Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in San Jose, CA
My therapeutic approach integrates Psychodynamic Theory, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and trauma informed modalities.
I often say that our bodies are wise, they consistently signal when unresolved emotions and inner conflicts are left unaddressed. Just as we tend to our physical health, it’s vital that we nurture our internal world with the same care and intention.
My therapeutic approach integrates Psychodynamic Theory, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and trauma informed modalities.
I often say that our bodies are wise, they consistently signal when unresolved emotions and inner conflicts are left unaddressed. Just as we tend to our physical health, it’s vital that we nurture our internal world with the same care and intention.
I incorporate elements of Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, ACT, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), DBT, Somatic, and Gesalt.
Would you like someone to listen to you? Maybe you are feeling stuck or are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, burnout, overwhelm, isolation, grief, trauma, attachment issues, excessive worrying, healing from past wounds, or your sense of identity and purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey by providing you a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and feelings.
I incorporate elements of Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, ACT, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), DBT, Somatic, and Gesalt.
Would you like someone to listen to you? Maybe you are feeling stuck or are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, burnout, overwhelm, isolation, grief, trauma, attachment issues, excessive worrying, healing from past wounds, or your sense of identity and purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey by providing you a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and feelings.
I tend to integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, Dialectical Behavioral skills, and Solution-Focused approaches within a broader Psychodynamic and Family Systems frame work.
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step toward seeking support and healing. My work focuses on young adults, women and pre-marital and marital counseling. I am excited about the work I get to do. I really love empowering clients to make changes in their lives that leads them to finding fulfillment, building confidence, and strengthening their relationships. I work to create a trusting and safe relationship with my clients, placing great value on the uniqueness of each person.
I tend to integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, Dialectical Behavioral skills, and Solution-Focused approaches within a broader Psychodynamic and Family Systems frame work.
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step toward seeking support and healing. My work focuses on young adults, women and pre-marital and marital counseling. I am excited about the work I get to do. I really love empowering clients to make changes in their lives that leads them to finding fulfillment, building confidence, and strengthening their relationships. I work to create a trusting and safe relationship with my clients, placing great value on the uniqueness of each person.
These can include EMDR, IFS and CBT.
It takes courage to look for a therapist, so I try to make it as painless as possible! I help people who might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed or who are just stuck in patterns, jobs or relationships that are making them unhappy. If you feel like you are struggling in some way, whether it is related to your mood, relationships, or just with where you are in life right now, contact me, we can work together to sort things out. Send a quick email through here, then I will follow up with a call. If we are a good fit then we get started.
These can include EMDR, IFS and CBT.
It takes courage to look for a therapist, so I try to make it as painless as possible! I help people who might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed or who are just stuck in patterns, jobs or relationships that are making them unhappy. If you feel like you are struggling in some way, whether it is related to your mood, relationships, or just with where you are in life right now, contact me, we can work together to sort things out. Send a quick email through here, then I will follow up with a call. If we are a good fit then we get started.
Laura Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, NCC
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
Waitlist for new clients
I borrow from approaches like IFS, SE, attachment, and expressive arts alongside practical tools as needed.
Hi, I’m Laura. Welcome! I bring warmth, knowledge, and humor to the therapy room. I love working with autistic adults, artists/creatives, and the LGBTQIA+ community. We are all complex beings and I believe a dynamic approach is needed to honor that. Who and how you are is welcome here. I work with people who understand their challenges on an intellectual level and are ready to work on healing at a deeper level. I also work with clients who are exploring their identity, be that gender, sexuality, neurodivergence, or otherwise.
I borrow from approaches like IFS, SE, attachment, and expressive arts alongside practical tools as needed.
Hi, I’m Laura. Welcome! I bring warmth, knowledge, and humor to the therapy room. I love working with autistic adults, artists/creatives, and the LGBTQIA+ community. We are all complex beings and I believe a dynamic approach is needed to honor that. Who and how you are is welcome here. I work with people who understand their challenges on an intellectual level and are ready to work on healing at a deeper level. I also work with clients who are exploring their identity, be that gender, sexuality, neurodivergence, or otherwise.
