Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in 75093

Photo of Jackie Welchman, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Jackie Welchman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I use CBT, Family Systems and Mindfulness often, but prefer to tailor sessions to the unique needs of my client.
If you struggle with co-dependence, addictive behaviors, or anxiety disorders, I can help you. Maybe you have low-self esteem, or have a hard time setting boundaries? Maybe your dependence on food, alcohol, or work is no longer providing the escape it once did, and is causing trouble in relationships? Maybe you feel as if you're on autopilot and not really living but just existing, and crave true connection. Perhaps, you have high levels of stress and find it difficult to relax. Maybe you have unresolved childhood trauma, and you are ready to talk to someone about it? I am dedicated to my work, and I want to help you.
I use CBT, Family Systems and Mindfulness often, but prefer to tailor sessions to the unique needs of my client.
If you struggle with co-dependence, addictive behaviors, or anxiety disorders, I can help you. Maybe you have low-self esteem, or have a hard time setting boundaries? Maybe your dependence on food, alcohol, or work is no longer providing the escape it once did, and is causing trouble in relationships? Maybe you feel as if you're on autopilot and not really living but just existing, and crave true connection. Perhaps, you have high levels of stress and find it difficult to relax. Maybe you have unresolved childhood trauma, and you are ready to talk to someone about it? I am dedicated to my work, and I want to help you.
(469) 820-3159 View (469) 820-3159
Photo of Renee' Austin Trauma Therapy North Dallas PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Renee' Austin Trauma Therapy North Dallas PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy have proven to be the most effective tools in eliminating the disturbing content, disturbing images and thoughts in relationship to your trauma.
Trauma is often weaved in and through the fabric of our lives. Many think of trauma as one large scale traumatic event. However, complex trauma is not always a single event. It could be a failed attachment to our care takers, experiencing abuse/neglect, multiple losses, shattered relationships, or the inability to protect ourselves emotionally with healthy boundaries. The most disturbing part of a trauma is not only the event itself, but how we perceived the event, and the internalized negative core beliefs about ourselves that developed.
EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy have proven to be the most effective tools in eliminating the disturbing content, disturbing images and thoughts in relationship to your trauma.
Trauma is often weaved in and through the fabric of our lives. Many think of trauma as one large scale traumatic event. However, complex trauma is not always a single event. It could be a failed attachment to our care takers, experiencing abuse/neglect, multiple losses, shattered relationships, or the inability to protect ourselves emotionally with healthy boundaries. The most disturbing part of a trauma is not only the event itself, but how we perceived the event, and the internalized negative core beliefs about ourselves that developed.
(972) 318-2943 View (972) 318-2943
Photo of Ashley Kuehne, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Ashley Kuehne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am a certified EMDR practitioner and consultant and am either trained or informed in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), IMAGO, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), EFIT, expressive therapies, and motivational interviewing.
What drew me to the counseling field was my passion to advocate for people who have experience trauma (relational, spiritual, physical, sexual, emotional, and more). I take an integrative approach, meeting you wherever you are in the process and tailoring treatment based on my extensive training in trauma modalities. I cherish this process and helping survivors heal. As a mother of two, I have plenty of material to pull from and am equally passionate about working with parents, especially those who are facing parenting transitions and blended families. With support, validation and humor, I can help make parenting fun again.
I am a certified EMDR practitioner and consultant and am either trained or informed in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), IMAGO, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), EFIT, expressive therapies, and motivational interviewing.
What drew me to the counseling field was my passion to advocate for people who have experience trauma (relational, spiritual, physical, sexual, emotional, and more). I take an integrative approach, meeting you wherever you are in the process and tailoring treatment based on my extensive training in trauma modalities. I cherish this process and helping survivors heal. As a mother of two, I have plenty of material to pull from and am equally passionate about working with parents, especially those who are facing parenting transitions and blended families. With support, validation and humor, I can help make parenting fun again.
(972) 665-6339 View (972) 665-6339
Photo of Taryn Colgrove, LPC Associate in 75093, TX
Taryn Colgrove
LPC Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a mix of therapeutic approaches including: feminist, attachment based, experiential, somatic, and internal family systems (IFS).
