Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Beverly Wong, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Beverly Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I draw from Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Somatic Psychotherapy to foster curiosity and self-awareness of your inner workings.
I am so glad you're here. I understand how daunting it can be to take steps towards healing. Perhaps you feel misunderstood by the people around you. Or perhaps you are accustomed to confronting problems alone, without the help of others. Whatever you might be facing, I want to assure you that you are not alone. I am honored to walk alongside you as you step outside of your comfort zone to embark on your journey to growth and self-discovery. I offer warm and collaborative therapy to individuals and couples who are seeking to work through past traumas, intense emotions, and challenges with identity.
I draw from Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Somatic Psychotherapy to foster curiosity and self-awareness of your inner workings.
I am so glad you're here. I understand how daunting it can be to take steps towards healing. Perhaps you feel misunderstood by the people around you. Or perhaps you are accustomed to confronting problems alone, without the help of others. Whatever you might be facing, I want to assure you that you are not alone. I am honored to walk alongside you as you step outside of your comfort zone to embark on your journey to growth and self-discovery. I offer warm and collaborative therapy to individuals and couples who are seeking to work through past traumas, intense emotions, and challenges with identity.
(415) 366-1124 View (415) 366-1124
Photo of Morrighan MacGillivray, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Morrighan MacGillivray
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
San Francisco, CA 94110
I am a client-centered therapist informed by a number of modalities and frameworks including somatics & mindfulness, IFS/parts work, depth psychology, dance & expressive arts, trauma & liberation, attachment & interpersonal neurobiology, and brainspotting.
I support people navigating the often overwhelming and lonely experience of healing from complex relational trauma. Early trauma, whether from unmet needs or overt abuse, can warp our sense of self and imprison us in frozen fear, shame, or reactivity, impacting every aspect of our lives. Therapy can help us to find more freedom and connection – to all the lost and disowned parts of our psyches; to our amazingly resilient bodies, fiercely compassionate hearts and creative spirits; to other beings, community, and nature; to the present moment; to meaning and purpose; and to a felt sense of safety, agency, and possibility.
I am a client-centered therapist informed by a number of modalities and frameworks including somatics & mindfulness, IFS/parts work, depth psychology, dance & expressive arts, trauma & liberation, attachment & interpersonal neurobiology, and brainspotting.
I support people navigating the often overwhelming and lonely experience of healing from complex relational trauma. Early trauma, whether from unmet needs or overt abuse, can warp our sense of self and imprison us in frozen fear, shame, or reactivity, impacting every aspect of our lives. Therapy can help us to find more freedom and connection – to all the lost and disowned parts of our psyches; to our amazingly resilient bodies, fiercely compassionate hearts and creative spirits; to other beings, community, and nature; to the present moment; to meaning and purpose; and to a felt sense of safety, agency, and possibility.
(510) 900-4697 View (510) 900-4697
Photo of Tina Fossella, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Tina Fossella
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
As a Certified Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Therapist with over 30 years of experience, I guide clients through a structured, step-by-step process to address deep-seated obstacles, heal childhood wounds, and cultivate self-awareness.
People seek therapy for many reasons—relationship challenges, stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, body image concerns, trauma recovery, or a deeper search for meaning and purpose. Whatever brings you here, I offer a compassionate and collaborative space where we can work together to create meaningful change. My approach integrates mindfulness with psychotherapy, helping you engage directly with thoughts, emotions, and habitual patterns in a way that promotes lasting well-being. With warmth, presence, and deep empathy, I support you in building a more fulfilling, authentic life.
As a Certified Internal Family Systems ( IFS) Therapist with over 30 years of experience, I guide clients through a structured, step-by-step process to address deep-seated obstacles, heal childhood wounds, and cultivate self-awareness.
People seek therapy for many reasons—relationship challenges, stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, body image concerns, trauma recovery, or a deeper search for meaning and purpose. Whatever brings you here, I offer a compassionate and collaborative space where we can work together to create meaningful change. My approach integrates mindfulness with psychotherapy, helping you engage directly with thoughts, emotions, and habitual patterns in a way that promotes lasting well-being. With warmth, presence, and deep empathy, I support you in building a more fulfilling, authentic life.
