Photo of Heather Chamberlain, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Heather Chamberlain
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
When your child or teen is having a tough time, all you want is for them to feel better. You want them to feel happier, calmer, and able to manage whatever life throws at them. You need a therapist who understands your unique child as well as the challenges you face as a parent, who can teach important skills with humor, patience, and compassion to help your child cope with big emotions now and in the future. If you are concerned that your child has a learning disability or autism, I offer assessment that focuses on their strengths and how to support them in all environments.
When your child or teen is having a tough time, all you want is for them to feel better. You want them to feel happier, calmer, and able to manage whatever life throws at them. You need a therapist who understands your unique child as well as the challenges you face as a parent, who can teach important skills with humor, patience, and compassion to help your child cope with big emotions now and in the future. If you are concerned that your child has a learning disability or autism, I offer assessment that focuses on their strengths and how to support them in all environments.
(415) 462-4272 View (415) 462-4272
Photo of Robynne O'Byrne, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Robynne O'Byrne
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Robynne has expertise in treating anxiety and depression in adults, children and teens, working with adult survivors of sexual abuse and other childhood trauma, and treating patients with alcohol and other addictions. She also specializes in working with couples around marital issues and has training in grief and loss, having worked with many patients confronting these issues, including parents who have lost a child. In addition to working with clients in therapy, Robynne is also a trained mediator and works with divorcing couples around custody and financial agreements.
Robynne has expertise in treating anxiety and depression in adults, children and teens, working with adult survivors of sexual abuse and other childhood trauma, and treating patients with alcohol and other addictions. She also specializes in working with couples around marital issues and has training in grief and loss, having worked with many patients confronting these issues, including parents who have lost a child. In addition to working with clients in therapy, Robynne is also a trained mediator and works with divorcing couples around custody and financial agreements.
(628) 244-8701 x4 View (628) 244-8701 x4

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anna N Lacey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Anna N Lacey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960
I incorporate mindfulness and self-compassion and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy in my practice.
For years, clients have responded well to my approach, as I have lived experience in overcoming complex trauma. I truly understand and offer something many clinicians cannot - authentic insights and support strategies that actually work. I provide a judgment-free, compassionate space. I have worked in the mental health arena for my entire adult life. I worked and studied in several Latin American countries but call the Bay Area home. I have an extensive background supporting adolescents, adults and families experiencing anxiety and depression, survivors of trauma including complex trauma, as well as individuals battling addiction.
I incorporate mindfulness and self-compassion and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy in my practice.
For years, clients have responded well to my approach, as I have lived experience in overcoming complex trauma. I truly understand and offer something many clinicians cannot - authentic insights and support strategies that actually work. I provide a judgment-free, compassionate space. I have worked in the mental health arena for my entire adult life. I worked and studied in several Latin American countries but call the Bay Area home. I have an extensive background supporting adolescents, adults and families experiencing anxiety and depression, survivors of trauma including complex trauma, as well as individuals battling addiction.
(510) 721-0210 View (510) 721-0210
Photo of Kory Okun Orlanski, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Kory Okun Orlanski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I understand you want to change something; possibly many things in your relationships, in yourself, and in your work and that you are both fearful and hopeful about coming to therapy. I will help you to resolve underlying conflicts, relieve symptoms, and discover what feels meaningful and enjoyable. My personal style reflects who I am in warmth, compassion, knowledge, and authenticity. I work with individuals, couples, and families, using an interactive approach that focuses on long-term psychotherapy as well as short-term strategic problem solving. Through this unique process you will achieve your goals and live the life you desire and deserve.
I understand you want to change something; possibly many things in your relationships, in yourself, and in your work and that you are both fearful and hopeful about coming to therapy. I will help you to resolve underlying conflicts, relieve symptoms, and discover what feels meaningful and enjoyable. My personal style reflects who I am in warmth, compassion, knowledge, and authenticity. I work with individuals, couples, and families, using an interactive approach that focuses on long-term psychotherapy as well as short-term strategic problem solving. Through this unique process you will achieve your goals and live the life you desire and deserve.
