Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Chehalis, WA

Photo of Rudy D Hernandez, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Rudy D Hernandez
Counselor, MA MFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chehalis, WA 98532
Through a person-centered humanistic approach, Rudy hopes to meet people where they are at. He is honored to support those doing the hard work of facing their challenges and be a part of the healing process. He also draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and strength-based therapy to help guide those seeking to connect thoughts and behaviors and encourage self-efficacy. Play therapy also informs his work with children, teens, and families.
Through a person-centered humanistic approach, Rudy hopes to meet people where they are at. He is honored to support those doing the hard work of facing their challenges and be a part of the healing process. He also draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and strength-based therapy to help guide those seeking to connect thoughts and behaviors and encourage self-efficacy. Play therapy also informs his work with children, teens, and families.
(360) 469-6673 View (360) 469-6673
Photo of David A Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chehalis, WA
David A Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chehalis, WA 98532
Waitlist for new clients
It often starts with the unexpected. Unexpected news, unanticipated turns, unforeseen circumstances, and sometimes the unimaginable. It is at these times we can often feel powerless, afraid, confused, and uncertain. Change for some can be unwelcomed and for other’s change doesn’t seem to come soon enough. We cannot always choose what we go through, but we can choose how we go through it. Many seek therapy due to hard-fought battles with a variety of life issues, such as depression, trauma, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting challenges, and experiences from the past that keep them from moving forward.
It often starts with the unexpected. Unexpected news, unanticipated turns, unforeseen circumstances, and sometimes the unimaginable. It is at these times we can often feel powerless, afraid, confused, and uncertain. Change for some can be unwelcomed and for other’s change doesn’t seem to come soon enough. We cannot always choose what we go through, but we can choose how we go through it. Many seek therapy due to hard-fought battles with a variety of life issues, such as depression, trauma, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting challenges, and experiences from the past that keep them from moving forward.
(360) 996-1140 View (360) 996-1140
Photo of Dodi S Forgione, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Dodi S Forgione
Counselor, PsyD, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chehalis, WA 98532
The world can be a scary place. Things can happen to us where the scars are not visible to the world. These scars can show up as depression, anxiety, anger, and even thoughts of suicide. In our sessions together, we will work together to find relief from these scars. I want to provide a safe space where you can tell your story and be heard. I am specialized to work with trauma, depression, anxiety, and feelings of intense anger. I incorporate Emotion Focus Therapy (EFT), Attachment, and LIfespan Integration (for trauma).
The world can be a scary place. Things can happen to us where the scars are not visible to the world. These scars can show up as depression, anxiety, anger, and even thoughts of suicide. In our sessions together, we will work together to find relief from these scars. I want to provide a safe space where you can tell your story and be heard. I am specialized to work with trauma, depression, anxiety, and feelings of intense anger. I incorporate Emotion Focus Therapy (EFT), Attachment, and LIfespan Integration (for trauma).
(425) 212-1979 View (425) 212-1979
Photo of Tera Middlebrook, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Tera Middlebrook
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chehalis, WA 98532  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I will serve as a witness to your self healing journey, providing tools and insights as you create this new path, moving from where you are to where you want to be. Together we will create a safe environment for self exploration. Using a holistic approach to counseling, I utilize talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and motivational therapy. I have worked with clients from all walks of life and will always provide a safe, respectful space, regardless of your ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender or spiritual beliefs. Please visit my website: www.awakeningspirittherapy.com for more information!
I will serve as a witness to your self healing journey, providing tools and insights as you create this new path, moving from where you are to where you want to be. Together we will create a safe environment for self exploration. Using a holistic approach to counseling, I utilize talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and motivational therapy. I have worked with clients from all walks of life and will always provide a safe, respectful space, regardless of your ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender or spiritual beliefs. Please visit my website: www.awakeningspirittherapy.com for more information!
(206) 203-6674 View (206) 203-6674

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Angharad Hollingworth, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chehalis, WA
Angharad Hollingworth
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Centralia, WA 98531
During our collaborative sessions, using tools from EFT, Attachment Therapy, IFS, and Somatic Experiencing we will work through emotional pain in the body so that you can be more physically present.
