Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Menlo Park, CA

Photo of Amy C Friedman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Amy C Friedman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Waitlist for new clients
Older adolescents, adults & couples are all welcome to my practice. In collaboration with you, I will help guide and support you in attaining your therapy goals by understanding the patterns inhibiting your success, happiness and fulfillment. Together we will chart a therapeutic course specific to who you are and what your goals are. I invite feedback and make corrections as needed along the way. My framework is psychodynamic to which I bring training in other theories/techniques, including: Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness, CBT, attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), EMDR and trauma focused.
Older adolescents, adults & couples are all welcome to my practice. In collaboration with you, I will help guide and support you in attaining your therapy goals by understanding the patterns inhibiting your success, happiness and fulfillment. Together we will chart a therapeutic course specific to who you are and what your goals are. I invite feedback and make corrections as needed along the way. My framework is psychodynamic to which I bring training in other theories/techniques, including: Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness, CBT, attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), EMDR and trauma focused.
(650) 666-0909 View (650) 666-0909
Photo of Robin Ruth- Eating Disorders, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Robin Ruth- Eating Disorders
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is integrated, combining: Depth Psychology, IFS, Attachment Theory, PhotoTherapy, Art and Narrative Therapy, Exposure and Response, CBT, and Women's Spirituality.
I am a warm, compassionate psychologist who practices therapy with a "power with" rather than a "power over" approach. I have personal experience with many life events including single parenting, divorce, caring for elderly parents, and overcoming depression. I specialize in treating eating disorders, body image, identity issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, and cancer related distress. I have extensive experience working at the residential & outpatient levels for eating disorders, and provide supportive therapy for not only the client, but for the parent or significant other who supports them.
My therapeutic approach is integrated, combining: Depth Psychology, IFS, Attachment Theory, PhotoTherapy, Art and Narrative Therapy, Exposure and Response, CBT, and Women's Spirituality.
I am a warm, compassionate psychologist who practices therapy with a "power with" rather than a "power over" approach. I have personal experience with many life events including single parenting, divorce, caring for elderly parents, and overcoming depression. I specialize in treating eating disorders, body image, identity issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, and cancer related distress. I have extensive experience working at the residential & outpatient levels for eating disorders, and provide supportive therapy for not only the client, but for the parent or significant other who supports them.
(650) 800-5516 View (650) 800-5516
Photo of Katherine Hohbach, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Katherine Hohbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
I draw from practices which include EMDR (Certified), Sensorimotor, Somatic Experiencing, and IFS informed.
Trauma and many of its related challenges can cause emotional reactions and physical responses causing you to wonder, will this ever get better? You may wonder, how long can I tolerate this bravery? I welcome supporting you. If complicated life themes tend to show up unexpectedly in behaviors that cause you to second guess yourself, I can help. Let’s collaborate and explore this knotted chain, which is really a portal into what blocks self confidence and connection. We'll find new solutions, reduce or resolve triggers that affect your everyday life in a way that is paced.
I draw from practices which include EMDR (Certified), Sensorimotor, Somatic Experiencing, and IFS informed.
Trauma and many of its related challenges can cause emotional reactions and physical responses causing you to wonder, will this ever get better? You may wonder, how long can I tolerate this bravery? I welcome supporting you. If complicated life themes tend to show up unexpectedly in behaviors that cause you to second guess yourself, I can help. Let’s collaborate and explore this knotted chain, which is really a portal into what blocks self confidence and connection. We'll find new solutions, reduce or resolve triggers that affect your everyday life in a way that is paced.
(650) 731-0464 View (650) 731-0464
Photo of Steven S. Steele, Pastoral Counselor in Menlo Park, CA
Steven S. Steele
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, MDiv, CPE
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
A Doctorate with emphasis, Organizational Psychology; a Master's with training in family systems; a former pastoral hospital & hospice counselor; a Level 3 Gottman Counselor, and a certified Relational Life Therapist, trained by Terrance Real.
Dr. Steele has over twenty-five years of experience in the South Bay and Orange County Area, CA, specializing in professional couples counseling, family and individual therapy. Dr. Steele uses an integrative approach to psychological disciplines by designing sessions according to the individual or couple's learning styles and personal, relational, and vocational growth goals. Dr. Steele provides a safe, confidential, humorous, and caring environment designed around your personal goals.
