Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Sarah Stilz - Holos Integrative Healthcare, PMHNP, NP, LMSW, LCSW, LMHCA
Holos Integrative Healthcare
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46203
We often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and Internal Family Systems in our practice, but we may employ a variety of different treatment types to support you.
With a passion for helping people thrive, Holos Integrative Healthcare blends evidence-based therapy with a warm, approachable style that helps patients feel right at home. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, or just trying to navigate life's ups and downs, Holos brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective.
We often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and Internal Family Systems in our practice, but we may employ a variety of different treatment types to support you.
With a passion for helping people thrive, Holos Integrative Healthcare blends evidence-based therapy with a warm, approachable style that helps patients feel right at home. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, or just trying to navigate life's ups and downs, Holos brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective.
(317) 961-3506 View (317) 961-3506
Photo of Callan Olive, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Callan Olive
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I use IFS (Internal Family Systems) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) with my clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Indiana and Utah. I work with individuals and couples to help them get to know the important parts of themselves and find ways to heal. I love working with individuals who have experienced trauma, are going through a life transition, or feel stuck in some way. With my couples, I often see members of the LGBTQ+ community and clients who are interested in or currently in a poly/ open relationship.
I use IFS (Internal Family Systems) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) with my clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Indiana and Utah. I work with individuals and couples to help them get to know the important parts of themselves and find ways to heal. I love working with individuals who have experienced trauma, are going through a life transition, or feel stuck in some way. With my couples, I often see members of the LGBTQ+ community and clients who are interested in or currently in a poly/ open relationship.
(317) 279-6481 View (317) 279-6481
Photo of Dina Varano - Dina Varano at The Rooted Heart, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Dina Varano at The Rooted Heart
Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Tapping deep into my training and experience as a depth psychotherapist, trauma specialist, meditation practitioner and transformational shadow work coach, I use a powerful mix of approaches like IFS, EMDR, hypnotherapy, somatic movement, nature-based mindfulness and expressive arts.
Challenging times ask us to dig deep and dream big. Are you hearing the call to a new way of being in the world? Is your heart quietly urging you to live a more inspired life? Or perhaps everything in you is shouting that something has got to change, you can’t keep living like this. Avoiding our fear of change can keep us stuck. But your capacity to change and grow is only limited by your beliefs about what is possible. Truly transformational work is a mix of intentional effort and surprising playfulness. It’s about engaging your inner life in new and creative ways in the safe space of a trusted relationship. Let's connect soon!
Tapping deep into my training and experience as a depth psychotherapist, trauma specialist, meditation practitioner and transformational shadow work coach, I use a powerful mix of approaches like IFS, EMDR, hypnotherapy, somatic movement, nature-based mindfulness and expressive arts.
Challenging times ask us to dig deep and dream big. Are you hearing the call to a new way of being in the world? Is your heart quietly urging you to live a more inspired life? Or perhaps everything in you is shouting that something has got to change, you can’t keep living like this. Avoiding our fear of change can keep us stuck. But your capacity to change and grow is only limited by your beliefs about what is possible. Truly transformational work is a mix of intentional effort and surprising playfulness. It’s about engaging your inner life in new and creative ways in the safe space of a trusted relationship. Let's connect soon!
(317) 451-5320 x590 View (317) 451-5320 x590
Photo of Amanda Helfrich-Kuhn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Helfrich-Kuhn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I also use other modalities, including Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work. I’ve spent the last 12 years helping individuals overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. My passion is creating a supportive space where you feel understood and empowered to take steps toward healing and personal growth. I specialize in working with adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. I have extensive experience supporting men’s mental health, veterans, seniors, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
I also use other modalities, including Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work. I’ve spent the last 12 years helping individuals overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. My passion is creating a supportive space where you feel understood and empowered to take steps toward healing and personal growth. I specialize in working with adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. I have extensive experience supporting men’s mental health, veterans, seniors, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
(317) 768-0848 View (317) 768-0848
Photo of Alison Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Alison Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
While Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the foundation of my "therapy house", I often integrate other approaches and modalities- such as EMDR, IFS, and DBT- depending on my clients' individual needs.
