Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL
Caroline Aiken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is informed by Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Somatic Experiencing, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
Are you feeling like your intuition has been clouded? The process of co-creating a holding space with a curious professional can lead to profound healing, sense of clarity, and connection to oneself &others. My role is to offer compassionate guidance in honoring your lived experiences while helping you peel back some of the protective layers to reveal your inner strength and wisdom. My experience includes supporting those with histories of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, complex family dynamics, PCOS, PMDD. I have specialized interest in supporting individuals who identify as highly sensitive.
My approach is informed by Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Somatic Experiencing, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
Are you feeling like your intuition has been clouded? The process of co-creating a holding space with a curious professional can lead to profound healing, sense of clarity, and connection to oneself &others. My role is to offer compassionate guidance in honoring your lived experiences while helping you peel back some of the protective layers to reveal your inner strength and wisdom. My experience includes supporting those with histories of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, complex family dynamics, PCOS, PMDD. I have specialized interest in supporting individuals who identify as highly sensitive.
Erika Koch-Weser | Narcissistic Abuse Recovery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
As we work to limit self-blame, we may also grieve, rebuild identity, utilize parts work ( IFS therapy) & integrate EMDR therapy
Narcissistic abuse is one of the most painful, disorienting experiences a person can endure. As a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC) & founder of Two Lights Therapy Center, my mission has always been to provide precise, impactful treatment, designed specifically for survivors of narcissistic abuse & those with narcissistic tendencies. Survivors—who typically already feel lost & misunderstood—deserve unique, specialized care that aligns with their reality. To deepen my work, I’ve completed certification/trainings taught by Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a trusted & renowned authority on narcissism & narcissistic abuse.
As we work to limit self-blame, we may also grieve, rebuild identity, utilize parts work ( IFS therapy) & integrate EMDR therapy
Narcissistic abuse is one of the most painful, disorienting experiences a person can endure. As a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC) & founder of Two Lights Therapy Center, my mission has always been to provide precise, impactful treatment, designed specifically for survivors of narcissistic abuse & those with narcissistic tendencies. Survivors—who typically already feel lost & misunderstood—deserve unique, specialized care that aligns with their reality. To deepen my work, I’ve completed certification/trainings taught by Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a trusted & renowned authority on narcissism & narcissistic abuse.
Jessica Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
I primarily use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and mindfulness, among other approaches, in my work with couples and individuals.
Do you suspect something is holding you back from living your best life? If so, you’re not alone, and counseling can help. I specialize in contextual behavior change counseling. This means we’ll take time to understand your circumstances and how we can make adjustments to help you create the life you desire.
I primarily use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and mindfulness, among other approaches, in my work with couples and individuals.
Do you suspect something is holding you back from living your best life? If so, you’re not alone, and counseling can help. I specialize in contextual behavior change counseling. This means we’ll take time to understand your circumstances and how we can make adjustments to help you create the life you desire.
Kelsey Weissburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
I draw from principles of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (using our bodies & mindfulness), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Relational/Attachment Based therapy.
As someone who identifies as an empath, I know how hard it can be to balance caring for others while prioritizing self-care. I believe everyone has an inner wisdom which can guide their healing. Together, we will create space for deep reflection and/or somatic experiencing to better understand yourself, your grief, and your relationships. If you feel like anxiety, pressure, or shame are getting in the way of feeling confident and at peace in your body, then please reach out. There is a reason you're struggling now, and together we will explore and give voice to your whole self as a way for you to recognize your inherent worth.
I draw from principles of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (using our bodies & mindfulness), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Relational/Attachment Based therapy.
As someone who identifies as an empath, I know how hard it can be to balance caring for others while prioritizing self-care. I believe everyone has an inner wisdom which can guide their healing. Together, we will create space for deep reflection and/or somatic experiencing to better understand yourself, your grief, and your relationships. If you feel like anxiety, pressure, or shame are getting in the way of feeling confident and at peace in your body, then please reach out. There is a reason you're struggling now, and together we will explore and give voice to your whole self as a way for you to recognize your inherent worth.
I also utilize other evidence-based modalities such as IFS, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, DBT, and ACT in my work.
Every person has the potential to live with more freedom, joy, ease, and love, and therapy supports us to realize this potential. Many of my clients have experienced various forms of relational trauma — including wounding that has occurred in intimate relationships or in childhood — and yearn to heal from these experiences and find healthier ways of dealing with addiction or problematic substance use, stress, anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, relationship difficulties, and other challenging emotions. My goal is to help you live with more peace, acceptance, autonomy, confidence, satisfaction, intimacy, and joy.
I also utilize other evidence-based modalities such as IFS, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, DBT, and ACT in my work.