A Doctorate with emphasis, Organizational Psychology; a Master's with training in family systems; a former pastoral hospital & hospice counselor; a Level 3 Gottman Counselor, and a certified Relational Life Therapist, trained by Terrance Real.
Dr. Steele has over twenty-five years of experience in the South Bay and Orange County Area, CA, specializing in professional couples counseling, family and individual therapy. Dr. Steele uses an integrative approach to psychological disciplines by designing sessions according to the individual or couple's learning styles and personal, relational, and vocational growth goals. Dr. Steele provides a safe, confidential, humorous, and caring environment designed around your personal goals.
(408) 916-4131 View (408) 916-4131
Photo of GroupTherapyLA/NY & Dr. Cara Gardenswartz , Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
GroupTherapyLA/NY & Dr. Cara Gardenswartz
Psychologist, MA, CGP, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94027
Laura and Dr Arezoo combined specialize in EMDR, DBT & CBT, family systems.
GroupTherapyLA / GroupTherapyNY is now serving all California and New York residents! We practice results-oriented therapy to help you create the deeply fulfilling, authentic life you deserve. With over 30+ years of experience, we provide clients with the guidance and support needed to change unhealthy behaviors, strengthen self-worth, discover emotions and improve relationships.. We offer individual, couples, family & group therapy.
Laura and Dr Arezoo combined specialize in EMDR, DBT & CBT, family systems.
GroupTherapyLA / GroupTherapyNY is now serving all California and New York residents! We practice results-oriented therapy to help you create the deeply fulfilling, authentic life you deserve. With over 30+ years of experience, we provide clients with the guidance and support needed to change unhealthy behaviors, strengthen self-worth, discover emotions and improve relationships.. We offer individual, couples, family & group therapy.
(424) 379-4612 View (424) 379-4612
Photo of Francesca Maxime - Maxime Clarity Somatic Coaching in Menlo Park, CA
Francesca Maxime - Maxime Clarity Somatic Coaching
SEP, IFS, CMT-P, FOT/CFP, RLT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94027
Are you feeling hesitant, worried, shut down, or withdrawn? Or perhaps a little low, not quite yourself, & trying to figure out what to do? Are old patterns you've used to manage no longer working? Perhaps I can help. Using a combination of mindful awareness, somatic (body)/nervous system regulation work & Internal Family Systems/parts work, we can explore the different aspects of ourselves & start to move towards the changes we'd like to see. I offer in person services in Brooklyn, NY or worldwide via Zoom video. I offer a free brief phone or video consult to see if we're a good fit: feel free to book yours at www.maximeclarity.com
Are you feeling hesitant, worried, shut down, or withdrawn? Or perhaps a little low, not quite yourself, & trying to figure out what to do? Are old patterns you've used to manage no longer working? Perhaps I can help. Using a combination of mindful awareness, somatic (body)/nervous system regulation work & Internal Family Systems/parts work, we can explore the different aspects of ourselves & start to move towards the changes we'd like to see. I offer in person services in Brooklyn, NY or worldwide via Zoom video. I offer a free brief phone or video consult to see if we're a good fit: feel free to book yours at www.maximeclarity.com
(646) 974-9695 View (646) 974-9695
Photo of Marcie Kay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Marcie Kay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MBA, APCC
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities that include humanistic, family systems, attachment, and trauma-focused therapy.
I create a safe and nurturing therapeutic space for adults, couples & teens who are facing major life transitions such as college, career, divorce, or personal loss in finding a joyful and fulfilling path forward. I also provide empathetic guidance to the “sandwich generation” – women and men who are raising children while also caring for their elderly parents and struggling with anxiety and depression as they attempt to juggle it all. I help families navigate the complexities of raising children, adolescents and emerging adults in a healthy, cohesive way.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities that include humanistic, family systems, attachment, and trauma-focused therapy.
I create a safe and nurturing therapeutic space for adults, couples & teens who are facing major life transitions such as college, career, divorce, or personal loss in finding a joyful and fulfilling path forward. I also provide empathetic guidance to the “sandwich generation” – women and men who are raising children while also caring for their elderly parents and struggling with anxiety and depression as they attempt to juggle it all. I help families navigate the complexities of raising children, adolescents and emerging adults in a healthy, cohesive way.
