Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in 60601

Photo of James Chamerlik, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60601, IL
James Chamerlik
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I apply a variety of therapeutic modalities and techniques with clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
As a kink-aware therapist and one that has experienced with polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, I hope to provide support to marginalized communities that face stigma, or that feel left out. I care deeply about social justice and work hard to dismantle oppression, as a vocal LGBTQ+ and feminist ally. As someone that became a therapist later in life, I apply my diverse experiences to my practice so that I may be more able to help you along your unique journey, or to uncover and address barriers that may prevent you from meeting personal goals or living a more authentic life.
I apply a variety of therapeutic modalities and techniques with clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
As a kink-aware therapist and one that has experienced with polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, I hope to provide support to marginalized communities that face stigma, or that feel left out. I care deeply about social justice and work hard to dismantle oppression, as a vocal LGBTQ+ and feminist ally. As someone that became a therapist later in life, I apply my diverse experiences to my practice so that I may be more able to help you along your unique journey, or to uncover and address barriers that may prevent you from meeting personal goals or living a more authentic life.
(872) 239-3824 View (872) 239-3824
Photo of Caitlin Otwell, Counselor in 60601, IL
Caitlin Otwell
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with individuals and families who are struggling with life adjustments, relationships challenges, anxiety and depression. I have a particular interest in supporting pregnant and parenting mothers, and have experience and training in supporting parents of young children. I also love working with young adults as they are navigating new relationships, whether with a romantic partner or a roommate, and how past family relationships may impact current ones. I have experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with addictive and compulsive behaviors, and seek to support people in developing more effective coping skills.
I work with individuals and families who are struggling with life adjustments, relationships challenges, anxiety and depression. I have a particular interest in supporting pregnant and parenting mothers, and have experience and training in supporting parents of young children. I also love working with young adults as they are navigating new relationships, whether with a romantic partner or a roommate, and how past family relationships may impact current ones. I have experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with addictive and compulsive behaviors, and seek to support people in developing more effective coping skills.
(773) 839-9247 x1 View (773) 839-9247 x1
Photo of Xinzhu Yu, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60601, IL
Xinzhu Yu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I employ strength-based, systemic, and relational approaches in therapy and utilize an integrative model of psychodynamic, narrative, CBT, ACT, ERP, DBT, IFS, ADHD management, Gottman Method, and trauma-informed care.
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
I employ strength-based, systemic, and relational approaches in therapy and utilize an integrative model of psychodynamic, narrative, CBT, ACT, ERP, DBT, IFS, ADHD management, Gottman Method, and trauma-informed care.
I work with individual adults and couples and am passionate about serving marginalized communities through a social justice advocacy lens. As a former “parachute kid” who started living abroad on my own as a teenager, I understand the complications of establishing one’s cultural identity while struggling to find meaning or belonging. I have experience working in different mental health settings with varying levels of needs, ranging from stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy, identity development, racial and cultural issues, neurodivergent issues, to suicidal ideation and/or past attempts.
(312) 257-3851 View (312) 257-3851
Photo of Collin Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60601, IL
Collin Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Solution-Focused models.
“If you want to go quickly, go alone. But, if you want to go far, go together.” Life is like an arena, and sometimes we want to throw in the towel. Sometimes we don’t see ourselves where we want to be in our lives or careers. We have habits we can’t break. Our relationships leave us frustrated. Or they don’t exist at all. We’re tired, lonely, and overwhelmed. Maybe it seems like the only one to blame is ourselves. But… We Always Have A Choice! It’s my mission to help you learn to take the reins of your life. Together, we will maximize your chances for success, your sense of fulfillment, and your freedom to choose for yourself.
I focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Solution-Focused models.
“If you want to go quickly, go alone. But, if you want to go far, go together.” Life is like an arena, and sometimes we want to throw in the towel. Sometimes we don’t see ourselves where we want to be in our lives or careers. We have habits we can’t break. Our relationships leave us frustrated. Or they don’t exist at all. We’re tired, lonely, and overwhelmed. Maybe it seems like the only one to blame is ourselves. But… We Always Have A Choice! It’s my mission to help you learn to take the reins of your life. Together, we will maximize your chances for success, your sense of fulfillment, and your freedom to choose for yourself.
