Photo of Kim Kuresman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 98104, WA
Kim Kuresman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
I am informed by emotionally-focused therapy (EFT), somatic practices, internal family systems (IFS), and solutions-focused therapy but my practice is based on the individual needs of each client.
I believe everyone has the ability to grow and heal when they have access to the support that they need. My intention is to facilitate that safe and secure space for individuals, couples, and families.
I am informed by emotionally-focused therapy (EFT), somatic practices, internal family systems (IFS), and solutions-focused therapy but my practice is based on the individual needs of each client.
I believe everyone has the ability to grow and heal when they have access to the support that they need. My intention is to facilitate that safe and secure space for individuals, couples, and families.
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Photo of Leslie G Cohn, Psychologist in 98104, WA
Leslie G Cohn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 25 years of experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, substance dependence, trauma, chronic illness, mania, and relationship concerns. My approach is eclectic, encompassing Internal Family Systems, CBT, family of origin, motivational interviewing and hypnosis. Please see my website for more comprehensive information.
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 25 years of experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, substance dependence, trauma, chronic illness, mania, and relationship concerns. My approach is eclectic, encompassing Internal Family Systems, CBT, family of origin, motivational interviewing and hypnosis. Please see my website for more comprehensive information.
(206) 745-0867 View (206) 745-0867
Photo of Zia Cloud, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 98104, WA
Zia Cloud
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
Furthermore, I tend to draw from Attachment Theory, somatic approaches, as well as IFS.
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I also am a sex therapist. With my clients, I utilize a client-centered approach, which highlights the client as the expert in their life. While creating a warm and compassionate therapeutic environment, I follow my client's lead in what they would like out of therapy. The most effective therapeutic spaces are also collaborative ones, those in which people are encouraged to cultivate a curiosity about their lives and investigate their place within it. If we work together, we will find the balance between comfort and a healthy amount of challenge.
Furthermore, I tend to draw from Attachment Theory, somatic approaches, as well as IFS.
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I also am a sex therapist. With my clients, I utilize a client-centered approach, which highlights the client as the expert in their life. While creating a warm and compassionate therapeutic environment, I follow my client's lead in what they would like out of therapy. The most effective therapeutic spaces are also collaborative ones, those in which people are encouraged to cultivate a curiosity about their lives and investigate their place within it. If we work together, we will find the balance between comfort and a healthy amount of challenge.
(206) 895-7174 View (206) 895-7174
Photo of Emma B Sander, Counselor in 98104, WA
Emma B Sander
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Modalities I use are Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, ACT, Self Compassion, Mindfulness, and CBT.
Do you feel overstimulated by others' energy throughout your day or week? You may have noticed that you have a stronger emotional response than those close to you (both positive & negative). Or maybe, you find yourself so focused on your responsibilities that you struggle to enjoy the journey. We often find ourselves isolating or masking just to cope with impossible feelings. Through counseling, you can face these challenges and decrease the stress, anxiety, and even relationship bumps that you might be experiencing.
Modalities I use are Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, ACT, Self Compassion, Mindfulness, and CBT.
Do you feel overstimulated by others' energy throughout your day or week? You may have noticed that you have a stronger emotional response than those close to you (both positive & negative). Or maybe, you find yourself so focused on your responsibilities that you struggle to enjoy the journey. We often find ourselves isolating or masking just to cope with impossible feelings. Through counseling, you can face these challenges and decrease the stress, anxiety, and even relationship bumps that you might be experiencing.
(206) 278-2930 View (206) 278-2930
Photo of Nicole DeWolf, Counselor in 98104, WA
Nicole DeWolf
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
Depending on our goals, I may draw from cognitive-behavioral, internal family systems or humanist approaches.
We all seek increased meaning, along with deeper purpose and stronger connections. But change can be hard! When pain or fear predominate, we are unable to tolerate stress or to be spontaneous. Together, we will address self-limitations like shame, people-pleasing, or perfectionism. I look forward to working with individuals facing life transitions including grief and loss, divorce, marriage, career change, maintaining recovery, gender assignment exploration or those seeking deeper meaning.
Depending on our goals, I may draw from cognitive-behavioral, internal family systems or humanist approaches.
