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 Jeannie Brown, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Jeannie Brown
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) which I find to be a lot quicker and more effective than other therapy modalities.
Welcome to my in private practice (virtual and in person). Do you feel distressed and need more support? Many seek therapy to end or alleviate often life long or long term painful symptoms or patterns. They may be too complex to address on your own but be very treatable. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive place. I work collaboratively to help develop awareness and skills and through therapeutic modalities. This is to improve or eliminate distressing symptoms or problems and assist you in reaching your full potential. Education: UC Berkeley-BA in Psychology and a Doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology.
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) which I find to be a lot quicker and more effective than other therapy modalities.
Welcome to my in private practice (virtual and in person). Do you feel distressed and need more support? Many seek therapy to end or alleviate often life long or long term painful symptoms or patterns. They may be too complex to address on your own but be very treatable. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive place. I work collaboratively to help develop awareness and skills and through therapeutic modalities. This is to improve or eliminate distressing symptoms or problems and assist you in reaching your full potential. Education: UC Berkeley-BA in Psychology and a Doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology.
(415) 692-6331 View (415) 692-6331
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 Marv Zauderer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Marv Zauderer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
I’m a warm, experienced, interactive therapist who brings a compassionate heart, an active mind, and a calm presence to this work. I’m deeply interested in learning what you know about yourself, including your strengths, pivotal experiences, and challenges. Integrating techniques from therapeutic models such as IFS & cognitive-behavioral therapy, my trauma-informed approach to our work is attuned to your individuality. I bring diverse professional & life experience, a sensitivity to culture & all other components of your identity, and an array of tools that you can use to find the growth, solutions, well-being, or healing you seek.
I’m a warm, experienced, interactive therapist who brings a compassionate heart, an active mind, and a calm presence to this work. I’m deeply interested in learning what you know about yourself, including your strengths, pivotal experiences, and challenges. Integrating techniques from therapeutic models such as IFS & cognitive-behavioral therapy, my trauma-informed approach to our work is attuned to your individuality. I bring diverse professional & life experience, a sensitivity to culture & all other components of your identity, and an array of tools that you can use to find the growth, solutions, well-being, or healing you seek.
(415) 843-4368 View (415) 843-4368
Photo of Kenneth Perlmutter, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Kenneth Perlmutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
My approach employs family systems and relational psychodynamic theories, to promote inner or system balance.
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
My approach employs family systems and relational psychodynamic theories, to promote inner or system balance.
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
(415) 787-4610 View (415) 787-4610
Photo of Lelah Joy Nichol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Lelah Joy Nichol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
My current focus and training is in IFS/ parts work.
Hello and welcome! I am glad you found me. I have 22 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a strong background and interest in helping people improve their relationships with themselves and their family members. I enjoy working with parents who are looking to improve their connection and relationship to their children of any age. I work with mother's from pregnancy and post partum through empty nesting. I work with adults with a focus on improving their relationship with parts of themselves to increase self compassion and reduce self criticism.
My current focus and training is in IFS/ parts work.
Hello and welcome! I am glad you found me. I have 22 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a strong background and interest in helping people improve their relationships with themselves and their family members. I enjoy working with parents who are looking to improve their connection and relationship to their children of any age. I work with mother's from pregnancy and post partum through empty nesting. I work with adults with a focus on improving their relationship with parts of themselves to increase self compassion and reduce self criticism.
(415) 367-0439 View (415) 367-0439
Photo of Laura Bulchis, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Laura Bulchis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Using empathy, talk therapy, experiential practice, EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS) & a strong therapeutic bond, we enhance your self-knowing & guide you towards insight about how current choices & behaviors can be transformed proactively.
Many challenges we experience in daily life relate to conflict between parts of ourselves. Each part reflects our body’s own loving attempts to care for us in the ways it knows. When we shift one part of the feedback loop, the whole system rearranges - in our bodies, & in our relationships. My approach to individual & couples therapy is holistic, somatic & client-centered. I start with creating a non-judgmental, inclusive space for you to come as you are. As we form & reach for your goals, our work may include movement, developmental psychology, trauma work, regulation practices, behavior/communication coaching, & creative guidance.
