Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Lafayette, CA

Photo of Valorie de Leña, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Valorie de Leña
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
We explore and map how you function using tools from EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, spirituality and more.
Our pursuit of a good life can be deeply affected by the current world situations. We may be struggling not only in our personal lives but also by difficult worldly events such as climate change, the economy, retirement, health care and many more. When the world doesn't feel safe, it's more difficult to tolerate the emotions, sensations, and thoughts arising inside of us, making us turn toward old coping mechanisms This will not heal us. We need to build the confidence to be with and understand our inner experiences no matter what! This is our pathway to truly heal and live a more peaceful and meaningful life in the world.
We explore and map how you function using tools from EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, spirituality and more.
Our pursuit of a good life can be deeply affected by the current world situations. We may be struggling not only in our personal lives but also by difficult worldly events such as climate change, the economy, retirement, health care and many more. When the world doesn't feel safe, it's more difficult to tolerate the emotions, sensations, and thoughts arising inside of us, making us turn toward old coping mechanisms This will not heal us. We need to build the confidence to be with and understand our inner experiences no matter what! This is our pathway to truly heal and live a more peaceful and meaningful life in the world.
(925) 452-7943 View (925) 452-7943
Photo of Catherine Lamme, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Catherine Lamme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
I blend a mixture of trainings in trauma specific modalities including somatic IFS, Brainspotting, EMDR, compassionate care and overall integration of body work.
Welcome! Are you feeling tired of the patterns and old stories that impact the development of your vitality and the best version of your life? Does your sense of self feel fractured? Does your body seem to mirror the internal negative thought patterns that seem to block you creating the life you want to live? Do you feel like there are moments that you cannot imagine living in the internal chaos another moment? I am inspired and honored to work with adults who are motivated to heal and release the negative internal stories, especially from trauma, that have dictated their behavior in order to create their own life worth living.
I blend a mixture of trainings in trauma specific modalities including somatic IFS, Brainspotting, EMDR, compassionate care and overall integration of body work.
Welcome! Are you feeling tired of the patterns and old stories that impact the development of your vitality and the best version of your life? Does your sense of self feel fractured? Does your body seem to mirror the internal negative thought patterns that seem to block you creating the life you want to live? Do you feel like there are moments that you cannot imagine living in the internal chaos another moment? I am inspired and honored to work with adults who are motivated to heal and release the negative internal stories, especially from trauma, that have dictated their behavior in order to create their own life worth living.
(760) 263-6052 View (760) 263-6052
Photo of Rebecca Kraus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Rebecca Kraus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Waitlist for new clients
Our work together will be guided by your unique needs and preferences and may include a variety of modalities including: Internal Family Systems/parts work, mindfulness practice, somatic awareness, movement, art, writing, visualization and sand tray.
I am passionate about helping others live more authentic, satisfying and functional lives! With 20 years of experience, my work draws from the latest research and extensive training in mind/body health, neuroscience, attachment and relationships, complex trauma and PTSD and mindfulness practice.  My goal is to create a supportive and enriching environment where we can address your needs in a thoughtful, compassionate and effective manner.
Our work together will be guided by your unique needs and preferences and may include a variety of modalities including: Internal Family Systems/parts work, mindfulness practice, somatic awareness, movement, art, writing, visualization and sand tray.
I am passionate about helping others live more authentic, satisfying and functional lives! With 20 years of experience, my work draws from the latest research and extensive training in mind/body health, neuroscience, attachment and relationships, complex trauma and PTSD and mindfulness practice.  My goal is to create a supportive and enriching environment where we can address your needs in a thoughtful, compassionate and effective manner.
(510) 466-1447 View (510) 466-1447
Photo of Deb Shell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Deb Shell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I incorporate Internal Family Systems, Narrative Theory, and CBT.