On the outside, you’ve got it all together. You’re a “problem-solver”, driven, and dependable. But the inside is a different story. You feel riddled with anxiety. Or maybe you feel so numb that you're not sure what you're feeling anymore. Maybe you’re wondering how you can be so strong and confident at work, while your personal relationships feel like a mess. You tell yourself that you “should” feel happy, but you don’t. Despite all of your best efforts, here you are- looking for a therapist. Hi, I’m Alison. I can help you.
While Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the foundation of my "therapy house", I often integrate other approaches and modalities- such as EMDR, IFS, and DBT- depending on my clients' individual needs.
On the outside, you’ve got it all together. You’re a “problem-solver”, driven, and dependable. But the inside is a different story. You feel riddled with anxiety. Or maybe you feel so numb that you're not sure what you're feeling anymore. Maybe you’re wondering how you can be so strong and confident at work, while your personal relationships feel like a mess. You tell yourself that you “should” feel happy, but you don’t. Despite all of your best efforts, here you are- looking for a therapist. Hi, I’m Alison. I can help you.
(317) 707-6670 View (317) 707-6670
Photo of Francisco Zepeda, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Francisco Zepeda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I use Internal Family Systems, Gottman Method, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies and provide a safe space where clients are able to feel vulnerable enough to express themselves and tell their story.
Internal Family Systems and Gottman Method Therapy are two models I frequently use to help clients move towards healing and understanding their wounded parts, restore balance, and empower the "self" to lead.
I use Internal Family Systems, Gottman Method, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies and provide a safe space where clients are able to feel vulnerable enough to express themselves and tell their story.
Internal Family Systems and Gottman Method Therapy are two models I frequently use to help clients move towards healing and understanding their wounded parts, restore balance, and empower the "self" to lead.
(317) 527-4375 View (317) 527-4375
Photo of Kristina Shannon - Open Roads Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Open Roads Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Indianapolis, IN 46203
Waitlist for new clients
My theoretical framework comes from integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, self compassion, and shame reduction into what the client says is working for them.
Hello, I'm Kristina! I believe wellness has different definitions and paths for each person, and I love being a part of my clients' journey in creating, adjusting, and respecting that picture. My concept of quality therapy includes discovery, personally defined healing, creating new connections, and finding ways to take self-compassionate action. I enjoy art, media, and literature and integrate this into my work whenever possible. Clients and colleagues have described me as calm, compassionate, curious, and a bit nerdy. I embrace these identities in my role and enjoy working with a variety of communities and identities.
My theoretical framework comes from integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, self compassion, and shame reduction into what the client says is working for them.
Hello, I'm Kristina! I believe wellness has different definitions and paths for each person, and I love being a part of my clients' journey in creating, adjusting, and respecting that picture. My concept of quality therapy includes discovery, personally defined healing, creating new connections, and finding ways to take self-compassionate action. I enjoy art, media, and literature and integrate this into my work whenever possible. Clients and colleagues have described me as calm, compassionate, curious, and a bit nerdy. I embrace these identities in my role and enjoy working with a variety of communities and identities.
(317) 548-6360 View (317) 548-6360
Photo of Olivia Winn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Olivia Winn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am person centered and tailor my work with each individual, drawing upon my training in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Do you find yourself struggling with negative thoughts or letting go of the past? Whether you are navigating challenging emotions, healing from the past, or seeking personal growth, I'm here to support you every step of the way! I am passionate about helping adults affected by depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I am person centered and tailor my work with each individual, drawing upon my training in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Do you find yourself struggling with negative thoughts or letting go of the past? Whether you are navigating challenging emotions, healing from the past, or seeking personal growth, I'm here to support you every step of the way! I am passionate about helping adults affected by depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(317) 207-6037 View (317) 207-6037
Photo of Francisco Zepeda, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Francisco Zepeda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I use Internal Family Systems, Gottman Method, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies and provide a safe space where clients are able to feel vulnerable enough to express themselves and tell their story.