(650) 686-5489 View (650) 686-5489
Photo of Kathleen Dunbar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Kathleen Dunbar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
I offer leading edge approaches to help you shift from surviving to thriving: Somatics; relational, attachment and experiential work; Wise Self/Parts work (similar to IFS); visualizations; and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (similar to Somatic Experiencing) for healing trauma, including shock, developmental, complex/CPTSD, attachment trauma, and panic attacks.
Wholeness, Celebration, Joy, Dignity, Compassion are fundamental qualities of a life truly lived. Discovering who we are is our birthright. But we must walk our path to discover ourselves and go on the hero and heroine’s journey that asks us to step into the unknown, relinquish the things we know we must let go of and claim the truth we know is ours. By being our unique selves, our lives flourish and the world is a better place. Making your dreams come alive means being uniquely you. You’ll be able to say, This is my life, I’m taking it seriously and enjoying it! And yes, you can learn to say out loud and mean it: I love myself!
I offer leading edge approaches to help you shift from surviving to thriving: Somatics; relational, attachment and experiential work; Wise Self/Parts work (similar to IFS); visualizations; and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (similar to Somatic Experiencing) for healing trauma, including shock, developmental, complex/CPTSD, attachment trauma, and panic attacks.
Wholeness, Celebration, Joy, Dignity, Compassion are fundamental qualities of a life truly lived. Discovering who we are is our birthright. But we must walk our path to discover ourselves and go on the hero and heroine’s journey that asks us to step into the unknown, relinquish the things we know we must let go of and claim the truth we know is ours. By being our unique selves, our lives flourish and the world is a better place. Making your dreams come alive means being uniquely you. You’ll be able to say, This is my life, I’m taking it seriously and enjoying it! And yes, you can learn to say out loud and mean it: I love myself!
(415) 300-2584 View (415) 300-2584
Photo of Sara Ruebelt, Ph.D, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Sara Ruebelt, Ph.D, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94028
My approach is strength-based, collaborative, and evidence-based integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory.
My life’s work is to improve & understand human relationships, and to help others live a life of meaning and authenticity. I strive to build bridges of understanding between multiple realities and reframing perspectives. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I specialize in trauma, transitions, cross-cultural adjustment, personal or professional relationship difficulties, parenting, grief, and marital issues.
My approach is strength-based, collaborative, and evidence-based integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory.
My life’s work is to improve & understand human relationships, and to help others live a life of meaning and authenticity. I strive to build bridges of understanding between multiple realities and reframing perspectives. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I specialize in trauma, transitions, cross-cultural adjustment, personal or professional relationship difficulties, parenting, grief, and marital issues.
(530) 554-1442 View (530) 554-1442
Photo of Sveta Alshvang, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Sveta Alshvang
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
I use effective methods such as EMDR, IFS, DBT, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, tailored to your needs.
It’s tough to go through the day dealing with overwhelming feelings of anxiety, anger, sadness, shame, or haunting memories. You may struggle with harsh self-criticism and a fear of failing while trying to maintain a facade of accomplishment and success. It can be exhausting to always feel the pressure to be perfect and support everyone else while neglecting your own needs. It might feel easier to push through alone than to ask for help, as you worry about being judged or burdening others. You could turn to unhealthy coping for relief, which leads to more stress. There is a way out, and I want to help you get your life back.
I use effective methods such as EMDR, IFS, DBT, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, tailored to your needs.
It’s tough to go through the day dealing with overwhelming feelings of anxiety, anger, sadness, shame, or haunting memories. You may struggle with harsh self-criticism and a fear of failing while trying to maintain a facade of accomplishment and success. It can be exhausting to always feel the pressure to be perfect and support everyone else while neglecting your own needs. It might feel easier to push through alone than to ask for help, as you worry about being judged or burdening others. You could turn to unhealthy coping for relief, which leads to more stress. There is a way out, and I want to help you get your life back.
(650) 215-6194 View (650) 215-6194
Photo of Jason Magers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Jason Magers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed psychotherapist and consultant specializing in treating trauma. I have extensive experience in the areas of PTSD, childhood attachment wounds, and sexual abuse. I believe everyone deserves a safe, secure space that welcomes all of them. Together we will explore the parts of yourself that seem harder to navigate, and over time we can develop a new understanding of the internal walls that hold you back from significant growth.