We all seek increased meaning, along with deeper purpose and stronger connections. But change can be hard! When pain or fear predominate, we are unable to tolerate stress or to be spontaneous. Together, we will address self-limitations like shame, people-pleasing, or perfectionism. I look forward to working with individuals facing life transitions including grief and loss, divorce, marriage, career change, maintaining recovery, gender assignment exploration or those seeking deeper meaning.
(425) 374-4306 View (425) 374-4306
Photo of Catalina Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98104, WA
Catalina Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I use several modalities including Internal Family Systems Theory, Narrative, Existential, Feminist Theory, and other evidence based practices.
As members of the LGTBQ+ and BIPOC communities, there are demands we face coming from every direction. We battle systemic abuse and generational trauma. We do what we need to survive. Over time, we might start to see things in ourselves we don't want to carry anymore. I help my clients deal with their anger and deep rooted pain so that these cycles can finally end. When we heal, we unlock deep joy, creativity, connection, and self acceptance. You deserve to experience the most fulfilled, centered version of yourself.
I use several modalities including Internal Family Systems Theory, Narrative, Existential, Feminist Theory, and other evidence based practices.
As members of the LGTBQ+ and BIPOC communities, there are demands we face coming from every direction. We battle systemic abuse and generational trauma. We do what we need to survive. Over time, we might start to see things in ourselves we don't want to carry anymore. I help my clients deal with their anger and deep rooted pain so that these cycles can finally end. When we heal, we unlock deep joy, creativity, connection, and self acceptance. You deserve to experience the most fulfilled, centered version of yourself.
(206) 401-7360 View (206) 401-7360
Photo of Wesley Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98104, WA
Wesley Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LMSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
The main therapeutic approaches I draw from are Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Maybe you're tired of suffering from being bossed around by OCD or anxiety. Perhaps you’re in a painful life transition and feeling uncertain, afraid, or lost. I’m glad you’re here. If you feel hopeless, I believe things can get much better, one step at a time. Although it sure can feel this way, rather than viewing OCD or anxiety as a monster trying to torture us, I see it as a hypervigilant alert system whose aim is to keep us safe at all costs. Retraining that alert system can help us get unstuck, heal, and thrive. I never claim to have the answers for anyone’s life, but I love helping people find answers within themselves.
The main therapeutic approaches I draw from are Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Maybe you're tired of suffering from being bossed around by OCD or anxiety. Perhaps you’re in a painful life transition and feeling uncertain, afraid, or lost. I’m glad you’re here. If you feel hopeless, I believe things can get much better, one step at a time. Although it sure can feel this way, rather than viewing OCD or anxiety as a monster trying to torture us, I see it as a hypervigilant alert system whose aim is to keep us safe at all costs. Retraining that alert system can help us get unstuck, heal, and thrive. I never claim to have the answers for anyone’s life, but I love helping people find answers within themselves.
(425) 587-8275 View (425) 587-8275
Photo of Tara Bubriski, Counselor in 98104, WA
Tara Bubriski
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Our sessions will involve elements of cognitive/behavioral, internal family systems, emotion-focused, mindfulness, and somatic therapy.
Deeper presence, ease, and connection are possible. Together we can explore ways you may have developed patterns and stories in your life that have taught you to disconnect, shutdown, and constrict your vitality and passion. My work with you will help you remember and connect to your most wise and compassionate self in order to observe and unravel habits and behaviors that may be getting in the way of living according to your deepest goals and values. I am grounded in a holistic framework, which means we will integrate thoughts, emotions and physical sensations in the moment.
Our sessions will involve elements of cognitive/behavioral, internal family systems, emotion-focused, mindfulness, and somatic therapy.
Deeper presence, ease, and connection are possible. Together we can explore ways you may have developed patterns and stories in your life that have taught you to disconnect, shutdown, and constrict your vitality and passion. My work with you will help you remember and connect to your most wise and compassionate self in order to observe and unravel habits and behaviors that may be getting in the way of living according to your deepest goals and values. I am grounded in a holistic framework, which means we will integrate thoughts, emotions and physical sensations in the moment.
