Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Spencer, IN

Photo of Jared Comfort, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jared Comfort
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Spencer, IN 47460
Hi! I have 9 years of experience helping others find healing and fresh starts from trauma, relationships, and stress. I love connecting with people and helping them achieve the future's they want. My therapy style is warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic. I specialize in EMDR and IFS therapy. Let's help you find healing and growth no matter what season you find yourself in.
Hi! I have 9 years of experience helping others find healing and fresh starts from trauma, relationships, and stress. I love connecting with people and helping them achieve the future's they want. My therapy style is warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic. I specialize in EMDR and IFS therapy. Let's help you find healing and growth no matter what season you find yourself in.
(812) 472-4449 View (812) 472-4449
Photo of Jared Comfort, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jared Comfort
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Spencer, IN 47460
I specialize in EMDR and IFS therapies.
Being a young professional myself, I understand many of the challenges that come along with this time of life. This provides me with the opportunity to connect quickly with others and allow them to feel safe and understood. Using EMDR and IFS therapies, I believe together we can help you achieve the future you want for yourself.
I specialize in EMDR and IFS therapies.
Being a young professional myself, I understand many of the challenges that come along with this time of life. This provides me with the opportunity to connect quickly with others and allow them to feel safe and understood. Using EMDR and IFS therapies, I believe together we can help you achieve the future you want for yourself.
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Photo of Sarah Greene, Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Sarah Greene
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Online Only
If you or your child are experiencing trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, grief, postpartum challenges, or relationship concerns, life can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You may notice persistent worry, intrusive thoughts, low mood, emotional numbness, or patterns in relationships that feel hard to change. These experiences can make it difficult to feel grounded, hopeful, or connected—to yourself or to others. Many people come to therapy wanting relief, understanding, and a sense of steadiness. You may be hoping to feel more in control of your emotions, to better understand yourself or your child, or simply to feel less alone.
If you or your child are experiencing trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, grief, postpartum challenges, or relationship concerns, life can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You may notice persistent worry, intrusive thoughts, low mood, emotional numbness, or patterns in relationships that feel hard to change. These experiences can make it difficult to feel grounded, hopeful, or connected—to yourself or to others. Many people come to therapy wanting relief, understanding, and a sense of steadiness. You may be hoping to feel more in control of your emotions, to better understand yourself or your child, or simply to feel less alone.
(930) 206-9397 View (930) 206-9397
Photo of Mindi Wisker-Tindall, Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, NCC
Mindi Wisker-Tindall
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, NCC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I use CBT, Inference-Based CBT (i-CBT), EMDR, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and Polyvagal-informed approaches.
I enjoy working with thoughtful, introspective, self-aware people who want more than symptom relief, they want to understand themselves. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, and deep thinkers who struggle with OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-doubt, and/or relationship patterns that keep repeating. Together, we explore the deeper roots of these struggles while building practical skills, greater self-understanding, and lasting change.
I use CBT, Inference-Based CBT (i-CBT), EMDR, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and Polyvagal-informed approaches.
I enjoy working with thoughtful, introspective, self-aware people who want more than symptom relief, they want to understand themselves. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, and deep thinkers who struggle with OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-doubt, and/or relationship patterns that keep repeating. Together, we explore the deeper roots of these struggles while building practical skills, greater self-understanding, and lasting change.
(812) 366-1578 View (812) 366-1578

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cyndee Langley, Psychologist, PsyD
Cyndee Langley
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilize Internal Family Systems and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to help you work through past hurts and traumas while also focusing on becoming more intuned with how you are showing up in your current life.
We’re living through challenging times, especially for those in marginalized communities. As a queer woman, I understand how difficult it can feel to navigate the world, particularly if you haven’t always felt safe or understood. My goal is to create a space where your experiences are validated and where you can rediscover joy even in dark moments. I love working with people who are navigating challenging life circumstances, while also balancing past hurts and traumas. I can help you find ways to make this less daunting and take the positive steps forward that you are hoping to take.
I utilize Internal Family Systems and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to help you work through past hurts and traumas while also focusing on becoming more intuned with how you are showing up in your current life.
