Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in 95062

Photo of Liberty Flidais, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 95062, CA
Liberty Flidais
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
My work integrates Attachment Theory, Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems with trauma-informed care.
Relating with people and witnessing growth is what I love most. It is my honor to support you when you’re feeling stressed out, anxious, invisible or depleted. I hold a somatic (body-based) perspective that is empathetic, patient and curious. I am receptive to that which naturally emerges through thoughts, emotions, sensations, images and memories in each session. I approach personal narratives with openness & compassion.
My work integrates Attachment Theory, Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems with trauma-informed care.
Relating with people and witnessing growth is what I love most. It is my honor to support you when you’re feeling stressed out, anxious, invisible or depleted. I hold a somatic (body-based) perspective that is empathetic, patient and curious. I am receptive to that which naturally emerges through thoughts, emotions, sensations, images and memories in each session. I approach personal narratives with openness & compassion.
(831) 265-5547 View (831) 265-5547
Photo of Angela Vincent, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 95062, CA
Angela Vincent
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I work integratively with each client with depth modalities such as IFS and more.
It's not easy being human and you aren't meant to navigate life alone. Living in the modern world it's easy to lose connection to yourself, others, and nature. You might suffer from anxiety, depression, physical pain or a general lack of purpose and joy. With a busy life, you often can’t pause long enough to reflect and make the changes you most need to make. You want to heal so you can live into your soul's unique purpose and want to make the time for soulful exploration and personal growth. The good news is, psychotherapy (literally meaning "soul healing"), has its root in this powerful work and you don't have to do it alone.
I work integratively with each client with depth modalities such as IFS and more.
It's not easy being human and you aren't meant to navigate life alone. Living in the modern world it's easy to lose connection to yourself, others, and nature. You might suffer from anxiety, depression, physical pain or a general lack of purpose and joy. With a busy life, you often can’t pause long enough to reflect and make the changes you most need to make. You want to heal so you can live into your soul's unique purpose and want to make the time for soulful exploration and personal growth. The good news is, psychotherapy (literally meaning "soul healing"), has its root in this powerful work and you don't have to do it alone.
(831) 533-9368 View (831) 533-9368
Photo of Tod Haddow, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 95062, CA
Tod Haddow
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I offer a variety of modalities to help you resolve issues that might have been hard to overcome with traditional talk therapy including EMDR, Brainspotting, and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
We all deserve to live a life that is full of joy, connection, and meaning. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgemental space where you can heal past wounds and examine thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that may no longer be serving you. With an open mind and empathetic presence, I help my clients find internal peace so that they can live a life that feels congruent with their beliefs, values and hopes for the future.
I offer a variety of modalities to help you resolve issues that might have been hard to overcome with traditional talk therapy including EMDR, Brainspotting, and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
We all deserve to live a life that is full of joy, connection, and meaning. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgemental space where you can heal past wounds and examine thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that may no longer be serving you. With an open mind and empathetic presence, I help my clients find internal peace so that they can live a life that feels congruent with their beliefs, values and hopes for the future.
(831) 610-5971 View (831) 610-5971
Photo of Hannah Idalia, Marriage & Family Therapist in 95062, CA
Hannah Idalia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062  (Online Only)
I specialize in somatic therapy and present moment mindfulness practices along with cognitive approaches such as Internal Family Systems.
Your healing can start today! In addition to being an LMFT, my approach extends beyond talk therapy to include holistic/integrative methods. I help individuals get to the root of their problems that lie hidden outside of awareness. My approach is highly influenced by mindfulness practice. You will be guided in each session to build your capacity for present moment focus using breath and body awareness and radical acceptance. This liberates heavy energy and/or pain associated with thoughts and feelings that may have been hidden or stuck. Are you ready to discover what's possible in a collaborative healing relationship? Reach out!
I specialize in somatic therapy and present moment mindfulness practices along with cognitive approaches such as Internal Family Systems.
Your healing can start today! In addition to being an LMFT, my approach extends beyond talk therapy to include holistic/integrative methods. I help individuals get to the root of their problems that lie hidden outside of awareness. My approach is highly influenced by mindfulness practice. You will be guided in each session to build your capacity for present moment focus using breath and body awareness and radical acceptance. This liberates heavy energy and/or pain associated with thoughts and feelings that may have been hidden or stuck. Are you ready to discover what's possible in a collaborative healing relationship? Reach out!
(831) 621-5362 View (831) 621-5362
Kristin Baron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize mindfulness as well as an approach to therapy called Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help people find more ease and choice in their internal world.