Therapy for Parents, Parents to be, and people who have parents. Maybe you feel sad. Depressed. Disconnected. Maybe things you used to like you don't anymore. You feel overwhelmed by all there is to do and often find yourself doing it alone, even if you shouldn't be. All you want is 5 minutes alone. And then you spend those 5 minutes mindlessly scrolling, annoyed at yourself. You just want to enjoy your life but right now you are just surviving it.
During our collaborative sessions, using tools from EFT, Attachment Therapy, IFS, and Somatic Experiencing we will work through emotional pain in the body so that you can be more physically present.
Therapy for Parents, Parents to be, and people who have parents. Maybe you feel sad. Depressed. Disconnected. Maybe things you used to like you don't anymore. You feel overwhelmed by all there is to do and often find yourself doing it alone, even if you shouldn't be. All you want is 5 minutes alone. And then you spend those 5 minutes mindlessly scrolling, annoyed at yourself. You just want to enjoy your life but right now you are just surviving it.
(253) 400-1778 View (253) 400-1778
Photo of Apryl Carlington, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Apryl Carlington
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, CMHP
Verified Verified
Centralia, WA 98531
The therapeutic relationship should empower an individual to regain ownership of their life, shifting negative self-talk and other impacts of trauma; allowing for holistic healing and growth. It is my hope to actively walk alongside my client as they work to create their peace; ultimately gaining an improvement in positive self-awareness and optimism, with a side of lasting security and emotional health.
The therapeutic relationship should empower an individual to regain ownership of their life, shifting negative self-talk and other impacts of trauma; allowing for holistic healing and growth. It is my hope to actively walk alongside my client as they work to create their peace; ultimately gaining an improvement in positive self-awareness and optimism, with a side of lasting security and emotional health.
(360) 625-6911 View (360) 625-6911
Photo of Craig Smith, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chehalis, WA
Craig Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHCA
Verified Verified
Centralia, WA 98531  (Online Only)
Suffering is an unavoidable part of being human. All of us experience it. Anxiety, depression, substance use, anger, trauma, isolation, and loss can leave a person struggling to believe that something different is possible. You're not alone with those experiences. It takes courage to turn and face the mess of contradictions that keep us feeling stuck. I have a tremendous amount of respect for anyone willing to make the choice and engage in therapy.
Suffering is an unavoidable part of being human. All of us experience it. Anxiety, depression, substance use, anger, trauma, isolation, and loss can leave a person struggling to believe that something different is possible. You're not alone with those experiences. It takes courage to turn and face the mess of contradictions that keep us feeling stuck. I have a tremendous amount of respect for anyone willing to make the choice and engage in therapy.
(360) 685-7714 View (360) 685-7714
Photo of Jill Komura, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Jill Komura
Counselor, MS, MDiv, LMHC
Verified Verified
Centralia, WA 98531
My ideal client is ready to begin work with a trained professional to develop the mental, emotional and physical self-awareness and improved skills to more readily navigate life's changes and challenges. They want to better understand themselves and their relationships, to develop their own resilience and foster enjoyment in life. This ideal client is focused on healing old wounds so they can cultivating a stronger and more confident sense of who they are in the present. This person is interested in working to explore and discover meaning and satisfaction across the arc of their entire life.
My ideal client is ready to begin work with a trained professional to develop the mental, emotional and physical self-awareness and improved skills to more readily navigate life's changes and challenges. They want to better understand themselves and their relationships, to develop their own resilience and foster enjoyment in life. This ideal client is focused on healing old wounds so they can cultivating a stronger and more confident sense of who they are in the present. This person is interested in working to explore and discover meaning and satisfaction across the arc of their entire life.
(360) 539-1230 View (360) 539-1230
Photo of Leti Ramirez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chehalis, WA
Leti Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centralia, WA 98531  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Hispanic therapist skilled at supporting people through their anxiety and trauma. I am a LGBTQ+ ally, and value open-mindedness. My Mexican identity is an important part of me. Growing up in a community that lacked diversity was difficult and I have made it a point to integrate my culture's strengths into my life and practice. I am able to create an environment that feels safe and non-judgmental. You are the expert in your life and I see my role as someone that comes beside as support. We will explore the things you would like to work on, as well as the things that bring you joy and make up your unique identity!