(415) 689-7663 View (415) 689-7663
Photo of Nicole Douglas, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Nicole Douglas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
Welcome! You may have been thinking about seeking support from a therapist for quite a while. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety, feeling alone, insecure in your relationship, or feeling stuck with distressing thought patterns that lead to an uneasy feeling of avoidance. I care deeply about creating a warm, empathic, and well-attuned connection with my clients. I strive to provide a collaborative experience while working with an array of diverse individuals who seek support with navigating their specific challenges.
Welcome! You may have been thinking about seeking support from a therapist for quite a while. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety, feeling alone, insecure in your relationship, or feeling stuck with distressing thought patterns that lead to an uneasy feeling of avoidance. I care deeply about creating a warm, empathic, and well-attuned connection with my clients. I strive to provide a collaborative experience while working with an array of diverse individuals who seek support with navigating their specific challenges.
(415) 366-9064 View (415) 366-9064
Photo of Gioia Schuler, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Gioia Schuler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94801
I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) Marriage and Family Therapist with four years of experience treating cultural diversity issues. I believe every individual is unique and finding the strength to defend that uniqueness is my goal as a clinician. Many times, we find ourselves dwelling in a place of discomfort because we are in transit, in a new position, a new career, a new family or a new country. We are living constantly transitioning from one culture to another one, through life phases, starting new traditions. My goal is helping you to succeed in your own special journey.
I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) Marriage and Family Therapist with four years of experience treating cultural diversity issues. I believe every individual is unique and finding the strength to defend that uniqueness is my goal as a clinician. Many times, we find ourselves dwelling in a place of discomfort because we are in transit, in a new position, a new career, a new family or a new country. We are living constantly transitioning from one culture to another one, through life phases, starting new traditions. My goal is helping you to succeed in your own special journey.
(510) 726-6246 View (510) 726-6246

Online Therapists

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 Marisa Morris, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Marisa Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
I have years of experience walking alongside clients and family systems dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, codependency, transition, adoption, the challenges of living with a loved one struggling with addiction or mental illness and more.
This is not always easy work. Exploring trauma, sadness, anxiousness, fear, doubt, insecurities, change, and more can be challenging and even scary. So much has shifted in our world, it feels as if it has also unearthed new chances to also allow ourselves to grow. I imagine that’s why you’re here, searching for ways to connect with and support these parts of yourself, or to help a younger loved one do so. In my work, I choose to employ curiosity and acceptance, informed by models such as Internal Family Systems, to gently lean into change and healing at the client's pace.
I have years of experience walking alongside clients and family systems dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, codependency, transition, adoption, the challenges of living with a loved one struggling with addiction or mental illness and more.
This is not always easy work. Exploring trauma, sadness, anxiousness, fear, doubt, insecurities, change, and more can be challenging and even scary. So much has shifted in our world, it feels as if it has also unearthed new chances to also allow ourselves to grow. I imagine that’s why you’re here, searching for ways to connect with and support these parts of yourself, or to help a younger loved one do so. In my work, I choose to employ curiosity and acceptance, informed by models such as Internal Family Systems, to gently lean into change and healing at the client's pace.
(831) 900-4928 View (831) 900-4928
Beth Hoch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
Adjusting to life's changes and transitions can be overwhelming. You're not alone and, you've taken the first step toward healing. I have been a psychodynamic psychotherapist for over 25 years working with adults, parents and young children. I specialize in treating depression/anxiety, birth trauma, parenting, co-parenting, early childhood mental health, child development, grief, and loss. I utilize the models of Internal Family Systems, Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and for parenting, Filial Therapy, T Berry Brazelton's Touchpoints, Early Childhood Mental Health, Circle of Security, and Fussy Baby.
