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 Wisdom of Mind and Body, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Wisdom of Mind and Body
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
We all want the same things. To be understood, recognized, treated with kindness and respect. To feel like we belong. We share the same path to growth through self-effort in overcoming challenges in our life’s journey. Are you mastering the game of life? You are more powerful than your past or stories. Truth be told, “life is simply what you create it to mean.” Imagine yourself as the eagle that soars up into the sky with Wisdom as a compass. I can help you with self-esteem, family, career, trauma, grief, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, womens’ empowerment, life transitions, relationships, death/dying, and pet loss.
We all want the same things. To be understood, recognized, treated with kindness and respect. To feel like we belong. We share the same path to growth through self-effort in overcoming challenges in our life’s journey. Are you mastering the game of life? You are more powerful than your past or stories. Truth be told, “life is simply what you create it to mean.” Imagine yourself as the eagle that soars up into the sky with Wisdom as a compass. I can help you with self-esteem, family, career, trauma, grief, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, womens’ empowerment, life transitions, relationships, death/dying, and pet loss.
(925) 255-7552 View (925) 255-7552

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Dihmes, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Sarah Dihmes
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
(415) 799-5164 View (415) 799-5164
Photo of Victoria L. Vogel, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Victoria L. Vogel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I combine LENS Neurofeedback with ancient wisdom, warmth and caring. Are you longing for someone positive to talk to who cares and understands? Someone who has experience with anxiety, ADHD, head trauma, PTSD, depression and finding your place in life and love? I can hold your issues and teach you mindfulness which brings happiness and relief. Days, evenings, some insurance.
I combine LENS Neurofeedback with ancient wisdom, warmth and caring. Are you longing for someone positive to talk to who cares and understands? Someone who has experience with anxiety, ADHD, head trauma, PTSD, depression and finding your place in life and love? I can hold your issues and teach you mindfulness which brings happiness and relief. Days, evenings, some insurance.
(415) 413-3935 View (415) 413-3935

Online Therapists

Photo of Lilly Roche, Occupational Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Lilly Roche
Occupational Therapist, MA, OTR/L, YTT, YMC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
Lilly is a women's health occupational therapist trained in Internal Family Systems through Yoga Mindset Coaching which integrates Classical Yoga with Part’s Work.
If you feel unsafe in your body, not able to express yourself freely and lack connection to your intuition, you have come to the right place to heal. Working with Lilly will help you: uncover and release limiting beliefs; gain insight to make empowered choices; increase confidence, self-expression, and interpersonal communication skills; reduce anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation; improve overall wellness, vitality, and health. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered, allowing the system of the client to lead where each session goes. She welcomes you to schedule a free Discovery Call!
Lilly is a women's health occupational therapist trained in Internal Family Systems through Yoga Mindset Coaching which integrates Classical Yoga with Part’s Work.
If you feel unsafe in your body, not able to express yourself freely and lack connection to your intuition, you have come to the right place to heal. Working with Lilly will help you: uncover and release limiting beliefs; gain insight to make empowered choices; increase confidence, self-expression, and interpersonal communication skills; reduce anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation; improve overall wellness, vitality, and health. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered, allowing the system of the client to lead where each session goes. She welcomes you to schedule a free Discovery Call!
(341) 895-6135 View (341) 895-6135
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
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 Sequoia Prindle - Neurodiversity Affirming Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Sequoia Prindle - Neurodiversity Affirming Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of somatic, relational, and strength-based modalities and incorporate aspects of parts work/IFS and brainspotting (an offshoot of EMDR) for trauma processing in my practice.
Please note: emailing me via Psychology Today is preferred to calling, thank you! :) I know it's exhausting to live in a world that asks us to mask our true identities, needs, and the most unique and beautiful parts of ourselves. We all deserve to have a safe space where we can explore the masks that we wear and the selves beneath them. I have lived experience with neurodivergence, dissociation, polyamory, and am queer and nonbinary, so I understand how valuable it is to have a therapist who understands intersectional experiences and can provide a space for non-judgmental authenticity in healing.