"Stuck." At some point in our lives, we all feel it. I help people link their desire for things to be different to the places they feel stuck, healthfully and effectively. You don't need to know how to change, we start with where you are. I like the Chinese proverb, "Acceptance and change are brothers, but acceptance is the older brother." By helping you learn to first accept where you are (even if now it seems impossible), suffering is naturally reduced and there is more energy and room for growth. You get to like yourself now AND change.
I utilize mindfulness as well as an approach to therapy called Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help people find more ease and choice in their internal world.
"Stuck." At some point in our lives, we all feel it. I help people link their desire for things to be different to the places they feel stuck, healthfully and effectively. You don't need to know how to change, we start with where you are. I like the Chinese proverb, "Acceptance and change are brothers, but acceptance is the older brother." By helping you learn to first accept where you are (even if now it seems impossible), suffering is naturally reduced and there is more energy and room for growth. You get to like yourself now AND change.
(831) 709-4932 View (831) 709-4932
Photo of Nina Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in 95062, CA
Nina Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I am trained in Internal Family Systems and Self-Focusing work.
Having relationship issues? I am here to help! I am Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Certified. Let me evaluate your communication and share effective tools that will help your relationship to thrive!
I am trained in Internal Family Systems and Self-Focusing work.
Having relationship issues? I am here to help! I am Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Certified. Let me evaluate your communication and share effective tools that will help your relationship to thrive!
(415) 702-2489 View (415) 702-2489
Photo of Hannah Andrews, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 95062, CA
Hannah Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Waitlist for new clients
As a trauma-informed somatic psychotherapist I strive to create a safe space for you to develop a deeper understanding of the beliefs, behaviors and experiences that impact your wellbeing. My practice is non-pathologizing and I honor the complexity and richness of your story. I believe in your ability to heal under the right conditions and I work with clients who are ready to stoke the fires of change and explore what it means to live authentically. I use mindfulness, Hakomi and IFS strategies to help deepen your exploration, address unhealthy patterns and integrate practices that support however you want to live in the world.
As a trauma-informed somatic psychotherapist I strive to create a safe space for you to develop a deeper understanding of the beliefs, behaviors and experiences that impact your wellbeing. My practice is non-pathologizing and I honor the complexity and richness of your story. I believe in your ability to heal under the right conditions and I work with clients who are ready to stoke the fires of change and explore what it means to live authentically. I use mindfulness, Hakomi and IFS strategies to help deepen your exploration, address unhealthy patterns and integrate practices that support however you want to live in the world.
(831) 593-4122 View (831) 593-4122
Photo of Kristin Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in 95062, CA
Kristin Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Hi, I'm Kristin Roberts. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in Northern California. I see individual adults, couples, families, and minors (14-17). I specialize in treating trauma and use EMDR and brainspotting. I'm also IFS informed and use that modality to heal client's inner adult/child parts of self. I treat anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship distress in friendships, family dynamics, and with couples.
Hi, I'm Kristin Roberts. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in Northern California. I see individual adults, couples, families, and minors (14-17). I specialize in treating trauma and use EMDR and brainspotting. I'm also IFS informed and use that modality to heal client's inner adult/child parts of self. I treat anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship distress in friendships, family dynamics, and with couples.
(831) 666-0175 View (831) 666-0175
Photo of Katie Jacobson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 95062, CA
Katie Jacobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Utilizing mindfulness, body-centered practices, and the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, I strive to help clients cultivate curiosity and compassion so they have more self-awareness, understanding, and choice.
It takes courage to make it here, and I’m so glad you did.

We all hit points in life where we feel stuck or uncertain of how to cope and move forward. As humans, stress and pain is inevitable, but you don’t have to work through it alone. I'm here to help you navigate your challenges and experience greater ease, satisfaction, and intimacy with life. My work is focused on supporting you to connect with your inner wisdom, shift how you relate with yourself, and remember your unique gifts. With a holistic approach, honoring mind, body, spirit, I believe that you are whole, resilient, and capable of growing and healing.
Utilizing mindfulness, body-centered practices, and the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, I strive to help clients cultivate curiosity and compassion so they have more self-awareness, understanding, and choice.
It takes courage to make it here, and I’m so glad you did.

We all hit points in life where we feel stuck or uncertain of how to cope and move forward. As humans, stress and pain is inevitable, but you don’t have to work through it alone. I'm here to help you navigate your challenges and experience greater ease, satisfaction, and intimacy with life. My work is focused on supporting you to connect with your inner wisdom, shift how you relate with yourself, and remember your unique gifts. With a holistic approach, honoring mind, body, spirit, I believe that you are whole, resilient, and capable of growing and healing.