(312) 584-2100 View (312) 584-2100
Photo of Cara Chill, Marriage & Family Therapist in 60601, IL
Cara Chill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Chill employs an array of evidence-based practices including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Systems Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Dr. Chill’s area of focus includes working with adults, teens, and couples. For the past eight years she has accumulated experience working in residential and inpatient settings, community mental health, correctional settings, medical settings, and private practices. Dr. Chill is passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals who identify as TGNC, and individuals in poly, ENM, and various relationship structures. Dr. Chill has experience in treating mood and anxiety disorders, relationship issues, gender identity and sexual orientation exploration, and stress.
Chill employs an array of evidence-based practices including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Systems Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Dr. Chill’s area of focus includes working with adults, teens, and couples. For the past eight years she has accumulated experience working in residential and inpatient settings, community mental health, correctional settings, medical settings, and private practices. Dr. Chill is passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals who identify as TGNC, and individuals in poly, ENM, and various relationship structures. Dr. Chill has experience in treating mood and anxiety disorders, relationship issues, gender identity and sexual orientation exploration, and stress.
(312) 500-2749 View (312) 500-2749
Photo of Kelsey Weissburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60601, IL
Kelsey Weissburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I draw from principles of Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, ACT, DBT, Somatic Experiencing, Health at Every Size, and practice from a trauma-informed perspective.
As someone who identifies as an empath, I know how hard it can be to balance caring for others while prioritizing self-care. The art of balance is ever evolving, and you are the expert on yourself. You can expect a space for deep reflection to understand yourself, your behaviors, and your relationships better. If you feel like anxiety, pressure, or shame are getting in the way of feeling confident and at peace in your body, then please reach out. There is a reason you are struggling now, and together we will explore and give voice to your whole self as a way for you to recognize your inherent worth.
I draw from principles of Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, ACT, DBT, Somatic Experiencing, Health at Every Size, and practice from a trauma-informed perspective.
As someone who identifies as an empath, I know how hard it can be to balance caring for others while prioritizing self-care. The art of balance is ever evolving, and you are the expert on yourself. You can expect a space for deep reflection to understand yourself, your behaviors, and your relationships better. If you feel like anxiety, pressure, or shame are getting in the way of feeling confident and at peace in your body, then please reach out. There is a reason you are struggling now, and together we will explore and give voice to your whole self as a way for you to recognize your inherent worth.
(312) 584-3152 x1 View (312) 584-3152 x1
Photo of Chrissy Storey, Counselor in 60601, IL
Chrissy Storey
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I believe you have already taken a courageous step on your healing journey! You have accessed courage within yourself to reach out for support in whatever challenge you may be facing. Along with courage, there are other aspects of your wholehearted self that are always present though sometimes may be be hard to access. In Internal Family Systems (IFS), we call those parts who can seem to get in the way protectors or exiles. These parts may be anxious, depressed, over function, or may hold obsessive compulsive patterns, or have experienced trauma (racially, sexually, emotionally, physically, spiritually).
I believe you have already taken a courageous step on your healing journey! You have accessed courage within yourself to reach out for support in whatever challenge you may be facing. Along with courage, there are other aspects of your wholehearted self that are always present though sometimes may be be hard to access. In Internal Family Systems (IFS), we call those parts who can seem to get in the way protectors or exiles. These parts may be anxious, depressed, over function, or may hold obsessive compulsive patterns, or have experienced trauma (racially, sexually, emotionally, physically, spiritually).
(872) 401-6954 View (872) 401-6954
Photo of Christine Leone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60601, IL
Christine Leone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
My integrative approach blends EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and relational therapy to help you release self-sabotaging beliefs, heal your nervous system, and reclaim your purpose and/or identities.
I am a liberation-focused Latina EMDR therapist and I help to empower individuals on their journey toward inner healing, reclaiming their authentic power and a deeper sense of connection. While my practice centers BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identities, I am affirming of neurodiversity and warmly welcome all seeking healing and self-discovery. If you feel burdened by expectations, feel unseen, disconnected, or lost, I’m here to listen and hold space for you. Together, we will venture beneath the surface of your experiences to explore the "why" behind your feelings and behaviors and uproot the limiting beliefs to bring you more inner peace.
My integrative approach blends EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and relational therapy to help you release self-sabotaging beliefs, heal your nervous system, and reclaim your purpose and/or identities.