I use a variety of somatic, relational, and strength-based modalities and incorporate aspects of parts work/IFS and brainspotting (an offshoot of EMDR) for trauma processing in my practice.
Please note: emailing me via Psychology Today is preferred to calling, thank you! :) I know it's exhausting to live in a world that asks us to mask our true identities, needs, and the most unique and beautiful parts of ourselves. We all deserve to have a safe space where we can explore the masks that we wear and the selves beneath them. I have lived experience with neurodivergence, dissociation, polyamory, and am queer and nonbinary, so I understand how valuable it is to have a therapist who understands intersectional experiences and can provide a space for non-judgmental authenticity in healing.
(415) 498-1325 View (415) 498-1325
Photo of Jeffrey Joseph Bruno, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Jeffrey Joseph Bruno
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
I offer an integrative psychodynamic, family systems perspective, along with brain mapping, targeted nutrition and neuromodulation.
My clients seek integrative solutions to complex and distressful problems for their own or their children's thoughts, emotions, and bodily experiences. While talk-based therapies are helpful, a relational approach may not be enough to solve acute or chronic mental health challenges. Yet, anxiety, depression, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, or developmental-learning disabilities often respond to personalized and holistic mind-body approaches. My ideal client is looking for more than an expert to talk with about their challenges or symptoms. They are open to exploring new methods and strategies to beneficially transform their life.
I offer an integrative psychodynamic, family systems perspective, along with brain mapping, targeted nutrition and neuromodulation.
My clients seek integrative solutions to complex and distressful problems for their own or their children's thoughts, emotions, and bodily experiences. While talk-based therapies are helpful, a relational approach may not be enough to solve acute or chronic mental health challenges. Yet, anxiety, depression, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, or developmental-learning disabilities often respond to personalized and holistic mind-body approaches. My ideal client is looking for more than an expert to talk with about their challenges or symptoms. They are open to exploring new methods and strategies to beneficially transform their life.
(650) 675-3703 View (650) 675-3703
Photo of Rachael M. Little, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Rachael M. Little
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
My style incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral, coaching, interpersonal, and family systems therapies.
East Coast upbringing meets West Coast ideology! I currently practice in both Vermont and California, and am proud to blend the progressive nature of the SF Bay with my Northern Attitude and roots. I work with families, couples, and individuals, supporting folks through life transitions, work stress, tough relationships, and difficult adolescent periods. I approach our work with a sense of directness, candor, and humor. I promise I can not only handle your tough stuff, but help you through to the other side. Our work together will be fulfilling and never boring, and I'll help you take control of your life in ways you never dreamed.
My style incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral, coaching, interpersonal, and family systems therapies.
East Coast upbringing meets West Coast ideology! I currently practice in both Vermont and California, and am proud to blend the progressive nature of the SF Bay with my Northern Attitude and roots. I work with families, couples, and individuals, supporting folks through life transitions, work stress, tough relationships, and difficult adolescent periods. I approach our work with a sense of directness, candor, and humor. I promise I can not only handle your tough stuff, but help you through to the other side. Our work together will be fulfilling and never boring, and I'll help you take control of your life in ways you never dreamed.
(650) 276-4246 View (650) 276-4246
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 Theresa E Chesnut, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Theresa E Chesnut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
I use an integrative counseling approach, utilizing a strengths-based perspective grounded in both psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems (IFS) theories.
Once you make the decision to seek therapy, finding a therapist who "gets you" is the key element in starting the process. I focus on: eating disorders, trauma resolution / PTSD, adolescents in crisis, and elite athletes. As a psychodynamic therapist, my goal is to help clients uncover their true potential and lead a meaningful life; it's about having a life that becomes worth celebrating.
I use an integrative counseling approach, utilizing a strengths-based perspective grounded in both psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems (IFS) theories.
Once you make the decision to seek therapy, finding a therapist who "gets you" is the key element in starting the process. I focus on: eating disorders, trauma resolution / PTSD, adolescents in crisis, and elite athletes. As a psychodynamic therapist, my goal is to help clients uncover their true potential and lead a meaningful life; it's about having a life that becomes worth celebrating.
