Photo of Susan Quigley, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Susan Quigley, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
My approach is mind-body oriented and utilizes an Internal Family Systems framework, incorporating CBT, somatic and mindfulness based practices.
Ready for change and a more satisfying and balanced life? I offer compassionate listening, practical guidance and an action oriented approach to assist you in making the changes you want in your life.
My approach is mind-body oriented and utilizes an Internal Family Systems framework, incorporating CBT, somatic and mindfulness based practices.
Ready for change and a more satisfying and balanced life? I offer compassionate listening, practical guidance and an action oriented approach to assist you in making the changes you want in your life.
(415) 481-4921 View (415) 481-4921
Photo of Family Matters Of Marin, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Family Matters Of Marin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
We engage with the younger child through a variety of Play Therapy, EMDR, CBT, IFS, and Mindfulness.
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
We engage with the younger child through a variety of Play Therapy, EMDR, CBT, IFS, and Mindfulness.
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
(415) 639-9164 View (415) 639-9164
Photo of Sherry M Freeman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Sherry M Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Therapy is about how you can feel better, how to make your life rich and satisfying. What is in your way? What stops you from being the person you want to be, from living the life you want to live? I see people of all ages, in all walks of life and help them overcome obstacles to acheiving their goals, whether that be happiness and peace or something concrete. Often it is inner blocks like anxiety and depression, that stand in your way. Other times there are experiences you've had that make it hard to feel free. Therapy can help you sort it all out, and take positive steps towards a new start.
Therapy is about how you can feel better, how to make your life rich and satisfying. What is in your way? What stops you from being the person you want to be, from living the life you want to live? I see people of all ages, in all walks of life and help them overcome obstacles to acheiving their goals, whether that be happiness and peace or something concrete. Often it is inner blocks like anxiety and depression, that stand in your way. Other times there are experiences you've had that make it hard to feel free. Therapy can help you sort it all out, and take positive steps towards a new start.
(650) 385-8707 View (650) 385-8707
Photo of Julie Iverson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Julie Iverson
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
Whether your child or teenager is facing challenges that you are not sure how to handle, or you are a young adult facing the complexities of life and feeling overwhelmed, I believe counseling can help. I have a passion for helping children, teens, and young adults grow their skills and confidence so they can live a life where they feel they can thrive. I love working with youth and young adults who are struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety and/or their sense of self-worth. I exclusively provide tele-therapy (think FaceTime) for people who reside in California.
Whether your child or teenager is facing challenges that you are not sure how to handle, or you are a young adult facing the complexities of life and feeling overwhelmed, I believe counseling can help. I have a passion for helping children, teens, and young adults grow their skills and confidence so they can live a life where they feel they can thrive. I love working with youth and young adults who are struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety and/or their sense of self-worth. I exclusively provide tele-therapy (think FaceTime) for people who reside in California.
(707) 205-4311 View (707) 205-4311
Photo of Verónica Cervantes Wefers, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Verónica Cervantes Wefers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
I am a relational somatic therapist, which means that being real matters and the relationship that develops between us is important. Part of the process of therapy is buidling trust and cultivating an alliance. The work I will assist you with involves a sincere effort to go inside yourself and uncover what you're actually experiencing, and then communicate that. We can discuss your difficulties and identify how you can influence them.
I am a relational somatic therapist, which means that being real matters and the relationship that develops between us is important. Part of the process of therapy is buidling trust and cultivating an alliance. The work I will assist you with involves a sincere effort to go inside yourself and uncover what you're actually experiencing, and then communicate that. We can discuss your difficulties and identify how you can influence them.
(415) 818-0491 View (415) 818-0491

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Liana Unger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Liana Unger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960  (Online Only)
I am a therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW 76693) in California with a Masters in Social Work from The University of Southern California. I’ve helped people of all ages, genders, and orientations and strive to form relationships with my clients built on trust, collaboration, and respect.
I am a therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW 76693) in California with a Masters in Social Work from The University of Southern California. I’ve helped people of all ages, genders, and orientations and strive to form relationships with my clients built on trust, collaboration, and respect.
(310) 340-1287 View (310) 340-1287

Online Therapists

Photo of Honeycomb Wellness Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Honeycomb Wellness Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Our therapists have a variety of helpful certifications including and not limited to play therapy, parent child interactive therapy, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, psychodynamic.
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
Our therapists have a variety of helpful certifications including and not limited to play therapy, parent child interactive therapy, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, psychodynamic.
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
(415) 338-9366 View (415) 338-9366
Photo of Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
My approach helps you to identify dysfunctional behavior through the use of CBT, Psychodynamic, family systems & many others.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
My approach helps you to identify dysfunctional behavior through the use of CBT, Psychodynamic, family systems & many others.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
(415) 319-9641 View (415) 319-9641
Photo of Travis Woodmansee, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Travis Woodmansee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
I have specific training using Mindfulness and somatic techniques, Bodynamics Therapy Approach, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Wherever you are on life's journey, and whatever feelings or behaviors you feel stuck in, you are welcome here. ALL parts of you are welcome here, exactly as you are. I'm a licensed psychotherapist that uses an integrative approach to focus on your current concerns and goals using the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to establish a warm, supportive, authentic environment offering questions and reflections that can guide you in handling your challenges and making the changes you desire.
