Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Saint Helena, CA

Photo of Brooke Casey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Brooke Casey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Helena, CA 94574
If you're in the midst of a transition, grieving a loss, feeling stuck, unsettled, or burned out, struggling with anxiety or depression, you're not alone. Maybe you long to feel more alive and present in your life, have greater ease in communication, untangle painful patterns of relating, or find balance in caring for yourself and others. Therapy is a place to clarify your values, build insight, and learn practical strategies for moving toward what’s important to you. Understanding yourself with compassion gives you the power to make more conscious choices.
If you're in the midst of a transition, grieving a loss, feeling stuck, unsettled, or burned out, struggling with anxiety or depression, you're not alone. Maybe you long to feel more alive and present in your life, have greater ease in communication, untangle painful patterns of relating, or find balance in caring for yourself and others. Therapy is a place to clarify your values, build insight, and learn practical strategies for moving toward what’s important to you. Understanding yourself with compassion gives you the power to make more conscious choices.
(707) 326-9934 View (707) 326-9934

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nancy Burns, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Nancy Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95409
Many people come to see me because they are experiencing distress in some area of their life. It may be a specific issue like divorce, depression, anxiety or grief. They may desire more intimacy with their partner and find themselves getting "triggered" or defensive instead. When working with individuals and couples regarding their relationships, I offer effective and proven skills that achieve positive results quickly. I have a gentle approach with the ability to be direct when needed..
Many people come to see me because they are experiencing distress in some area of their life. It may be a specific issue like divorce, depression, anxiety or grief. They may desire more intimacy with their partner and find themselves getting "triggered" or defensive instead. When working with individuals and couples regarding their relationships, I offer effective and proven skills that achieve positive results quickly. I have a gentle approach with the ability to be direct when needed..
(707) 549-6474 View (707) 549-6474

Online Therapists

Photo of Jay Alarcon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Jay Alarcon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95354
I practice using evidence-based treatment modalities including family systems, DBT, EFT, and feministic and trauma models.
My name is Jay (they/them), and I am a trauma psychotherapist focusing on issues including eating disorders, severe emotion dysregulation problems, self-harm, chronic suicidality, sexual assault, military sexual assault, personality disorders, severe anxiety/mood disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD.
I practice using evidence-based treatment modalities including family systems, DBT, EFT, and feministic and trauma models.
My name is Jay (they/them), and I am a trauma psychotherapist focusing on issues including eating disorders, severe emotion dysregulation problems, self-harm, chronic suicidality, sexual assault, military sexual assault, personality disorders, severe anxiety/mood disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD.
(657) 216-0785 View (657) 216-0785
Photo of Theresa E Chesnut, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Theresa E Chesnut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
I use an integrative counseling approach, utilizing a strengths-based perspective grounded in both psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems (IFS) theories.
Once you make the decision to seek therapy, finding a therapist who "gets you" is the key element in starting the process. I focus on: eating disorders, trauma resolution / PTSD, adolescents in crisis, and elite athletes. As a psychodynamic therapist, my goal is to help clients uncover their true potential and lead a meaningful life; it's about having a life that becomes worth celebrating.
I use an integrative counseling approach, utilizing a strengths-based perspective grounded in both psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems (IFS) theories.
Once you make the decision to seek therapy, finding a therapist who "gets you" is the key element in starting the process. I focus on: eating disorders, trauma resolution / PTSD, adolescents in crisis, and elite athletes. As a psychodynamic therapist, my goal is to help clients uncover their true potential and lead a meaningful life; it's about having a life that becomes worth celebrating.
(650) 206-4505 View (650) 206-4505
Photo of Theresa Soltzberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Theresa Soltzberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
I'm Theresa Soltzberg, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am a humanistic and holistic therapist and I work with adult couples and individuals on issues including complex (relational) trauma, life transitions, anxiety, and relationship issues. I typically work with adult clients experiencing relationship challenges and life transitions, as well as career and life changes. I am a humanistic, client-focused therapist, trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy (level 2), holistic Expressive Arts therapy (somatic, Jungian, and Transpersonal), as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and couples modalities.