(831) 318-8009 View (831) 318-8009
Photo of Katie Giannini, Marriage & Family Therapist in 95062, CA
Katie Giannini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
IFS allows me to work well with a wide variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, life transitions, relationship issues, and body image struggles.
Life can be overcome by stress easily, and for some of us that stress becomes unbearable. Thoughts and feelings become overwhelming, leaving life feeling out of control and chaotic. In my work, I bring a wealth of curiosity and compassion to exploring a person's inner world of thoughts and feelings. Through this exploration, clients find deep internal healing and develop meaningful satisfaction in their work, relationships, and most of all within themselves. I am trained in Internal Family Systems therapy, which has given me a means to help people reach their goals and create the life they long for.
IFS allows me to work well with a wide variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, life transitions, relationship issues, and body image struggles.
Life can be overcome by stress easily, and for some of us that stress becomes unbearable. Thoughts and feelings become overwhelming, leaving life feeling out of control and chaotic. In my work, I bring a wealth of curiosity and compassion to exploring a person's inner world of thoughts and feelings. Through this exploration, clients find deep internal healing and develop meaningful satisfaction in their work, relationships, and most of all within themselves. I am trained in Internal Family Systems therapy, which has given me a means to help people reach their goals and create the life they long for.
(831) 264-1862 View (831) 264-1862
Photo of Celena Allison, Marriage & Family Therapist in 95062, CA
Celena Allison
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) Certified Therapist with advanced training.
Perhaps you are feeling stuck, trapped or anxious. Maybe you believe you don't measure up to what you assume others expect of you or what you expect of yourself. These feelings and beliefs frequently indicate aspects in your life rooted in early life trauma that are trying to get your attention, but can feel intolerable and unbearable at times. Growing the ability to connect with the many parts and experiences of your life in a new way could be key. Learning to relate with compassion to the beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and concerns that arise can be an invitation for new understanding, meaning, and creativity.
I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) Certified Therapist with advanced training.
Perhaps you are feeling stuck, trapped or anxious. Maybe you believe you don't measure up to what you assume others expect of you or what you expect of yourself. These feelings and beliefs frequently indicate aspects in your life rooted in early life trauma that are trying to get your attention, but can feel intolerable and unbearable at times. Growing the ability to connect with the many parts and experiences of your life in a new way could be key. Learning to relate with compassion to the beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and concerns that arise can be an invitation for new understanding, meaning, and creativity.
(831) 531-7728 View (831) 531-7728
Photo of Dylan Jay Brody, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 95062, CA
Dylan Jay Brody
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Additionally, I have done trainings in IFS, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Nonviolent Communication (NVC), Cognitive Therapy, and have a personal practice of mindfulness and breathwork that I bring into my work with clients.
Welcome. If you’re reading this, it probably means you are looking for something different. If you are looking for individual therapy, I believe I can be of best support to those who have already begun their healing work and are ready to dive deeper. This might involve utilizing current high-tech approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS) or Somatic Therapy (e.g. Hakomi), as well as mindfulness and present-moment focused therapy, or possibly delving deeper into your psychological history. However, I am confident, ready, and willing to meet people wherever they are at on their journey. Additionally, I enjoy working with couples.
Additionally, I have done trainings in IFS, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Nonviolent Communication (NVC), Cognitive Therapy, and have a personal practice of mindfulness and breathwork that I bring into my work with clients.
Welcome. If you’re reading this, it probably means you are looking for something different. If you are looking for individual therapy, I believe I can be of best support to those who have already begun their healing work and are ready to dive deeper. This might involve utilizing current high-tech approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS) or Somatic Therapy (e.g. Hakomi), as well as mindfulness and present-moment focused therapy, or possibly delving deeper into your psychological history. However, I am confident, ready, and willing to meet people wherever they are at on their journey. Additionally, I enjoy working with couples.
(831) 603-4211 View (831) 603-4211
Photo of Shauna Casey, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 95062, CA
Shauna Casey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I draw upon Internal Family Systems, and Interpersonal Neurobiology to help you explore patterns and emotions that get in the way of your own innate well-being.
At points in life we all find ourselves in a place of not knowing. Not knowing how to manage feelings, thoughts, and experiences; not knowing what to do about or how to recover from life events; not knowing how to be with others or with the difficulties that arise from being alive and human. I view therapy as a tool for healing and healing as something that begins when we learn how to listen to and relate to ourselves differently in times of uncertainty. I help individuals, couples and families of diverse backgrounds and identities transform how they relate to themselves and to others in a way that opens the door for healing.
