Photo of Kaitlin Silkowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Kaitlin Silkowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
My approach to therapy is grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and other trauma-informed interventions like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I believe strongly in the resilience of people, and that a healthy therapeutic relationship can promote trust, healing, and personal growth. I believe that successful therapy is predicated on having a strong therapeutic alliance; the connection and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. Taking a strength-based perspective, I listen deeply and reflectively to sustain a non-judgmental and safe environment. I am passionate about helping clients fully process past experiences and thrive in relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
My approach to therapy is grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and other trauma-informed interventions like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I believe strongly in the resilience of people, and that a healthy therapeutic relationship can promote trust, healing, and personal growth. I believe that successful therapy is predicated on having a strong therapeutic alliance; the connection and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. Taking a strength-based perspective, I listen deeply and reflectively to sustain a non-judgmental and safe environment. I am passionate about helping clients fully process past experiences and thrive in relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
(914) 677-1628 View (914) 677-1628
Photo of Ksenia Meshcheryakova, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Ksenia Meshcheryakova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I am trained in a variety of treatment models, including EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and IFS (internal family systems).
Searching for the support of a trusted therapist to guide you through life's challenges? Look no further. I am a warm, engaging and active therapist. I bring curiosity and years of professional experiences to assist you in your healing journey.
I am trained in a variety of treatment models, including EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and IFS (internal family systems).
Searching for the support of a trusted therapist to guide you through life's challenges? Look no further. I am a warm, engaging and active therapist. I bring curiosity and years of professional experiences to assist you in your healing journey.
(646) 392-7933 View (646) 392-7933
Photo of Ashley Ludwinski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Ashley Ludwinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from the Gottman Method, CBT, DBT, IFS, and MSC, as well as 14 years of experience as a married partner, parent and educator.
I am a trauma-informed provider supporting couples and individuals navigating grief/loss, conflict, trauma and transition. I am passionate about supporting folks identifying with neurodiversity (eg. eg. autistic, AuDH, diagnosed with ADHD, etc ). Clients I support often struggle with the impact of stories about who they "should be", questioning, "Do I matter?" or shedding pieces of themselves to create a sense of belonging. Understanding our stories is one of the bravest things we can do. Together we can explore yours, identify your values and strengths, and pursue healing and growth.
I draw from the Gottman Method, CBT, DBT, IFS, and MSC, as well as 14 years of experience as a married partner, parent and educator.
I am a trauma-informed provider supporting couples and individuals navigating grief/loss, conflict, trauma and transition. I am passionate about supporting folks identifying with neurodiversity (eg. eg. autistic, AuDH, diagnosed with ADHD, etc ). Clients I support often struggle with the impact of stories about who they "should be", questioning, "Do I matter?" or shedding pieces of themselves to create a sense of belonging. Understanding our stories is one of the bravest things we can do. Together we can explore yours, identify your values and strengths, and pursue healing and growth.
(332) 244-0328 View (332) 244-0328
Photo of Ryan Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Ryan Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I tailor my approach based on each clients needs utilizing various modalities including, CBT, AEDP, Psychodynamic, and Internal Family Systems.
I believe in a collaborative therapy experience to assist clients in their process of self-discovery. As the cornerstone of my approach, I believe that unconditional support through the therapeutic relationship provides a strong foundation for this journey. This support is often missing from our lives and when we start to experience challenges or road blocks we can start to feel more isolated and alone. If you are feeling stuck or dissatisfied with your life starting therapy can be the first step to creating change.
I tailor my approach based on each clients needs utilizing various modalities including, CBT, AEDP, Psychodynamic, and Internal Family Systems.
I believe in a collaborative therapy experience to assist clients in their process of self-discovery. As the cornerstone of my approach, I believe that unconditional support through the therapeutic relationship provides a strong foundation for this journey. This support is often missing from our lives and when we start to experience challenges or road blocks we can start to feel more isolated and alone. If you are feeling stuck or dissatisfied with your life starting therapy can be the first step to creating change.
(332) 248-0541 View (332) 248-0541
Photo of At Home Psychedelic Therapy (Instant Insurance Verification), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
At Home Psychedelic Therapy (Instant Insurance Verification)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MD, PhD, LCSW, PDOC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Integrative & Immersive Psychotherapy approach utilizing Psychedelic, EMDR, Transpersonal, Existential, Humanistic, Trauma, Relational & Integrative Therapies, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Somatic & Intuitive Therapy, EFT, Energy Psychology, ACT, IFS, DBT, MCBT & Life Coaching.