My passion is to help you uproot your trauma rather than just treat symptoms (which can often feel unhelpful and frustrating long-term). I frequently work with complex trauma/complex PTSD, insecure attachment patterns, LGBTQIA+ identities, ADHD, and Autism. Clients often come to me feeling "stuck", deeply misunderstood, repeating painful patterns, having had negative therapy experiences in the past, feeling like "nothing works", and have a history of intellectualizing their feelings. It is my goal to help you work through your trauma, navigate your identity, and feel more present and safe in your every day life.
I utilize a mix of therapeutic approaches including: feminist, attachment based, experiential, somatic, and internal family systems (IFS).
My passion is to help you uproot your trauma rather than just treat symptoms (which can often feel unhelpful and frustrating long-term). I frequently work with complex trauma/complex PTSD, insecure attachment patterns, LGBTQIA+ identities, ADHD, and Autism. Clients often come to me feeling "stuck", deeply misunderstood, repeating painful patterns, having had negative therapy experiences in the past, feeling like "nothing works", and have a history of intellectualizing their feelings. It is my goal to help you work through your trauma, navigate your identity, and feel more present and safe in your every day life.
(972) 696-7149 View (972) 696-7149
Photo of Derek Royce Jesko, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Derek Royce Jesko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
While capable of treating a wide variety of mental health problems, I currently specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Depression, and Interpersonal problems through the utilization of Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Trauma comes in numerous forms, many of which remain just below the surface, unconsciously directing our lives, impacting our relationships, and stunting our unique pursuit of happiness. Thankfully, mental health services are no longer strictly designated for those amongst us experiencing the most overt forms of dysfunction. From those in need of initial trauma recovery and basic life stabilization to those looking to maximize their potential and optimize their lifestyle, my ideal client simply seeks to shed the bindings of the past in pursuit of a more authentic and fulfilling life.
While capable of treating a wide variety of mental health problems, I currently specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Depression, and Interpersonal problems through the utilization of Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Trauma comes in numerous forms, many of which remain just below the surface, unconsciously directing our lives, impacting our relationships, and stunting our unique pursuit of happiness. Thankfully, mental health services are no longer strictly designated for those amongst us experiencing the most overt forms of dysfunction. From those in need of initial trauma recovery and basic life stabilization to those looking to maximize their potential and optimize their lifestyle, my ideal client simply seeks to shed the bindings of the past in pursuit of a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(325) 440-7853 View (325) 440-7853
Photo of Melodie Alexander, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Melodie Alexander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Is your marriage everything you hoped it would be? Do you or your partner find yourselves resorting to criticism or shutting down during conflict? Or have you noticed that your relationship feels more like a roommate situation rather than a romantic relationship? Have you longed for a deeper connection with your spouse but feel you've exhausted all your options? I understand marriage can be challenging, and feeling disconnected from your spouse is one of the worst feelings. Please know that you are not alone. I am here to help. Together, we can strive towards (re)kindling the closeness and intimacy that you both desire.
Is your marriage everything you hoped it would be? Do you or your partner find yourselves resorting to criticism or shutting down during conflict? Or have you noticed that your relationship feels more like a roommate situation rather than a romantic relationship? Have you longed for a deeper connection with your spouse but feel you've exhausted all your options? I understand marriage can be challenging, and feeling disconnected from your spouse is one of the worst feelings. Please know that you are not alone. I am here to help. Together, we can strive towards (re)kindling the closeness and intimacy that you both desire.
(214) 253-8937 View (214) 253-8937
Photo of Holly Martin, LPC-Associate in 75093, TX
Holly Martin
LPC-Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
None of us should have to face life’s journey alone. As we grow and enter new stages of life, things that worked for us in the past may no longer serve us well. Sometimes the challenges of life call for new responses. Counseling can be an opportunity to explore the rules, boundaries, and expectations that we have acquired over time and consider new possibilities. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, supervised by Megan Krizan.
None of us should have to face life’s journey alone. As we grow and enter new stages of life, things that worked for us in the past may no longer serve us well. Sometimes the challenges of life call for new responses. Counseling can be an opportunity to explore the rules, boundaries, and expectations that we have acquired over time and consider new possibilities. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, supervised by Megan Krizan.