I am a liberation-focused Latina EMDR therapist and I help to empower individuals on their journey toward inner healing, reclaiming their authentic power and a deeper sense of connection. While my practice centers BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identities, I am affirming of neurodiversity and warmly welcome all seeking healing and self-discovery. If you feel burdened by expectations, feel unseen, disconnected, or lost, I’m here to listen and hold space for you. Together, we will venture beneath the surface of your experiences to explore the "why" behind your feelings and behaviors and uproot the limiting beliefs to bring you more inner peace.
(312) 548-8137 x1 View (312) 548-8137 x1
Photo of Kei Izumi, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60601, IL
Kei Izumi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, EMDR-C, CCPT-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in trauma and addiction recovery, certified as an EMDR therapist, Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCPTII), and IFS informed.
Is your heart heavy from trauma or affected by childhood trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociation? Are you feeling alone, and stuck in the past or abusive relationships? Do you feel unsafe or powerless even after the abuse is over? Are you feeling overwhelmed by struggles that use things to try to forget/numb? I understand how trauma leads to mental and behavioral challenges. Trauma history can stop you from living life as an authentic you as trauma may create fear-based reactions and self-defeated thoughts. I’m here to help you untangle some of your thoughts to find inner peace and heal wounded parts.
I am trained in trauma and addiction recovery, certified as an EMDR therapist, Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCPTII), and IFS informed.
Is your heart heavy from trauma or affected by childhood trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociation? Are you feeling alone, and stuck in the past or abusive relationships? Do you feel unsafe or powerless even after the abuse is over? Are you feeling overwhelmed by struggles that use things to try to forget/numb? I understand how trauma leads to mental and behavioral challenges. Trauma history can stop you from living life as an authentic you as trauma may create fear-based reactions and self-defeated thoughts. I’m here to help you untangle some of your thoughts to find inner peace and heal wounded parts.
(312) 820-9205 View (312) 820-9205
Photo of Natalie Rasa, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60601, IL
Natalie Rasa
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and Somatic Experiencing to facilitate healing.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or a mood disorder such as bipolar disorder? These are areas I specialize in and will collaborate with you to facilitate healing. If you woke up tomorrow and your life was exactly the way you wanted it, what would your life look or feel like? Let's see how close to that vision we can get. Clients I work best with are those who are motivated to change and looking to evolve their perspectives and life. We will work together to get you to that place where you are confident, full of self-love and attract fruitful opportunities to your life..
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and Somatic Experiencing to facilitate healing.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or a mood disorder such as bipolar disorder? These are areas I specialize in and will collaborate with you to facilitate healing. If you woke up tomorrow and your life was exactly the way you wanted it, what would your life look or feel like? Let's see how close to that vision we can get. Clients I work best with are those who are motivated to change and looking to evolve their perspectives and life. We will work together to get you to that place where you are confident, full of self-love and attract fruitful opportunities to your life..
(312) 757-8094 View (312) 757-8094
Photo of Lindsey Szeszol, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 60601, IL
Lindsey Szeszol
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I pull from a wide range of techniques, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, and Somatic Therapies to address your individual needs.
Hi there, I'm Lindsey. I work with folks ages 12 and up on goals related to depression, anxiety, trauma, complex trauma, body liberation, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ identities. My work is centered around creating a warm, accepting space that promotes safety and connection to my clients. I believe healing happens through a collaborative relationship between you and myself, while emphasizing your autonomy and self-knowledge. Together we will work toward your current goals while also acknowledging the impact your past and the world around you has on your journey.
I pull from a wide range of techniques, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, and Somatic Therapies to address your individual needs.
Hi there, I'm Lindsey. I work with folks ages 12 and up on goals related to depression, anxiety, trauma, complex trauma, body liberation, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ identities. My work is centered around creating a warm, accepting space that promotes safety and connection to my clients. I believe healing happens through a collaborative relationship between you and myself, while emphasizing your autonomy and self-knowledge. Together we will work toward your current goals while also acknowledging the impact your past and the world around you has on your journey.
(312) 663-8475 View (312) 663-8475
Joan Ferdinand-Keleher
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
My general private practice includes several specialties: EMDR ; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; Internal Family Systems; Imago relationship perspective.
I am an Illinois Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in private practice with offices in Evanston and Chicago offering psychotherapy services to adult individuals, couples, and families.
My general private practice includes several specialties: EMDR ; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; Internal Family Systems; Imago relationship perspective.
