Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Novato, CA

Photo of Sharman Cippa, LCSW, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharman Cippa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
I am a Trauma-Informed therapist using Internal Family Systems (IFS) with a Somatic approach, EMDR emphasizing attachment-focused innovations, and Flash Technique depending on your needs.
It takes courage to take the first step toward healing, change and growth. I have a compassionate, warm, non-judgmental style and a deep respect for your inner strengths, wisdom and healing capacity. Building a safe, genuine relationship with my clients is the cornerstone for healing in therapy. I look forward to listening intently to your concerns and working collaboratively with you to help you clarify and reach your goals. With an interactive approach, I offer practical skills to help with issues related to stress, loss, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, phase of life challenges and psycho-spiritual issues.
I am a Trauma-Informed therapist using Internal Family Systems (IFS) with a Somatic approach, EMDR emphasizing attachment-focused innovations, and Flash Technique depending on your needs.
It takes courage to take the first step toward healing, change and growth. I have a compassionate, warm, non-judgmental style and a deep respect for your inner strengths, wisdom and healing capacity. Building a safe, genuine relationship with my clients is the cornerstone for healing in therapy. I look forward to listening intently to your concerns and working collaboratively with you to help you clarify and reach your goals. With an interactive approach, I offer practical skills to help with issues related to stress, loss, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, phase of life challenges and psycho-spiritual issues.
(707) 785-4413 View (707) 785-4413
Photo of Denise H Galt, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise H Galt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947
Trauma Processing: I use EMDR and/or Internal Family Systems Therapy depending on what works better for you.
Specializing in: RELATIONSHIPS -- improving a current one or finding a new one. If you're in a relationship, come in alone or with your partner. Reclaim feelings of connectedness and aliveness in relationship. I also treat ADDICTION and TRAUMA. Recovering from substance or behavioral addictions -- yours or someone else's. Together, we will identify ways that you can get your needs met that don't hurt you or those you love. I will help you work through the pain you're trying to avoid by numbing out. There really is a better way!
Trauma Processing: I use EMDR and/or Internal Family Systems Therapy depending on what works better for you.
Specializing in: RELATIONSHIPS -- improving a current one or finding a new one. If you're in a relationship, come in alone or with your partner. Reclaim feelings of connectedness and aliveness in relationship. I also treat ADDICTION and TRAUMA. Recovering from substance or behavioral addictions -- yours or someone else's. Together, we will identify ways that you can get your needs met that don't hurt you or those you love. I will help you work through the pain you're trying to avoid by numbing out. There really is a better way!
(707) 766-0788 View (707) 766-0788
Photo of Kenneth Perlmutter, PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth Perlmutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949
My approach employs family systems and relational psychodynamic theories, to promote inner or system balance.
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
My approach employs family systems and relational psychodynamic theories, to promote inner or system balance.
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
(415) 787-4610 View (415) 787-4610
Photo of Heather Haley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Haley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
I offer a practice that clears trauma and old energy patterns similar to EMDR, works respectfully and effectively with the parts of yourself like IFS (Internal Family Systems), releases tension, pain, and anxiety, and connects you with your inner wisdom.
Are you yearning to be your authentic self but feel held back by anxiety, hopelessness, or unhelpful old beliefs? Do you notice unhealthy relationship patterns you want to change? In my practice I use a method of holistic psychotherapy called Soul Lightening Acupressure which incorporates energy work and is gentle, effective, and efficient. As energy that has been lodged in your body from trauma or stress flows freely again, old patterns of thoughts and behaviors can clear, insights arise, and rapid and lasting healing can occur. After a session you will usually feel calm, centered, grounded, and lighter with new sense of clarity.
I offer a practice that clears trauma and old energy patterns similar to EMDR, works respectfully and effectively with the parts of yourself like IFS (Internal Family Systems), releases tension, pain, and anxiety, and connects you with your inner wisdom.
Are you yearning to be your authentic self but feel held back by anxiety, hopelessness, or unhelpful old beliefs? Do you notice unhealthy relationship patterns you want to change? In my practice I use a method of holistic psychotherapy called Soul Lightening Acupressure which incorporates energy work and is gentle, effective, and efficient. As energy that has been lodged in your body from trauma or stress flows freely again, old patterns of thoughts and behaviors can clear, insights arise, and rapid and lasting healing can occur. After a session you will usually feel calm, centered, grounded, and lighter with new sense of clarity.