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
Integrative & Immersive Psychotherapy approach utilizing Psychedelic, EMDR, Transpersonal, Existential, Humanistic, Trauma, Relational & Integrative Therapies, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Somatic & Intuitive Therapy, EFT, Energy Psychology, ACT, IFS, DBT, MCBT & Life Coaching.
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
(917) 789-1484 View (917) 789-1484
Photo of Lola Noero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Lola Noero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I have trained in psychodynamic, EMDR, IFS, EFT couple therapy, trauma-focussed CBT, & Gestalt (Specialized Clinical Fellow).
Schedule a free consultation with this link: www.calendly.com/lola-harney Are you living a fulfilling life that energizes you? Have you noticed yourself ending up in the same place, with familiar patterns? “Awareness is like the sun. When it shines on things, they are transformed.”-Thich Nhat Hanh. I specialize in couples/relationship communication with advanced training, as well as trauma therapy (completed hours in EMDR training). I see clients in person and remotely. I am the Co-Founder of Manhattan Therapy (manhattantherapy.com)
I have trained in psychodynamic, EMDR, IFS, EFT couple therapy, trauma-focussed CBT, & Gestalt (Specialized Clinical Fellow).
Schedule a free consultation with this link: www.calendly.com/lola-harney Are you living a fulfilling life that energizes you? Have you noticed yourself ending up in the same place, with familiar patterns? “Awareness is like the sun. When it shines on things, they are transformed.”-Thich Nhat Hanh. I specialize in couples/relationship communication with advanced training, as well as trauma therapy (completed hours in EMDR training). I see clients in person and remotely. I am the Co-Founder of Manhattan Therapy (manhattantherapy.com)
(332) 322-6370 View (332) 322-6370
Photo of Carl Nelke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Carl Nelke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
Topics addressed are relationships, IFS trauma, finances, addictions/substance abuse/12 Steps, codependency, LGBTQIA issues, work issues, chronic illnesses like Lyme disease, or even everyday anxiety over social media events.
I've been in private practice for over 20 years. I work mainly with clients who have relationship problems, substance issues, trauma, and identity issues. I enjoy providing a safe, introspective, and multifaceted treatment approach for my clients. I help to relieve stressed, overworked parts of the personality. We will work together to inventory, accept, acknowledge, and support all of aspects of oneself and ones environmental issues. Together, we'll offer pressure relief and get more Self-led answers to problems which you might be facing. I am located in Midtown Manhattan.
Topics addressed are relationships, IFS trauma, finances, addictions/substance abuse/12 Steps, codependency, LGBTQIA issues, work issues, chronic illnesses like Lyme disease, or even everyday anxiety over social media events.
I've been in private practice for over 20 years. I work mainly with clients who have relationship problems, substance issues, trauma, and identity issues. I enjoy providing a safe, introspective, and multifaceted treatment approach for my clients. I help to relieve stressed, overworked parts of the personality. We will work together to inventory, accept, acknowledge, and support all of aspects of oneself and ones environmental issues. Together, we'll offer pressure relief and get more Self-led answers to problems which you might be facing. I am located in Midtown Manhattan.
(646) 941-8766 View (646) 941-8766
Photo of Katherine Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Katherine Lee, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I am trained in modalities such as IFS and CBT and can interweave models to best suit you.
I have been working in private practice for the last ten years. A common type of client I see is someone who did quite well academically as a student and faces challenges when it comes to the more nebulous and messy arenas of adult life, particularly in careers and relationships. Oftentimes, the questions and choices one faces with no clear roadmap can feel overwhelming and isolating. I specialize in areas such as dating, attachment issues, polyamory, struggling with a break-up/divorce, infidelity, boundary setting with loved ones, job stress and confusion around career path, sexual identity, and generalized anxiety and depression.
I am trained in modalities such as IFS and CBT and can interweave models to best suit you.
I have been working in private practice for the last ten years. A common type of client I see is someone who did quite well academically as a student and faces challenges when it comes to the more nebulous and messy arenas of adult life, particularly in careers and relationships. Oftentimes, the questions and choices one faces with no clear roadmap can feel overwhelming and isolating. I specialize in areas such as dating, attachment issues, polyamory, struggling with a break-up/divorce, infidelity, boundary setting with loved ones, job stress and confusion around career path, sexual identity, and generalized anxiety and depression.
(347) 830-7088 View (347) 830-7088
Photo of Jennifer Szymaszek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Jennifer Szymaszek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
My practice is informed by Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness and compassion practices, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I approach therapy from a holistic perspective that honors all aspects of a person as an integrated whole, using body-based somatic psychotherapy and mindfulness techniques at the core of my practice. When we begin to slow down and explore our mind-body experience with curiosity and care, we can start to notice and transform old wounds and patterns that are interfering with our ability to live a full life of ease, passion and connection. I come from a place of co-creating a journey with you that deeply honors the wisdom and strengths you already carry, while also working with you to develop new resources to help address your needs.