Every person has the potential to live with more freedom, joy, ease, and love, and therapy supports us to realize this potential. Many of my clients have experienced various forms of relational trauma — including wounding that has occurred in intimate relationships or in childhood — and yearn to heal from these experiences and find healthier ways of dealing with addiction or problematic substance use, stress, anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, relationship difficulties, and other challenging emotions. My goal is to help you live with more peace, acceptance, autonomy, confidence, satisfaction, intimacy, and joy.
Marisol Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I work holistically with clients utilizing Internal Family Systems frameworks, somatic parts work, and behavioral therapy to provide a safe, non-judgmental space.
As a queer therapist myself, I particularly enjoy working with other queer folk, including kids, teens, trans and non-binary individuals, and those looking to explore their sexuality and gender identities for the first time. I also hold experience working with those with complex trauma, challenging family dynamics, anxiety, and depression.
I work holistically with clients utilizing Internal Family Systems frameworks, somatic parts work, and behavioral therapy to provide a safe, non-judgmental space.
As a queer therapist myself, I particularly enjoy working with other queer folk, including kids, teens, trans and non-binary individuals, and those looking to explore their sexuality and gender identities for the first time. I also hold experience working with those with complex trauma, challenging family dynamics, anxiety, and depression.
I may integrate brainspotting or IFS.
Perhaps you have been having difficulty trying to manage your symptoms. Maybe you struggle with depressed or anxious feelings and troubling thoughts. You may at times feel overwhelmed or paralyzed by what you are experiencing. You might even have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep because your mind has once again been hijacked by troubling thoughts. Try as you might, you have not been able to obtain much relief from these symptoms and feel it is time to call a professional to help.
I may integrate brainspotting or IFS.
Perhaps you have been having difficulty trying to manage your symptoms. Maybe you struggle with depressed or anxious feelings and troubling thoughts. You may at times feel overwhelmed or paralyzed by what you are experiencing. You might even have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep because your mind has once again been hijacked by troubling thoughts. Try as you might, you have not been able to obtain much relief from these symptoms and feel it is time to call a professional to help.
The methods used include Somatic Experiencing, Solution Focused principles, motivational interviewing, Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and holistic modalities.
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited Black man, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to heal and celebrate yourself on your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
The methods used include Somatic Experiencing, Solution Focused principles, motivational interviewing, Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and holistic modalities.
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited Black man, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to heal and celebrate yourself on your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
Counseling with Maggie, PLLC
Counselor, LCPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Using a combination of EMDR, ACT, IFS, mindfulness, and somatic-based tools, we’ll recalibrate your nervous system.
It’s difficult to predict how you’ll feel from one moment to the next. A second ago, you were keyed up; every muscle in your body tense and on high alert, ready for danger to strike. Now, you’re completely checked out, numb to the world, sleepwalking through the day. You know this isn’t a sustainable way to live, but you’re not sure how else to cope with the painful wounds of your past. It’s as though you can no longer trust yourself to differentiate between safe and threatening situations, so you avoid everything. You’re struggling at work and growing more distant from your loved ones each day. Something needs to change, and soon.
Using a combination of EMDR, ACT, IFS, mindfulness, and somatic-based tools, we’ll recalibrate your nervous system.
It’s difficult to predict how you’ll feel from one moment to the next. A second ago, you were keyed up; every muscle in your body tense and on high alert, ready for danger to strike. Now, you’re completely checked out, numb to the world, sleepwalking through the day. You know this isn’t a sustainable way to live, but you’re not sure how else to cope with the painful wounds of your past. It’s as though you can no longer trust yourself to differentiate between safe and threatening situations, so you avoid everything. You’re struggling at work and growing more distant from your loved ones each day. Something needs to change, and soon.
I primarily use attachment-based therapy with concepts from Internal Family Systems and Somatics.
I believe everyone has their own story and deserves a space where their experiences are understood. This belief shapes my practice, which is especially focused on supporting women of color, adult children of immigrant parents, individuals working to manage their anxiety/overthinking, & individuals exploring their spirituality, cultural identity, self-worth, & relationship attachments. I am also dedicated to supporting couples, as I believe that our connections with others are fundamental to the healing process. I value honesty, directness, and openness in my communication style and I work best with clients who share similar traits.
I primarily use attachment-based therapy with concepts from Internal Family Systems and Somatics.
I believe everyone has their own story and deserves a space where their experiences are understood. This belief shapes my practice, which is especially focused on supporting women of color, adult children of immigrant parents, individuals working to manage their anxiety/overthinking, & individuals exploring their spirituality, cultural identity, self-worth, & relationship attachments. I am also dedicated to supporting couples, as I believe that our connections with others are fundamental to the healing process. I value honesty, directness, and openness in my communication style and I work best with clients who share similar traits.
I utilize internal family systems ( IFS), mindfulness, somatic, relational, and solution-based approaches.