I integrate Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR, and somatic awareness to help you heal attachment wounds, break free from toxic patterns, and access your innermost wisdom.
I specialize in working with overfunctioners, sensitive and intuitive people, and those recovering from unhealthy relationship patterns — including narcissistic abuse. I also support therapists and healers who are burned out, in transition, or seeking deeper alignment in their work and life. My approach is trauma-informed and integrative.
I integrate Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR, and somatic awareness to help you heal attachment wounds, break free from toxic patterns, and access your innermost wisdom.
I specialize in working with overfunctioners, sensitive and intuitive people, and those recovering from unhealthy relationship patterns — including narcissistic abuse. I also support therapists and healers who are burned out, in transition, or seeking deeper alignment in their work and life. My approach is trauma-informed and integrative.
I am EMDR Trained and IFS-Informed.
Do you find yourself dwelling on mistakes? Do you ever ask yourself, “Why does life have to be so hard?” Every obstacle might seem like a personal failing, making you question whether you’re somehow flawed or broken. Life’s challenges—whether in work or relationships—can feel overwhelming. You may even wonder if past struggles continue to shape your present experiences.
I am EMDR Trained and IFS-Informed.
Do you find yourself dwelling on mistakes? Do you ever ask yourself, “Why does life have to be so hard?” Every obstacle might seem like a personal failing, making you question whether you’re somehow flawed or broken. Life’s challenges—whether in work or relationships—can feel overwhelming. You may even wonder if past struggles continue to shape your present experiences.
I approach individual therapy through an eclectic approach, but I lean toward Internal Family Systems/parts work, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Abigail and I'm a queer, neurodivergent therapist who strives to create a safe and comfortable space for therapy. I work with both adolescents and adults and specialize in working with complex trauma, queer individuals, neurodivergent individuals, those experiencing chronic illness, mood disorders, as well as chronic suicidality.
I, like many others, have struggled with being a part of marginalized groups and did not receive adequate care for my needs from providers. I was inspired to become someone whose passion is to consistently grow and learn about how I can do better for my clients.
I approach individual therapy through an eclectic approach, but I lean toward Internal Family Systems/parts work, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Abigail and I'm a queer, neurodivergent therapist who strives to create a safe and comfortable space for therapy. I work with both adolescents and adults and specialize in working with complex trauma, queer individuals, neurodivergent individuals, those experiencing chronic illness, mood disorders, as well as chronic suicidality.
I, like many others, have struggled with being a part of marginalized groups and did not receive adequate care for my needs from providers. I was inspired to become someone whose passion is to consistently grow and learn about how I can do better for my clients.
I practice IFS, motivational interviewing, solution focused, narrative therapy, Jungian, and often implement a spiritual approach when applicable.
I enjoy working with those that are looking for support and guidance around relationships, family stress, work stress, anxiety, addiction, co-dependency, life-transitions, self-esteem, boundaries. I provide a culturally competent and empathetic environment to explore problems and solutions, and help you make connections between your past and present.
I practice IFS, motivational interviewing, solution focused, narrative therapy, Jungian, and often implement a spiritual approach when applicable.
I enjoy working with those that are looking for support and guidance around relationships, family stress, work stress, anxiety, addiction, co-dependency, life-transitions, self-esteem, boundaries. I provide a culturally competent and empathetic environment to explore problems and solutions, and help you make connections between your past and present.
I may utilize practices to dialogue with the inner voices that inhibit us from fully experiencing life (sometimes called "parts work" or IFS - internal family systems).
I welcome a variety of clients, primarily working with adults, couples, and families. Clients describe me as warm, caring, and direct. My practice focuses on the treatment of trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, and relational difficulties.
I may utilize practices to dialogue with the inner voices that inhibit us from fully experiencing life (sometimes called "parts work" or IFS - internal family systems).