(415) 527-5749 View (415) 527-5749
Photo of Jay M Seiff-Haron, Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Jay M Seiff-Haron
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I also employ both EMDR and IFS (Internal Family Systems) with individuals, have worked extensively with cultural differences at home and professionally, and am a custody evaluator.
Whether with individuals, couples, group intensives or with kids 1-7 and their parents, I work relationally. I try to bring compassion, mindfulness and practical solutions to bear on real-life problems. I hold a doctorate from CSPP, an MBA from Stanford and a BA from Yale.
I also employ both EMDR and IFS (Internal Family Systems) with individuals, have worked extensively with cultural differences at home and professionally, and am a custody evaluator.
Whether with individuals, couples, group intensives or with kids 1-7 and their parents, I work relationally. I try to bring compassion, mindfulness and practical solutions to bear on real-life problems. I hold a doctorate from CSPP, an MBA from Stanford and a BA from Yale.
(415) 574-0973 View (415) 574-0973
Photo of Berne Fitzpatrick, Psychologist, PhD, CGP
Berne Fitzpatrick
Psychologist, PhD, CGP
San Francisco, CA 94131
I offer IFS sessions or integrate Parts Work into my work.
Suffering can come in many forms. It is personal and distressing and can also be overwhelming, paralyzing, and lonely. But you do not have to face it alone. Many have come to me for help with what makes them unhappy and out of balance. I take satisfaction when my clients accept their own complexity and uniqueness and have successful outcomes in their lives due to therapy.
I offer IFS sessions or integrate Parts Work into my work.
Suffering can come in many forms. It is personal and distressing and can also be overwhelming, paralyzing, and lonely. But you do not have to face it alone. Many have come to me for help with what makes them unhappy and out of balance. I take satisfaction when my clients accept their own complexity and uniqueness and have successful outcomes in their lives due to therapy.
(415) 236-5578 View (415) 236-5578
Photo of Liz Vines, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Liz Vines
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Trauma Therapy using IFS, EMDR, and nervous system support: I love working with people who are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way.
I use a blend of IFS, EMDR, and mindfulness based somatic techniques to help people recover from trauma and anxiety while developing a deeper capacity for self compassion. In my practice I consistently find that nervous system stabilization, compassion, and insight work synergistically to create change.
Trauma Therapy using IFS, EMDR, and nervous system support: I love working with people who are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way.
I use a blend of IFS, EMDR, and mindfulness based somatic techniques to help people recover from trauma and anxiety while developing a deeper capacity for self compassion. In my practice I consistently find that nervous system stabilization, compassion, and insight work synergistically to create change.
(949) 749-7169 View (949) 749-7169
Photo of Robbie Richler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT, RCC
Robbie Richler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT, RCC
San Francisco, CA 94123
To this end I use Internal Family Systems, an individual therapy that is safe yet powerful.
If you've come here, you're probably struggling with something you're unable to shake. It could be a depressed mood, anxious thoughts, feelings of isolation, or just a sense that something is off. Perhaps you've tried to push away or fix some of these unpleasant feelings but have had little success. If you're looking for a way to resolve these issues, one that gets at the core of what's going on, I can help.
To this end I use Internal Family Systems, an individual therapy that is safe yet powerful.
If you've come here, you're probably struggling with something you're unable to shake. It could be a depressed mood, anxious thoughts, feelings of isolation, or just a sense that something is off. Perhaps you've tried to push away or fix some of these unpleasant feelings but have had little success. If you're looking for a way to resolve these issues, one that gets at the core of what's going on, I can help.
(415) 594-4238 View (415) 594-4238
Photo of Jessica Cerda, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jessica Cerda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Through a Family Systems lens and evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT, I help them uncover unhealed trauma, explore intergenerational patterns, and reconnect with their most authentic selves.
As a first-gen Latina, I love supporting my community but welcome all backgrounds. I specialize in inner child healing, perfectionism, and self-awareness to help you connect with your most authentic self. Together, we’ll break cycles, heal self-doubt, and build a life aligned with your true needs and values. Hablo y ofrezco mis servicios en Español.
Through a Family Systems lens and evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT, I help them uncover unhealed trauma, explore intergenerational patterns, and reconnect with their most authentic selves.
