Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in West Torrance, Torrance, CA

Photo of Beth Schuh, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Beth Schuh
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, CMT
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
I have an integrative approach that draws from person-centered therapy, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness techniques, and attachment theory.
At Q Psychology Group, I collaborate with clients to create a felt sense of safety in their lives; safety within the therapeutic relationship, themselves, their bodies, and their personal relationships. I also partner with clients to build trust and resilience so that they can pursue their goals and respond to life’s inevitable challenges effectively. I additionally facilitate clients’ development of self-compassion, self-care, and boundaries to increase well-being. Adults and adolescents with issues related to trauma, anxiety, chronic illness, parenting, and work stress would especially benefit from my work.
I have an integrative approach that draws from person-centered therapy, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness techniques, and attachment theory.
At Q Psychology Group, I collaborate with clients to create a felt sense of safety in their lives; safety within the therapeutic relationship, themselves, their bodies, and their personal relationships. I also partner with clients to build trust and resilience so that they can pursue their goals and respond to life’s inevitable challenges effectively. I additionally facilitate clients’ development of self-compassion, self-care, and boundaries to increase well-being. Adults and adolescents with issues related to trauma, anxiety, chronic illness, parenting, and work stress would especially benefit from my work.
(213) 259-3922 View (213) 259-3922
Photo of Emily Schafer, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Emily Schafer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
The methods I use are Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems and Psychodynamic Therapies.
At one time or another, life presents challenges in which guidance and support are needed. I can provide to you a confidential, nurturing relationship that will empower you to make clearer choices, reduce stress, and improve coping skills. I specialize in couples therapy and can help you save your relationship! If you suffer from problems that trigger depression and anxiety i can help you to cope better and improve your mood. I have been in practice since 1991 so i have the experience to help you in a caring, nurturing way.
The methods I use are Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems and Psychodynamic Therapies.
At one time or another, life presents challenges in which guidance and support are needed. I can provide to you a confidential, nurturing relationship that will empower you to make clearer choices, reduce stress, and improve coping skills. I specialize in couples therapy and can help you save your relationship! If you suffer from problems that trigger depression and anxiety i can help you to cope better and improve your mood. I have been in practice since 1991 so i have the experience to help you in a caring, nurturing way.
(424) 294-8934 View (424) 294-8934
Photo of Ashraf Hosseini, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Ashraf Hosseini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
I am RLT (Relational Life Therapy) level 3 trained, IFS (Internal Family System) & CBT-informed (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) therapist, and an approved provider for gambling treatment through California Office of Problem Gambling,.
We face myriad of relational and emotional challenges from childhood to adult years. When the right support to deal with these challenges is not available to us, we compensate by activating parts of our Self that may manifest themselves as anxiety, depression, trauma reactions, compulsive behaviors, etc. As a result, relationships with our others, as well as with ourselves, are affected. My goal is to create a safe and caring space, and to guide you through healing these parts leading to a self who is more emotionally aware and connected. You will learn to live with more harmony in the present, and build stronger relationships.
I am RLT (Relational Life Therapy) level 3 trained, IFS (Internal Family System) & CBT-informed (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) therapist, and an approved provider for gambling treatment through California Office of Problem Gambling,.
We face myriad of relational and emotional challenges from childhood to adult years. When the right support to deal with these challenges is not available to us, we compensate by activating parts of our Self that may manifest themselves as anxiety, depression, trauma reactions, compulsive behaviors, etc. As a result, relationships with our others, as well as with ourselves, are affected. My goal is to create a safe and caring space, and to guide you through healing these parts leading to a self who is more emotionally aware and connected. You will learn to live with more harmony in the present, and build stronger relationships.
(310) 879-5050 View (310) 879-5050
Photo of Jenny Moon , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Jenny Moon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90503  (Online Only)
Using the Internal Family Systems model, CBT, and mindfulness, we'll take a deeper look into how your upbringing and life events have shaped your internal belief system.
Imagine the freedom of living without constant worry and anxiety. As an Asian American therapist, I offer culturally responsive care addressing intergenerational trauma, stress and depression. Together we'll work towards unlocking your unmet needs, discover purpose and restore balance back into your life. Do you find yourself lost in responsibilities for others; whether its your partner, work, family, church or even your child? This can lead to a loss of self and identity, overwhelm, low self-esteem, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Hardship and pain can often feel lonely, but you don't have to face these challenges alone.
Using the Internal Family Systems model, CBT, and mindfulness, we'll take a deeper look into how your upbringing and life events have shaped your internal belief system.
Imagine the freedom of living without constant worry and anxiety. As an Asian American therapist, I offer culturally responsive care addressing intergenerational trauma, stress and depression. Together we'll work towards unlocking your unmet needs, discover purpose and restore balance back into your life. Do you find yourself lost in responsibilities for others; whether its your partner, work, family, church or even your child? This can lead to a loss of self and identity, overwhelm, low self-esteem, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Hardship and pain can often feel lonely, but you don't have to face these challenges alone.