My practice is informed by Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness and compassion practices, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I approach therapy from a holistic perspective that honors all aspects of a person as an integrated whole, using body-based somatic psychotherapy and mindfulness techniques at the core of my practice. When we begin to slow down and explore our mind-body experience with curiosity and care, we can start to notice and transform old wounds and patterns that are interfering with our ability to live a full life of ease, passion and connection. I come from a place of co-creating a journey with you that deeply honors the wisdom and strengths you already carry, while also working with you to develop new resources to help address your needs.
(917) 909-2409 View (917) 909-2409
Photo of Leon Silvers, Counselor in 10011, NY
Leon Silvers
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
Some of the methods I use include Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Psychedelic Therapy, Somatic Therapy, EMDR, Drama Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
I work with individuals of all gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, gender, sexuality, and relationships. I am a life-long learner in the field of psychology and have learned, and continue to learn many different therapeutic modalities, so my approach is eclectic and tailored to the unique needs and wants of each individual. I have also been in my own therapy for each of the modalities I practice.
Some of the methods I use include Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Psychedelic Therapy, Somatic Therapy, EMDR, Drama Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
I work with individuals of all gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, gender, sexuality, and relationships. I am a life-long learner in the field of psychology and have learned, and continue to learn many different therapeutic modalities, so my approach is eclectic and tailored to the unique needs and wants of each individual. I have also been in my own therapy for each of the modalities I practice.
(917) 746-7129 View (917) 746-7129
Photo of Dr. Starlin Astacio, Marriage & Family Therapist in 10011, NY
Dr. Starlin Astacio
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
As your future therapist, I am committed to fostering an inclusive, compassionate, and nurturing environment. I am deeply passionate about the transformative work of therapy. My role is to offer support and guidance as we embark on a journey of self-discovery together. Throughout our sessions, we will delve into your past experiences, explore your future aspirations, and tap into your internal resources.
As your future therapist, I am committed to fostering an inclusive, compassionate, and nurturing environment. I am deeply passionate about the transformative work of therapy. My role is to offer support and guidance as we embark on a journey of self-discovery together. Throughout our sessions, we will delve into your past experiences, explore your future aspirations, and tap into your internal resources.
(860) 792-4583 View (860) 792-4583
Photo of Christina Viera, Counselor in 10011, NY
Christina Viera
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Let’s prioritize your wants, needs, and desires. Therapy is a space where you get to receive the attention you may have not been gifting yourself. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ challenges, or any other stressors, let’s collaborate to create a life that serves you on your terms. I support adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. One of my specialties is providing support to LGBTQ+ populations. As a transgender woman, I know first-hand what it’s like to be part of an oppressed group living in a world that is unkind to people like me.
Let’s prioritize your wants, needs, and desires. Therapy is a space where you get to receive the attention you may have not been gifting yourself. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ challenges, or any other stressors, let’s collaborate to create a life that serves you on your terms. I support adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. One of my specialties is providing support to LGBTQ+ populations. As a transgender woman, I know first-hand what it’s like to be part of an oppressed group living in a world that is unkind to people like me.
(914) 350-4497 View (914) 350-4497
Photo of Violet Vanilla Valley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Violet Vanilla Valley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
My clients are typically between the ages of 16 and 60. They are typically, but not exclusively, queer, trans, polyamorous, neurodivergent, or exploring identities. Clients come to me to receive coaching from someone who shares one or more of my identities. freespiritcounselingllc.com/violet-vanilla-valley-msw-lsw-she-they/
My clients are typically between the ages of 16 and 60. They are typically, but not exclusively, queer, trans, polyamorous, neurodivergent, or exploring identities. Clients come to me to receive coaching from someone who shares one or more of my identities. freespiritcounselingllc.com/violet-vanilla-valley-msw-lsw-she-they/
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Photo of Indie M Cusack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Indie M Cusack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with difficult family dynamics or a lack of support from your environment? Are you finding that the tools that you have turned to cope, like substance use and avoidance, has taken hold of your life? Are you feeling exhausted or constrained by treatment that sees your experience as a disease and dispenses formulaic solutions? You are not your symptoms and you deserve care from someone who wants to join you, sees you as the multi-layered complex person you are and supports your vision of healing in mind.