I welcome a variety of clients, primarily working with adults, couples, and families. Clients describe me as warm, caring, and direct. My practice focuses on the treatment of trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, and relational difficulties.
I have several certificates including from the Gottman Institute (Levels 1 & 2,) EMDR, TRE, and KAP (Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.) I have trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems) and have several qualifications from the state of CA including ADHD, Gaslighting, Hypnosis, and Sex & Desire.
Therapy is a joint effort. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, I provide trauma-informed, somatic, and experiential therapy, creating a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. I work with those that are struggling to get unstuck in their healing from pronounced trauma, PTSD, and C-PTSD in mind and body. Often, people come to me after years of talk therapy, unable to make any progress. I stay up-to-date on the latest research and insights of trauma-informed care. After treatment, you will be able to move through your traumatic responses and live as a more integrated You.
I have several certificates including from the Gottman Institute (Levels 1 & 2,) EMDR, TRE, and KAP (Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.) I have trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems) and have several qualifications from the state of CA including ADHD, Gaslighting, Hypnosis, and Sex & Desire.
Therapy is a joint effort. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, I provide trauma-informed, somatic, and experiential therapy, creating a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. I work with those that are struggling to get unstuck in their healing from pronounced trauma, PTSD, and C-PTSD in mind and body. Often, people come to me after years of talk therapy, unable to make any progress. I stay up-to-date on the latest research and insights of trauma-informed care. After treatment, you will be able to move through your traumatic responses and live as a more integrated You.
I have experience working with children, teens, families, and couples on several issues, including family and couple distress, trauma, and various presentations of anxiety and depression through IFS and attachment-based lens.
I endeavor to create a therapeutic relationship based on respect, compassion, and authenticity. I address themes of power, privilege, oppression, immigration, and culture as they relate to my clients' difficulties. I am a Level 2 IFS trained therapist. I use other modalities including family systems, attachment, IFIO, EFT, CBT, sand tray, expressive arts.
I have experience working with children, teens, families, and couples on several issues, including family and couple distress, trauma, and various presentations of anxiety and depression through IFS and attachment-based lens.
I endeavor to create a therapeutic relationship based on respect, compassion, and authenticity. I address themes of power, privilege, oppression, immigration, and culture as they relate to my clients' difficulties. I am a Level 2 IFS trained therapist. I use other modalities including family systems, attachment, IFIO, EFT, CBT, sand tray, expressive arts.
Talk therapy, when integrated with my core modalities, namely Brainspotting, somatic, and Internal Family Systems ( IFS), offers clients versatile pathways for healing.
Life transitions usually become more stressful and even intimidating when doubled up with unprocessed trauma. Anxiety, stress, fear, anger, low self-esteem, grief, and/or depression are just some of the symptoms. Our brain is an incredible processing machine, which digests and organizes our experiences. But life encounters are just too many. Much of our experience, including childhood trauma, family of origin and attachment issues, can be frozen in an unawakened state. As a therapist, I work with clients to promote the processing clients need for emotional release and healing.
Talk therapy, when integrated with my core modalities, namely Brainspotting, somatic, and Internal Family Systems ( IFS), offers clients versatile pathways for healing.
Life transitions usually become more stressful and even intimidating when doubled up with unprocessed trauma. Anxiety, stress, fear, anger, low self-esteem, grief, and/or depression are just some of the symptoms. Our brain is an incredible processing machine, which digests and organizes our experiences. But life encounters are just too many. Much of our experience, including childhood trauma, family of origin and attachment issues, can be frozen in an unawakened state. As a therapist, I work with clients to promote the processing clients need for emotional release and healing.
I use a blend of neurofeedback, EMDR, IFS, energy work, and guided meditations to help you upgrade your brain, elevate your mind, and raise your consciousness so that you can heal your past and change the present to build the future you've been dreaming of.