Being a human being is complicated, and complex, and can sometimes be overwhelming. It is therapeutic to have someone to share our true selves with free of judgment. I believe each client holds the answers, and in my work, I support you on your journey. I meet you where you are, and together we identify where you would like to go, and what parts of yourself you would like to call forward. I can help you explore your inner world, and help you connect your internal experiences to your external experiences. I support clients dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational dynamics.
I incorporate Internal Family Systems, Narrative Theory, and CBT.
Being a human being is complicated, and complex, and can sometimes be overwhelming. It is therapeutic to have someone to share our true selves with free of judgment. I believe each client holds the answers, and in my work, I support you on your journey. I meet you where you are, and together we identify where you would like to go, and what parts of yourself you would like to call forward. I can help you explore your inner world, and help you connect your internal experiences to your external experiences. I support clients dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational dynamics.
(510) 473-5057 View (510) 473-5057
Photo of Mary B Dockter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Mary B Dockter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549  (Online Only)
I am an integrative therapist anchored in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and utilize other complementary approaches and techniques to help unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes it feels overwhelming, and when it does, we all deserve help and support. Regardless of what you're struggling with, together we can work to equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome your challenges. There is hope for a better tomorrow.
I am an integrative therapist anchored in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and utilize other complementary approaches and techniques to help unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes it feels overwhelming, and when it does, we all deserve help and support. Regardless of what you're struggling with, together we can work to equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome your challenges. There is hope for a better tomorrow.
(925) 369-7487 View (925) 369-7487
Photo of Judy Noddin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Judy Noddin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, and life transitions, as well as those who want to heal from childhood trauma and emotional neglect. I specialize in trauma focused therapy using Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Attachment Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy. During individual sessions we will work together to identify and change the thought, behavior patterns, and beliefs that are keeping you stuck and suffering; help you gain greater access to your innate healing capacities and resilience; and grow your capacity for self-compassion, joy, creativity and connection.
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, and life transitions, as well as those who want to heal from childhood trauma and emotional neglect. I specialize in trauma focused therapy using Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Attachment Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy. During individual sessions we will work together to identify and change the thought, behavior patterns, and beliefs that are keeping you stuck and suffering; help you gain greater access to your innate healing capacities and resilience; and grow your capacity for self-compassion, joy, creativity and connection.
(510) 254-3198 View (510) 254-3198
Photo of Nicole Michelle Farber, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Nicole Michelle Farber
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549  (Online Only)
I bring in holistic and research-based modalities like IFS and EMDR and by following your lead, we embark on a collaborative journey where your concerns and aspirations guide the process.
We all come with different stories, identities, backgrounds, cultures, and representations of our experiences which make up who we are and how we relate to the people and world around us. Therapy is an opportunity to examine, understand, and process these parts in order to find our place in the world, establish healthy relationships, and feel a sense of joy and satisfaction in life. Whether you're contending with the echoes of childhood trauma, navigating the many realms and layers of identity, or grappling with the weight of anxiety and depression, my therapeutic space is crafted to honor your individuality.
I bring in holistic and research-based modalities like IFS and EMDR and by following your lead, we embark on a collaborative journey where your concerns and aspirations guide the process.
We all come with different stories, identities, backgrounds, cultures, and representations of our experiences which make up who we are and how we relate to the people and world around us. Therapy is an opportunity to examine, understand, and process these parts in order to find our place in the world, establish healthy relationships, and feel a sense of joy and satisfaction in life. Whether you're contending with the echoes of childhood trauma, navigating the many realms and layers of identity, or grappling with the weight of anxiety and depression, my therapeutic space is crafted to honor your individuality.
(925) 492-7042 View (925) 492-7042
Photo of Jackie Alvarado, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Jackie Alvarado
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
With a trauma-focused lens, coupled with my awareness and sensitivity of culture/cultural backgrounds/cultural traditions, I work with modalities such as mindfulness, various breath-work techniques/exercises, somatic experiencing (SE), Hakomi Body Based Therapy, Existential Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, and EMDR.