Using empathy, talk therapy, experiential practice, EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS) & a strong therapeutic bond, we enhance your self-knowing & guide you towards insight about how current choices & behaviors can be transformed proactively.
Many challenges we experience in daily life relate to conflict between parts of ourselves. Each part reflects our body’s own loving attempts to care for us in the ways it knows. When we shift one part of the feedback loop, the whole system rearranges - in our bodies, & in our relationships. My approach to individual & couples therapy is holistic, somatic & client-centered. I start with creating a non-judgmental, inclusive space for you to come as you are. As we form & reach for your goals, our work may include movement, developmental psychology, trauma work, regulation practices, behavior/communication coaching, & creative guidance.
(415) 268-2970 View (415) 268-2970
Photo of Linda Terry, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Linda Terry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, CCTP, CDHWP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with individuals families and couples impacted by trauma, co-dependency, addiction and co-occurring disorders. Having worked in residential drug and alcohol treatment for over 10 years I bring those years of resources and compassionate experience to my work. My focus on family systems and attachment allow me to treat the entire family, offering the best possible outcomes. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist, a Gottman trained couples therapist and I am one of the few therapists working with Internet and Gaming Addiction.
I have extensive experience working with individuals families and couples impacted by trauma, co-dependency, addiction and co-occurring disorders. Having worked in residential drug and alcohol treatment for over 10 years I bring those years of resources and compassionate experience to my work. My focus on family systems and attachment allow me to treat the entire family, offering the best possible outcomes. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist, a Gottman trained couples therapist and I am one of the few therapists working with Internet and Gaming Addiction.
(415) 299-8396 View (415) 299-8396
Photo of Madison O Salvati, LPC Intern in San Rafael, CA
Madison O Salvati
LPC Intern, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
My training is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Somatic experiencing specifically for adolescents struggling with addiction.
My approach stems from an understanding of systems theory and how it impacts individuals within a family system. I also utilize a person-centered approach, emphasizing that each person within that system has the capacity to be the expert in their own life. When forming a new therapeutic alliance with me, I begin by helping you unpack any barriers to treatment such as trauma or ongoing issues with substance use disorders. I consider the complexities that stem from the family system and how this impacts each individual, their beliefs, motivations, and past experiences in treatment.
My training is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Somatic experiencing specifically for adolescents struggling with addiction.
My approach stems from an understanding of systems theory and how it impacts individuals within a family system. I also utilize a person-centered approach, emphasizing that each person within that system has the capacity to be the expert in their own life. When forming a new therapeutic alliance with me, I begin by helping you unpack any barriers to treatment such as trauma or ongoing issues with substance use disorders. I consider the complexities that stem from the family system and how this impacts each individual, their beliefs, motivations, and past experiences in treatment.
(415) 936-0954 View (415) 936-0954
Photo of Cathy Della Valle, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Cathy Della Valle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
I practice from a Psychodynamic framework informed by Object Relations, CBT, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
I practice from a Psychodynamic framework informed by Object Relations, CBT, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
(415) 813-5401 View (415) 813-5401
Photo of Wendy Labov-Dunne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Wendy Labov-Dunne, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties include Relationships, EMDR & Trauma resolution, Somatic interventions, IFS, Interactive Guided Imagery, and/or Dreamwork.
I respect the courage it takes to begin psychotherapy and choose the path of healing. Most important is the building of trust. My presence is kind and authentic, with healthy boundaries. An experienced Individual and Couples therapist, I teach relational skill-building, personally and inter-personally. I'm comfortable with all kinds of trauma, relationship difficulties, major life transitions, addiction, loss & grief, spiritual, medical or psychiatric issues. I encourage clients to identify and move closer to what is really important in their lives. I've witnessed lasting change as clients become more secure, creative & alive.
Specialties include Relationships, EMDR & Trauma resolution, Somatic interventions, IFS, Interactive Guided Imagery, and/or Dreamwork.