I draw upon Internal Family Systems, and Interpersonal Neurobiology to help you explore patterns and emotions that get in the way of your own innate well-being.
At points in life we all find ourselves in a place of not knowing. Not knowing how to manage feelings, thoughts, and experiences; not knowing what to do about or how to recover from life events; not knowing how to be with others or with the difficulties that arise from being alive and human. I view therapy as a tool for healing and healing as something that begins when we learn how to listen to and relate to ourselves differently in times of uncertainty. I help individuals, couples and families of diverse backgrounds and identities transform how they relate to themselves and to others in a way that opens the door for healing.
(831) 268-6538 View (831) 268-6538
Photo of Tonia Heath, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 95062, CA
Tonia Heath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I use a mix of effective therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness.
Hello! First, let me tell you a bit about myself: I have over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, both in community agencies and in private practice. I currently specialize in treating individual adults. I enjoy meeting you, wherever you are at in your life, with respect and caring. I am authentic and accepting, and provide a safe, confidential space for you to explore your past and what you want for your present and future. In therapy with me, you can turn emotional pain or stress into something lighter, and progress on a path toward greater happiness and health.
I use a mix of effective therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness.
Hello! First, let me tell you a bit about myself: I have over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, both in community agencies and in private practice. I currently specialize in treating individual adults. I enjoy meeting you, wherever you are at in your life, with respect and caring. I am authentic and accepting, and provide a safe, confidential space for you to explore your past and what you want for your present and future. In therapy with me, you can turn emotional pain or stress into something lighter, and progress on a path toward greater happiness and health.
(831) 226-8306 View (831) 226-8306
Photo of Cas Chamberlain, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 95062, CA
Cas Chamberlain
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I draw from Humanistic, IFS, Somatic/Experiential, Mindfulness, Attachment Theory, and Psychodynamic approaches.
My specialty is supporting humans on their path of healing and thriving. I offer a safe space to explore all parts of yourself so you can uncover deeper meaning and access inner peace. I work in the realms of intimacy/relationships, managing stress and anxiety, personal growth, adult ADHD, healing from trauma, holistic wellness (mind/body/spirit) and integrating expanded states of consciousness (spiritual, psychedelic). My clients are often free-thinkers, seekers, passionate and sensitive souls, trying to find balance. I work with individuals and couples in creating more balanced and fulfilling lives.
I draw from Humanistic, IFS, Somatic/Experiential, Mindfulness, Attachment Theory, and Psychodynamic approaches.
My specialty is supporting humans on their path of healing and thriving. I offer a safe space to explore all parts of yourself so you can uncover deeper meaning and access inner peace. I work in the realms of intimacy/relationships, managing stress and anxiety, personal growth, adult ADHD, healing from trauma, holistic wellness (mind/body/spirit) and integrating expanded states of consciousness (spiritual, psychedelic). My clients are often free-thinkers, seekers, passionate and sensitive souls, trying to find balance. I work with individuals and couples in creating more balanced and fulfilling lives.
(831) 273-9647 View (831) 273-9647
Photo of Megan Shell, Pre-Licensed Professional in 95062, CA
Megan Shell
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
My areas of expertise and interest include trauma and relationship distress using an internal family systems lens.
Large and small traumas can stack up over the course of a lifetime disconnecting us from ourselves and others and leaving us feeling anxious, depressed and overwhelmed. With warmth, humor and directness I work with you to rediscover lost parts of yourself and work on the behaviors that helped you at one point but are no longer serving you. I work with couples who are dealing with conflict, feelings of betrayal, intimacy issues or disconnection. I love helping you find your way back to one another.
My areas of expertise and interest include trauma and relationship distress using an internal family systems lens.
Large and small traumas can stack up over the course of a lifetime disconnecting us from ourselves and others and leaving us feeling anxious, depressed and overwhelmed. With warmth, humor and directness I work with you to rediscover lost parts of yourself and work on the behaviors that helped you at one point but are no longer serving you. I work with couples who are dealing with conflict, feelings of betrayal, intimacy issues or disconnection. I love helping you find your way back to one another.