Feeling crappy about yourself has run your life for too long. Feeling like your not worthy, not good enough, or that you don't deserve things. Because of those feelings, you've probably been holding yourself back or putting yourself down. Being stuck in that past is stopping you from the life that you want. A life filled with friends, partners, careers, or experiences that really feed your soul.
I use a blend of neurofeedback, EMDR, IFS, energy work, and guided meditations to help you upgrade your brain, elevate your mind, and raise your consciousness so that you can heal your past and change the present to build the future you've been dreaming of.
Feeling crappy about yourself has run your life for too long. Feeling like your not worthy, not good enough, or that you don't deserve things. Because of those feelings, you've probably been holding yourself back or putting yourself down. Being stuck in that past is stopping you from the life that you want. A life filled with friends, partners, careers, or experiences that really feed your soul.
These include; Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems and others.
Despite our evolutionary progress the essence of being human hasn’t changed. We require acceptance, understanding, compassion, love and connection. We struggle with our fears, hopes, dreams, and relationships. These are the common issues that bring people into therapy. The pathway to healing can be achieved in many ways. Each person has his/her own unique perception and emotional world and my first task is to understand yours. Together we can create your path to self acceptance, strength and resilience. Your first step is to accept responsibility, then to identify the critical components of your individuality and identity.
These include; Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems and others.
Despite our evolutionary progress the essence of being human hasn’t changed. We require acceptance, understanding, compassion, love and connection. We struggle with our fears, hopes, dreams, and relationships. These are the common issues that bring people into therapy. The pathway to healing can be achieved in many ways. Each person has his/her own unique perception and emotional world and my first task is to understand yours. Together we can create your path to self acceptance, strength and resilience. Your first step is to accept responsibility, then to identify the critical components of your individuality and identity.
TEAM-CBT Certified Therapist and Trainer, Level 4: ACT; Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction MBSR; Internal Family Systems ( IFS)
Life can be hard, whether dealing with unexpected setbacks, longstanding problems, or just working hard to build a life of purpose and meaning. Some clients are dealing with stress, grief, and loss. Some clients are stressed by balancing a life that could best be described as “All Good Things, Just Too Many.” I believe our work is about more than treating dis-ease. It is about living fully, with ease, vitality, and wellness. Sometimes this starts with learning to deal with hard thoughts and feelings that can get in the way. It always involves getting clear about who you want to be and what matters most.
TEAM-CBT Certified Therapist and Trainer, Level 4: ACT; Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction MBSR; Internal Family Systems ( IFS)
Life can be hard, whether dealing with unexpected setbacks, longstanding problems, or just working hard to build a life of purpose and meaning. Some clients are dealing with stress, grief, and loss. Some clients are stressed by balancing a life that could best be described as “All Good Things, Just Too Many.” I believe our work is about more than treating dis-ease. It is about living fully, with ease, vitality, and wellness. Sometimes this starts with learning to deal with hard thoughts and feelings that can get in the way. It always involves getting clear about who you want to be and what matters most.
I utilize a wide breadth of modalities and approaches based on your needs, including feminist relational psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic approaches, somatic experiencing, expressive therapies, and strategies from DBT and CBT.
I'm a neuroqueer psychotherapist, educator and advocate with over a decade of clinical experience with individuals and partners, with a focus on LGBTQ+ communities. I passionately support your work toward embodiment and liberation, and I am committed to helping you challenge & unpack shame and center pleasure and ease. I approach therapy with a warm, collaborative, and direct style, and make space for creativity in our work. I endeavor to help you 'zoom out' to examine the patterns that create obstacles your life. I am well-versed in the treatment of religious trauma, mood and anxiety disorders and ADHD.
I utilize a wide breadth of modalities and approaches based on your needs, including feminist relational psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic approaches, somatic experiencing, expressive therapies, and strategies from DBT and CBT.