We’re living through challenging times, especially for those in marginalized communities. As a queer woman, I understand how difficult it can feel to navigate the world, particularly if you haven’t always felt safe or understood. My goal is to create a space where your experiences are validated and where you can rediscover joy even in dark moments. I love working with people who are navigating challenging life circumstances, while also balancing past hurts and traumas. I can help you find ways to make this less daunting and take the positive steps forward that you are hoping to take.
(773) 570-9903 View (773) 570-9903
Photo of Dr. Pei-Yi Lin, Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Dr. Pei-Yi Lin
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I integrate Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), & Feminist Therapy.
Do you feel weighed down by trauma, anxiety, or persistent self-doubt? You don’t have to carry this alone. As a licensed bilingual psychologist (Mandarin/English) in Indiana, I provide a compassionate, culturally responsive sanctuary to help adults navigate PTSD, depression, and systemic oppression. My practice uniquely integrates evidence-based Western psychological science with the mindful wisdom of Eastern philosophies. Together, we will honor your story, process deep pain, and cultivate resilience. Let’s collaborate to unlock your authentic self and cultivate a meaningful, re-anchored life.
I integrate Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), & Feminist Therapy.
Do you feel weighed down by trauma, anxiety, or persistent self-doubt? You don’t have to carry this alone. As a licensed bilingual psychologist (Mandarin/English) in Indiana, I provide a compassionate, culturally responsive sanctuary to help adults navigate PTSD, depression, and systemic oppression. My practice uniquely integrates evidence-based Western psychological science with the mindful wisdom of Eastern philosophies. Together, we will honor your story, process deep pain, and cultivate resilience. Let’s collaborate to unlock your authentic self and cultivate a meaningful, re-anchored life.
(317) 666-4808 View (317) 666-4808
Photo of Ashley Gartner, Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
Ashley Gartner
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47403
Waitlist for new clients
Every person experiences some form of trauma or neglect throughout their lives. For many, these experiences can evolve into challenges such as anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties or behavioral concerns. If this statement resonates with you and you’re feeling ready to lessen the impact of these struggles and move toward healing, I would be honored to support you. I am fully EMDR and DBT trained, so I mostly work with trauma-based disorders. The bulk of my clients are 12-25 years old, but I have experience with working with people across the board and welcome anyone motivated to pursue growth and positive change.
Every person experiences some form of trauma or neglect throughout their lives. For many, these experiences can evolve into challenges such as anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties or behavioral concerns. If this statement resonates with you and you’re feeling ready to lessen the impact of these struggles and move toward healing, I would be honored to support you. I am fully EMDR and DBT trained, so I mostly work with trauma-based disorders. The bulk of my clients are 12-25 years old, but I have experience with working with people across the board and welcome anyone motivated to pursue growth and positive change.
(812) 608-3747 View (812) 608-3747
Photo of Kelsey Wolf, Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Kelsey Wolf
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Bloomington, IN 47408
Helping individuals and couples heal, grow, and reconnect is at the heart of my work. I believe every person brings a unique set of strengths that can serve as the foundation for meaningful change, even during life’s most difficult seasons. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to explore challenges, build resilience, and move toward the life they envision for themselves.
Helping individuals and couples heal, grow, and reconnect is at the heart of my work. I believe every person brings a unique set of strengths that can serve as the foundation for meaningful change, even during life’s most difficult seasons. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to explore challenges, build resilience, and move toward the life they envision for themselves.
(812) 561-7598 x1 View (812) 561-7598 x1
Photo of Craig Coley, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Craig Coley
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47408
I regularly use EMDR, IFS-informed parts work, emotion-focused therapy, and cognitive and behavioral therapies.
I view my role as companion on the journey to mental and emotional wellness. Symptoms are trailheads that lead to places where healing is needed. My approach is both practical and spiritual—in a broad sense of the word. Happiness is fleeting; joy abides. Joy is experienced when life has purpose and meaning. I have experience working with problems and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, bipolar disorder, substance use, and some personality disorders.
I regularly use EMDR, IFS-informed parts work, emotion-focused therapy, and cognitive and behavioral therapies.
I view my role as companion on the journey to mental and emotional wellness. Symptoms are trailheads that lead to places where healing is needed. My approach is both practical and spiritual—in a broad sense of the word. Happiness is fleeting; joy abides. Joy is experienced when life has purpose and meaning. I have experience working with problems and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, bipolar disorder, substance use, and some personality disorders.