(707) 615-1428 View (707) 615-1428
Photo of Cathy Della Valle, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Della Valle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94949
I practice from a Psychodynamic framework informed by Object Relations, CBT, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
I practice from a Psychodynamic framework informed by Object Relations, CBT, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
(415) 813-5401 View (415) 813-5401
Photo of Jennifer Parlette, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Parlette
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
Areas of Expertise: EMDR Certified, I also use Internal Family Systems frequently.
People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons: Relief from sadness or anxiety, to break patterns that cause pain, to get clarity when you just don't know why life feels like an uphill battle or to simply get an "emotional tune-up." With compassion, emotional safety, and a clear, candid therapeutic style, I help people work through life's challenges using effective, evidence-based treatments that target the underlying causes for painful feelings. I believe healing happens holistically; Mind-Body-Spirit are aligned when people feel "right" within themselves.
Areas of Expertise: EMDR Certified, I also use Internal Family Systems frequently.
People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons: Relief from sadness or anxiety, to break patterns that cause pain, to get clarity when you just don't know why life feels like an uphill battle or to simply get an "emotional tune-up." With compassion, emotional safety, and a clear, candid therapeutic style, I help people work through life's challenges using effective, evidence-based treatments that target the underlying causes for painful feelings. I believe healing happens holistically; Mind-Body-Spirit are aligned when people feel "right" within themselves.
(415) 843-6603 View (415) 843-6603
Photo of Lisa Hauck-Loy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Hauck-Loy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94949
My practice is integrative and informed by extensive post graduate training in: Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy(attachment work), Internal Family Systems(parts work), Dynamic Emotion Focused Therapy(anxiety regulation, self building, working with defenses), Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy(creating security and aliveness with partner), is more experiential than cognitive.
I see adult individuals who would like to: feel empowered, self-compassionate and self-expressive, to know their heart's desires, and to overcome self-defeating thoughts, behaviors and anxiety. I see straight and queer couples who want to: learn new ways of relating to co-create secure and fulfilling attachment, to learn how to make effective repairs with each other, and to learn how to manage oneself and one's partner in the best way.
My practice is integrative and informed by extensive post graduate training in: Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy(attachment work), Internal Family Systems(parts work), Dynamic Emotion Focused Therapy(anxiety regulation, self building, working with defenses), Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy(creating security and aliveness with partner), is more experiential than cognitive.
I see adult individuals who would like to: feel empowered, self-compassionate and self-expressive, to know their heart's desires, and to overcome self-defeating thoughts, behaviors and anxiety. I see straight and queer couples who want to: learn new ways of relating to co-create secure and fulfilling attachment, to learn how to make effective repairs with each other, and to learn how to manage oneself and one's partner in the best way.
(415) 813-2649 View (415) 813-2649
Photo of Inna Zelikman - Inna Zelikman PMH-NP, PMH-NP
Inna Zelikman PMH-NP
PMH-NP
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94949
Inna Zelikman, PMH-NP, Ecotherapist and psychedelic integration therapist. I am Certified in Somatic Trauma Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I also hold a Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies and Research through MAPS. I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). Are you someone who has been struggling with unresolved trauma or unprocessed grief? Do you feel stuck in old patterns despite years of therapy? Through somatic therapy and KAP I help clients get in touch with their feelings and to release any trapped emotions. These technics help with regulation of nervous system that is needed to process trauma.
Inna Zelikman, PMH-NP, Ecotherapist and psychedelic integration therapist. I am Certified in Somatic Trauma Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I also hold a Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies and Research through MAPS. I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). Are you someone who has been struggling with unresolved trauma or unprocessed grief? Do you feel stuck in old patterns despite years of therapy? Through somatic therapy and KAP I help clients get in touch with their feelings and to release any trapped emotions. These technics help with regulation of nervous system that is needed to process trauma.