I am an Illinois Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in private practice with offices in Evanston and Chicago offering psychotherapy services to adult individuals, couples, and families.
(224) 408-5126 View (224) 408-5126
Photo of Celishia M Bussey, Counselor in 60601, IL
Celishia M Bussey
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on adults who appear to have it all together. Friends, family members, or peers may fail to hear you when you express your needs or true feelings or question whether you even have problems. Despite what others may see, you want to be heard, to express your hurts and dreams and you want to do so in a safe space. Whether you are dealing with a situational issue like an academic or professional obstacle or something that feels more encompassing like relationship patterns or identity issues, I will work with you to illuminate the answers already inside of you. I use EMDR and IFS to address client needs.
My practice focuses on adults who appear to have it all together. Friends, family members, or peers may fail to hear you when you express your needs or true feelings or question whether you even have problems. Despite what others may see, you want to be heard, to express your hurts and dreams and you want to do so in a safe space. Whether you are dealing with a situational issue like an academic or professional obstacle or something that feels more encompassing like relationship patterns or identity issues, I will work with you to illuminate the answers already inside of you. I use EMDR and IFS to address client needs.
(773) 985-3977 View (773) 985-3977
Photo of Peonita Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist in 60601, IL
Peonita Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CSAT, CPTT, DWCF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I incorporate the Patrick Carnes 30-Task Model, Family Systems, EFT, Gottman Method, CBT, Structural and Strategic perspectives.
The Couple and Family Clinic is creating connections that heal. We specialize in relational conflict and trauma, partner betrayal trauma, sexual compulsion, cultural trauma and grief and loss. Pain and adjustment is a part of life. I am here to walk with you through the process so that you will arrive at your goal feeling healthy and whole. The client's experience from beginning to the end of treatment are all very important to me and the healing process. We all desire healthy, happy and loving relationships, and this takes courage and will pull us out of our comfort zone. Sometimes loving ourselves is the best place to start.
I incorporate the Patrick Carnes 30-Task Model, Family Systems, EFT, Gottman Method, CBT, Structural and Strategic perspectives.
The Couple and Family Clinic is creating connections that heal. We specialize in relational conflict and trauma, partner betrayal trauma, sexual compulsion, cultural trauma and grief and loss. Pain and adjustment is a part of life. I am here to walk with you through the process so that you will arrive at your goal feeling healthy and whole. The client's experience from beginning to the end of treatment are all very important to me and the healing process. We all desire healthy, happy and loving relationships, and this takes courage and will pull us out of our comfort zone. Sometimes loving ourselves is the best place to start.
(847) 416-6625 View (847) 416-6625
Photo of Amy Tanner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60601, IL
Amy Tanner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I utilize many therapeutic tools based on the needs of each client including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, family systems, and mindfulness/meditation techniques.
I believe that every person can benefit from receiving counseling at some point in their lives. We all face struggles with achieving our goals, understanding and overcoming our past hurts, or resolving conflict with others. It can be extremely helpful to have a compassionate, objective person to talk to when these issues arise. I truly enjoy developing a caring, supportive relationship with each client. This connection can then be the foundation for facilitating understanding, growth, and positive change. I enjoy working with clients to identify their strengths and develop realistic, achievable goals.
I utilize many therapeutic tools based on the needs of each client including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, family systems, and mindfulness/meditation techniques.
I believe that every person can benefit from receiving counseling at some point in their lives. We all face struggles with achieving our goals, understanding and overcoming our past hurts, or resolving conflict with others. It can be extremely helpful to have a compassionate, objective person to talk to when these issues arise. I truly enjoy developing a caring, supportive relationship with each client. This connection can then be the foundation for facilitating understanding, growth, and positive change. I enjoy working with clients to identify their strengths and develop realistic, achievable goals.
(773) 295-0064 View (773) 295-0064
Photo of Michelle DeCola, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 60601, IL
Michelle DeCola
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
We all desire meaningful, close relationships to bring happiness in our lives. Developing a trusting and supportive therapy relationship can be an important start getting there. Feeling connected in relationships is an essential aspect of our emotional well-being. My passion over the past 29 years, is helping clients develop relational mindfulness through exploring thoughts, feelings, past traumas, and early attachment patterns. My work is attachment-informed, IFS informed, and emotionally focused. Together, we'll explore how to build greater self-compassion, acceptance, and strong emotional awareness.