(469) 382-4724 View (469) 382-4724
Photo of Bob Bahlmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Bob Bahlmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MABS, MACMHC, NBCC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I believe counseling is a way for everyone to process the events that have happened or are happening in their lives, and work alongside them to develop positive coping skills. Clients can expect for me to meet them where they are in life and approach our counseling relationship with empathy, interest, and intuition. I enjoy working with individuals from adolescents to adults and providing couples' counseling, including pre-marital, marriage counseling, infertility, and adoption. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, men's issues, and sex addiction.
I believe counseling is a way for everyone to process the events that have happened or are happening in their lives, and work alongside them to develop positive coping skills. Clients can expect for me to meet them where they are in life and approach our counseling relationship with empathy, interest, and intuition. I enjoy working with individuals from adolescents to adults and providing couples' counseling, including pre-marital, marriage counseling, infertility, and adoption. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, men's issues, and sex addiction.
(312) 566-8633 View (312) 566-8633
Photo of Lori Michele Kennedy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Lori Michele Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, Owner
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Expressions Family Counseling is a place for everyone to experience the difference wellness focused therapy can make! What makes us different is a dedication to combining traditional talk therapy with creative arts, play and experiential activities. Our clients love the variety of ways to work on their strengths and struggles. Helping clients express through art, sand and other mediums inspires self-exploration and insight on a deeper level, alleviating the need for the "perfect words" and taking the pressure off of overthinking and anxiety. We love helping clients find the perfect way to harness strengths in order to thrive.
Expressions Family Counseling is a place for everyone to experience the difference wellness focused therapy can make! What makes us different is a dedication to combining traditional talk therapy with creative arts, play and experiential activities. Our clients love the variety of ways to work on their strengths and struggles. Helping clients express through art, sand and other mediums inspires self-exploration and insight on a deeper level, alleviating the need for the "perfect words" and taking the pressure off of overthinking and anxiety. We love helping clients find the perfect way to harness strengths in order to thrive.
(972) 362-1399 View (972) 362-1399
Photo of Elizabeth Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 75093, TX
Elizabeth Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I help adults, adolescents and their families restore balance to their lives. My experience includes 17 years in private practice and over 20 years in the addiction field, including; substances, food, sex & religion. As an alternative option to traditional counseling, I offer an Intensive Program. Intensives are highly individualized and designed to assist clients in reaching their goals quicker. Clients who want to fast track their results or deep dive into an area of concern should consider doing and Intensive.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I help adults, adolescents and their families restore balance to their lives. My experience includes 17 years in private practice and over 20 years in the addiction field, including; substances, food, sex & religion. As an alternative option to traditional counseling, I offer an Intensive Program. Intensives are highly individualized and designed to assist clients in reaching their goals quicker. Clients who want to fast track their results or deep dive into an area of concern should consider doing and Intensive.
(469) 361-7235 View (469) 361-7235
Photo of Think Tank Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Think Tank Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Now accepting new clients! Here at Think Tank Counseling, we understand that mental health needs are as unique as you are. Whether you are struggling with an ongoing issue or a recent hardship; there is help. We offer accessible, affordable therapy services, nutritional coaching, and psychological testing according to each individual's needs and circumstances.Think Tank Counseling is a family owned business that believes collaboration is the key to successful outcomes in treatment. We are not just here to listen but to work hand in hand with you to reach your goals. You have as much to offer in your own healing as we do.
Now accepting new clients! Here at Think Tank Counseling, we understand that mental health needs are as unique as you are. Whether you are struggling with an ongoing issue or a recent hardship; there is help. We offer accessible, affordable therapy services, nutritional coaching, and psychological testing according to each individual's needs and circumstances.Think Tank Counseling is a family owned business that believes collaboration is the key to successful outcomes in treatment. We are not just here to listen but to work hand in hand with you to reach your goals. You have as much to offer in your own healing as we do.
(469) 629-7266 View (469) 629-7266
Photo of Madee Hayes, LPC Associate in 75093, TX
Madee Hayes
LPC Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Your child has been bullied, feels overwhelmed easily, and has had difficulty making friends. Your teen may be showing signs of anxiety or depression and are having difficulty feeling confident and capable in their world. You as an adult may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and you just need help making sense of it all.