(831) 603-0060 View (831) 603-0060
Photo of Dr. Thomas Lucking, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist in 95062, CA
Dr. Thomas Lucking, PhD
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Change and growth are hard but regressive change is ultimately harder. My approach to change is integrative: mind, body, spirit, social. My decades of experience enable me to bring objectivity, knowledge, and compassion to our task of uncovering your truth and your path to individual and relational health. As a psychology professor I stay current with new research. I use a diverse set of tools to help you achieve your goals: IFS, CBT, EFT, EMDR, trauma-informed therapy, and Neurofeedback. I am a communications expert who uses powerful tools to implement research-backed processes to help your relationships thrive.
Change and growth are hard but regressive change is ultimately harder. My approach to change is integrative: mind, body, spirit, social. My decades of experience enable me to bring objectivity, knowledge, and compassion to our task of uncovering your truth and your path to individual and relational health. As a psychology professor I stay current with new research. I use a diverse set of tools to help you achieve your goals: IFS, CBT, EFT, EMDR, trauma-informed therapy, and Neurofeedback. I am a communications expert who uses powerful tools to implement research-backed processes to help your relationships thrive.
(831) 337-4228 View (831) 337-4228
Photo of Tierney McNulty, Marriage & Family Therapist in 95062, CA
Tierney McNulty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062  (Online Only)
I am trained through the IFS Institute in Internal Family Systems.
I offer compassionate virtual therapy for individuals in Montana and California. I am a licensed Therapist who uses Internal Family Systems (IFS). I specialize in helping navigate life transitions and the accompanying confusion, fear and loss. I aim to help you find your strengths in moments of hopelessness and use the skills you may not know you have.
I am trained through the IFS Institute in Internal Family Systems.
I offer compassionate virtual therapy for individuals in Montana and California. I am a licensed Therapist who uses Internal Family Systems (IFS). I specialize in helping navigate life transitions and the accompanying confusion, fear and loss. I aim to help you find your strengths in moments of hopelessness and use the skills you may not know you have.
(831) 824-4002 View (831) 824-4002
Photo of Marisa Morris, Marriage & Family Therapist in 95062, CA
Marisa Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I have years of experience walking alongside clients and family systems dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, codependency, transition, adoption, the challenges of living with a loved one struggling with addiction or mental illness and more.
This is not always easy work. Exploring trauma, sadness, anxiousness, fear, doubt, insecurities, change, and more can be challenging and even scary. So much has shifted in our world, it feels as if it has also unearthed new chances to also allow ourselves to grow. I imagine that’s why you’re here, searching for ways to connect with and support these parts of yourself, or to help a younger loved one do so. In my work, I choose to employ curiosity and acceptance, informed by models such as Internal Family Systems, to gently lean into change and healing at the client's pace.
I have years of experience walking alongside clients and family systems dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, codependency, transition, adoption, the challenges of living with a loved one struggling with addiction or mental illness and more.
This is not always easy work. Exploring trauma, sadness, anxiousness, fear, doubt, insecurities, change, and more can be challenging and even scary. So much has shifted in our world, it feels as if it has also unearthed new chances to also allow ourselves to grow. I imagine that’s why you’re here, searching for ways to connect with and support these parts of yourself, or to help a younger loved one do so. In my work, I choose to employ curiosity and acceptance, informed by models such as Internal Family Systems, to gently lean into change and healing at the client's pace.
(831) 900-4928 View (831) 900-4928
Photo of HH & Co., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 95062, CA
HH & Co.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Holly and team are trained in many types of therapy, including those commonly requested - EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction; Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy; Motivational Interviewing; Internal Family Systems.
HH & Co. is a therapy practice with EMDR available, located in Santa Cruz, CA. We believe that growth and sustained change happens when people experience genuineness (openness, self-disclosure), acceptance (being seen with unconditional positive regard), and empathy (being listened to and understood). Holly is a general practitioner who treats people, not problems, so we encourage you to come just as you are. Together, we will work to define your goals, identify thoughts and behaviors that may may hinder the achievement of these goals, track progress⁠, and tap into your inner strength and resilience.
Holly and team are trained in many types of therapy, including those commonly requested - EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction; Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy; Motivational Interviewing; Internal Family Systems.
HH & Co. is a therapy practice with EMDR available, located in Santa Cruz, CA. We believe that growth and sustained change happens when people experience genuineness (openness, self-disclosure), acceptance (being seen with unconditional positive regard), and empathy (being listened to and understood). Holly is a general practitioner who treats people, not problems, so we encourage you to come just as you are. Together, we will work to define your goals, identify thoughts and behaviors that may may hinder the achievement of these goals, track progress⁠, and tap into your inner strength and resilience.
(831) 226-8862 View (831) 226-8862
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.