We all desire meaningful, close relationships to bring happiness in our lives. Developing a trusting and supportive therapy relationship can be an important start getting there. Feeling connected in relationships is an essential aspect of our emotional well-being. My passion over the past 29 years, is helping clients develop relational mindfulness through exploring thoughts, feelings, past traumas, and early attachment patterns. My work is attachment-informed, IFS informed, and emotionally focused. Together, we'll explore how to build greater self-compassion, acceptance, and strong emotional awareness.
(720) 463-1994 View (720) 463-1994
Photo of Yasmeen Khan, Psychologist in 60601, IL
Yasmeen Khan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
My certifications and training's include:Clinical Hypnosis (American Society of Clinical Hypnosis); the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model; and cross cultural psychology.
I believe that we all have an innate wisdom and capacity to know the solutions to our problems but we may not be aware of our potential. My goal is to empower you to build upon your inner resources and that's how I chose the name of my practice; Self Empowerment Center. I seek to understand your personal, cultural and spiritual beliefs. Through this holistic approach, I tailor treatments based upon your unique needs. Therapy process is like an organized sport which has players and a coach. Players make the moves, working hard (you) and the coach (me) is guiding and directing.
My certifications and training's include:Clinical Hypnosis (American Society of Clinical Hypnosis); the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model; and cross cultural psychology.
I believe that we all have an innate wisdom and capacity to know the solutions to our problems but we may not be aware of our potential. My goal is to empower you to build upon your inner resources and that's how I chose the name of my practice; Self Empowerment Center. I seek to understand your personal, cultural and spiritual beliefs. Through this holistic approach, I tailor treatments based upon your unique needs. Therapy process is like an organized sport which has players and a coach. Players make the moves, working hard (you) and the coach (me) is guiding and directing.
(630) 581-2741 View (630) 581-2741
Photo of Eve K Brownstone, Counselor in 60601, IL
Eve K Brownstone
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Internal Family Systems will assist in client.
Eve Brownstone, LCPC, Expressive Arts Therapist and Certified Psychodramatist I have been providing compassionate care for the creative soul for 32 years. I enjoy supporting and empowering my clients to look within to gain more self-awareness, self-love, and self-acceptance. Art therapy, dance/movement therapy, guided imagery, meditation, journaling, and role-play are some of the tools used for this journey. The arts are excellent outlets to cope with stress and therapeutic tools that get below the surface to the heart of the matter. Not everyone’s first language is verbal and the arts can help us speak. Speak our own truth.
Internal Family Systems will assist in client.
Eve Brownstone, LCPC, Expressive Arts Therapist and Certified Psychodramatist I have been providing compassionate care for the creative soul for 32 years. I enjoy supporting and empowering my clients to look within to gain more self-awareness, self-love, and self-acceptance. Art therapy, dance/movement therapy, guided imagery, meditation, journaling, and role-play are some of the tools used for this journey. The arts are excellent outlets to cope with stress and therapeutic tools that get below the surface to the heart of the matter. Not everyone’s first language is verbal and the arts can help us speak. Speak our own truth.
(872) 704-8440 View (872) 704-8440
Photo of Annie Novotny, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60601, IL
Annie Novotny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LCPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I may integrate mindfulness and meditation techniques, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems into sessions in order to best support the therapeutic process.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
I may integrate mindfulness and meditation techniques, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems into sessions in order to best support the therapeutic process.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
(708) 572-3801 View (708) 572-3801
Photo of Ara Lucia Ashburne in 60601, IL
Ara Lucia Ashburne
MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Many adults face anxiety and trauma and seek a life free from the limitations these challenges bring. These are my specialty! I also work with persons in the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a member. I also teach a contemplative writing technique that can be used as a spiritual or mindfulness practice in support of the healing process. Though I have an M.S. in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Illinois Institute of Technology, I am also a visual artist and received my undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Art. I primarily use Internal Family Systems Therapy as the modality for treating clients.
Many adults face anxiety and trauma and seek a life free from the limitations these challenges bring. These are my specialty! I also work with persons in the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a member. I also teach a contemplative writing technique that can be used as a spiritual or mindfulness practice in support of the healing process. Though I have an M.S. in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Illinois Institute of Technology, I am also a visual artist and received my undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Art. I primarily use Internal Family Systems Therapy as the modality for treating clients.
(630) 912-7654 View (630) 912-7654
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.