I am a licensed psychotherapist and consultant specializing in treating trauma. I have extensive experience in the areas of PTSD, childhood attachment wounds, and sexual abuse. I believe everyone deserves a safe, secure space that welcomes all of them. Together we will explore the parts of yourself that seem harder to navigate, and over time we can develop a new understanding of the internal walls that hold you back from significant growth.
(408) 533-0581 View (408) 533-0581
Photo of Melissa Beacham Kelley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Melissa Beacham Kelley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
I am particularly effective in working with bright and highly sensitive teens. During this pandemic, I believe that our most perceptive, sensitive adolescents are having the biggest mental health challenges with not seeing friends, family, and teachers on a more regular basis. I have extensive experience as a School Counselor in both private and public schools in the SF Bay Area. I also have designed and taught Social and Emotional Learning at several private schools. My ideal client is a teen facing the obstacles of anxiety, depression, learning challenges or social skills challenges at school or home.
I am particularly effective in working with bright and highly sensitive teens. During this pandemic, I believe that our most perceptive, sensitive adolescents are having the biggest mental health challenges with not seeing friends, family, and teachers on a more regular basis. I have extensive experience as a School Counselor in both private and public schools in the SF Bay Area. I also have designed and taught Social and Emotional Learning at several private schools. My ideal client is a teen facing the obstacles of anxiety, depression, learning challenges or social skills challenges at school or home.
(650) 297-6607 View (650) 297-6607
Photo of Maria Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Maria Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Maria specializes in providing support to individuals experiencing stress, anxiety (including panic attacks), childhood trauma, PTSD, and depression. Her approach involves working with their reptilian brain to alleviate the fight, flight, or freeze response and help them imagine and create a healthier life. She also helps them learn from their past experiences, enabling them to strengthen themselves. Maria's expertise extends to couples and families from diverse backgrounds, including those who are multicultural, multiracial, and multi-generational.
Maria specializes in providing support to individuals experiencing stress, anxiety (including panic attacks), childhood trauma, PTSD, and depression. Her approach involves working with their reptilian brain to alleviate the fight, flight, or freeze response and help them imagine and create a healthier life. She also helps them learn from their past experiences, enabling them to strengthen themselves. Maria's expertise extends to couples and families from diverse backgrounds, including those who are multicultural, multiracial, and multi-generational.
(650) 995-5283 View (650) 995-5283
Photo of Roxane Williams, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Menlo Park, CA
Roxane Williams
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MA, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
With a primary focus on adults and couples/relationships, I specialize in sex, sexuality, and gender-affirming therapies, am trained as a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP), and also have studied specific modalities and supports for the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with a diverse array of clients, many of whom are exploring dating, divorce, recovery from infidelity, intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction, polyamory/ethical nonmonogamy, open relationships, and BDSM/kink, and I offer treatment for many other relational, behavioral, and mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, as well.
With a primary focus on adults and couples/relationships, I specialize in sex, sexuality, and gender-affirming therapies, am trained as a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP), and also have studied specific modalities and supports for the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with a diverse array of clients, many of whom are exploring dating, divorce, recovery from infidelity, intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction, polyamory/ethical nonmonogamy, open relationships, and BDSM/kink, and I offer treatment for many other relational, behavioral, and mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, as well.
(650) 675-2672 View (650) 675-2672
Photo of Alex J Basche, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Alex J Basche
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IGDC
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
I use a strength-based approach to foster genuine self-acceptance & to support clients in finding meaning. My philosophy centers around building & harnessing connections between the body, emotions, thoughts & behaviors to create healing & growth. This is an active, evidence-based approach that addresses the whole person. Treatment is uniquely individualized & with over a decade of clinical experience, I am competent in helping clients to not only heal but to make real gains. This can involve setting/tracking measurable goals for therapy to help guide our work and offer insight into obstacles along the way.
I use a strength-based approach to foster genuine self-acceptance & to support clients in finding meaning. My philosophy centers around building & harnessing connections between the body, emotions, thoughts & behaviors to create healing & growth. This is an active, evidence-based approach that addresses the whole person. Treatment is uniquely individualized & with over a decade of clinical experience, I am competent in helping clients to not only heal but to make real gains. This can involve setting/tracking measurable goals for therapy to help guide our work and offer insight into obstacles along the way.