(628) 214-2296 View (628) 214-2296
Photo of Meagan J Pugh, DMin, LPCC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Meagan J Pugh
Counselor, DMin, LPCC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
I respect the psychological journey as a spiritual process and use Internal Family Systems,Somatic Experiencing, creative and somatic or embodiment practices to lead you to wholeness and integration.
Do you struggle with relationships or feel cut off from your own vibrancy and purpose? Do you long to move forward in your goals and dreams? Are you living someone else’s life and don’t really know what you want or could accomplish? Are feelings of anger, loneliness or depression keeping you powerless to change? I can offer you a safe and effective environment of support that will empower you to heal and transform your relationships with yourself and others. You will receive a unique individualized program of specific tools and skills to help you navigate your way towards vibrancy and passion.
I respect the psychological journey as a spiritual process and use Internal Family Systems,Somatic Experiencing, creative and somatic or embodiment practices to lead you to wholeness and integration.
Do you struggle with relationships or feel cut off from your own vibrancy and purpose? Do you long to move forward in your goals and dreams? Are you living someone else’s life and don’t really know what you want or could accomplish? Are feelings of anger, loneliness or depression keeping you powerless to change? I can offer you a safe and effective environment of support that will empower you to heal and transform your relationships with yourself and others. You will receive a unique individualized program of specific tools and skills to help you navigate your way towards vibrancy and passion.
(707) 730-4173 View (707) 730-4173
Photo of Jean Hayes, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jean Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
I successfully treat relationship breakdowns, alcohol, drug, eating problems, depression, dual-diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, bariatric surgery patients. Individuals and couples address how the misuse of substances impacts their lives in negative and unproductive ways. We seek solutions together to more satisfying lifestyles and relationships. I work with couples and individuals having difficulties in relationships, wanting to resolve problems rather than separating or divorcing as their only solution. I work to separate past hurts from present reality. As an Equine Therapist, I use horses and exotic farm animals as requested.
I successfully treat relationship breakdowns, alcohol, drug, eating problems, depression, dual-diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, bariatric surgery patients. Individuals and couples address how the misuse of substances impacts their lives in negative and unproductive ways. We seek solutions together to more satisfying lifestyles and relationships. I work with couples and individuals having difficulties in relationships, wanting to resolve problems rather than separating or divorcing as their only solution. I work to separate past hurts from present reality. As an Equine Therapist, I use horses and exotic farm animals as requested.
(415) 574-0967 View (415) 574-0967
Barbara E Nova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949
After 30 years of doing psychotherapy with individuals and families, I am shifting to providing psychological assessments with children, teens, and adults. I currently have a waiting list for psychological assessments. My approach is thorough and affordable. Please call today for a free one-hour consultation.
After 30 years of doing psychotherapy with individuals and families, I am shifting to providing psychological assessments with children, teens, and adults. I currently have a waiting list for psychological assessments. My approach is thorough and affordable. Please call today for a free one-hour consultation.
(415) 991-3275 View (415) 991-3275
Photo of Daniel Lyons, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Lyons
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94949
Hi my name is Daniel and I help young people (and the young at heart) to have more connected and meaningful relationships with their families. Is your family experiencing high levels of conflict? Is your young person acting out at home or at school? Is your young person (or are you) questioning their/your gender identity or sexuality? Do you want a more harmonious family life? If you find yourself here asking one of these questions, I am here to support you and your family. I work with teens, adults and families to support them in building stronger connections and more secure attachments using a relational approach.
Hi my name is Daniel and I help young people (and the young at heart) to have more connected and meaningful relationships with their families. Is your family experiencing high levels of conflict? Is your young person acting out at home or at school? Is your young person (or are you) questioning their/your gender identity or sexuality? Do you want a more harmonious family life? If you find yourself here asking one of these questions, I am here to support you and your family. I work with teens, adults and families to support them in building stronger connections and more secure attachments using a relational approach.
(415) 423-0738 View (415) 423-0738