Adjusting to life's changes and transitions can be overwhelming. You're not alone and, you've taken the first step toward healing. I have been a psychodynamic psychotherapist for over 25 years working with adults, parents and young children. I specialize in treating depression/anxiety, birth trauma, parenting, co-parenting, early childhood mental health, child development, grief, and loss. I utilize the models of Internal Family Systems, Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and for parenting, Filial Therapy, T Berry Brazelton's Touchpoints, Early Childhood Mental Health, Circle of Security, and Fussy Baby.
(510) 395-8860 View (510) 395-8860
Photo of Rachel Navarro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Rachel Navarro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Citrus Heights, CA 95621
My clinical approaches combine: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psycho dynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Hi! and welcome :) I am Rachel Navarro, a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California with over 15 years of experience in the social services sector. My areas of focus include: addictions, LGBT, grief, intimacy-related issues, career difficulties, depression, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, attachment Issues, blended Family Issues, body image, caregiver issues and stress, communication problems, divorce and separation, family problems, forgiveness, pregnancy and childbirth, self-love, women's issues and workplace challenges.
My clinical approaches combine: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psycho dynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Hi! and welcome :) I am Rachel Navarro, a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California with over 15 years of experience in the social services sector. My areas of focus include: addictions, LGBT, grief, intimacy-related issues, career difficulties, depression, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, attachment Issues, blended Family Issues, body image, caregiver issues and stress, communication problems, divorce and separation, family problems, forgiveness, pregnancy and childbirth, self-love, women's issues and workplace challenges.
(916) 680-8478 View (916) 680-8478
Photo of Tamar Berry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Tamar Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
I believe in connecting and supporting you in a compassionate way. I can help you find a resolution and create a positive change by working with the body – mind connection while applying methods such as Hakomi and IFS. When working together, we'll focus on the present moment as you head down the path to healing and health. With over 15 years in the field supporting adults, couples and families, I have developed the unique ability to bring to light your strengths while providing a platform of hope and happiness.
I believe in connecting and supporting you in a compassionate way. I can help you find a resolution and create a positive change by working with the body – mind connection while applying methods such as Hakomi and IFS. When working together, we'll focus on the present moment as you head down the path to healing and health. With over 15 years in the field supporting adults, couples and families, I have developed the unique ability to bring to light your strengths while providing a platform of hope and happiness.
(669) 221-6607 View (669) 221-6607
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 Marcie Kay, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Marcie Kay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MBA, APCC
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities that include humanistic, family systems, attachment, and trauma-focused therapy.
I create a safe and nurturing therapeutic space for adults, couples & teens who are facing major life transitions such as college, career, divorce, or personal loss in finding a joyful and fulfilling path forward. I also provide empathetic guidance to the “sandwich generation” – women and men who are raising children while also caring for their elderly parents and struggling with anxiety and depression as they attempt to juggle it all. I help families navigate the complexities of raising children, adolescents and emerging adults in a healthy, cohesive way.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities that include humanistic, family systems, attachment, and trauma-focused therapy.
I create a safe and nurturing therapeutic space for adults, couples & teens who are facing major life transitions such as college, career, divorce, or personal loss in finding a joyful and fulfilling path forward. I also provide empathetic guidance to the “sandwich generation” – women and men who are raising children while also caring for their elderly parents and struggling with anxiety and depression as they attempt to juggle it all. I help families navigate the complexities of raising children, adolescents and emerging adults in a healthy, cohesive way.
(650) 686-5489 View (650) 686-5489
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 Pam Walton, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Pam Walton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
I am skilled and/or certified in a variety of evidence-based approaches such as, CBT, MB-CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Non-Violent Communication, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing.
Welcome. I have over 24 years of experience as a therapist, and master's degrees in Clinical Psychology and Physiology. I also have over 30 years of experience teaching and practicing mindfulness, and a background in neuroscience research. If you are suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, addiction or family/marriage problems, I can help. I can take you beyond traditional talk-based therapy using experiential methods, to access and change emotional and behavioral patterns that keep you stuck. Please see my website for additional information on my training and experience.