(669) 222-7872 View (669) 222-7872
Photo of Elizabeth McGinnis, Counselor in Menlo Park, CA
Elizabeth McGinnis
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
You're too old to not have relationships figured out. But lately, you've started to wonder if it's just normal to feel invisible, if it's even possible for you to have a relationship that makes you want to smile. When you show up as yourself the way the latest article tells you to, all you hear is that you're too much and nothing changes. Now you just find yourself shutting down, keeping as out of the way as possible. You’re tired of feeling scared that your partner will leave. Or even worse, that she'll stay and you’ll be stuck feeling this way forever. Breathing deeply and stretching into your skin feels impossible.
You're too old to not have relationships figured out. But lately, you've started to wonder if it's just normal to feel invisible, if it's even possible for you to have a relationship that makes you want to smile. When you show up as yourself the way the latest article tells you to, all you hear is that you're too much and nothing changes. Now you just find yourself shutting down, keeping as out of the way as possible. You’re tired of feeling scared that your partner will leave. Or even worse, that she'll stay and you’ll be stuck feeling this way forever. Breathing deeply and stretching into your skin feels impossible.
(408) 351-1321 View (408) 351-1321
Photo of Dr. Caroline Stone, Psychologist in Menlo Park, CA
Dr. Caroline Stone
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist, I help both individuals and couples create more connected and fulfilling lives through personalized, supportive psychotherapy. My clients are looking to make specific changes and want an interactive clinician to provide perspective, as well as tools and strategies for coping with painful emotions and life stressors. I assist clients with relationship concerns, break-ups, anxiety, OCD, physical health conditions, trauma, social anxiety, parenting, and major life, academic, and career transitions. I also provide performance and executive coaching services across Silicon Valley.
As a clinical psychologist, I help both individuals and couples create more connected and fulfilling lives through personalized, supportive psychotherapy. My clients are looking to make specific changes and want an interactive clinician to provide perspective, as well as tools and strategies for coping with painful emotions and life stressors. I assist clients with relationship concerns, break-ups, anxiety, OCD, physical health conditions, trauma, social anxiety, parenting, and major life, academic, and career transitions. I also provide performance and executive coaching services across Silicon Valley.
(341) 444-3994 View (341) 444-3994
Photo of Leslie Krusinski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Leslie Krusinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Do you wonder why you keep making the same mistakes? Have you felt like the family you grew up in possibly (or definitely) has something to do with why you keep acting this way? Do you just want to figure out what in the world is going on? You’re not alone; Leslie Krusinski works with individuals who wrestle with these questions. She is focused on helping others work through relationship issues, personal growth, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and self-esteem. Leslie has experience working with teens, adults, couples and families of various ethnicities and cultures for a variety of reasons.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you wonder why you keep making the same mistakes? Have you felt like the family you grew up in possibly (or definitely) has something to do with why you keep acting this way? Do you just want to figure out what in the world is going on? You’re not alone; Leslie Krusinski works with individuals who wrestle with these questions. She is focused on helping others work through relationship issues, personal growth, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and self-esteem. Leslie has experience working with teens, adults, couples and families of various ethnicities and cultures for a variety of reasons.
(669) 271-7602 View (669) 271-7602
Photo of Jonathan Boland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Menlo Park, CA
Jonathan Boland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MPH
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
(310) 742-8451 View (310) 742-8451
Photo of Sean Sprigle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Menlo Park, CA
Sean Sprigle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with how crazy the world has become? Do you feel lost, scared or confused? Are you looking for answers during a time when no one seems to have them? I might be able to help you. Before I was a therapist I was a client myself, struggling with addiction, PTSD and other issues as well. My journey of healing led me to becoming a therapist to help others heal. My clients find me to be compassionate, non-judgmental and informative. I tend to work intuitively, while using my training and experience as a guide. I am focused on helping my clients navigate their own healing journey as quickly and as painlessly as possible.
Are you struggling with how crazy the world has become? Do you feel lost, scared or confused? Are you looking for answers during a time when no one seems to have them? I might be able to help you. Before I was a therapist I was a client myself, struggling with addiction, PTSD and other issues as well. My journey of healing led me to becoming a therapist to help others heal. My clients find me to be compassionate, non-judgmental and informative. I tend to work intuitively, while using my training and experience as a guide. I am focused on helping my clients navigate their own healing journey as quickly and as painlessly as possible.
(858) 879-6083 View (858) 879-6083
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.