Internal Family Systems and Gottman Method Therapy are two models I frequently use to help clients move towards healing and understanding their wounded parts, restore balance, and empower the "self" to lead.
I use Internal Family Systems, Gottman Method, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies and provide a safe space where clients are able to feel vulnerable enough to express themselves and tell their story.
Internal Family Systems and Gottman Method Therapy are two models I frequently use to help clients move towards healing and understanding their wounded parts, restore balance, and empower the "self" to lead.
(317) 526-5961 View (317) 526-5961
Photo of Nick Denney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nick Denney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46205
I believe there is not a “one size fits all” approach, and I utilize a variety of techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, somatic mindfulness, and solution-focused approaches.
I have prior experience in residential, inpatient, outpatient, and addiction recovery services. I specialize in assisting adults with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, OCD, panic disorders, mood and personality disorders, and phase of life/adjustment concerns.
I believe there is not a “one size fits all” approach, and I utilize a variety of techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, somatic mindfulness, and solution-focused approaches.
I have prior experience in residential, inpatient, outpatient, and addiction recovery services. I specialize in assisting adults with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, OCD, panic disorders, mood and personality disorders, and phase of life/adjustment concerns.
(317) 836-0519 View (317) 836-0519
Photo of Amanda Stevens, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT
Amanda Stevens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
As an open and affirming IFS-trained therapist, I see and honor you, the client(s), with acceptance and compassion.
I work with individuals, couples, and families through a variety of challenges (including but not limited to) low self-esteem or worth, communication struggles, feelings of anxiety, depression, or disconnection, couple concerns, pre-marital framework, career, identity, and life transitions.
As an open and affirming IFS-trained therapist, I see and honor you, the client(s), with acceptance and compassion.
I work with individuals, couples, and families through a variety of challenges (including but not limited to) low self-esteem or worth, communication struggles, feelings of anxiety, depression, or disconnection, couple concerns, pre-marital framework, career, identity, and life transitions.
(317) 434-0197 View (317) 434-0197
Photo of Marla Rausch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marla Rausch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Indianapolis, IN 46237
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in EMDR therapy and also enjoy incorporating IFS and polyvagal theory.
Does anyone really ever understand how tiring it is to act okay and always be strong when there is so much chaos going on inside of us? Maybe we are to the point where we just do not have the energy to do the things we want to do or perhaps even used to enjoy doing. We might be struggling with deep emotions no one else understands. Maybe there are things we don’t even know how to put into words. Therapy is a special place where you can learn more about who you are and find out how to get to where you want to be in life.
I am certified in EMDR therapy and also enjoy incorporating IFS and polyvagal theory.
Does anyone really ever understand how tiring it is to act okay and always be strong when there is so much chaos going on inside of us? Maybe we are to the point where we just do not have the energy to do the things we want to do or perhaps even used to enjoy doing. We might be struggling with deep emotions no one else understands. Maybe there are things we don’t even know how to put into words. Therapy is a special place where you can learn more about who you are and find out how to get to where you want to be in life.
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Photo of Jona Vitela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jona Vitela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I utilize evidence-based practices such as CBT, EMDR, MI, IFS, Brainspotting, MRT, Sand Therapy, and ete.
With over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and science-based therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My approach is client-centered, focusing on providing a safe and benevolent experience for those who are ready to make changes in their lives while seeking peace and healing. I hold an MSW degree from Indiana University. I am a licensed clinical social worker and licensed clinical addictions counselor in the state of Indiana. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
I utilize evidence-based practices such as CBT, EMDR, MI, IFS, Brainspotting, MRT, Sand Therapy, and ete.