Your child has been bullied, feels overwhelmed easily, and has had difficulty making friends. Your teen may be showing signs of anxiety or depression and are having difficulty feeling confident and capable in their world. You as an adult may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and you just need help making sense of it all.
(214) 239-4987 View (214) 239-4987
Photo of Dr. R. Scott Gornto, Marriage & Family Therapist in 75093, TX
Dr. R. Scott Gornto
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MDiv, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Dr. R. Scott Gornto, PHD, MDIV, LMFT, CST is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist who works with Individuals, Couples, Families, Groups, Businesses and Leaders. Dr. Gornto has developed the innovative Auxano Approach®, which emphasizes connection and growth in all types of relationships. These two fundamental concepts are the catalyst for long-term change, giving life to the best version of you in your relationships, your marriage, and your mindset. Practicing in North Texas since 1999, Dr. Gornto works with clients from Dallas and the surrounding areas.
Dr. R. Scott Gornto, PHD, MDIV, LMFT, CST is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist who works with Individuals, Couples, Families, Groups, Businesses and Leaders. Dr. Gornto has developed the innovative Auxano Approach®, which emphasizes connection and growth in all types of relationships. These two fundamental concepts are the catalyst for long-term change, giving life to the best version of you in your relationships, your marriage, and your mindset. Practicing in North Texas since 1999, Dr. Gornto works with clients from Dallas and the surrounding areas.
(972) 301-2544 View (972) 301-2544
Photo of Ammar Nazarali, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 75093, TX
Ammar Nazarali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Therapy is a brave journey that can allow you to better understand your wants/needs, discover your unique strengths, and develop psychological resilience to help you cope with all that life has to offer. This road to personal development is a path less often taken but it can lead to a rich and fulfilled life. I would be honored to support your endeavors along this path. My areas of expertise include therapeutic approaches for adolescents, young adults, and adults with issues related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem/confidence, substance use disorders, mood disorders, athletes, first & second-generation immigrants.
Therapy is a brave journey that can allow you to better understand your wants/needs, discover your unique strengths, and develop psychological resilience to help you cope with all that life has to offer. This road to personal development is a path less often taken but it can lead to a rich and fulfilled life. I would be honored to support your endeavors along this path. My areas of expertise include therapeutic approaches for adolescents, young adults, and adults with issues related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem/confidence, substance use disorders, mood disorders, athletes, first & second-generation immigrants.
(214) 617-9472 View (214) 617-9472
Photo of La Tricia Cleveland, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 75093, TX
La Tricia Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I have a passion for helping people whether it be teens, adults, couples, families, and individuals struggling with grief, stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and marital and familial conflict. My goal is to specialize in trauma in relationships, conflict, infidelity in marriage, and communication issues that plagues couples and families.
I have a passion for helping people whether it be teens, adults, couples, families, and individuals struggling with grief, stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and marital and familial conflict. My goal is to specialize in trauma in relationships, conflict, infidelity in marriage, and communication issues that plagues couples and families.
(469) 535-7881 View (469) 535-7881
Photo of Eryn E Hicker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 75093, TX
Eryn E Hicker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
I am EMDR certified. We've all experienced ups and downs, of life, as the ocean we navigate through ebbs and flows. We may be in the same ocean of chaos around us, but out boats are all crafted differently. Some surf through waves in their expensive, privileged Yachts, and some of us are barely keeping afloat in our tattered paddle boats. No matter your type of boat, we all get tossed into the water from time to time. Don't let the waves flood you. Learn to keep your head above the waves, and eventually build up ability to surf over those rough waves with confidence.
I am EMDR certified. We've all experienced ups and downs, of life, as the ocean we navigate through ebbs and flows. We may be in the same ocean of chaos around us, but out boats are all crafted differently. Some surf through waves in their expensive, privileged Yachts, and some of us are barely keeping afloat in our tattered paddle boats. No matter your type of boat, we all get tossed into the water from time to time. Don't let the waves flood you. Learn to keep your head above the waves, and eventually build up ability to surf over those rough waves with confidence.