I am a Hispanic therapist skilled at supporting people through their anxiety and trauma. I am a LGBTQ+ ally, and value open-mindedness. My Mexican identity is an important part of me. Growing up in a community that lacked diversity was difficult and I have made it a point to integrate my culture's strengths into my life and practice. I am able to create an environment that feels safe and non-judgmental. You are the expert in your life and I see my role as someone that comes beside as support. We will explore the things you would like to work on, as well as the things that bring you joy and make up your unique identity!
(206) 759-7131 View (206) 759-7131

Online Therapists

Photo of Shana N Rittenhouse, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Chehalis, WA
Shana N Rittenhouse
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snoqualmie, WA 98065
I utilize a combination of approaches including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Wellness Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EFT, Somatic, Positive Psychology, Gottman, and Mindfulness.
I use a holistic approach to therapy while honoring each person’s unique personality and focusing on their individual strengths, helping each client live their most fulfilling life. You are the expert of your own life and working together, we will determine the most beneficial course of treatment. I strive to create a non-judgmental, compassionate, healing environment providing clients with a safe space to grow.
I utilize a combination of approaches including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Wellness Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EFT, Somatic, Positive Psychology, Gottman, and Mindfulness.
I use a holistic approach to therapy while honoring each person’s unique personality and focusing on their individual strengths, helping each client live their most fulfilling life. You are the expert of your own life and working together, we will determine the most beneficial course of treatment. I strive to create a non-judgmental, compassionate, healing environment providing clients with a safe space to grow.
(206) 278-1329 View (206) 278-1329
Photo of Anna Sharpe, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Anna Sharpe
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camas, WA 98607  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also have been trained in and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
I’m a licensed counselor with 16 years of experience helping people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family issues, relationship problems and general life challenges. My therapy style is warm, accepting and respectful. I honor each client’s right and ability to make their own choices and decisions, and see my role as a helper and guide. I see clients in Washington state and Oregon and work exclusively over telehealth. I'm not current accepting new clients but I do have a waitlist.
I also have been trained in and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
I’m a licensed counselor with 16 years of experience helping people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family issues, relationship problems and general life challenges. My therapy style is warm, accepting and respectful. I honor each client’s right and ability to make their own choices and decisions, and see my role as a helper and guide. I see clients in Washington state and Oregon and work exclusively over telehealth. I'm not current accepting new clients but I do have a waitlist.
(360) 732-8064 View (360) 732-8064
Photo of Emma B Sander, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Emma B Sander
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Modalities I use are Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, ACT, Self Compassion, Mindfulness, and CBT.
Do you feel overstimulated by others' energy throughout your day or week? You may have noticed that you have a stronger emotional response than those close to you (both positive & negative). Or maybe, you find yourself so focused on your responsibilities that you struggle to enjoy the journey. We often find ourselves isolating or masking just to cope with impossible feelings. Through counseling, you can face these challenges and decrease the stress, anxiety, and even relationship bumps that you might be experiencing.
Modalities I use are Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, ACT, Self Compassion, Mindfulness, and CBT.
Do you feel overstimulated by others' energy throughout your day or week? You may have noticed that you have a stronger emotional response than those close to you (both positive & negative). Or maybe, you find yourself so focused on your responsibilities that you struggle to enjoy the journey. We often find ourselves isolating or masking just to cope with impossible feelings. Through counseling, you can face these challenges and decrease the stress, anxiety, and even relationship bumps that you might be experiencing.
(206) 278-2930 View (206) 278-2930
Photo of Tatjana Isaac, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chehalis, WA
Tatjana Isaac
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98411  (Online Only)
My practice is inspired by a combination of Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT, ACT, Sound Therapy, Trauma Informed Yoga, Polyvagal Theory, and Humanistic Therapy.
Accepting New Telehealth Clients - I provide trauma focused therapies for adults and adolescents with a non-judgmental, collaborative and strengths focused approach. This means that it is my highest priority to ensure therapy is a place where you feel equally empowered and cared for. Traumatic experiences rob us of a sense of autonomy and it is my hope to create a place in therapy where you can reconnect and show love towards all parts of yourself.
My practice is inspired by a combination of Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT, ACT, Sound Therapy, Trauma Informed Yoga, Polyvagal Theory, and Humanistic Therapy.