I'm Theresa Soltzberg, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am a humanistic and holistic therapist and I work with adult couples and individuals on issues including complex (relational) trauma, life transitions, anxiety, and relationship issues. I typically work with adult clients experiencing relationship challenges and life transitions, as well as career and life changes. I am a humanistic, client-focused therapist, trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy (level 2), holistic Expressive Arts therapy (somatic, Jungian, and Transpersonal), as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and couples modalities.
(323) 476-0859 View (323) 476-0859
Photo of Ruthie Ayzenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Ruthie Ayzenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, PMH-C, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024  (Online Only)
We generally use several approaches, including Experiential Therapy (Process Model), CBT & DBT (for practical skills), IFS, Brainspotting, and Yoga methods, depending on your needs and personality.
If you are struggling with mood, anxiety, motivation, energy, sleep, preparing for or adjusting to a new baby, having relationship turbulence, or difficulties at work or school, I may be able to help. I work with a lot of college students, parents, and corporate workers to help gain clarity, resolve symptoms, build resiliency skills, and get unstuck from unhelpful patterns. I have a specialty interest and intensive training experience in prenatal and postpartum issues and enjoy helping moms and dads navigate the beginning of parenthood. As a yoga student and teacher, I'm a big fan of using yoga practices to assist with healing.
We generally use several approaches, including Experiential Therapy (Process Model), CBT & DBT (for practical skills), IFS, Brainspotting, and Yoga methods, depending on your needs and personality.
If you are struggling with mood, anxiety, motivation, energy, sleep, preparing for or adjusting to a new baby, having relationship turbulence, or difficulties at work or school, I may be able to help. I work with a lot of college students, parents, and corporate workers to help gain clarity, resolve symptoms, build resiliency skills, and get unstuck from unhelpful patterns. I have a specialty interest and intensive training experience in prenatal and postpartum issues and enjoy helping moms and dads navigate the beginning of parenthood. As a yoga student and teacher, I'm a big fan of using yoga practices to assist with healing.
(650) 667-8842 View (650) 667-8842
Photo of Alvin Gregorio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Alvin Gregorio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I relate in a conversational therapy style, rooted in Narrative Approaches, utilizing strategies and interventions informed by EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Humanistic perspectives.
Taking care of yourself can be exhausting, especially when you are taking care of others. Personal and professional relationships take effort and have a new meaning in this current time of social unrest and a global pandemic. You might be an overwhelmed parent. Or perhaps you are burnt out from working-from-home. You may be in a challenging relationship. Or maybe you are simply feeling out of sorts and trying to make sense of it all. When we're stressed we often forget who we are and what is important to us. By looking for help, you've taken the first step in regaining balance in your life, and finding yourself.
I relate in a conversational therapy style, rooted in Narrative Approaches, utilizing strategies and interventions informed by EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Humanistic perspectives.
Taking care of yourself can be exhausting, especially when you are taking care of others. Personal and professional relationships take effort and have a new meaning in this current time of social unrest and a global pandemic. You might be an overwhelmed parent. Or perhaps you are burnt out from working-from-home. You may be in a challenging relationship. Or maybe you are simply feeling out of sorts and trying to make sense of it all. When we're stressed we often forget who we are and what is important to us. By looking for help, you've taken the first step in regaining balance in your life, and finding yourself.
(925) 304-3739 View (925) 304-3739
Photo of Sam Hinds, Psychological Associate in Saint Helena, CA
Sam Hinds
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
The core approaches I apply include depth psychology (Jungian), mindfulness, somatic awareness, imaginal attunement, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
The reasons leading each of us into therapy are as unique as we are individually, though it usually begins with something that brings challenge or suffering. Even amid the uniqueness of our difficulties, however, there are common patterns that unite us in our humanity. Whatever it is that calls you to therapy, I will meet you in the middle—where your common humanity and utter uniqueness come together. I deeply trust we can work together to bring greatest understanding to your process and support you not only in your healing, but also in the unfolding of your potential—indeed, the two go hand-in-hand.
The core approaches I apply include depth psychology (Jungian), mindfulness, somatic awareness, imaginal attunement, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
The reasons leading each of us into therapy are as unique as we are individually, though it usually begins with something that brings challenge or suffering. Even amid the uniqueness of our difficulties, however, there are common patterns that unite us in our humanity. Whatever it is that calls you to therapy, I will meet you in the middle—where your common humanity and utter uniqueness come together. I deeply trust we can work together to bring greatest understanding to your process and support you not only in your healing, but also in the unfolding of your potential—indeed, the two go hand-in-hand.