(802) 992-1891 View (802) 992-1891
Photo of Jennifer Goldsmith, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 98104, WA
Jennifer Goldsmith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
My aim is to provide you with a warm and welcoming space for exploration, healing, and growth. I prioritize building a sound therapeutic relationship while supporting you in making the changes you want for your life including addressing depression and anxiety, overcoming shame, mending and building relationships, and helping you attune to your inherent wisdom and strengths. I provide individual (including teens), couple, and sex therapy. I incorporate Attachment Theory, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Gottman Couples Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
My aim is to provide you with a warm and welcoming space for exploration, healing, and growth. I prioritize building a sound therapeutic relationship while supporting you in making the changes you want for your life including addressing depression and anxiety, overcoming shame, mending and building relationships, and helping you attune to your inherent wisdom and strengths. I provide individual (including teens), couple, and sex therapy. I incorporate Attachment Theory, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Gottman Couples Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
(509) 316-2543 View (509) 316-2543
Photo of Cameron Martin, Counselor in 98104, WA
Cameron Martin
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I also have training and experience using modalities that aid you in identifying underlying issues, developing healthier habits, and conveying your feelings and needs to others-including Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, and Non-violent Communication.
I work with individuals with a variety of needs and goals, including those in career or life transitions, those struggling with social anxiety, depression, and reporting low self-esteem. I also work with people looking to improve their intimate or family relationships, establish healthy boundaries, and develop the skills to communicate hard things in a loving way. While working with me as your counselor, you'll learn how to make meaning of your life experience, identify what it is that you most need or desire, and make a plan for how to implement positive changes.
I also have training and experience using modalities that aid you in identifying underlying issues, developing healthier habits, and conveying your feelings and needs to others-including Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, and Non-violent Communication.
I work with individuals with a variety of needs and goals, including those in career or life transitions, those struggling with social anxiety, depression, and reporting low self-esteem. I also work with people looking to improve their intimate or family relationships, establish healthy boundaries, and develop the skills to communicate hard things in a loving way. While working with me as your counselor, you'll learn how to make meaning of your life experience, identify what it is that you most need or desire, and make a plan for how to implement positive changes.
(425) 629-0736 View (425) 629-0736
Photo of Lynelle S. Kearney, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98104, WA
Lynelle S. Kearney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I work with teens, adults, couples/partners and families. I utilize research backed therapies in my practice including but not limited to Family Systems, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and the Gottman Method.
I work with teens, adults, couples/partners and families. I utilize research backed therapies in my practice including but not limited to Family Systems, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and the Gottman Method.
(253) 225-1105 View (253) 225-1105
Photo of Coree Chodek, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98104, WA
Coree Chodek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
I utilize Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Family Systems Theory, and Lifespan Integration Therapy.
Periodically we discover that something in our lives needs to shift in order to continue to be the best version of ourselves. This can be a difficult realization to come to and my objective is to support you as you remake what is no longer useful in order to continue on your path to wellness. My experience primarily lies in working with women and girls to address a variety of mental health needs including depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, self-esteem issues, developmental concerns, parenting concerns, infertility and postpartum difficulty. Working with the unique needs of women is a passion of mine.
I utilize Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Family Systems Theory, and Lifespan Integration Therapy.
Periodically we discover that something in our lives needs to shift in order to continue to be the best version of ourselves. This can be a difficult realization to come to and my objective is to support you as you remake what is no longer useful in order to continue on your path to wellness. My experience primarily lies in working with women and girls to address a variety of mental health needs including depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, self-esteem issues, developmental concerns, parenting concerns, infertility and postpartum difficulty. Working with the unique needs of women is a passion of mine.
(651) 424-0385 View (651) 424-0385
Photo of Conduit Counseling PLLC, Counselor in 98104, WA
Conduit Counseling PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I'm trained in CBT Plus, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Prolonged-Exposure Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Polyvagal, including the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
My ideal client is interested in diving into deeper work to further gain insight and awareness to underlying issues creating dysregulation and overwhelm. I'm passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals to better understand their needs and strengths when navigating a neurotypical world. I enjoy supporting individuals with single-incident or chronic stress and trauma. Mostly, I enjoy supporting people on their healing journey and feel it is an honor to walk the path alongside them.
I'm trained in CBT Plus, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Prolonged-Exposure Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Polyvagal, including the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
My ideal client is interested in diving into deeper work to further gain insight and awareness to underlying issues creating dysregulation and overwhelm. I'm passionate about working with neurodivergent individuals to better understand their needs and strengths when navigating a neurotypical world. I enjoy supporting individuals with single-incident or chronic stress and trauma. Mostly, I enjoy supporting people on their healing journey and feel it is an honor to walk the path alongside them.