As a first-gen Latina, I love supporting my community but welcome all backgrounds. I specialize in inner child healing, perfectionism, and self-awareness to help you connect with your most authentic self. Together, we’ll break cycles, heal self-doubt, and build a life aligned with your true needs and values. Hablo y ofrezco mis servicios en Español.
(415) 855-9722 View (415) 855-9722
Photo of Joanna Calabrese, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Joanna Calabrese
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
7 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I primarily use somatic-trauma therapies ( IFS, Hakomi, and EMDR).
Life is full of many challenges that distance us from our true selves at times. If there is any part of you that feels stuck, confused, anxious, depressed, broken; If you are having doubtful, fearful, or critical thoughts that are weighing you down or interfering with your contentment in your relationships or family or work, therapy can help. I guide you to connect to your inner wisdom, the “true you” that knows what is right and best for you. We work to unburden you from unhelpful thoughts and behaviors so that you can live a more free and fulfilled life.
I primarily use somatic-trauma therapies ( IFS, Hakomi, and EMDR).
Life is full of many challenges that distance us from our true selves at times. If there is any part of you that feels stuck, confused, anxious, depressed, broken; If you are having doubtful, fearful, or critical thoughts that are weighing you down or interfering with your contentment in your relationships or family or work, therapy can help. I guide you to connect to your inner wisdom, the “true you” that knows what is right and best for you. We work to unburden you from unhelpful thoughts and behaviors so that you can live a more free and fulfilled life.
(415) 612-6580 View (415) 612-6580
Photo of Natalie M. Mills, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Natalie M. Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I approach my work from a strong foundation in mindfulness, insight-oriented training, Compassion-Focused Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
I work with individuals and couples who want to shift relational problem patterns by healing from trauma, deepening their self-awareness, and strengthening their connections with others. I offer tools to help people gain insight into their behavior, learn how to effectively manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and ameliorate destructive cycles. Collaboratively, my clients and I improve their self-concepts. I use a relational, attachment-based framework and draw on EMDR therapy when indicated.
I approach my work from a strong foundation in mindfulness, insight-oriented training, Compassion-Focused Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
I work with individuals and couples who want to shift relational problem patterns by healing from trauma, deepening their self-awareness, and strengthening their connections with others. I offer tools to help people gain insight into their behavior, learn how to effectively manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and ameliorate destructive cycles. Collaboratively, my clients and I improve their self-concepts. I use a relational, attachment-based framework and draw on EMDR therapy when indicated.
(415) 301-7713 View (415) 301-7713
Photo of Carina Hartley, LPC Intern, MA, APCC, PCA
Carina Hartley
LPC Intern, MA, APCC, PCA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am informed by internal family systems, narrative therapy, and humanistic therapy.
I love working with spiritual, creative, artistic weirdos who live and love outside the box. If you're feeling lost, disconnected, and trying to find your groove in the world: I hear you. I bet there are also ways that you are yearning to express yourself; to be deeply seen and supported. Are you hoping to show up in relationships in a more authentic way? Exploring parts of your identity that feel like exciting and scary unknowns? I’m here to help you embrace the fluidity and complexity of who you are. Therapy is your space to explore life's challenges and beauty within a safe and compassionate relationship.
I am informed by internal family systems, narrative therapy, and humanistic therapy.
I love working with spiritual, creative, artistic weirdos who live and love outside the box. If you're feeling lost, disconnected, and trying to find your groove in the world: I hear you. I bet there are also ways that you are yearning to express yourself; to be deeply seen and supported. Are you hoping to show up in relationships in a more authentic way? Exploring parts of your identity that feel like exciting and scary unknowns? I’m here to help you embrace the fluidity and complexity of who you are. Therapy is your space to explore life's challenges and beauty within a safe and compassionate relationship.
(415) 625-5045 View (415) 625-5045
Photo of Natasha Walter-Fisk, Marriage & Family Therapist, MACP, CA:LMFT, MN:LPCC, CO:LPC
Natasha Walter-Fisk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACP, CA:LMFT, MN:LPCC, CO:LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My customized approach uses IFS, EMDR, positive psychology and many other methods.