(424) 340-0735 View (424) 340-0735
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
I utilize versatile interventions such as IFS, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, and Inner Child Work.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
I utilize versatile interventions such as IFS, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, and Inner Child Work.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(562) 372-8767 View (562) 372-8767
Photo of Marisa Swain, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Marisa Swain
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90503
Hello! I am Marisa Swain, a licensed Marriage and Family therapist who has been working in the field since 2015. As someone who strongly feels that everyone deserves to be able to understand themselves, I would love to challenge you to build insight into what makes you who you are and to find the direction you may be looking for. My approach to therapy is derived from evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral, internal family systems, and narrative therapies. I specialize in a variety of areas, including anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, and more.
Hello! I am Marisa Swain, a licensed Marriage and Family therapist who has been working in the field since 2015. As someone who strongly feels that everyone deserves to be able to understand themselves, I would love to challenge you to build insight into what makes you who you are and to find the direction you may be looking for. My approach to therapy is derived from evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral, internal family systems, and narrative therapies. I specialize in a variety of areas, including anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, and more.
(626) 263-2219 View (626) 263-2219
Photo of Maryam Ashraf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Maryam Ashraf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
(562) 662-7257 View (562) 662-7257
Photo of Brittney Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
I specialize in IFS, DBT, and CBT to help my clients to identify their internal parts and help these parts to discover healthier skills for coping.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
I specialize in IFS, DBT, and CBT to help my clients to identify their internal parts and help these parts to discover healthier skills for coping.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(562) 222-5875 View (562) 222-5875
Photo of Cathy Trenary, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Cathy Trenary
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
I draw upon CBT, IFS, somatic therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy to support the processing of trauma, fostering a holistic healing experience that encompasses both mind and body.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
I draw upon CBT, IFS, somatic therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy to support the processing of trauma, fostering a holistic healing experience that encompasses both mind and body.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
(562) 662-4861 View (562) 662-4861
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, Pre-Licensed Professional in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Elizabeth Huck
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, DBT
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
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.
(562) 526-1122 View (562) 526-1122
Photo of Pauline Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Pauline Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
I am IFS-informed and trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy as well as EMDR.
I specialize in mind-body healing for adult individuals and couples, particularly with survivors of childhood trauma. Do you have overwhelming feelings or numbness? Do you have anxiety, depression, or PTSD? Are you struggling with coping mechanisms that cause you pain? Is your relationship in crisis? Many do not know childhood hurts can live on for a lifetime somatically in the nervous system and emotions. The natural ability to find peace inside and connection with others simply becomes less flexible, but all of this can shift. We work with what happens in the present to see real change - as an individual or couple.
I am IFS-informed and trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy as well as EMDR.
I specialize in mind-body healing for adult individuals and couples, particularly with survivors of childhood trauma. Do you have overwhelming feelings or numbness? Do you have anxiety, depression, or PTSD? Are you struggling with coping mechanisms that cause you pain? Is your relationship in crisis? Many do not know childhood hurts can live on for a lifetime somatically in the nervous system and emotions. The natural ability to find peace inside and connection with others simply becomes less flexible, but all of this can shift. We work with what happens in the present to see real change - as an individual or couple.
(310) 872-1764 View (310) 872-1764
Photo of Pat Pearson, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Pat Pearson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
My name is Pat Pearson, RN, LMFT. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Pagosa Springs, CO, and working with clients in CA statewide via telehealth. I work with children, teens, and adults. I specialize in trauma, stress, and grief, using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Client-Centered Therapy, and Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My approach to therapy varies on the needs of each client I work with.
My name is Pat Pearson, RN, LMFT. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Pagosa Springs, CO, and working with clients in CA statewide via telehealth. I work with children, teens, and adults. I specialize in trauma, stress, and grief, using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Client-Centered Therapy, and Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My approach to therapy varies on the needs of each client I work with.
(424) 340-5905 View (424) 340-5905
Photo of Jennifer Birner, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Jennifer Birner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90503  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients March 2024 - My approach to therapy is supportive, collaborative and results focused. I work with my clients to develop a personalized plan to identify and attain their goals, increase self-compassion and self-love, bring awareness to unconscious patterns that are no longer serving them, develop coping skills to better face the challenges of their life and help them create more conscious and fulfilling relationships.
Accepting New Clients March 2024 - My approach to therapy is supportive, collaborative and results focused. I work with my clients to develop a personalized plan to identify and attain their goals, increase self-compassion and self-love, bring awareness to unconscious patterns that are no longer serving them, develop coping skills to better face the challenges of their life and help them create more conscious and fulfilling relationships.
(424) 543-7021 View (424) 543-7021
Photo of Kat Chan | Emdr Specialist To Unlock Your Best Self, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Kat Chan | Emdr Specialist To Unlock Your Best Self
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90503  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR therapist who helps strong, independent and sensitive people get unstuck from the same rollercoaster of emotions and patterns. On your good days, you feel positive about yourself and where you're headed in life. Other times, you are weighed down by anxiety, depression, worry, and negative thoughts about yourself or something that happened to you in the past. And this impacts your work, school, or relationships. Maybe you've even gone to therapy before in the past; while it did help, you still feel stuck in a loop of negative emotions and are just ready to move forward!