Accepting New Telehealth Clients - I provide trauma focused therapies for adults and adolescents with a non-judgmental, collaborative and strengths focused approach. This means that it is my highest priority to ensure therapy is a place where you feel equally empowered and cared for. Traumatic experiences rob us of a sense of autonomy and it is my hope to create a place in therapy where you can reconnect and show love towards all parts of yourself.
(253) 201-3051 View (253) 201-3051
Photo of Bonnie Deopp Clinical Supervisor, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Bonnie Deopp Clinical Supervisor
Counselor, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a dual degree in Clinical Psychology and Nutrition with specializations in trauma treatments including Somatics, IFS, EMDR, and DBT.
Hello! And Welcome. We would be a good fit if you are interested in exploring the impact of past experiences on your here and now responses of body sensations, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through a mind-body approach. My areas of clinical focus are: 1).Complex Trauma and resulting Panic/Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Dysfunctional Coping, and Chronic Illness. 2).Loss of control when eating in adults and adolescents including Binge Eating Disorder, Bulimia, and Emotional Eating. 3). LGBTQ+ including gender affirming transitions 4). Addiction Recovery and Chronic Relapses 5). Fertility Issues and PCOS.
I have a dual degree in Clinical Psychology and Nutrition with specializations in trauma treatments including Somatics, IFS, EMDR, and DBT.
Hello! And Welcome. We would be a good fit if you are interested in exploring the impact of past experiences on your here and now responses of body sensations, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through a mind-body approach. My areas of clinical focus are: 1).Complex Trauma and resulting Panic/Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Dysfunctional Coping, and Chronic Illness. 2).Loss of control when eating in adults and adolescents including Binge Eating Disorder, Bulimia, and Emotional Eating. 3). LGBTQ+ including gender affirming transitions 4). Addiction Recovery and Chronic Relapses 5). Fertility Issues and PCOS.
(206) 202-7076 View (206) 202-7076
Photo of Kristin Park, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chehalis, WA
Kristin Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
My approach integrates evidence-based modalities including EMDR, somatic experiencing, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, and Gottman Method in my work with couples.
Accepting new clients - immediate openings available! Have you struggled to find that right fit with a therapist? Have you been feeling stuck or detached from yourself or your partner, wondering how you got here? Are you overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, painful past memories, or difficult emotions? Maybe you’ve spent years trying to fix things on your own, but have found yourself in the same frustrating and painful cycle again and again. Finding a therapist that makes you feel safe and with whom you can be yourself is crucial. I can provide you a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your concerns and begin charting a path forward.
My approach integrates evidence-based modalities including EMDR, somatic experiencing, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, and Gottman Method in my work with couples.
Accepting new clients - immediate openings available! Have you struggled to find that right fit with a therapist? Have you been feeling stuck or detached from yourself or your partner, wondering how you got here? Are you overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, painful past memories, or difficult emotions? Maybe you’ve spent years trying to fix things on your own, but have found yourself in the same frustrating and painful cycle again and again. Finding a therapist that makes you feel safe and with whom you can be yourself is crucial. I can provide you a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your concerns and begin charting a path forward.
(425) 475-1229 View (425) 475-1229
Photo of Susannah Bleakley, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chehalis, WA
Susannah Bleakley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, IFS, RO-DBT, Couples
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I use a combination of trauma-informed, Internal Family Systems (IFS), DBT/RO-DBT and behavioral therapies to help clients meet their goals.
Working with individuals, couples and families struggling with interpersonal relationships, communication, boundaries, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief and loss are my specialities. Many of the clients I see begin therapy with some insight into what's going on with them but feel uncertainty and confusion over how to address it and create the positive changes they desire. Many struggle in their social or romantic relationships, managing work related stress, or say they feel depressed, stressed, emotionally lonely, or sad.
I use a combination of trauma-informed, Internal Family Systems (IFS), DBT/RO-DBT and behavioral therapies to help clients meet their goals.
Working with individuals, couples and families struggling with interpersonal relationships, communication, boundaries, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief and loss are my specialities. Many of the clients I see begin therapy with some insight into what's going on with them but feel uncertainty and confusion over how to address it and create the positive changes they desire. Many struggle in their social or romantic relationships, managing work related stress, or say they feel depressed, stressed, emotionally lonely, or sad.
