates modern psychological techniques with traditional healing methods to foster emotional regulation and resilience. I aim to transform unhealthy coping mechanisms into strengths that support personal growth and fulfillment. I focus on nurturing the mind, body, and spirit—guiding clients through personal challenges and turning them into opportunities for growth. I believe in empowering you to discover and strengthen your inner resilience, facilitating not just recovery but a profound journey toward self-discovery and lasting change.
(424) 567-8950 View (424) 567-8950

See more therapy options for Del Mar

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.