Photo of Nicole Douglas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Douglas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
Welcome! You may have been thinking about seeking support from a therapist for quite a while. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety, feeling alone, insecure in your relationship, or feeling stuck with distressing thought patterns that lead to an uneasy feeling of avoidance. I care deeply about creating a warm, empathic, and well-attuned connection with my clients. I strive to provide a collaborative experience while working with an array of diverse individuals who seek support with navigating their specific challenges.
Welcome! You may have been thinking about seeking support from a therapist for quite a while. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety, feeling alone, insecure in your relationship, or feeling stuck with distressing thought patterns that lead to an uneasy feeling of avoidance. I care deeply about creating a warm, empathic, and well-attuned connection with my clients. I strive to provide a collaborative experience while working with an array of diverse individuals who seek support with navigating their specific challenges.
(415) 366-9064 View (415) 366-9064
Photo of Siarra Sens, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Siarra Sens
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947  (Online Only)
I offer a sliding scale to those in need during these hard times. Using a depth-psychodynamic approach, I work with individuals who seek direction and a deeper understanding of their inner & outer worlds. I am especially fond of working with the quarterlifers, early 20s-late 30s. Sessions may consist of: exploring childhood patterns, relationships and attachment styles; analyzing dreams; inner child and shadow work; strengthening trust in your intuition; coaching around manifesting your life goals; somatic and mindfulness exercises; and compassionate confrontation around where you are stuck or blocking the progress of your healing.
I offer a sliding scale to those in need during these hard times. Using a depth-psychodynamic approach, I work with individuals who seek direction and a deeper understanding of their inner & outer worlds. I am especially fond of working with the quarterlifers, early 20s-late 30s. Sessions may consist of: exploring childhood patterns, relationships and attachment styles; analyzing dreams; inner child and shadow work; strengthening trust in your intuition; coaching around manifesting your life goals; somatic and mindfulness exercises; and compassionate confrontation around where you are stuck or blocking the progress of your healing.
(510) 916-3193 View (510) 916-3193
Photo of Peter J Sadler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peter J Sadler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck in a cycle of arguments and blame in your relationship? Suffering over a painful breakup or the discovery of an affair? Preparing to grow your family or become empty nesters? Are you searching for the closeness and intimacy you once shared with your partner? Together in therapy I can help you traverse these difficult relationship situations, and move toward a more connected and vibrant way of life. My approach to working with people is guided by years of specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy and helping couples and individuals shift old patterns of communication and deepen their connection.
Do you feel stuck in a cycle of arguments and blame in your relationship? Suffering over a painful breakup or the discovery of an affair? Preparing to grow your family or become empty nesters? Are you searching for the closeness and intimacy you once shared with your partner? Together in therapy I can help you traverse these difficult relationship situations, and move toward a more connected and vibrant way of life. My approach to working with people is guided by years of specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy and helping couples and individuals shift old patterns of communication and deepen their connection.
(415) 226-4116 View (415) 226-4116
Photo of Sara Okman, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Okman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
Many relationships have faced challenges over the past few years. You might be feeling stuck, or struggling to resolve differences with your partner. As a certified AASECT sex therapist & long time couples counselor, I help identify& understand what lies beneath these stuck places, building true relational safety. Using easy to implement tools for healthy communication, I help couples negotiate desire discrepancy, find creative solutions for low-sexual marriages, and navigate the impact of extra-marital relationships: including infidelity repair, polyamory, & consensual non-monogamy. I am kink aware & LGBTQ+ friendly.
Many relationships have faced challenges over the past few years. You might be feeling stuck, or struggling to resolve differences with your partner. As a certified AASECT sex therapist & long time couples counselor, I help identify& understand what lies beneath these stuck places, building true relational safety. Using easy to implement tools for healthy communication, I help couples negotiate desire discrepancy, find creative solutions for low-sexual marriages, and navigate the impact of extra-marital relationships: including infidelity repair, polyamory, & consensual non-monogamy. I am kink aware & LGBTQ+ friendly.
(415) 877-4147 View (415) 877-4147