(341) 234-2873 View (341) 234-2873
Photo of Morgan Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Saint Helena, CA
Morgan Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I use evidence-based trauma-informed practices including psychodynamic psychotherapy, internal family systems, CBT, and neuroscience-backed mindfulness, to address both your troubling symptoms and your mind-body connection.
Do you feel as though your experiences have left you fractured, disconnected or lost? We can’t erase them, but together we can help you make sense of your history and heal painful emotional wounds. My treatment is based on trust and safety: understanding how these may be difficult for you and finding ways to develop them with me. With this foundation, my patients find that they are able to gain new understanding of and compassion for themselves as multifaceted individuals. Our therapeutic relationship will be dedicated to holding space for all parts of you and your story, especially those that feel too challenging to explore alone.
I use evidence-based trauma-informed practices including psychodynamic psychotherapy, internal family systems, CBT, and neuroscience-backed mindfulness, to address both your troubling symptoms and your mind-body connection.
Do you feel as though your experiences have left you fractured, disconnected or lost? We can’t erase them, but together we can help you make sense of your history and heal painful emotional wounds. My treatment is based on trust and safety: understanding how these may be difficult for you and finding ways to develop them with me. With this foundation, my patients find that they are able to gain new understanding of and compassion for themselves as multifaceted individuals. Our therapeutic relationship will be dedicated to holding space for all parts of you and your story, especially those that feel too challenging to explore alone.
(408) 539-3289 View (408) 539-3289
Photo of Maryam Ashraf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Maryam Ashraf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
(415) 702-1634 View (415) 702-1634
Photo of Kiri Maura, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Saint Helena, CA
Kiri Maura
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I offer transpersonal alternatives to talk therapy. I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, Inner Child work, Brainspotting Trauma Therapy, and other somatic, mindfulness-based and energy modalities. My expertise spans complex trauma, addiction, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, professional transitions, empowerment/self-worth, grief/loss, and spiritual/existential challenges. I love to work with people from diverse backgrounds, live alternative lifestyles, are spiritually inclined, and/or face marginalization. I honor and value your authentic true nature.
I offer transpersonal alternatives to talk therapy. I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, Inner Child work, Brainspotting Trauma Therapy, and other somatic, mindfulness-based and energy modalities. My expertise spans complex trauma, addiction, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, professional transitions, empowerment/self-worth, grief/loss, and spiritual/existential challenges. I love to work with people from diverse backgrounds, live alternative lifestyles, are spiritually inclined, and/or face marginalization. I honor and value your authentic true nature.
(415) 727-3045 View (415) 727-3045
Photo of Wendy Skillern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Wendy Skillern, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I draw from evidence-based treatment modalities, including: EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, ACT, EFT, and mindfulness strategies.
Life can feel overwhelming--but it doesn't have to. If you have experienced trauma, whether recurring or as an isolated incident, even the typical stresses of a normal day can provoke anxiety, fear, anger, or withdrawal. Luckily, therapy can provide you tools to deal with life's challenges, enabling you to minimize your stress levels and continue your personal growth. I will guide you to increased happiness and well-being by supporting you in exploring and enacting lasting, positive changes in your relationships with others, and most importantly, with yourself.
I draw from evidence-based treatment modalities, including: EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, ACT, EFT, and mindfulness strategies.
Life can feel overwhelming--but it doesn't have to. If you have experienced trauma, whether recurring or as an isolated incident, even the typical stresses of a normal day can provoke anxiety, fear, anger, or withdrawal. Luckily, therapy can provide you tools to deal with life's challenges, enabling you to minimize your stress levels and continue your personal growth. I will guide you to increased happiness and well-being by supporting you in exploring and enacting lasting, positive changes in your relationships with others, and most importantly, with yourself.
(415) 202-6934 View (415) 202-6934
Photo of J. Sarah MacEwan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
J. Sarah MacEwan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008  (Online Only)
I work experientially, approaching whatever is alive for you in the moment, utilizing psychodynamic, somatic/body-oriented, IFS "parts" work, process, and expressive arts therapies.