I have specific training using Mindfulness and somatic techniques, Bodynamics Therapy Approach, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Wherever you are on life's journey, and whatever feelings or behaviors you feel stuck in, you are welcome here. ALL parts of you are welcome here, exactly as you are. I'm a licensed psychotherapist that uses an integrative approach to focus on your current concerns and goals using the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to establish a warm, supportive, authentic environment offering questions and reflections that can guide you in handling your challenges and making the changes you desire.
(650) 727-6073 View (650) 727-6073
Photo of Laura Beann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Laura Beann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303  (Online Only)
My work is informed by transpersonal and psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems.
I approach psychotherapy from a whole-person perspective and I believe therapy, along with other practices, can help us awaken to a life of meaning. In therapy I will help you identify the source of your longing to be whole, and together, we will move closer to that source, so you become re-sourced. Together we will explore your innate natural cycles and help you align to your own rhythm, so that you might meet depletion with rest and energy with creativity.
My work is informed by transpersonal and psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems.
I approach psychotherapy from a whole-person perspective and I believe therapy, along with other practices, can help us awaken to a life of meaning. In therapy I will help you identify the source of your longing to be whole, and together, we will move closer to that source, so you become re-sourced. Together we will explore your innate natural cycles and help you align to your own rhythm, so that you might meet depletion with rest and energy with creativity.
(650) 547-3560 View (650) 547-3560
Photo of Connie Micale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Connie Micale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
I am a licensed therapist (conniemicale.com) that brings over 20 years of clinical experience w/ extensive training in a range of therapeutic methods, from foundational psychology to holistic approaches (EMDR, hypnotherapy, NLP, sound therapy, Internal Family Systems, meditation, CBT and more) which supports my unique ability to quickly “get” people in both the patterns of their distress and who they really know themselves to be. My work honors the importance of therapies based on the heart, body, mind and spirit connection, which gets you out of your head & into your heart and body to encourage & instill deep and lasting change.
I am a licensed therapist (conniemicale.com) that brings over 20 years of clinical experience w/ extensive training in a range of therapeutic methods, from foundational psychology to holistic approaches (EMDR, hypnotherapy, NLP, sound therapy, Internal Family Systems, meditation, CBT and more) which supports my unique ability to quickly “get” people in both the patterns of their distress and who they really know themselves to be. My work honors the importance of therapies based on the heart, body, mind and spirit connection, which gets you out of your head & into your heart and body to encourage & instill deep and lasting change.
(415) 254-6565 View (415) 254-6565
Photo of Brandi Juarez Family Therapy, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Brandi Juarez Family Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carmichael, CA 95608
Glad you're here. You may not be in the best mood, relationship, or situation, and you might be trying to help a loved one find a therapist; whatever it is - you are in the right place. My theoretical approach is always client-centered with an ecclectic treatment approach pulling from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt, and Brainspotting therapies. I love helping people willing to explore hard things - who've had trauma - who are ready for different and want to make the most of it - who understand the importance of being true to yourself while honoring life choices for others - with strength.
Glad you're here. You may not be in the best mood, relationship, or situation, and you might be trying to help a loved one find a therapist; whatever it is - you are in the right place. My theoretical approach is always client-centered with an ecclectic treatment approach pulling from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt, and Brainspotting therapies. I love helping people willing to explore hard things - who've had trauma - who are ready for different and want to make the most of it - who understand the importance of being true to yourself while honoring life choices for others - with strength.
(916) 710-8845 View (916) 710-8845
Photo of Doreen Maxwell, MFT and Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Doreen Maxwell, MFT and Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95032
I use depth therapy, the principles and methods of Hakomi Body-Centered Psychotherapy, Transpersonal Hypnotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Coaching, and/or Sandtray.
If you've been feeling sad, stuck, and stressed for too long, don't hesitate to reach out. I can help you find clarity and contentment. Our therapeutic relationship combined with mindfulness and experiential methods of psychotherapy, lead to real and lasting changes. Patterns which you once took on to cope with your family or stressors may not serve you anymore. Together we can access these old patterns of feeling and thinking that hold you back, and create new ways to be in your world. You can discover that life and relationships can have meaning and ease.
I use depth therapy, the principles and methods of Hakomi Body-Centered Psychotherapy, Transpersonal Hypnotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Coaching, and/or Sandtray.
If you've been feeling sad, stuck, and stressed for too long, don't hesitate to reach out. I can help you find clarity and contentment. Our therapeutic relationship combined with mindfulness and experiential methods of psychotherapy, lead to real and lasting changes. Patterns which you once took on to cope with your family or stressors may not serve you anymore. Together we can access these old patterns of feeling and thinking that hold you back, and create new ways to be in your world. You can discover that life and relationships can have meaning and ease.