(812) 366-2063 View (812) 366-2063
Photo of Caroline Poland, Counselor, LMHC, LCAC, CCTP
Caroline Poland
Counselor, LMHC, LCAC, CCTP
Online Only
Are you no longer functioning in life or the workplace in the ways that you used to or want to? Do you feel like your past or traumatic experiences are limiting you in the present? Are you anxious or overwhelmed? Have you found yourself hitting a point of burnout in work or in life? The great news is this - it doesn’t have to remain this way! Caroline is the Founder of Landmark Counseling, and is certified in EMDR Therapy. She focuses on treating trauma, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, chronic illnesses, and workplace related issues and is excited to walk alongside you as you work toward the life you envision.
Are you no longer functioning in life or the workplace in the ways that you used to or want to? Do you feel like your past or traumatic experiences are limiting you in the present? Are you anxious or overwhelmed? Have you found yourself hitting a point of burnout in work or in life? The great news is this - it doesn’t have to remain this way! Caroline is the Founder of Landmark Counseling, and is certified in EMDR Therapy. She focuses on treating trauma, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, chronic illnesses, and workplace related issues and is excited to walk alongside you as you work toward the life you envision.
(317) 548-6286 View (317) 548-6286
Photo of Christina Bame, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Christina Bame
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I use somatic therapy, IFS, ACT, attachment therapy, spiritually-integrated psychotherapy, and Talking With Voices.
Currently Waitlist Only - I walk alongside folks navigating trauma, bipolar, psychosis, depression, identity exploration, and spiritual awakening, meeting them where they are, and moving with them toward something lighter and more free. Together, we go beneath the surface, using mind-body awareness and the wisdom held in your nervous system as a doorway to what words alone can’t always reach. We move safely toward what’s been difficult to express, noticing how emotions live in the body and letting that awareness guide the healing. My role isn’t to fix you, it’s to help you reconnect with the wisdom you’ve carried all along.
I use somatic therapy, IFS, ACT, attachment therapy, spiritually-integrated psychotherapy, and Talking With Voices.
Currently Waitlist Only - I walk alongside folks navigating trauma, bipolar, psychosis, depression, identity exploration, and spiritual awakening, meeting them where they are, and moving with them toward something lighter and more free. Together, we go beneath the surface, using mind-body awareness and the wisdom held in your nervous system as a doorway to what words alone can’t always reach. We move safely toward what’s been difficult to express, noticing how emotions live in the body and letting that awareness guide the healing. My role isn’t to fix you, it’s to help you reconnect with the wisdom you’ve carried all along.
(812) 502-5139 View (812) 502-5139
Photo of Mobie Jean Glaser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mobie Jean Glaser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bloomington, IN 47403
I integrate relational, cognitive, and somatic modalities in a trauma-responsive and collaborative approach, informed by Somatic Experiencing, attachment, EMDR, parts work ( IFS), and anti-oppressive practice.
We are not broken. We do not need fixing. Rather, many of us have survived challenging circumstances and oppressive systems that have deeply hurt us, impacted our sense of wholeness, and kept us stuck in survival; this survival often looks like high cost coping and symptoms. Our work together supports your movement out of survival and into curiosity, possibility, and embodiment. Whether you’re looking to transform your relationships, heal trauma, emotionally skill-up, address chronic pain/illness, create community, stop people-pleasing, etc, we will get creative together in an approach tailored to support your specific needs.
I integrate relational, cognitive, and somatic modalities in a trauma-responsive and collaborative approach, informed by Somatic Experiencing, attachment, EMDR, parts work ( IFS), and anti-oppressive practice.
We are not broken. We do not need fixing. Rather, many of us have survived challenging circumstances and oppressive systems that have deeply hurt us, impacted our sense of wholeness, and kept us stuck in survival; this survival often looks like high cost coping and symptoms. Our work together supports your movement out of survival and into curiosity, possibility, and embodiment. Whether you’re looking to transform your relationships, heal trauma, emotionally skill-up, address chronic pain/illness, create community, stop people-pleasing, etc, we will get creative together in an approach tailored to support your specific needs.