Are you a parent who would like to get your child support? Are you questioning life transitions and searching for support? Are you experiencing grief/loss? Do you want to strengthen your relationships? Are you struggling with addiction? Are you an educator experiencing work stress or chronic stress? If you've answered yes to any of these questions, you're in the right place! I am an LMFT working in both the Bay and Sacramento areas. As a graduate of St. Mary's College of California, I have the expertise to support and guide you towards symptom relief and live a life full of gratitude and tranquility.
With a trauma-focused lens, coupled with my awareness and sensitivity of culture/cultural backgrounds/cultural traditions, I work with modalities such as mindfulness, various breath-work techniques/exercises, somatic experiencing (SE), Hakomi Body Based Therapy, Existential Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, and EMDR.
Are you a parent who would like to get your child support? Are you questioning life transitions and searching for support? Are you experiencing grief/loss? Do you want to strengthen your relationships? Are you struggling with addiction? Are you an educator experiencing work stress or chronic stress? If you've answered yes to any of these questions, you're in the right place! I am an LMFT working in both the Bay and Sacramento areas. As a graduate of St. Mary's College of California, I have the expertise to support and guide you towards symptom relief and live a life full of gratitude and tranquility.
(925) 239-1043 View (925) 239-1043
Photo of Karen M Corona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Karen M Corona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
In my approach to therapy, I integrate creative arts interventions and internal family systems.
Feeling trapped in an inner prison of emotional pain and a hostage to your past? Stuck in self-sabotaging patterns? Burdened by negative beliefs about yourself? Heal trauma and restore emotional well-being. The legacy of trauma is often difficult symptoms showing up as anxiety or depression and experiences of being ‘triggered’ in reaction to interpersonal situations. There is hope and a pathway that leads to healing. Through trauma resolution therapy with me you may restore emotional-well-being, develop an inner freedom, and awaken to a newfound wholeness you never thought possible.
In my approach to therapy, I integrate creative arts interventions and internal family systems.
Feeling trapped in an inner prison of emotional pain and a hostage to your past? Stuck in self-sabotaging patterns? Burdened by negative beliefs about yourself? Heal trauma and restore emotional well-being. The legacy of trauma is often difficult symptoms showing up as anxiety or depression and experiences of being ‘triggered’ in reaction to interpersonal situations. There is hope and a pathway that leads to healing. Through trauma resolution therapy with me you may restore emotional-well-being, develop an inner freedom, and awaken to a newfound wholeness you never thought possible.
(503) 461-7860 View (503) 461-7860
Photo of Haley Hewitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Haley Hewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
(925) 275-5742 View (925) 275-5742
Photo of Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
(925) 722-5853 View (925) 722-5853
Photo of Shohreh Schmuecker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Shohreh Schmuecker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549  (Online Only)
Often when we go through difficult points in our life, we may first try to think our way through it and rationalize. Or we may avoid thinking about it altogether, distracting ourselves. It can be hard to turn towards something that feels emotionally painful and sometimes it can feel overwhelming, especially when we feel we have to manage it on our own. The idea of seeing a therapist could feel intimidating because there could be beliefs around needing to push through internal defenses. I believe that defenses are important and are to be respected, they are what has helped us get here and are important tools to keep us feeling safe.
Often when we go through difficult points in our life, we may first try to think our way through it and rationalize. Or we may avoid thinking about it altogether, distracting ourselves. It can be hard to turn towards something that feels emotionally painful and sometimes it can feel overwhelming, especially when we feel we have to manage it on our own. The idea of seeing a therapist could feel intimidating because there could be beliefs around needing to push through internal defenses. I believe that defenses are important and are to be respected, they are what has helped us get here and are important tools to keep us feeling safe.