The clients I work with want to build self-confidence in finding and asserting their voice, break away from unhelpful patterns, heal from abuse and neglect, reparent their inner child, and reclaim their ancestral narratives. My areas of focus are trauma recovery, racial, sexual, gender identity development, childhood trauma, attachment, relational difficulties and anxiety. I am passionate about supporting the intersectionality of marginalized groups, including queer, trans, people of color, and children of immigrants.
I utilize internal family systems ( IFS), mindfulness, somatic, relational, and solution-based approaches.
The clients I work with want to build self-confidence in finding and asserting their voice, break away from unhelpful patterns, heal from abuse and neglect, reparent their inner child, and reclaim their ancestral narratives. My areas of focus are trauma recovery, racial, sexual, gender identity development, childhood trauma, attachment, relational difficulties and anxiety. I am passionate about supporting the intersectionality of marginalized groups, including queer, trans, people of color, and children of immigrants.
Meet Our Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists
Cressie Goode
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
I use approaches from Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and I am trained in EMDR.
My population of focus is adults of all ages who are experiencing relational conflict, family discord, childhood or more recent trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, issues with self-esteem, and lifestyle transitions. I assist individuals who wish to explore LGBTQIA+ identities and gender affirming care.
I use approaches from Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and I am trained in EMDR.
My population of focus is adults of all ages who are experiencing relational conflict, family discord, childhood or more recent trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, issues with self-esteem, and lifestyle transitions. I assist individuals who wish to explore LGBTQIA+ identities and gender affirming care.
Deciding to seek therapy can be both exciting and frightening. It is a time when you have made an important decision to improve your life, to seek balance, and to find solutions to your problems. I am open, welcoming, and empathic in my approach. I work with adults, teens, couples, and families. My treatment orientations are family systems & cognitive-behavioral therapy. I specialize in the treatment of pathologies such as: Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Personality Disorders, Couple Conflict, Divorce, and Families in Crisis. I specialize in marital & family therapy, grief work, and trauma.
Deciding to seek therapy can be both exciting and frightening. It is a time when you have made an important decision to improve your life, to seek balance, and to find solutions to your problems. I am open, welcoming, and empathic in my approach. I work with adults, teens, couples, and families. My treatment orientations are family systems & cognitive-behavioral therapy. I specialize in the treatment of pathologies such as: Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Personality Disorders, Couple Conflict, Divorce, and Families in Crisis. I specialize in marital & family therapy, grief work, and trauma.
My therapeutic approach is client-centered- I use expressive/art therapy techniques, focus on internal family systems and parts work (essentially looking at oneself through a lens of functional parts, some more at the forefront than others).
I have worked with individuals of all ages, while specializing in work with adolescents and emerging adults. I have extensive experience working with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, adjustment/life transition issues. I would say I have a knack for those who struggle to open up in more traditional therapy. I ask great questions!
My therapeutic approach is client-centered- I use expressive/art therapy techniques, focus on internal family systems and parts work (essentially looking at oneself through a lens of functional parts, some more at the forefront than others).
I have worked with individuals of all ages, while specializing in work with adolescents and emerging adults. I have extensive experience working with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, adjustment/life transition issues. I would say I have a knack for those who struggle to open up in more traditional therapy. I ask great questions!
Managing With Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-AZ, LCSW-IL
Verified Verified
Online Only
I align with mindfulness-based practice along IFS (Internal Family Systems).
Feel free to reach out for a free 15 min phone consult. I hold a LCSW in both Arizona and Illinois. Currently we are only doing virtual visits.
I align with mindfulness-based practice along IFS (Internal Family Systems).
Feel free to reach out for a free 15 min phone consult. I hold a LCSW in both Arizona and Illinois. Currently we are only doing virtual visits.
I am well versed in Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and I am Internal Family Systems ( IFS) informed.
I'm so glad you are here! I have 15 years of experience providing therapy to people such as women, caregivers of loved ones living with Alzheimer's disease, BIPOC and the LGBTQIA+ community. Are you feeling uncertain, helpless or out of control? Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? Connect with me to learn how to get past barriers to healing. I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and difficulties with weight loss. Let's unlock your potential, together.
I am well versed in Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and I am Internal Family Systems ( IFS) informed.
I'm so glad you are here! I have 15 years of experience providing therapy to people such as women, caregivers of loved ones living with Alzheimer's disease, BIPOC and the LGBTQIA+ community. Are you feeling uncertain, helpless or out of control? Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? Connect with me to learn how to get past barriers to healing. I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and difficulties with weight loss. Let's unlock your potential, together.
I use an integrative approach, utilizing techniques from narrative therapy, IFS, attachment-based, and psychodynamic.