(214) 380-1431 View (214) 380-1431
Photo of Christopher Jones, Pastoral Counselor in 75093, TX
Christopher Jones
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, MPA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
My primary specialty is romantic conflict. Many persons I counsel are either "stuck" or at an impasse. They just cannot seem to resolve their conflict. They often see their issues worsen despite efforts. I address the root causes, matters that often go unaddressed. These root issues are often why couples continue to fight. These matters are so strong that they can take the best of romances and turn them into near hatred and disgust. My secondary specialty is emotional management, including with children. I primarily address regret, fear, anger, and anxiety, helping you understand and manage emotions that hold you back.
My primary specialty is romantic conflict. Many persons I counsel are either "stuck" or at an impasse. They just cannot seem to resolve their conflict. They often see their issues worsen despite efforts. I address the root causes, matters that often go unaddressed. These root issues are often why couples continue to fight. These matters are so strong that they can take the best of romances and turn them into near hatred and disgust. My secondary specialty is emotional management, including with children. I primarily address regret, fear, anger, and anxiety, helping you understand and manage emotions that hold you back.
(469) 840-1927 View (469) 840-1927
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Kendall, Marriage & Family Therapist in 75093, TX
Dr. Jennifer Kendall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Are you struggling to balance your busy professional lives with maintaining a fulfilling relationship? Or feeling frustrated, disconnected, or stuck in unhelpful patterns of communication with your partner? As a trained couples therapist, I'm here to help you and your partner navigate these difficulties and build a stronger, more fulfilling relationship. Whether you're dealing with communication issues, trust, and betrayal, or simply feeling disconnected, my evidence-based approach can provide you with the tools you need to move forward. Don't wait to start the journey toward a healthier, happier relationship. Contact me today!
Are you struggling to balance your busy professional lives with maintaining a fulfilling relationship? Or feeling frustrated, disconnected, or stuck in unhelpful patterns of communication with your partner? As a trained couples therapist, I'm here to help you and your partner navigate these difficulties and build a stronger, more fulfilling relationship. Whether you're dealing with communication issues, trust, and betrayal, or simply feeling disconnected, my evidence-based approach can provide you with the tools you need to move forward. Don't wait to start the journey toward a healthier, happier relationship. Contact me today!
(469) 535-7548 View (469) 535-7548
Photo of Karen S Tyndall, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Karen S Tyndall
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
As a professional counselor, I focus my clinical practice on Cognitive, Behavioral, and Solution-focus Therapy working with families, couples and individuals of all ages. Clients discover how to stop self-sabotage and create their personal goals. Professional feedback is given to provide direction, education and guidance for the client. My Professional expertise covers multiple types of issues such as: Anger, Stress, Relationship, Grief & Loss, Marital issues, Family issues, Parenting, Life Skills Training, Sports Performance and Mastering Life Success Coaching.
As a professional counselor, I focus my clinical practice on Cognitive, Behavioral, and Solution-focus Therapy working with families, couples and individuals of all ages. Clients discover how to stop self-sabotage and create their personal goals. Professional feedback is given to provide direction, education and guidance for the client. My Professional expertise covers multiple types of issues such as: Anger, Stress, Relationship, Grief & Loss, Marital issues, Family issues, Parenting, Life Skills Training, Sports Performance and Mastering Life Success Coaching.
(972) 360-8866 View (972) 360-8866
Photo of Melinda Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in 75093, TX
Melinda Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, AASECT, CST-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I provide a non-judgmental environment for you to process, create a healthier self and find your voice. As an AASECT certified sex therapist, EMDR trained therapist, LPC Supervisor, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I believe in growing continuously, learning in all the moments, and remembering your journey will be forever changing. I am Licensed in both Texas and Colorado. I would be honored to work with you during the next part of your journey.
I provide a non-judgmental environment for you to process, create a healthier self and find your voice. As an AASECT certified sex therapist, EMDR trained therapist, LPC Supervisor, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I believe in growing continuously, learning in all the moments, and remembering your journey will be forever changing. I am Licensed in both Texas and Colorado. I would be honored to work with you during the next part of your journey.
(214) 915-2870 View (214) 915-2870
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.