(253) 204-3171 View (253) 204-3171
Photo of Doug Wheeler, DPhil, LMHC, Counselor in 98104, WA
Doug Wheeler, DPhil, LMHC
Counselor, DPhil, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I've been a therapist for over 35 years, generating great confidence in my expertise. My style is personal and interactive and I love meeting with people. I draw from contemplative and cognitive-behavioral theories, utilizing Internal Family Systems theory as the primary fuel for healing and restoration. I respect the role of spirituality in a person's life, and honor all religious traditions. I help my clients explore their current struggles through the lens of trauma, honoring the delicate balance between nature and nurture. My goal is to help an individual find peace through embracing their authentic Self.
I've been a therapist for over 35 years, generating great confidence in my expertise. My style is personal and interactive and I love meeting with people. I draw from contemplative and cognitive-behavioral theories, utilizing Internal Family Systems theory as the primary fuel for healing and restoration. I respect the role of spirituality in a person's life, and honor all religious traditions. I help my clients explore their current struggles through the lens of trauma, honoring the delicate balance between nature and nurture. My goal is to help an individual find peace through embracing their authentic Self.
(425) 470-6886 View (425) 470-6886
Photo of Changing Stories Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98104, WA
Changing Stories Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
Waitlist for new clients
I am heavily focused on IFS, but also use EMDR, narrative writing therapy, and other modalities.
UPDATE: I have room for 2-3 new clients that can pay out of pocket (I hate writing this, but it's the reality for therapists in the world of managed care).However, I am also diversifying my career and and am open to many clients as a trauma writing mentor/editor and more. Writing through healing is at least of equal value to psychotherapy. If you are interested in these services, visit me at www.elihastings.com) - I would be so delighted to work in tandem with other therapists, so please do consider if your clients might benefit!
I am heavily focused on IFS, but also use EMDR, narrative writing therapy, and other modalities.
UPDATE: I have room for 2-3 new clients that can pay out of pocket (I hate writing this, but it's the reality for therapists in the world of managed care).However, I am also diversifying my career and and am open to many clients as a trauma writing mentor/editor and more. Writing through healing is at least of equal value to psychotherapy. If you are interested in these services, visit me at www.elihastings.com) - I would be so delighted to work in tandem with other therapists, so please do consider if your clients might benefit!
(206) 535-1958 View (206) 535-1958
Photo of Elva Flannery, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98104, WA
Elva Flannery
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use Family Systems Theory, which explains how most problems are rooted in family systems breakdowns and past traumas.
My work with my clients is based on respect and trust, while promoting growth. As a therapist it is my goal to aid my clients by teaching positive communication skills, conflict resolution, and tools to learn how to identify and change problematic interaction, patterns or behaviors. My therapeutic style is encouraging and engaging. I work with couples, families, individuals, children, and teens. I strive to support my clients in meeting their goals and find solutions to achieve successful happy results. I will maintain a honest, open, and safe therapeutic space for my clients, while building upon their strengths!
I use Family Systems Theory, which explains how most problems are rooted in family systems breakdowns and past traumas.
My work with my clients is based on respect and trust, while promoting growth. As a therapist it is my goal to aid my clients by teaching positive communication skills, conflict resolution, and tools to learn how to identify and change problematic interaction, patterns or behaviors. My therapeutic style is encouraging and engaging. I work with couples, families, individuals, children, and teens. I strive to support my clients in meeting their goals and find solutions to achieve successful happy results. I will maintain a honest, open, and safe therapeutic space for my clients, while building upon their strengths!
(360) 295-4606 View (360) 295-4606
Photo of Katlin Kellow, Counselor in 98104, WA
Katlin Kellow
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I have supplemental training in IFS, CBT and existentialism.
I am trained in EMDR and am trauma focused. I specialize in anxiety, women's issues, DV & body esteem. Healing can be a beautiful process, both physically and mentally. It can bring relief from pain, restore functionality, and promote a sense of well-being. It can also offer an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. The philosophy of trauma-informed counseling is based on the understanding that individuals who have experienced trauma require specialized care and support. I acknowledge the impact of trauma on my clients' lives and work collaboratively with them to identify and address their individual needs and goals.
I have supplemental training in IFS, CBT and existentialism.