(925) 258-2834 View (925) 258-2834
Photo of Nicolle Danielle Tissot, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Nicolle Danielle Tissot
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem or negative self talk? Looking for a supportive, caring and empathetic therapist? Life can be challenging and even unfair at times, as life continues to move forward we may be activated or stuck as things from the past, future and present resurface in a way that feels unmanageable on your own. I work with clients to walk along that path with them as we explore what has brought them to therapy and together create meaning, process challenging events from the past, create insight, create new ways of coping, overall self growth, and positive change for the present and future.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem or negative self talk? Looking for a supportive, caring and empathetic therapist? Life can be challenging and even unfair at times, as life continues to move forward we may be activated or stuck as things from the past, future and present resurface in a way that feels unmanageable on your own. I work with clients to walk along that path with them as we explore what has brought them to therapy and together create meaning, process challenging events from the past, create insight, create new ways of coping, overall self growth, and positive change for the present and future.
(925) 297-5442 View (925) 297-5442
Photo of Erika Lonergan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Erika Lonergan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
My desire to become a therapist came to me a bit later in life. As a result, I bring 20 years experience of being a parent as well as a lot of life experience. I grew up with a sister with intellectual disability and it had a profound impact on my childhood, but it wasn’t until much later that I realized it was still affecting me as an adult. Early life experiences and relationships form us in ways we may never realize. Siblings often find themselves falling back into their past patterns even as adults. Therapy can be a safe place to explore these dynamics and bring the past into the present.
My desire to become a therapist came to me a bit later in life. As a result, I bring 20 years experience of being a parent as well as a lot of life experience. I grew up with a sister with intellectual disability and it had a profound impact on my childhood, but it wasn’t until much later that I realized it was still affecting me as an adult. Early life experiences and relationships form us in ways we may never realize. Siblings often find themselves falling back into their past patterns even as adults. Therapy can be a safe place to explore these dynamics and bring the past into the present.
(341) 895-0211 View (341) 895-0211
Photo of Shaleda Newson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Shaleda Newson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
In my role as a therapist, my purpose is to empower and guide individuals on their quest for internal alignment and healing. My dedication revolves around cultivating emotional intelligence, with a primary focus on assisting clients in uncovering their strengths and identifying triggers. I am committed to providing the necessary tools for navigating life's challenges, fostering personal growth, and developing a resilient mindset. Collaboratively, we explore solutions to problems, encouraging a journey of self-discovery that promotes genuine internal peace and enduring contentment.
In my role as a therapist, my purpose is to empower and guide individuals on their quest for internal alignment and healing. My dedication revolves around cultivating emotional intelligence, with a primary focus on assisting clients in uncovering their strengths and identifying triggers. I am committed to providing the necessary tools for navigating life's challenges, fostering personal growth, and developing a resilient mindset. Collaboratively, we explore solutions to problems, encouraging a journey of self-discovery that promotes genuine internal peace and enduring contentment.
(925) 526-7771 View (925) 526-7771
Photo of Ines M Vaniman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Ines M Vaniman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
There are so many different reasons to seek therapy and it is my job to get you to where you want to get, as quickly as possible. I am a down to earth, experienced therapist. I use scientifically proven approaches, based on the needs and preferences of my patients. I focus on building strong relationships and providing a space where we can develop and implement a plan to make meaningful change happen. I have over 15 years of experience working in this field and feel very passionate about this work.
There are so many different reasons to seek therapy and it is my job to get you to where you want to get, as quickly as possible. I am a down to earth, experienced therapist. I use scientifically proven approaches, based on the needs and preferences of my patients. I focus on building strong relationships and providing a space where we can develop and implement a plan to make meaningful change happen. I have over 15 years of experience working in this field and feel very passionate about this work.
(925) 246-2964 View (925) 246-2964
Photo of Amy Mansfield Weinberg, Counselor in Lafayette, CA
Amy Mansfield Weinberg
Counselor, MA, APPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I truly believe in your innate ability to heal, recover from painful experiences. I am passionate about helping my clients feel empowered, a greater sense of self and well-being and the clarity to make choices that bring about the authentic life they desire. If you are feeling overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, confused, angry and/or anxious? Are you struggling with challenges of parenting, relationships and work-life balance? Are you needing support with life in general? I am here to help. Together we will create a safe space for you to explore where you are stuck and how to work with your unique challenges.