(206) 899-0995 View (206) 899-0995
Photo of Jessica M. French, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Jessica M. French
Counselor, MA, MCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate compassion-focused therapy, sensory and somatic processing, IFS, EMDR, ART, other exposure therapies, and NARM.
Welcome! I'm passionate about helping you find relief from trauma. A trauma history may mean you have PTSD or C-PTSD but it can also show up as depression, anxiety, avoidance, dissociation, struggles with attachment and trust, emotional difficulties, chronic shame, and more. I believe in collaborating with you to provide trusted and knowledgeable care that will help to give you a sense of direction in your trauma recovery with your unique experiences and goals.
I integrate compassion-focused therapy, sensory and somatic processing, IFS, EMDR, ART, other exposure therapies, and NARM.
Welcome! I'm passionate about helping you find relief from trauma. A trauma history may mean you have PTSD or C-PTSD but it can also show up as depression, anxiety, avoidance, dissociation, struggles with attachment and trust, emotional difficulties, chronic shame, and more. I believe in collaborating with you to provide trusted and knowledgeable care that will help to give you a sense of direction in your trauma recovery with your unique experiences and goals.
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Photo of Kathleen Chandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chehalis, WA
Kathleen Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I combine EMDR, IFS, and ACT to help clients heal generational, childhood, and recent trauma.
My ideal client is feeling brave enough to learn how to compassionately feel the pain and discomfort that they've been avoiding. I work with all kinds of people; doctors, teachers, lawyers, therapists, entrepreneurs, sex workers, CEOs, stay at home parents, sales people, college kids, artists, construction workers, parents. If you're ready to take the journey of self discovery; I'm ready to be your guide. My goal is to help lead you towards self-compassion, self-love, and to be self-led.
I combine EMDR, IFS, and ACT to help clients heal generational, childhood, and recent trauma.
My ideal client is feeling brave enough to learn how to compassionately feel the pain and discomfort that they've been avoiding. I work with all kinds of people; doctors, teachers, lawyers, therapists, entrepreneurs, sex workers, CEOs, stay at home parents, sales people, college kids, artists, construction workers, parents. If you're ready to take the journey of self discovery; I'm ready to be your guide. My goal is to help lead you towards self-compassion, self-love, and to be self-led.
(206) 672-7212 View (206) 672-7212
Photo of Lauren Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chehalis, WA
Lauren Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Bend, WA 98045  (Online Only)
Lauren is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. She received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from University of Utah and her Master’s in Social Work from University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. Lauren has graduate and post-graduate clinical training in assessing, diagnosing, and treating OCD, ADHD, PTSD, school refusal, and other areas of need. Lauren specializes in treatment of adolescents and family systems, and is dedicated to this work and enjoys helping others.
Lauren is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. She received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from University of Utah and her Master’s in Social Work from University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. Lauren has graduate and post-graduate clinical training in assessing, diagnosing, and treating OCD, ADHD, PTSD, school refusal, and other areas of need. Lauren specializes in treatment of adolescents and family systems, and is dedicated to this work and enjoys helping others.
(425) 202-5330 View (425) 202-5330
Photo of Hart Haragutchi, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Hart Haragutchi
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Woodinville, WA 98072
I use an integrative, trauma-informed approach that draws from Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Brainspotting.
Have you been feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or any other difficult emotion? Have you been struggling to get through the days or facing more difficulties in your relationships? Sometimes we encounter challenges that test our ability to live well. And sometimes we find ourselves in a place of feeling stuck, not sure how to move forward but knowing that something needs to change. I work with clients who are seeking to heal and grow in their understanding of themselves so that they can live the life they want.
I use an integrative, trauma-informed approach that draws from Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Brainspotting.
Have you been feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or any other difficult emotion? Have you been struggling to get through the days or facing more difficulties in your relationships? Sometimes we encounter challenges that test our ability to live well. And sometimes we find ourselves in a place of feeling stuck, not sure how to move forward but knowing that something needs to change. I work with clients who are seeking to heal and grow in their understanding of themselves so that they can live the life they want.
(425) 243-1820 View (425) 243-1820

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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.