With over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and science-based therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My approach is client-centered, focusing on providing a safe and benevolent experience for those who are ready to make changes in their lives while seeking peace and healing. I hold an MSW degree from Indiana University. I am a licensed clinical social worker and licensed clinical addictions counselor in the state of Indiana. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
(317) 548-3879 View (317) 548-3879
Photo of Callan Olive, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Callan Olive
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I use IFS (Internal Family Systems) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) with my individual clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Indiana and Utah. I work with individuals and couples to help them get to know the important parts of themselves and find ways to heal. I love working with individuals who have experienced trauma, are going through a life transition, or feel stuck in some way. With my couples, I often see members of the LGBTQ+ community and clients who are interested or currently in a poly/ open relationship.
I use IFS (Internal Family Systems) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) with my individual clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Indiana and Utah. I work with individuals and couples to help them get to know the important parts of themselves and find ways to heal. I love working with individuals who have experienced trauma, are going through a life transition, or feel stuck in some way. With my couples, I often see members of the LGBTQ+ community and clients who are interested or currently in a poly/ open relationship.
(317) 676-2183 View (317) 676-2183
Photo of Joanna Will, Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Joanna Will
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I am an integrative clinician, but I primarily use a type of therapy called Internal Family Systems to help you understand contradictory voices in your head and learn to trust your intuition.
My goal as your therapist is to help you deeply know yourself and build meaningful connections with others. Many people come to therapy because they feel afraid to show the world their true selves, feel intense pressure to succeed, or have internalized messages that they are unloveable or unworthy. Many struggle with an inner critic and "irrational" fears. You might also use defensiveness, fear of intimacy, and shutting down to protect yourself from others when you feel unsafe. Instead of fighting internal battles and living in cycles of avoidance, I help you approach yourself and your patterns with curiosity and compassion.
I am an integrative clinician, but I primarily use a type of therapy called Internal Family Systems to help you understand contradictory voices in your head and learn to trust your intuition.
My goal as your therapist is to help you deeply know yourself and build meaningful connections with others. Many people come to therapy because they feel afraid to show the world their true selves, feel intense pressure to succeed, or have internalized messages that they are unloveable or unworthy. Many struggle with an inner critic and "irrational" fears. You might also use defensiveness, fear of intimacy, and shutting down to protect yourself from others when you feel unsafe. Instead of fighting internal battles and living in cycles of avoidance, I help you approach yourself and your patterns with curiosity and compassion.
(317) 720-1151 View (317) 720-1151
Photo of Amanda Helfrich-Kuhn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Helfrich-Kuhn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I also use other modalities, including Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work. I’ve spent the last 12 years helping individuals overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. My passion is creating a supportive space where you feel understood and empowered to take steps toward healing and personal growth. I specialize in working with adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. I have extensive experience supporting men’s mental health, veterans, seniors, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
I also use other modalities, including Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work. I’ve spent the last 12 years helping individuals overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. My passion is creating a supportive space where you feel understood and empowered to take steps toward healing and personal growth. I specialize in working with adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. I have extensive experience supporting men’s mental health, veterans, seniors, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
(765) 275-9636 View (765) 275-9636
Photo of Dr. Alyssa Joy Brown, Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Dr. Alyssa Joy Brown
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Internal Family Systems are all approaches I use most often in my work with couples and individuals.
Relationships are the fabric of our lives, weaving all of our life experiences together. Bonds of every kind can be challenging, and sometimes leave us feeling rejected or afraid. Out of a desire for closeness, we can sometimes cower or lash out (without knowing why). Let us work together to discover how to find (and keep!) healthy relationships.
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Internal Family Systems are all approaches I use most often in my work with couples and individuals.
Relationships are the fabric of our lives, weaving all of our life experiences together. Bonds of every kind can be challenging, and sometimes leave us feeling rejected or afraid. Out of a desire for closeness, we can sometimes cower or lash out (without knowing why). Let us work together to discover how to find (and keep!) healthy relationships.