Your soul is ready to heal. Too many of us are suffering in isolation, with complex challenges and big feelings we were never meant to carry on our own. That's where therapy comes in. I love supporting people with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, co-dependance, and issues around self-worth and self-esteem. Bring me your grief, your sadness, your anxiety and your overwhelm. Bring me your wounded parts, and let's hold them close, together. Once you have a place where you feel seen, heard and held without judgment, you will naturally begin to heal. Allow me to be that place for you today.
I work experientially, approaching whatever is alive for you in the moment, utilizing psychodynamic, somatic/body-oriented, IFS "parts" work, process, and expressive arts therapies.
Your soul is ready to heal. Too many of us are suffering in isolation, with complex challenges and big feelings we were never meant to carry on our own. That's where therapy comes in. I love supporting people with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, co-dependance, and issues around self-worth and self-esteem. Bring me your grief, your sadness, your anxiety and your overwhelm. Bring me your wounded parts, and let's hold them close, together. Once you have a place where you feel seen, heard and held without judgment, you will naturally begin to heal. Allow me to be that place for you today.
(831) 888-1750 View (831) 888-1750
Photo of Valerie Marie Ledbetter, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Saint Helena, CA
Valerie Marie Ledbetter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95678
I’m here for that! I have training and experience using several therapy approaches including CBT, DBT, SBFT, IFS, and CPT.
Each person is on their own journey and has a unique story to tell. The journey of life is both difficult and beautiful. Along the way our challenges can lead us to feel hopelessly lost, but it is never too late to come back to ourselves. I have always been a person who values human connection and helping others. It is my joy to help people, of all walks of life, feel they are not alone and work towards the life they want.
I’m here for that! I have training and experience using several therapy approaches including CBT, DBT, SBFT, IFS, and CPT.
Each person is on their own journey and has a unique story to tell. The journey of life is both difficult and beautiful. Along the way our challenges can lead us to feel hopelessly lost, but it is never too late to come back to ourselves. I have always been a person who values human connection and helping others. It is my joy to help people, of all walks of life, feel they are not alone and work towards the life they want.
(916) 232-7850 x721 View (916) 232-7850 x721
Photo of Courtney Meiers in Saint Helena, CA
Courtney Meiers
MS, LEP, EdS
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94065  (Online Only)
I do not label, but rather UNlabel and discover who YOU truly are or what modalities we use to help you heal using systems like human design and internal family systems with visualization and discovery of all your parts (there are no bad parts).
My clientele is ready and willing for change. Working together, we move through the stuckness, mud, or whatever is holding one back from their highest dream or just the ability to feel safe again. They want to climb out of their dark hole, but need a rope; I am here to offer that rope. With my teenage/pre-teen clients, the need is to improve their sense of adequacy or self-esteem, free themselves from anxiety or depression, and rebuild their relationship with a parent figure whether it be due to divorce or due to conflict. My clients like my out-of-the box techniques and strategies that motivate and create forward movement.
I do not label, but rather UNlabel and discover who YOU truly are or what modalities we use to help you heal using systems like human design and internal family systems with visualization and discovery of all your parts (there are no bad parts).
My clientele is ready and willing for change. Working together, we move through the stuckness, mud, or whatever is holding one back from their highest dream or just the ability to feel safe again. They want to climb out of their dark hole, but need a rope; I am here to offer that rope. With my teenage/pre-teen clients, the need is to improve their sense of adequacy or self-esteem, free themselves from anxiety or depression, and rebuild their relationship with a parent figure whether it be due to divorce or due to conflict. My clients like my out-of-the box techniques and strategies that motivate and create forward movement.
(650) 582-3353 View (650) 582-3353
Photo of Erika Garcia Rangel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Erika Garcia Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I support individuals struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues utilizing evidence-based approaches: EMDR, DBT, CBT and internal family systems (IFS).
Finding a therapist you trust is a challenge and scheduling your first session takes courage. You’ve taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. I’m offering you a safe, nurturing and accepting place to freely express your feelings, thoughts and experiences. My vocation is to guide and support individuals like yourself to better understand themselves at a deeper level through the transformative power of compassion and empathy. With commitment to therapy, we will explore your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, addressing behavioral and emotional issues that are potentially holding you back.
I support individuals struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues utilizing evidence-based approaches: EMDR, DBT, CBT and internal family systems (IFS).