(408) 465-9938 View (408) 465-9938
Photo of Adele (Addie) Liechty Kogan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Adele (Addie) Liechty Kogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I utilize interventions from internal family systems, emotionally focused therapy for couples and somatic approaches.
I see clients virtually in California and Florida and in person in western Ma. People enter my therapy practice for all sorts of reasons. You may be at an impasse or a crossroads due to the loss of a relationship, a big life decision or general anxiety that you can no longer bear on your own. You may be suffering from the wounds of homophobia, transphobia, racism, white supremacy and patriarchy, on top of other traumas and early childhood wounds. Regardless, I seek to offer a safe space for you to access a deeper understanding of yourself and your underlying needs and motives, as well as a personal sense of freedom and empowerment.
I utilize interventions from internal family systems, emotionally focused therapy for couples and somatic approaches.
I see clients virtually in California and Florida and in person in western Ma. People enter my therapy practice for all sorts of reasons. You may be at an impasse or a crossroads due to the loss of a relationship, a big life decision or general anxiety that you can no longer bear on your own. You may be suffering from the wounds of homophobia, transphobia, racism, white supremacy and patriarchy, on top of other traumas and early childhood wounds. Regardless, I seek to offer a safe space for you to access a deeper understanding of yourself and your underlying needs and motives, as well as a personal sense of freedom and empowerment.
(413) 207-0583 View (413) 207-0583
Photo of Isobel Heath, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Isobel Heath
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My approach integrates attachment-focused, relational, psychodynamic work with mindfulness-based and parts work / IFS techniques.
Therapy improves relationships. The individuals I work with are often tired of repeating the same patterns again and again, whether it's dating abuse, codependency, or chronic relationship conflict, anxiety, avoidance or indecision. They're ready to get to the root causes and finally make real change. Of course, all relationships start with and reflect your relationship to yourself. If you're dealing with a harsh inner critic, imposter syndrome or low self-worth, this internal relationship deserves your careful attention first.
My approach integrates attachment-focused, relational, psychodynamic work with mindfulness-based and parts work / IFS techniques.
Therapy improves relationships. The individuals I work with are often tired of repeating the same patterns again and again, whether it's dating abuse, codependency, or chronic relationship conflict, anxiety, avoidance or indecision. They're ready to get to the root causes and finally make real change. Of course, all relationships start with and reflect your relationship to yourself. If you're dealing with a harsh inner critic, imposter syndrome or low self-worth, this internal relationship deserves your careful attention first.
(415) 630-7460 View (415) 630-7460
Photo of Haley Hewitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Haley Hewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
(925) 275-5742 View (925) 275-5742
Photo of Corinne Michel Barrows, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Corinne Michel Barrows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , 96438
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastopol, CA 95472
I am a Level 2 trained IFS therapist.
I believe some of our greatest challenges can reveal themselves to be opportunities for growth and change. Within ourselves we all carry innate wisdom and the ability to heal. As a clinician it is my goal to support you in reconnecting with your Authentic Self and rediscover the answers already within you, which may help ease your pain and suffering. When burdened by depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, or substance abuse, a person's ability to connect to their true self becomes blocked. My focus is to create a safe an nurturing environment to guide you back to your Authentic Self.
I am a Level 2 trained IFS therapist.
I believe some of our greatest challenges can reveal themselves to be opportunities for growth and change. Within ourselves we all carry innate wisdom and the ability to heal. As a clinician it is my goal to support you in reconnecting with your Authentic Self and rediscover the answers already within you, which may help ease your pain and suffering. When burdened by depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, or substance abuse, a person's ability to connect to their true self becomes blocked. My focus is to create a safe an nurturing environment to guide you back to your Authentic Self.
(707) 827-0840 View (707) 827-0840
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Anna Dasbach, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Anna Dasbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073  (Online Only)
IFS certified, iInternal Family Systems (levels 1-3), IFIO for couples ( 1&2) , Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (levels 1-2), EMDR, advanced Trauma, and adoption, especially transnational adoption.
Would you like to live a more fulfilled life with meaningful relationships? Do you want to make more sense of your life and your role in it? You have taken the first step! Finding the right therapist can be scary and confusing. I believe that a personal connection is the corner stone to a successful therapeutic experience. Sometimes traumatic events can bring us to lose our sense of well-being and our center and we need help regaining them. I am honored to support you on your path to regain a greater sense of yourself. I love working with adults, adolescents and couples.
IFS certified, iInternal Family Systems (levels 1-3), IFIO for couples ( 1&2) , Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (levels 1-2), EMDR, advanced Trauma, and adoption, especially transnational adoption.
Would you like to live a more fulfilled life with meaningful relationships? Do you want to make more sense of your life and your role in it? You have taken the first step! Finding the right therapist can be scary and confusing. I believe that a personal connection is the corner stone to a successful therapeutic experience. Sometimes traumatic events can bring us to lose our sense of well-being and our center and we need help regaining them. I am honored to support you on your path to regain a greater sense of yourself. I love working with adults, adolescents and couples.
(831) 216-5392 View (831) 216-5392
Photo of The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95826
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
(916) 269-3522 View (916) 269-3522
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.