I respect the courage it takes to begin psychotherapy and choose the path of healing. Most important is the building of trust. My presence is kind and authentic, with healthy boundaries. An experienced Individual and Couples therapist, I teach relational skill-building, personally and inter-personally. I'm comfortable with all kinds of trauma, relationship difficulties, major life transitions, addiction, loss & grief, spiritual, medical or psychiatric issues. I encourage clients to identify and move closer to what is really important in their lives. I've witnessed lasting change as clients become more secure, creative & alive.
(415) 635-0502 View (415) 635-0502
Photo of Michelle Bonsignore, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Michelle Bonsignore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Waitlist for new clients
My personal + professional experience with addiction's impact on relationships has been combined with training in CBT, ACT, EMDR, + Family Systems.
Are you feeling lonely, sad, angry, or unhappy in your relationships? Do you worry about your or someone else's alcohol or drug use? Substance Use Disorder often impacts individuals and families in painful + predictable ways that trap people in destructive patterns of anxiety, loneliness, anger, helplessness, and despair. You are not alone if your efforts to manage and move beyond the chaos in your relationships feel futile. Don't lose hope! People do get better, and relationships can be repaired!
My personal + professional experience with addiction's impact on relationships has been combined with training in CBT, ACT, EMDR, + Family Systems.
Are you feeling lonely, sad, angry, or unhappy in your relationships? Do you worry about your or someone else's alcohol or drug use? Substance Use Disorder often impacts individuals and families in painful + predictable ways that trap people in destructive patterns of anxiety, loneliness, anger, helplessness, and despair. You are not alone if your efforts to manage and move beyond the chaos in your relationships feel futile. Don't lose hope! People do get better, and relationships can be repaired!
(628) 240-0812 View (628) 240-0812
Photo of Danny Meadows-Partida, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Danny Meadows-Partida
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I practice CBT, DBT, IFS, and am trained in many different psychodynamic approaches as well.
My name is Danny Meadows and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in finding purpose and living that purpose and I believe that trauma and the past can help one find purpose and meaning in life. I am passionate about helping others find purpose and meaning out of chaos and trauma. I work with clients who struggle with traumatic past experiences. I also work with those who have sex/porn addiction as well as eating disorders.
I practice CBT, DBT, IFS, and am trained in many different psychodynamic approaches as well.
My name is Danny Meadows and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in finding purpose and living that purpose and I believe that trauma and the past can help one find purpose and meaning in life. I am passionate about helping others find purpose and meaning out of chaos and trauma. I work with clients who struggle with traumatic past experiences. I also work with those who have sex/porn addiction as well as eating disorders.
(562) 685-9581 View (562) 685-9581
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
Photo of Wendy Shaw-Lyons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Wendy Shaw-Lyons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903  (Online Only)
I believe psychotherapy leads to finding an authentic self, and has the ability to enhance one's quality of life.. I will provide a therapeutic relationship based on compassion, warmth and non judgment to guide you through the process. Together we will identify and work with the blocks that are preventing you from living your life more fully. I have worked with a diverse clientele with a wide range of challenges including trauma, phase of life change, loss, depression, anxiety, and family conflict.
I believe psychotherapy leads to finding an authentic self, and has the ability to enhance one's quality of life.. I will provide a therapeutic relationship based on compassion, warmth and non judgment to guide you through the process. Together we will identify and work with the blocks that are preventing you from living your life more fully. I have worked with a diverse clientele with a wide range of challenges including trauma, phase of life change, loss, depression, anxiety, and family conflict.
(415) 358-3128 View (415) 358-3128
Photo of Cassandra Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Rafael, CA
Cassandra Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
To those navigating the complexities of parenting, carrying the weight of past hurts, or striving to find harmony in their relationships, I see you. I specialize in supporting parents and caregivers concerned about their teenager's behavior and those looking to improve family relationships and reduce conflict. As a family therapist, I tackle various family challenges like addiction, disordered eating, and teen behavior. I assist with challenging transitions, supporting neurodivergent families, healing intergenerational trauma, and addressing burnout in high-achieving families.
To those navigating the complexities of parenting, carrying the weight of past hurts, or striving to find harmony in their relationships, I see you. I specialize in supporting parents and caregivers concerned about their teenager's behavior and those looking to improve family relationships and reduce conflict. As a family therapist, I tackle various family challenges like addiction, disordered eating, and teen behavior. I assist with challenging transitions, supporting neurodivergent families, healing intergenerational trauma, and addressing burnout in high-achieving families.