I am skilled and/or certified in a variety of evidence-based approaches such as, CBT, MB-CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Non-Violent Communication, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing.
Welcome. I have over 24 years of experience as a therapist, and master's degrees in Clinical Psychology and Physiology. I also have over 30 years of experience teaching and practicing mindfulness, and a background in neuroscience research. If you are suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, addiction or family/marriage problems, I can help. I can take you beyond traditional talk-based therapy using experiential methods, to access and change emotional and behavioral patterns that keep you stuck. Please see my website for additional information on my training and experience.
(707) 207-6036 View (707) 207-6036
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 Robert Ayala, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Robert Ayala
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Hi, my name is Robert Ayala and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience. I specialize in working with adolescents (12+), adults, & couples who are looking to obtain improved skills to better manage life's challenges. They are looking to explore their current and past relationships, stressors, & concerns and how they are prohibiting them from leading the enjoyable life they look to have. Using an eclectic mix of CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, and family systems therapy, I first want to get to know the person you are while getting a clear understanding of the person you want to become.
Hi, my name is Robert Ayala and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience. I specialize in working with adolescents (12+), adults, & couples who are looking to obtain improved skills to better manage life's challenges. They are looking to explore their current and past relationships, stressors, & concerns and how they are prohibiting them from leading the enjoyable life they look to have. Using an eclectic mix of CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, and family systems therapy, I first want to get to know the person you are while getting a clear understanding of the person you want to become.
(408) 610-1759 View (408) 610-1759
Photo of Bernadette Shu, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Bernadette Shu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Therapy is your opportunity to receive support, validation, guidance and healing. We will work together to address your concerns in a safe, accepting and non-judgmental environment. I focus on helping women at various stages of life who are going through traumatic experiences, stressful life transitions, grief & loss and anxiety & depression. I'm also trained to help perinatal/ postpartum women and mothers. In addition to my clinical training, I bring 20 years of Corporate sector experience to this field.
Therapy is your opportunity to receive support, validation, guidance and healing. We will work together to address your concerns in a safe, accepting and non-judgmental environment. I focus on helping women at various stages of life who are going through traumatic experiences, stressful life transitions, grief & loss and anxiety & depression. I'm also trained to help perinatal/ postpartum women and mothers. In addition to my clinical training, I bring 20 years of Corporate sector experience to this field.
(650) 549-9842 View (650) 549-9842
Photo of Angela Yolanda Vazquez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Angela Yolanda Vazquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Are you an adolescent or an adult struggling with emotions, thoughts, and/or behaviors? Is your goal is to increase self - esteem and overall mental health?
Are you an adolescent or an adult struggling with emotions, thoughts, and/or behaviors? Is your goal is to increase self - esteem and overall mental health?
(707) 868-0588 View (707) 868-0588
Photo of Salima Alim, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Rafael, CA
Salima Alim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94061
I hope this message finds you in a moment of peace amidst the challenges you may be facing. As your therapist, with a background in trauma, working with children, adolescents, and adults, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the bravery and strength it takes to confront the difficulties you are experiencing. I understand that navigating through life challenges and trauma can feel like an overwhelming journey, especially for young minds. However, please know that you are not alone in this process. Together, we will work through the pain, unpack the emotions, and pave the path towards healing and resilience.
I hope this message finds you in a moment of peace amidst the challenges you may be facing. As your therapist, with a background in trauma, working with children, adolescents, and adults, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the bravery and strength it takes to confront the difficulties you are experiencing. I understand that navigating through life challenges and trauma can feel like an overwhelming journey, especially for young minds. However, please know that you are not alone in this process. Together, we will work through the pain, unpack the emotions, and pave the path towards healing and resilience.
(650) 670-4436 View (650) 670-4436
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.