I am trained in EMDR and am trauma focused. I specialize in anxiety, women's issues, DV & body esteem. Healing can be a beautiful process, both physically and mentally. It can bring relief from pain, restore functionality, and promote a sense of well-being. It can also offer an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. The philosophy of trauma-informed counseling is based on the understanding that individuals who have experienced trauma require specialized care and support. I acknowledge the impact of trauma on my clients' lives and work collaboratively with them to identify and address their individual needs and goals.
(206) 429-4876 View (206) 429-4876
Photo of Angharad Hollingworth, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 98104, WA
Angharad Hollingworth
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
During our collaborative sessions, using tools from EFT, Attachment Therapy, IFS, and Somatic Experiencing we will work through emotional pain in the body so that you can be more physically present.
Therapy for Parents, Parents to be, and people who have parents. Maybe you feel sad. Depressed. Disconnected. Maybe things you used to like you don't anymore. You feel overwhelmed by all there is to do and often find yourself doing it alone, even if you shouldn't be. All you want is 5 minutes alone. And then you spend those 5 minutes mindlessly scrolling, annoyed at yourself. You just want to enjoy your life but right now you are just surviving it.
During our collaborative sessions, using tools from EFT, Attachment Therapy, IFS, and Somatic Experiencing we will work through emotional pain in the body so that you can be more physically present.
Therapy for Parents, Parents to be, and people who have parents. Maybe you feel sad. Depressed. Disconnected. Maybe things you used to like you don't anymore. You feel overwhelmed by all there is to do and often find yourself doing it alone, even if you shouldn't be. All you want is 5 minutes alone. And then you spend those 5 minutes mindlessly scrolling, annoyed at yourself. You just want to enjoy your life but right now you are just surviving it.
(253) 400-1778 View (253) 400-1778
Photo of Valentinya Germer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98104, WA
Valentinya Germer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Exploring what approach resonates most with my clients, I use a variety of Somatic-based interventions, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment models.
I work with youth, age 13+, and adults across the lifespan. I'm passionate about LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming mental health therapy, I support folks in navigating and exploring relationship to self and others (sex and body positive, ethical non-monogamy and poly affirming), anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin, disability, chronic-illness, grief, substance use, life transitions and challenges. I have an intersectional, anti-oppressive approach to therapy— highlighting how our relationship to ourselves, community, environment, and historical legacies impact and affect each other.
Exploring what approach resonates most with my clients, I use a variety of Somatic-based interventions, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment models.
I work with youth, age 13+, and adults across the lifespan. I'm passionate about LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming mental health therapy, I support folks in navigating and exploring relationship to self and others (sex and body positive, ethical non-monogamy and poly affirming), anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin, disability, chronic-illness, grief, substance use, life transitions and challenges. I have an intersectional, anti-oppressive approach to therapy— highlighting how our relationship to ourselves, community, environment, and historical legacies impact and affect each other.
(425) 490-5466 View (425) 490-5466
Photo of Chris Lott, Counselor in 98104, WA
Chris Lott
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
I often integrate IFS, Hakomi, somatic therapy, Gestalt, psychodrama, & psychedelic therapy support.
Something within you has led you here. Something yearning for understanding, change, or acceptance. Maybe you feel anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in holding patterns, tending old wounds or wondering "What's next?" Whatever is present for you, it is my honor to meet you where you are, as you are, with compassion and curiosity. My goal as a counselor is to create a nonjudgmental, supportive space for you to connect with your truth. All of us are already whole, and therapy is a way to return to that knowing. I'm inspired by my clients' wisdom and creativity as they explore the highs and lows of their experience and find a way forward.
I often integrate IFS, Hakomi, somatic therapy, Gestalt, psychodrama, & psychedelic therapy support.
Something within you has led you here. Something yearning for understanding, change, or acceptance. Maybe you feel anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in holding patterns, tending old wounds or wondering "What's next?" Whatever is present for you, it is my honor to meet you where you are, as you are, with compassion and curiosity. My goal as a counselor is to create a nonjudgmental, supportive space for you to connect with your truth. All of us are already whole, and therapy is a way to return to that knowing. I'm inspired by my clients' wisdom and creativity as they explore the highs and lows of their experience and find a way forward.
(253) 802-8475 View (253) 802-8475
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.