Photo of Lisa S Stein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa S Stein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
Therapy is a special opportunity to understand yourself more deeply and make any changes that are meaningful and important to you. I will support you in creating the life, work and relationships that you most deeply want in a warm and compassionate setting. My practice includes individual adults, couples, families and adolescents. I welcome people of all backgrounds who are working with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, and healing from loss, among other areas. I am committed to providing the highest quality therapy services in support of your own unique growth and development.
Therapy is a special opportunity to understand yourself more deeply and make any changes that are meaningful and important to you. I will support you in creating the life, work and relationships that you most deeply want in a warm and compassionate setting. My practice includes individual adults, couples, families and adolescents. I welcome people of all backgrounds who are working with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, and healing from loss, among other areas. I am committed to providing the highest quality therapy services in support of your own unique growth and development.
(707) 766-8567 View (707) 766-8567
Photo of Lynn Ervin, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Ervin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949
My work is grounded in the belief that we all have innate resources for happiness and ease that become concealed or undeveloped. Feeling overwhelmed or experiencing trauma we often develop coping skills that may no longer be serving us. It is my role to help you realign with your strengths and wisdom while uncovering what may be blocking these resources. I provide a safe space for exploring the changes you want to make in your life. I will help you address areas in your life where you feel stuck while offering you the tools and guidance to do that safely.
My work is grounded in the belief that we all have innate resources for happiness and ease that become concealed or undeveloped. Feeling overwhelmed or experiencing trauma we often develop coping skills that may no longer be serving us. It is my role to help you realign with your strengths and wisdom while uncovering what may be blocking these resources. I provide a safe space for exploring the changes you want to make in your life. I will help you address areas in your life where you feel stuck while offering you the tools and guidance to do that safely.
(415) 307-3669 View (415) 307-3669
Photo of Patricia Saunders, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Saunders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
I am highly interactive and collaborative and depend on a strong relationship with clients that builds trust and encourages individuality and personal development. I believe in the power of change and also the strength within each of us to make those changes. I want people to feel empowered to live life to its fullest and to find happiness through purpose and connection. I hold hope while you find your way.
I am highly interactive and collaborative and depend on a strong relationship with clients that builds trust and encourages individuality and personal development. I believe in the power of change and also the strength within each of us to make those changes. I want people to feel empowered to live life to its fullest and to find happiness through purpose and connection. I hold hope while you find your way.
(415) 463-4337 View (415) 463-4337
Photo of Dyer Passano-Manning, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dyer Passano-Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947
Are you looking for a way through a challenging time? In working with you, I offer a supportive, collaborative approach. I help people find their own strengths and clarity. Deep listening is important to find your individual needs. Providing useful tools for change, is the focus of my work. I'm interested in facilitating a natural way toward transformation. For Parents: Raising teens can be very challenging work. There are times when a parent or an adolescent needs extra support to get through difficult times. I feel at ease working with young people. I've been in private practice for 18 years.
Are you looking for a way through a challenging time? In working with you, I offer a supportive, collaborative approach. I help people find their own strengths and clarity. Deep listening is important to find your individual needs. Providing useful tools for change, is the focus of my work. I'm interested in facilitating a natural way toward transformation. For Parents: Raising teens can be very challenging work. There are times when a parent or an adolescent needs extra support to get through difficult times. I feel at ease working with young people. I've been in private practice for 18 years.
(415) 323-0989 View (415) 323-0989
1
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists

What is Internal Family Systems therapy?

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

How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

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

Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

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

How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?

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