(812) 408-1373 View (812) 408-1373
Photo of Erin Schoettle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, TF-CBT
Erin Schoettle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, TF-CBT
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I use EMDR, CBT, MI, TF-CBT, IFS, and person-centered approaches to fit you and your goals.
Life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when past trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, life transitions, and other mental health challenges make it difficult to move forward. If you’re feeling stuck, struggling with emotions that seem too heavy to carry, or searching for clarity and healing, you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in working with children and adults who have experienced childhood trauma and other mental health challenges. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, and supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered.
I use EMDR, CBT, MI, TF-CBT, IFS, and person-centered approaches to fit you and your goals.
Life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when past trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, life transitions, and other mental health challenges make it difficult to move forward. If you’re feeling stuck, struggling with emotions that seem too heavy to carry, or searching for clarity and healing, you don’t have to do it alone. I specialize in working with children and adults who have experienced childhood trauma and other mental health challenges. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, and supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered.
(463) 270-7679 View (463) 270-7679
Photo of Beverly Swann, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA
Beverly Swann
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I primarily use EMDR Therapy informed by Internal Family Systems, Somatic Psychology, and Positive Psychology.
Online sessions in IN, CA, FL, NE, and VA. Trauma...current political issues...feeling stuck...anxiety...wanting more from life...clients come to me for many reasons. My holistic, body-oriented psychotherapy services are based on principles of wholeness, positive psychology, & empowerment. It's about more than venting stress - it's about identifying & transcending challenges/roadblocks/speed bumps; cultivating happiness/peace/well-being; learning & expanding tools; discovering & nurturing your authentic self & the resources you already have; & seeing yourself as the complex & unique being you are. Cultivate a life of thriving!
I primarily use EMDR Therapy informed by Internal Family Systems, Somatic Psychology, and Positive Psychology.
Online sessions in IN, CA, FL, NE, and VA. Trauma...current political issues...feeling stuck...anxiety...wanting more from life...clients come to me for many reasons. My holistic, body-oriented psychotherapy services are based on principles of wholeness, positive psychology, & empowerment. It's about more than venting stress - it's about identifying & transcending challenges/roadblocks/speed bumps; cultivating happiness/peace/well-being; learning & expanding tools; discovering & nurturing your authentic self & the resources you already have; & seeing yourself as the complex & unique being you are. Cultivate a life of thriving!
(925) 705-7036 View (925) 705-7036
Photo of Megan Moss, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Megan Moss
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Are you in need of a compassionate, accepting, nonjudgmental therapist? I specialize in working with neurodivergent folks and members of the LGBTQIA+ population around issues such as gender identity and expression, boundary-setting, and self-acceptance. I also enjoy helping with trauma healing, sex therapy, anxiety, and relationship issues. I am poly/kink informed, size inclusive, sex worker friendly, and sex positive. I see primarily adults and adolescents ages 12 and up.
Are you in need of a compassionate, accepting, nonjudgmental therapist? I specialize in working with neurodivergent folks and members of the LGBTQIA+ population around issues such as gender identity and expression, boundary-setting, and self-acceptance. I also enjoy helping with trauma healing, sex therapy, anxiety, and relationship issues. I am poly/kink informed, size inclusive, sex worker friendly, and sex positive. I see primarily adults and adolescents ages 12 and up.
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Photo of Diana Kan, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Diana Kan
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Bloomington, IN 47403
The non-pathologizing stance of IFS (Internal Family Systems) really resonates with me, so I keep learning it and integrate it into my work, especially with clients that have complex trauma histories and attachment wounds.
Hi! I am a certified EMDR therapist. I am passionate about helping people feel better and live the life they want. I have served teens and adults with a variety of issues such as PTSD, complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, life transitions, grief/loss, work/academic stress. Whether you want to be seen and heard, manage depression and anxiety, or heal from trauma, I use evidence-based approaches to help you meet your unique therapy goals. The services I offer are culturally sensitive and neurodivergence-affirming. I enjoy working with anyone that wants to improve their mental health while valuing equity and diversity.
The non-pathologizing stance of IFS (Internal Family Systems) really resonates with me, so I keep learning it and integrate it into my work, especially with clients that have complex trauma histories and attachment wounds.