(415) 450-0517 View (415) 450-0517
Photo of Patricia Pike CEO of CanAm Interventions, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in San Rafael, CA
Patricia Pike CEO of CanAm Interventions
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, CADC II, CIP, NAID
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Patricia M. Pike, CEO of CanAm Interventions, Certified Interventionist & Addiction Specialist, is a trained expert with over 25 years of professional experience in the field of behavioral heath treatment, specializing in addiction and alcoholism. Ms. Pike holds a master accredited certification in addiction studies, conducts successful interventions nationally and internationally. Patricia is a Licensed Advance Alcohol Drug Counselor (LAADC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-II), long standing member of the Canadian Addiction Counselor Association Federation, internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
Patricia M. Pike, CEO of CanAm Interventions, Certified Interventionist & Addiction Specialist, is a trained expert with over 25 years of professional experience in the field of behavioral heath treatment, specializing in addiction and alcoholism. Ms. Pike holds a master accredited certification in addiction studies, conducts successful interventions nationally and internationally. Patricia is a Licensed Advance Alcohol Drug Counselor (LAADC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-II), long standing member of the Canadian Addiction Counselor Association Federation, internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
(415) 578-6836 View (415) 578-6836
Photo of Dorothy O'Leary, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Dorothy O'Leary
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Estrangement in families is more common than many people realize. Adult children find themselves making the impossible choice to separate themselves from a family they love and can't manage. On the other side, parents can feel fearful and powerless, hurt and confused. I can help you explore how efforts to reach your adult child could be backfiring, and why your selfless generosity may be met with rejection. With training and experience in individual therapy a variety of family constellations, I'm ready to help you get beyond feeling stuck.
Estrangement in families is more common than many people realize. Adult children find themselves making the impossible choice to separate themselves from a family they love and can't manage. On the other side, parents can feel fearful and powerless, hurt and confused. I can help you explore how efforts to reach your adult child could be backfiring, and why your selfless generosity may be met with rejection. With training and experience in individual therapy a variety of family constellations, I'm ready to help you get beyond feeling stuck.
(415) 889-2775 View (415) 889-2775
Photo of Cybil Gilbertson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Rafael, CA
Cybil Gilbertson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Therapy is not something I "do" to you; it is a collaboration and conversation we have together. I look forward to walking beside you as you access a place within that feels more like home. There is no one way to move toward healing. I use an emotionally-focused (EFT), humanistic and somatic understanding while keeping the very human need for attachment and relationship at the heart of our work together. Many clients feel and notice a shift toward increased authenticity, flow, ease and joy in their lives after working together. (Now accepting COUPLES).
Therapy is not something I "do" to you; it is a collaboration and conversation we have together. I look forward to walking beside you as you access a place within that feels more like home. There is no one way to move toward healing. I use an emotionally-focused (EFT), humanistic and somatic understanding while keeping the very human need for attachment and relationship at the heart of our work together. Many clients feel and notice a shift toward increased authenticity, flow, ease and joy in their lives after working together. (Now accepting COUPLES).
(805) 386-9108 View (805) 386-9108
Photo of Kathleen Ries, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Kathleen Ries
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, MPH, RD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
"​Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” Mary Anne Radmacher My ideal client is having issues with past traumas, life transitions and troubles. They want to see their life get easier and more joyful. We can figure out therapeutically what's needed and negotiate the number of sessions. With my own life and professional experiences, I bring a wealth of treatment options and resources. I offer a free initial phone (call 15-20 minutes) to help you determine if I'm the therapist for your needs at this time. Sessions are virtual due to COVID-19.
"​Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” Mary Anne Radmacher My ideal client is having issues with past traumas, life transitions and troubles. They want to see their life get easier and more joyful. We can figure out therapeutically what's needed and negotiate the number of sessions. With my own life and professional experiences, I bring a wealth of treatment options and resources. I offer a free initial phone (call 15-20 minutes) to help you determine if I'm the therapist for your needs at this time. Sessions are virtual due to COVID-19.
(628) 227-6489 View (628) 227-6489
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.