Finding a therapist you trust is a challenge and scheduling your first session takes courage. You’ve taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. I’m offering you a safe, nurturing and accepting place to freely express your feelings, thoughts and experiences. My vocation is to guide and support individuals like yourself to better understand themselves at a deeper level through the transformative power of compassion and empathy. With commitment to therapy, we will explore your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, addressing behavioral and emotional issues that are potentially holding you back.
(650) 679-7286 View (650) 679-7286
Photo of Judy Brennan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Saint Helena, CA
Judy Brennan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Ramon, CA 94583
I specialize in working with children, families, adults, and couples, through a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship problems, transitions, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, childhood, and other life challenges. I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals. Some of the modalities I find helpful in addition to Somatic Psychotherapy include EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness, Play, and Art Therapy.
I specialize in working with children, families, adults, and couples, through a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship problems, transitions, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, childhood, and other life challenges. I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals. Some of the modalities I find helpful in addition to Somatic Psychotherapy include EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness, Play, and Art Therapy.
(925) 275-5178 View (925) 275-5178
Photo of Dvora Kravitz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Dvora Kravitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Auburn, CA 95603  (Online Only)
I'm Dvora Kravitz, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of experience. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, aging, and other aches and pains that cannot be explained. Currently, I offer telehealth conference sessions. If you are a struggling parent, a teen, or senior I am available to help in a caring and professional manner. Starting 40 years ago as an educator, and from my training as a psychotherapist starting 35 years ago, I have successfully evolved and synthesized a wide variety of tools including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma-Focused, Mindfulness-Based, and Play Therapy.
I'm Dvora Kravitz, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of experience. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, aging, and other aches and pains that cannot be explained. Currently, I offer telehealth conference sessions. If you are a struggling parent, a teen, or senior I am available to help in a caring and professional manner. Starting 40 years ago as an educator, and from my training as a psychotherapist starting 35 years ago, I have successfully evolved and synthesized a wide variety of tools including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma-Focused, Mindfulness-Based, and Play Therapy.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Amisha Mehtani - California Anxiety Relief, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Amisha Mehtani - California Anxiety Relief
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
With attachment at its core, I integrate IFS, Authenticity Therapy & Reparentive Therapy.
My name is Amisha, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families find joy and meaning in their lives. I utilize evidence-based modalities that bring about change by providing tools clients can use to become their own therapist. My stance is deeply empathic and curious, leaning into what happened to you rather than what is wrong with you. My first session is 90 minutes such that I can really get to know you. I offer true 60-min & 75-min sessions thereafter. Emotional pain hurts just as deeply as physical pain. Your pain matters. You matter.
With attachment at its core, I integrate IFS, Authenticity Therapy & Reparentive Therapy.
My name is Amisha, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families find joy and meaning in their lives. I utilize evidence-based modalities that bring about change by providing tools clients can use to become their own therapist. My stance is deeply empathic and curious, leaning into what happened to you rather than what is wrong with you. My first session is 90 minutes such that I can really get to know you. I offer true 60-min & 75-min sessions thereafter. Emotional pain hurts just as deeply as physical pain. Your pain matters. You matter.
(510) 369-0383 View (510) 369-0383
Photo of Jesse Whittle-Utter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Helena, CA
Jesse Whittle-Utter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94709
I work with folks from all walks of life, and specialize in working with gay men and the larger LGBTQ+ community, to alleviate depression, anxiety, shame, work stress, relationship issues, questions of meaning, & life transitions. I use a variety of therapeutic methods, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and psychedelic integration. Psychedelic therapy allows access to deeper layers of self and accelerates progress toward personal growth and healing; it can accomplish in a short timeframe what might otherwise take years of weekly talk therapy. KAP is sliding scale ($150-$175).
I work with folks from all walks of life, and specialize in working with gay men and the larger LGBTQ+ community, to alleviate depression, anxiety, shame, work stress, relationship issues, questions of meaning, & life transitions. I use a variety of therapeutic methods, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and psychedelic integration. Psychedelic therapy allows access to deeper layers of self and accelerates progress toward personal growth and healing; it can accomplish in a short timeframe what might otherwise take years of weekly talk therapy. KAP is sliding scale ($150-$175).
(341) 888-7801 View (341) 888-7801

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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.