Are you struggling with difficult family dynamics or a lack of support from your environment? Are you finding that the tools that you have turned to cope, like substance use and avoidance, has taken hold of your life? Are you feeling exhausted or constrained by treatment that sees your experience as a disease and dispenses formulaic solutions? You are not your symptoms and you deserve care from someone who wants to join you, sees you as the multi-layered complex person you are and supports your vision of healing in mind.
(347) 514-8197 View (347) 514-8197
Photo of Corinne Galatulas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Corinne Galatulas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I'm a therapist that specializes in trauma, C-PTSD and attachment wounding. I utilize a modern, integrative approach to help clients address and process how the trauma and painful events they've been through have negatively impacted their relationship to themselves and others. It can produce a lot of chronic stress and shame to act out this wounding unconsciously and I hope to create a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and resilient enough to explore these sensitive areas of our psyche. Through this work, we can help you quiet the chaos that arises when confronted with our social and emotional triggers.
I'm a therapist that specializes in trauma, C-PTSD and attachment wounding. I utilize a modern, integrative approach to help clients address and process how the trauma and painful events they've been through have negatively impacted their relationship to themselves and others. It can produce a lot of chronic stress and shame to act out this wounding unconsciously and I hope to create a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and resilient enough to explore these sensitive areas of our psyche. Through this work, we can help you quiet the chaos that arises when confronted with our social and emotional triggers.
(347) 851-8041 View (347) 851-8041
Photo of Isabel Baylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10011, NY
Isabel Baylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, E-RYT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I work using an anti-oppressive and trauma informed perspective with a focus on trauma, gender, sexuality, life transitions, feeling stuck, coming out later in life, and navigating relationships. I believe mindful attention to the physical experience can provide insight and space for empathy, when words are hard to conjure. I’m passionate about helping people connect with their body and discover ways to honor their authentic selves. I specialize in working with BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and TGNC/NB communities.
I work using an anti-oppressive and trauma informed perspective with a focus on trauma, gender, sexuality, life transitions, feeling stuck, coming out later in life, and navigating relationships. I believe mindful attention to the physical experience can provide insight and space for empathy, when words are hard to conjure. I’m passionate about helping people connect with their body and discover ways to honor their authentic selves. I specialize in working with BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and TGNC/NB communities.
(929) 203-9264 View (929) 203-9264
Photo of Dr. Alyssa Deitchman, Psychologist in 10011, NY
Dr. Alyssa Deitchman
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an extensive background in research, clinical assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, my clinical approach is informed by empirically validated treatments and techniques, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Like using psychotherapy outcome research to inform my clinical work, I employ a methodological approach to disentangling the various biological, social, and environmental factors that may be contributing to your current and past difficulties. My approach is intensely collaborative and transparent in nature.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an extensive background in research, clinical assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, my clinical approach is informed by empirically validated treatments and techniques, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Like using psychotherapy outcome research to inform my clinical work, I employ a methodological approach to disentangling the various biological, social, and environmental factors that may be contributing to your current and past difficulties. My approach is intensely collaborative and transparent in nature.
(332) 378-5293 View (332) 378-5293
Photo of Kristin Lyons, Counselor in 10011, NY
Kristin Lyons
Counselor, LMHC, EdM, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing a time in your life where things are not going the way that you would like, but you are unsure what new direction to take? Have you turned to friends and loved ones and still feel lonely or misunderstood? Wanting to be happier is part of the human condition. Each person is the culmination of a lifetime of experiences and challenges; untangling the meaning and significance requires exploration, patience, and compassion. Psychotherapy is one of the most powerful practices available to create healing and transformation. This doesn't have to be a lonely process.
Are you experiencing a time in your life where things are not going the way that you would like, but you are unsure what new direction to take? Have you turned to friends and loved ones and still feel lonely or misunderstood? Wanting to be happier is part of the human condition. Each person is the culmination of a lifetime of experiences and challenges; untangling the meaning and significance requires exploration, patience, and compassion. Psychotherapy is one of the most powerful practices available to create healing and transformation. This doesn't have to be a lonely process.
(347) 492-1920 View (347) 492-1920
Photo of Jack Haines, Marriage & Family Therapist in 10011, NY
Jack Haines
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
Jack Haines is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the treatment of LGBTQ individuals and couples. He believes in the effectiveness of mindfulness, cognitive therapy, and strength-based therapy. His approach is collaborative in nature and prioritizes the insights and guidance that arise in clients.
Jack Haines is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the treatment of LGBTQ individuals and couples. He believes in the effectiveness of mindfulness, cognitive therapy, and strength-based therapy. His approach is collaborative in nature and prioritizes the insights and guidance that arise in clients.
(317) 934-7052 View (317) 934-7052
Photo of Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional in 10011, NY
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
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.