You’re the one others rely on—kind, competent, creative—but lately, you’ve hit a breaking point. Maybe you struggle with setting boundaries, people-pleasing, or feeling like you’ve lost yourself in the roles you play for others. You want to feel more at peace, more connected to yourself, and more confident in your relationships, but you never feel like enough. With a background in the arts, storytelling, and visual media, I integrate the power of story in the narrative of your life, past present and future. Where are you right now? How has right now been impacted by your past, and what is a vision and purpose for who you want to be?
I use an integrative approach, utilizing techniques from narrative therapy, IFS, attachment-based, and psychodynamic.
You’re the one others rely on—kind, competent, creative—but lately, you’ve hit a breaking point. Maybe you struggle with setting boundaries, people-pleasing, or feeling like you’ve lost yourself in the roles you play for others. You want to feel more at peace, more connected to yourself, and more confident in your relationships, but you never feel like enough. With a background in the arts, storytelling, and visual media, I integrate the power of story in the narrative of your life, past present and future. Where are you right now? How has right now been impacted by your past, and what is a vision and purpose for who you want to be?
Kelsey Baldwin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I provide in-person and online therapy and approach my therapeutic work from a trauma-informed and holistic lens using emotionally-focused therapy combined with Internal Family Systems.
I work from a client-centered lens and am passionate about working with individuals and relationships navigating: anxiety, depression, acute and complex trauma, relationship conflict and disconnection, communication issues, trust repair, sex and intimacy issues in, identity exploration, unaddressed family of origin attachment wounds, inner child healing, and challenges with self-esteem and self-confidence. I attend to being a culturally competent therapist that considers the contexts and identities of my clients, and foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, anti-racist, and polyamorous- and kink-friendly.
I provide in-person and online therapy and approach my therapeutic work from a trauma-informed and holistic lens using emotionally-focused therapy combined with Internal Family Systems.
I work from a client-centered lens and am passionate about working with individuals and relationships navigating: anxiety, depression, acute and complex trauma, relationship conflict and disconnection, communication issues, trust repair, sex and intimacy issues in, identity exploration, unaddressed family of origin attachment wounds, inner child healing, and challenges with self-esteem and self-confidence. I attend to being a culturally competent therapist that considers the contexts and identities of my clients, and foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, anti-racist, and polyamorous- and kink-friendly.
Sabrina Rose-Mary Basaria
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Through parts work & IFS, we'll explore the patterns shaping your experiences with compassion.
Our identities can sometimes feel like they’re pulling us in different directions, leaving us presenting versions of ourselves that don’t fully reflect who we are. Are you struggling to balance family expectations, career pressures, cultural influences, or major life transitions? Perhaps you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or burnout in a world that tries to box you in. Emotional experiences may linger, leaving you feeling stuck or disconnected. Together, we’ll work to help you reclaim your sense of self and find your voice, allowing you to advocate for your needs with confidence.
Through parts work & IFS, we'll explore the patterns shaping your experiences with compassion.
Our identities can sometimes feel like they’re pulling us in different directions, leaving us presenting versions of ourselves that don’t fully reflect who we are. Are you struggling to balance family expectations, career pressures, cultural influences, or major life transitions? Perhaps you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or burnout in a world that tries to box you in. Emotional experiences may linger, leaving you feeling stuck or disconnected. Together, we’ll work to help you reclaim your sense of self and find your voice, allowing you to advocate for your needs with confidence.
Psychodynamic, Relational, IFS, and Emotion Centered theories, using a holistic, integrative approach in our work together.
The journey to parenthood can be filled with a spectrum of emotions, ranging from excitement to anxiety or hope to grief. I’m dedicated to guiding individuals through these complex experiences, specifically those facing perinatal mood disorders, infertility, pregnancy loss, and the challenges of becoming a parent. My mission is to create a compassionate space where you can explore your emotions and find your path to healing. Together, we will focus on creating connection through empathy, warmth and humor. Sessions with me are meant to be a collaborative space for us to develop a unique pace that best suits you and your needs.
Psychodynamic, Relational, IFS, and Emotion Centered theories, using a holistic, integrative approach in our work together.
The journey to parenthood can be filled with a spectrum of emotions, ranging from excitement to anxiety or hope to grief. I’m dedicated to guiding individuals through these complex experiences, specifically those facing perinatal mood disorders, infertility, pregnancy loss, and the challenges of becoming a parent. My mission is to create a compassionate space where you can explore your emotions and find your path to healing. Together, we will focus on creating connection through empathy, warmth and humor. Sessions with me are meant to be a collaborative space for us to develop a unique pace that best suits you and your needs.
See more therapy options for River North, Chicago
Nearby Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists Searches for River North, Chicago
- Dearborn Park
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Noble Square
- Old Town Triangle
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop
Nearby Searches for River North, Chicago
- Greektown
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Old Town
- Old Town Triangle
- Printers Row
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop
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.