Do you worry too much? Feel tense, triggered, that you're not enough? When you deal with those feelings at their roots, you can let go of the baggage you've been carrying and heal. I offer deep work so you can feel the way you want to feel and explore your wishes and goals so you can make them a reality. It is very effective.
My customized approach uses IFS, EMDR, positive psychology and many other methods.
Do you worry too much? Feel tense, triggered, that you're not enough? When you deal with those feelings at their roots, you can let go of the baggage you've been carrying and heal. I offer deep work so you can feel the way you want to feel and explore your wishes and goals so you can make them a reality. It is very effective.
(415) 326-9914 View (415) 326-9914
Photo of Amanda Madrid, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Madrid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a person-centered, relational style, and my framework is based on a Psychodynamic approach with an emphasis on family systems.
I believe in building relationships in therapy that free people to find balance in their own lives. As a therapist, I focus on you. I want to understand your thoughts and feelings and guide you towards your life goals.
I use a person-centered, relational style, and my framework is based on a Psychodynamic approach with an emphasis on family systems.
I believe in building relationships in therapy that free people to find balance in their own lives. As a therapist, I focus on you. I want to understand your thoughts and feelings and guide you towards your life goals.
(310) 361-0856 View (310) 361-0856
Photo of Marcella Cox, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEDS-C
Marcella Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEDS-C
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in Somatic Internal Family Systems ( IFS), a powerful and integrative approach that weaves somatic therapy with the healing power of the IFS model.
If you could have hated yourself into a version you love, you would have arrived a long time ago. Do you long to feel comfortable in your own skin, to move through the world with ease and genuine self-acceptance, but find parts of you resisting that very freedom? I understand that feeling of disconnection from your body and your true self, burdened by past experiences. I help clients reconnect to themselves and the wisdom within, to embody the confident and loving person they truly are, and to live their life with greater balance and joy.
I specialize in Somatic Internal Family Systems ( IFS), a powerful and integrative approach that weaves somatic therapy with the healing power of the IFS model.
If you could have hated yourself into a version you love, you would have arrived a long time ago. Do you long to feel comfortable in your own skin, to move through the world with ease and genuine self-acceptance, but find parts of you resisting that very freedom? I understand that feeling of disconnection from your body and your true self, burdened by past experiences. I help clients reconnect to themselves and the wisdom within, to embody the confident and loving person they truly are, and to live their life with greater balance and joy.
(650) 727-5401 View (650) 727-5401
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, DBT
Elizabeth Huck
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, DBT
Online Only
I am trained in Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IFS, ACT, & DBT, which are integral in healing by helping you address the trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger in the mind and body.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I am trained in Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IFS, ACT, & DBT, which are integral in healing by helping you address the trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger in the mind and body.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(415) 965-3781 View (415) 965-3781
Photo of Sally Scheidlinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sally Scheidlinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am an EMDR-trained, IFS-informed therapist, and my approach is person-centered, drawing from principles of CBT, psychodynamic theory, and mindfulness.
I imagine you’ve been hard on yourself lately. Thoughts like, “you’re not good enough” or “you should be over this by now,” may play on repeat, unchecked. My approach is focused on self-compassion, the art of reworking internal narratives to respond to yourself in a gentler, more understanding manner. You may not feel ready or deserving to treat yourself more kindly, but I would be honored to hold that warm space for you until you are.
I am an EMDR-trained, IFS-informed therapist, and my approach is person-centered, drawing from principles of CBT, psychodynamic theory, and mindfulness.
I imagine you’ve been hard on yourself lately. Thoughts like, “you’re not good enough” or “you should be over this by now,” may play on repeat, unchecked. My approach is focused on self-compassion, the art of reworking internal narratives to respond to yourself in a gentler, more understanding manner. You may not feel ready or deserving to treat yourself more kindly, but I would be honored to hold that warm space for you until you are.
(415) 966-4828 View (415) 966-4828
Photo of Amy Tredinnick, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Amy Tredinnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Online Only
I often work with clients using Hakomi and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) models.
I welcome individuals and partners of all backgrounds and life experiences into this shared work, with specific interest and experience in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief work, life transitions and existential inquiries. I honor wherever you are on your journey and believe in cultivating space, and curiosity as we navigate this path together.