I truly believe in your innate ability to heal, recover from painful experiences. I am passionate about helping my clients feel empowered, a greater sense of self and well-being and the clarity to make choices that bring about the authentic life they desire. If you are feeling overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, confused, angry and/or anxious? Are you struggling with challenges of parenting, relationships and work-life balance? Are you needing support with life in general? I am here to help. Together we will create a safe space for you to explore where you are stuck and how to work with your unique challenges.
(925) 281-4901 View (925) 281-4901
Photo of Benjamin Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Benjamin Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
I provide compassionate therapy tailored to your particular needs. Together we would set goals and work to bring the needed changes into your life. I am not dedicated to a single particular theory or technique, but will use whatever works best for you. Often traditional talk therapy is most effective, but I have also successfully used cognitive/behavioral therapy, dream analysis, writing, art therapy, meditation, sand trays, group therapy, experiential therapy, and guided imagery. I also work to help you explore and strengthen your higher values and whatever you find most meaningful in your life.
I provide compassionate therapy tailored to your particular needs. Together we would set goals and work to bring the needed changes into your life. I am not dedicated to a single particular theory or technique, but will use whatever works best for you. Often traditional talk therapy is most effective, but I have also successfully used cognitive/behavioral therapy, dream analysis, writing, art therapy, meditation, sand trays, group therapy, experiential therapy, and guided imagery. I also work to help you explore and strengthen your higher values and whatever you find most meaningful in your life.
(925) 238-3961 View (925) 238-3961
Photo of Julie Weigel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lafayette, CA
Julie Weigel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549  (Online Only)
NO.DOUBT you are looking for a therapist with whom you can feel safe and connected, someone who will focus on your goals and respect you. My 25 years of dedicated practice, combined with my ongoing effort to stay on top of the latest psychological research and methods, ensure that I am someone you can trust. I will notice both where you hurt and where you shine and approach your goals with cultural humility, using evidence-based techniques that honor your innate wisdom, while providing the confidence, skill, and leadership that come with 25 years of training and practice in the most challenging of settings.
NO.DOUBT you are looking for a therapist with whom you can feel safe and connected, someone who will focus on your goals and respect you. My 25 years of dedicated practice, combined with my ongoing effort to stay on top of the latest psychological research and methods, ensure that I am someone you can trust. I will notice both where you hurt and where you shine and approach your goals with cultural humility, using evidence-based techniques that honor your innate wisdom, while providing the confidence, skill, and leadership that come with 25 years of training and practice in the most challenging of settings.
(510) 878-4486 View (510) 878-4486
Photo of Dana Goldstein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lafayette, CA
Dana Goldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I work with clients of all ages and groupings: adults, couples, families, and children from preschool through teens. When working with adults and adolescents, I personalize the therapeutic sessions using a blend of art therapy, mindfulness techniques, sand tray, and traditional talk therapy to explore and transform areas of difficulty. Young children often manifest their emotions and experiences through their behavior, and I use art therapy, play therapy, sandtray techniques, and a positive, warm connection to help work through and translate their inner experience, as well as work with the family system to provide support at home.
I work with clients of all ages and groupings: adults, couples, families, and children from preschool through teens. When working with adults and adolescents, I personalize the therapeutic sessions using a blend of art therapy, mindfulness techniques, sand tray, and traditional talk therapy to explore and transform areas of difficulty. Young children often manifest their emotions and experiences through their behavior, and I use art therapy, play therapy, sandtray techniques, and a positive, warm connection to help work through and translate their inner experience, as well as work with the family system to provide support at home.
(925) 315-4465 View (925) 315-4465
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.