(317) 961-8647 View (317) 961-8647
Photo of Angela Gingerich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Angela Gingerich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
The two that I have spent the most time training/learning about and that I use most often are EMDR and IFS.
I am currently licensed in MI and IN. I have been working in the human services field for over thirty years and bring a significant amount of experience working with many types of people. I currently work full-time as a therapist for a Native American Indian Tribe and work with Rula very part-time. I deal with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain. I enjoy working with a wide variety of ages, but I prefer teenagers through end of life. I have 11 years' experience working in a medical hospital setting which provided experience dealing with end-of-life, grief, and suicidality.
The two that I have spent the most time training/learning about and that I use most often are EMDR and IFS.
I am currently licensed in MI and IN. I have been working in the human services field for over thirty years and bring a significant amount of experience working with many types of people. I currently work full-time as a therapist for a Native American Indian Tribe and work with Rula very part-time. I deal with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain. I enjoy working with a wide variety of ages, but I prefer teenagers through end of life. I have 11 years' experience working in a medical hospital setting which provided experience dealing with end-of-life, grief, and suicidality.
(317) 676-3266 View (317) 676-3266
Photo of Deborah Jean Axness, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Deborah Jean Axness
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Indianapolis, IN 46220
While I believe in an integrated approach to therapy, drawing from cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, family systems therapy, trauma informed and analytical therapies, I enjoy working with clients to determine combined and effective ways to resolve presenting issues.
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression and anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges. I also enjoy working with families experiencing perinatal mood distress, along with the challenge of adjustments in life, or managing stress. I invite you to join me to address your concerns and create lasting change. My goal for clients is to bring unconscious material into awareness in order to facilitate change and meaning. Working together, I want to assist in resolving intrapsychic and interpersonal conflict to reduce suffering, encourage insight, change behavior, and increase personal growth.
While I believe in an integrated approach to therapy, drawing from cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, family systems therapy, trauma informed and analytical therapies, I enjoy working with clients to determine combined and effective ways to resolve presenting issues.
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression and anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges. I also enjoy working with families experiencing perinatal mood distress, along with the challenge of adjustments in life, or managing stress. I invite you to join me to address your concerns and create lasting change. My goal for clients is to bring unconscious material into awareness in order to facilitate change and meaning. Working together, I want to assist in resolving intrapsychic and interpersonal conflict to reduce suffering, encourage insight, change behavior, and increase personal growth.
(317) 932-8698 View (317) 932-8698
Photo of Alaina Halbur, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CLC, MT-BC
Alaina Halbur
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CLC, MT-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer evidence based practice through treatment methods like Gottman Method and IFS to help individuals and couples build new experiences in session so that they are equipped with tools to use in daily life.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the relationships in your life or maybe you're starting to notice you're drifting away from your spouse/significant other, don't wait to seek help. It's easy to stay distracted in a world that greets us with many demands. In therapy, we take the guess work out of "what's going wrong" and identify patterns and behaviors that are keeping you stuck on an individual and relational level. You'll develop clarity as each session builds on uncovering and learning more about yourself and how your thoughts and beliefs impact your relationship with others.
I offer evidence based practice through treatment methods like Gottman Method and IFS to help individuals and couples build new experiences in session so that they are equipped with tools to use in daily life.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the relationships in your life or maybe you're starting to notice you're drifting away from your spouse/significant other, don't wait to seek help. It's easy to stay distracted in a world that greets us with many demands. In therapy, we take the guess work out of "what's going wrong" and identify patterns and behaviors that are keeping you stuck on an individual and relational level. You'll develop clarity as each session builds on uncovering and learning more about yourself and how your thoughts and beliefs impact your relationship with others.
(463) 255-6451 View (463) 255-6451

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

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.