I often work with clients using Hakomi and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) models.
I welcome individuals and partners of all backgrounds and life experiences into this shared work, with specific interest and experience in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief work, life transitions and existential inquiries. I honor wherever you are on your journey and believe in cultivating space, and curiosity as we navigate this path together.
(415) 594-4313 View (415) 594-4313
Photo of Peggy Burns, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Peggy Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94127
I also utilize the Enneagram and Internal Family Systems.
Therapy can help you overcome unwanted behaviors and restore joy and fulfillment to your life. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or the impact of trauma? I provide a non-judgmental, active, and caring environment to facilitate positive change. For COUPLES, do you feel stuck in a “crazy cycle”? Communication issues often lie at the core of relationships. Therapy can empower you to master effective communication. My therapeutic approach is supported by the most recent research and discoveries from experts in the psychology field. I have witnessed many couples flourish and transform.
I also utilize the Enneagram and Internal Family Systems.
Therapy can help you overcome unwanted behaviors and restore joy and fulfillment to your life. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or the impact of trauma? I provide a non-judgmental, active, and caring environment to facilitate positive change. For COUPLES, do you feel stuck in a “crazy cycle”? Communication issues often lie at the core of relationships. Therapy can empower you to master effective communication. My therapeutic approach is supported by the most recent research and discoveries from experts in the psychology field. I have witnessed many couples flourish and transform.
(415) 322-1563 View (415) 322-1563
Photo of Dr. Jessica Vechakul - Therapy for Asians, LGBTQ, POC, High Performers, Marriage & Family Therapist, IFS, EFT, BSP, MPH, PhD
Therapy for Asians, LGBTQ, POC, High Performers
Marriage & Family Therapist, IFS, EFT, BSP, MPH, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—approaches that help heal trauma, reduce anxiety, and find relief from depression.
I support people from all backgrounds, especially multiracial, POC, Asian diaspora, LGBTQIA, non-binary, and neurodivergent folks (ADHD, autistic, or gifted). Many work in tech, law, healthcare, startups, or creative fields—caring deeply, often navigating high expectations and unspoken pressure. As a former engineer, I understand that world from the inside.
I offer Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—approaches that help heal trauma, reduce anxiety, and find relief from depression.
I support people from all backgrounds, especially multiracial, POC, Asian diaspora, LGBTQIA, non-binary, and neurodivergent folks (ADHD, autistic, or gifted). Many work in tech, law, healthcare, startups, or creative fields—caring deeply, often navigating high expectations and unspoken pressure. As a former engineer, I understand that world from the inside.
(510) 313-6708 View (510) 313-6708
Photo of Chandra Birenbaum, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Chandra Birenbaum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
San Francisco, CA 94114
I integrate techniques from a variety of theoretical orientations, including Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Structural Dissociation, EMDR, CBT, Social Thinking, Mindfulness, Non-Violent Communication, and Buddhist Psychotherapy.
With over 25 years of working with adolescents and adults, my therapy style is authentic, empowering, strength based, compassionate, creative and fun. I am particularly skilled in working with trauma, managing strong emotions, and living with ADHD, Autism or Learning Disabilities. I enjoy supporting those looking for more purpose, self understanding, direction, peace, creativity or perspective. I have a great deal of experience working in multicultural and LGBTQ+ supportive contexts. I feel especially inspired by working with young adults because finding one’s own way in life is hard, exciting and full of possibilities.
I integrate techniques from a variety of theoretical orientations, including Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Structural Dissociation, EMDR, CBT, Social Thinking, Mindfulness, Non-Violent Communication, and Buddhist Psychotherapy.
With over 25 years of working with adolescents and adults, my therapy style is authentic, empowering, strength based, compassionate, creative and fun. I am particularly skilled in working with trauma, managing strong emotions, and living with ADHD, Autism or Learning Disabilities. I enjoy supporting those looking for more purpose, self understanding, direction, peace, creativity or perspective. I have a great deal of experience working in multicultural and LGBTQ+ supportive contexts. I feel especially inspired by working with young adults because finding one’s own way in life is hard, exciting and full of possibilities.
(510) 319-9210 View (510) 319-9210

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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.