Hi! I am a certified EMDR therapist. I am passionate about helping people feel better and live the life they want. I have served teens and adults with a variety of issues such as PTSD, complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, life transitions, grief/loss, work/academic stress. Whether you want to be seen and heard, manage depression and anxiety, or heal from trauma, I use evidence-based approaches to help you meet your unique therapy goals. The services I offer are culturally sensitive and neurodivergence-affirming. I enjoy working with anyone that wants to improve their mental health while valuing equity and diversity.
(930) 322-1420 View (930) 322-1420
Photo of Valerie Duncan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Valerie Duncan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families create meaningful, lasting change. I earned my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friends University and provide therapy across the lifespan. Trained in Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy, I use this research-based approach to help couples strengthen communication, deepen connection, manage conflict, and rebuild trust while moving toward greater understanding and partnership.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families create meaningful, lasting change. I earned my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friends University and provide therapy across the lifespan. Trained in Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy, I use this research-based approach to help couples strengthen communication, deepen connection, manage conflict, and rebuild trust while moving toward greater understanding and partnership.
(385) 452-8973 View (385) 452-8973
Photo of Evan Copelly, Counselor, LMHC, A
Evan Copelly
Counselor, LMHC, A
Bloomington, IN 47404
Evan is trained in EMDR therapy and uses additional techniques from CBT, DBT, and IFS (internal family systems).
Evan's hope is that clients will experience sessions as a place where they can safely explore those parts of life that are calling out for attention; a place, in the words of his teachers, not to be judged or “fixed,” but to be found. Evan has experience and training to work with clients of all ages and backgrounds, including individuals with PTSD, borderline personality disorder, depression, and more. His approach to therapy affirms the right of every person to live and express themselves as they choose.
Evan is trained in EMDR therapy and uses additional techniques from CBT, DBT, and IFS (internal family systems).
Evan's hope is that clients will experience sessions as a place where they can safely explore those parts of life that are calling out for attention; a place, in the words of his teachers, not to be judged or “fixed,” but to be found. Evan has experience and training to work with clients of all ages and backgrounds, including individuals with PTSD, borderline personality disorder, depression, and more. His approach to therapy affirms the right of every person to live and express themselves as they choose.
(930) 232-2855 View (930) 232-2855
Photo of Leah Tackett, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Leah Tackett
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Bloomington, IN 47403
I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where we walk side-by-side through whatever brings you here. Whether it is trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or everyday stress, you are welcome here. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and strengths-based. I’ve supported clients in schools, community settings, shelters, and group homes, and I’m especially passionate about working with teens. I welcome all ages and adapt therapy to your needs, pace, and goals. Reach out for a consultation, you don’t have to do this alone.
I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where we walk side-by-side through whatever brings you here. Whether it is trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or everyday stress, you are welcome here. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and strengths-based. I’ve supported clients in schools, community settings, shelters, and group homes, and I’m especially passionate about working with teens. I welcome all ages and adapt therapy to your needs, pace, and goals. Reach out for a consultation, you don’t have to do this alone.
(812) 445-6399 View (812) 445-6399
Photo of Abram Sinn, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Abram Sinn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47401
Specializes in anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and IFS-informed work to help clients navigate internal conflict and create lasting change.
I’m an engaging, down-to-earth therapist who’s genuinely curious about why life feels so heavy right now. I love digging into life’s nuances and walking alongside people as they sort through what’s been handed to them. Relationships with yourself, family, friends, partners, or coworkers. can get complicated fast, especially during times of change. I’ll listen, show up, and get into the work with you because this is my passion. I care about your growth, healing, and hopes for the future. I’m not your “typical therapist.” I think outside the box and bring creativity to life’s problems.
Specializes in anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and IFS-informed work to help clients navigate internal conflict and create lasting change.
I’m an engaging, down-to-earth therapist who’s genuinely curious about why life feels so heavy right now. I love digging into life’s nuances and walking alongside people as they sort through what’s been handed to them. Relationships with yourself, family, friends, partners, or coworkers. can get complicated fast, especially during times of change. I’ll listen, show up, and get into the work with you because this is my passion. I care about your growth, healing, and hopes for the future. I’m not your “typical therapist.” I think outside the box and bring creativity to life’s problems.
(317) 434-1250 View (317) 434-1250

See more therapy options for Spencer

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.