I am an EMDR therapist who helps strong, independent and sensitive people get unstuck from the same rollercoaster of emotions and patterns. On your good days, you feel positive about yourself and where you're headed in life. Other times, you are weighed down by anxiety, depression, worry, and negative thoughts about yourself or something that happened to you in the past. And this impacts your work, school, or relationships. Maybe you've even gone to therapy before in the past; while it did help, you still feel stuck in a loop of negative emotions and are just ready to move forward!
(323) 990-7198 View (323) 990-7198
Photo of Paige Asawa, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Paige Asawa
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
Hello! Thank you for taking a moment to read this. No matter what difficulties you are struggling with, you have the ability to overcome them - loss, anxiety, sadness, or major life changes - you have everything you need to transform these into positive growth, the goal is to tap your innate potential together! Starting the journey can be scary but once you take the first step it can be the start of a new way of life. No matter if it is short term therapy to help you get through a rough patch or longer term process, my approach is client centered so we will set goals and work through it together.
Hello! Thank you for taking a moment to read this. No matter what difficulties you are struggling with, you have the ability to overcome them - loss, anxiety, sadness, or major life changes - you have everything you need to transform these into positive growth, the goal is to tap your innate potential together! Starting the journey can be scary but once you take the first step it can be the start of a new way of life. No matter if it is short term therapy to help you get through a rough patch or longer term process, my approach is client centered so we will set goals and work through it together.
(310) 881-8406 View (310) 881-8406
Photo of Hong Jeong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Hong Jeong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
(424) 339-2653 View (424) 339-2653
Photo of Jodie Marholz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Jodie Marholz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
Mental Health and Addictions field for over 21 years. In that time, I have helped hundreds of clients gain perspective and move out of their “stuck” place to a more fulfilling life. I do this by clarifying a client’s vision for themselves, the core values that give their lives meaning and purpose.
Mental Health and Addictions field for over 21 years. In that time, I have helped hundreds of clients gain perspective and move out of their “stuck” place to a more fulfilling life. I do this by clarifying a client’s vision for themselves, the core values that give their lives meaning and purpose.
(310) 902-2290 View (310) 902-2290
Cleo Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
Waitlist for new clients
I am pleased to announce joining The Effective Therapy Group. My practice includes kids (4+), as well as couples, and individuals. My work with individuals includes anxiety, PTSD (trauma), abuse, depression, grief, and life’s transitions. Transitions that include moving, divorce, change in health, and recovering from the past year’s health crisis, as well as being an addictions specialist.
I am pleased to announce joining The Effective Therapy Group. My practice includes kids (4+), as well as couples, and individuals. My work with individuals includes anxiety, PTSD (trauma), abuse, depression, grief, and life’s transitions. Transitions that include moving, divorce, change in health, and recovering from the past year’s health crisis, as well as being an addictions specialist.
(424) 399-5480 View (424) 399-5480
Photo of Jazzmin T Hicks-Bonam, Psychologist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Jazzmin T Hicks-Bonam
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90503
In these challenging times, with the uncertainties ahead, and constant changes, we offer both phone and video sessions (HIPAA compliant) and provide all paperwork, payment, scheduling, and check-ins online (in-person contact is not required). In-person sessions are available for those who prefer them, in a socially distance and safe space, complying with all governmental requirements. To start, we can provide a 15-20 minute free consultation to answer any questions and/or determine if our services are a good fit for you!
In these challenging times, with the uncertainties ahead, and constant changes, we offer both phone and video sessions (HIPAA compliant) and provide all paperwork, payment, scheduling, and check-ins online (in-person contact is not required). In-person sessions are available for those who prefer them, in a socially distance and safe space, complying with all governmental requirements. To start, we can provide a 15-20 minute free consultation to answer any questions and/or determine if our services are a good fit for you!
(310) 340-6636 View (310) 340-6636
Photo of Lianne de la Pena, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Torrance, Torrance, CA
Lianne de la Pena
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
West Torrance, Torrance, CA 90505
I offer professional focus on balancing life during COVID, anxiety, depression, anger management, difficulty functioning, domestic violence, trauma, history of sexual and physical abuse, guilt and shame, family addictions and codependence, self-harm, grief and loss, multi-generational family reconciliation, phase of life transitions, multi-cultural issues, parenting skills, and forgiveness. Individual, couple and family sessions are available. My approach to therapy embraces the premise that people are inherently worthy and share a common, basic need to feel heard and validated in their relationships.
I offer professional focus on balancing life during COVID, anxiety, depression, anger management, difficulty functioning, domestic violence, trauma, history of sexual and physical abuse, guilt and shame, family addictions and codependence, self-harm, grief and loss, multi-generational family reconciliation, phase of life transitions, multi-cultural issues, parenting skills, and forgiveness. Individual, couple and family sessions are available. My approach to therapy embraces the premise that people are inherently worthy and share a common, basic need to feel heard and validated in their relationships.
(310) 879-5619 View (310) 879-5619

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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.