I'm a neuroqueer psychotherapist, educator and advocate with over a decade of clinical experience with individuals and partners, with a focus on LGBTQ+ communities. I passionately support your work toward embodiment and liberation, and I am committed to helping you challenge & unpack shame and center pleasure and ease. I approach therapy with a warm, collaborative, and direct style, and make space for creativity in our work. I endeavor to help you 'zoom out' to examine the patterns that create obstacles your life. I am well-versed in the treatment of religious trauma, mood and anxiety disorders and ADHD.
I use evidence-based approaches like EFT (emotions-focused therapy) & IFS (internal family systems) as well as attachment theory to support deeper healing, emotional clarity, and more authentic, secure connections.
You're doing everything — showing up, working hard, holding it together for everyone else, yet something still feels off. Maybe it's burnout, the weight of always putting others first, or the longing for relationships that feel fulfilling. I offer therapy for individuals and couples across the Bay Area as a space to slow down, reconnect, and gently tend to what’s been quietly hurting. My approach invites compassion, self-trust, and the kind of healing that creates room for deeper, more authentic connection with yourself and others. Together, we'll quiet the noise, unpack old patterns, and help you feel more grounded and confident.
I use evidence-based approaches like EFT (emotions-focused therapy) & IFS (internal family systems) as well as attachment theory to support deeper healing, emotional clarity, and more authentic, secure connections.
You're doing everything — showing up, working hard, holding it together for everyone else, yet something still feels off. Maybe it's burnout, the weight of always putting others first, or the longing for relationships that feel fulfilling. I offer therapy for individuals and couples across the Bay Area as a space to slow down, reconnect, and gently tend to what’s been quietly hurting. My approach invites compassion, self-trust, and the kind of healing that creates room for deeper, more authentic connection with yourself and others. Together, we'll quiet the noise, unpack old patterns, and help you feel more grounded and confident.
Our therapy is grounded in systems work, family dynamics, and IFS-informed care.
At Brave Soul Therapy, we offer inclusive online therapy for adults and teens (16+) across California. We support clients navigating life transitions, trauma, addiction recovery, anxiety, depression, and grief. Our therapists have experience working with individuals in 12-step recovery, veterans and first responders, and those healing from religious trauma. We also welcome clients from marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+, BIPOC, neurodivergent, and disabled individuals. We strive to create a safe, welcoming space where you can be seen, supported, and empowered.
Our therapy is grounded in systems work, family dynamics, and IFS-informed care.
At Brave Soul Therapy, we offer inclusive online therapy for adults and teens (16+) across California. We support clients navigating life transitions, trauma, addiction recovery, anxiety, depression, and grief. Our therapists have experience working with individuals in 12-step recovery, veterans and first responders, and those healing from religious trauma. We also welcome clients from marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+, BIPOC, neurodivergent, and disabled individuals. We strive to create a safe, welcoming space where you can be seen, supported, and empowered.
I also use solution-focused, Emotion-focused Therapy, Internal family systems, and person-centered approaches for treating individuals.
Are you struggling with pornography or sexual issues and worried it may be an addiction? Having issues with intimacy or infidelity in your relationship? I am here to help. I provide individual sexual addiction and betrayal recovery treatment as well as couples therapy/coaching to rebuild trust, safety, and intimacy after betrayal. I use structured practices that increase hope and success rates. I am currently accepting new clients. Contact me today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your circumstances and how I can support you.
I also use solution-focused, Emotion-focused Therapy, Internal family systems, and person-centered approaches for treating individuals.
Are you struggling with pornography or sexual issues and worried it may be an addiction? Having issues with intimacy or infidelity in your relationship? I am here to help. I provide individual sexual addiction and betrayal recovery treatment as well as couples therapy/coaching to rebuild trust, safety, and intimacy after betrayal. I use structured practices that increase hope and success rates. I am currently accepting new clients. Contact me today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your circumstances and how I can support you.
See more therapy options for San Jose
Nearby Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists Searches for San Jose
- Campbell
- Cupertino
- Fremont
- Los Altos
- Los Altos Hills
- Los Gatos
- Milpitas
- Mountain View
- Santa Clara
- Saratoga
- Stanford
- Sunnyvale
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.