(650) 206-4505 View (650) 206-4505
Photo of Blackhawk Family Testing & Assessment Center, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Blackhawk Family Testing & Assessment Center
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94506
Welcome to the Gold Standard of testing! Our testing and assessment program provides the most comprehensive psychological assessments to allow individuals to reach their absolute full potential. Whether working with a kiddo, teen, or adult, each assessment is tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual. After a no-cost consultation, our psychologists provide their recommendations for a psychological battery that will address all aspects of cognitive and behavioral functioning. We also provide testing and diagnosis for autism spectrum disorders.
Welcome to the Gold Standard of testing! Our testing and assessment program provides the most comprehensive psychological assessments to allow individuals to reach their absolute full potential. Whether working with a kiddo, teen, or adult, each assessment is tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual. After a no-cost consultation, our psychologists provide their recommendations for a psychological battery that will address all aspects of cognitive and behavioral functioning. We also provide testing and diagnosis for autism spectrum disorders.
(925) 261-7219 View (925) 261-7219
Photo of Paul Boyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Paul Boyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94536
After a career in finance, including stints in investment banking and mortgage securitization, I decided that I needed a career that was more about people and less about spreadsheets. To that end, I completed training to become a mental health counselor, which is now my chosen profession. Becoming an ally to those working to make meaningful personal change or just navigate life’s challenges more peacefully has proven to be a profoundly rewarding career decision.
After a career in finance, including stints in investment banking and mortgage securitization, I decided that I needed a career that was more about people and less about spreadsheets. To that end, I completed training to become a mental health counselor, which is now my chosen profession. Becoming an ally to those working to make meaningful personal change or just navigate life’s challenges more peacefully has proven to be a profoundly rewarding career decision.
(510) 738-0432 View (510) 738-0432
Photo of Katherine Jewett, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Katherine Jewett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
What if?. . . . What if you didn’t have to feel as though you had to hold all of those balls in the air by yourself? . . . .What if those stomach dropping, throat clenching, heart racing thoughts didn’t have to keep you up at night?. . . . What if you could figure out how to manage those difficult emotions rather than feel overwhelmed by them? What if your history didn’t have to equal your future story? I’ve got you covered! I'll help you to understand how your past got you to this place and how to use that information to connect the dots, figure things out, and design a new and better story going forward.
What if?. . . . What if you didn’t have to feel as though you had to hold all of those balls in the air by yourself? . . . .What if those stomach dropping, throat clenching, heart racing thoughts didn’t have to keep you up at night?. . . . What if you could figure out how to manage those difficult emotions rather than feel overwhelmed by them? What if your history didn’t have to equal your future story? I’ve got you covered! I'll help you to understand how your past got you to this place and how to use that information to connect the dots, figure things out, and design a new and better story going forward.
(925) 322-1681 View (925) 322-1681
Photo of Aubrey-Pierre Keys, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Aubrey-Pierre Keys
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95821
I have a number of treatment modalities to address diverse patient treatment. In addition, I have worked with clinical depression both moderate and severe over the last 12 years. Also, grief has been a difficult process for patients who loss a love one both deceased and divorced that I have treated in both traumatic and non traumatic cases. I also have a speciality with those who are dealing with difficult oartner relationships. (i.e. blended famillies, reactionary communication that deteriiorate the couple relationship, remarriage and divorce mediation) I also provide medication monitoring for patients taking psychotropic meds.
I have a number of treatment modalities to address diverse patient treatment. In addition, I have worked with clinical depression both moderate and severe over the last 12 years. Also, grief has been a difficult process for patients who loss a love one both deceased and divorced that I have treated in both traumatic and non traumatic cases. I also have a speciality with those who are dealing with difficult oartner relationships. (i.e. blended famillies, reactionary communication that deteriiorate the couple relationship, remarriage and divorce mediation) I also provide medication monitoring for patients taking psychotropic meds.
(916) 510-0729 View (916) 510-0729
Photo of Katie Hartman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Rafael, CA
Katie Hartman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Capitola, CA 95010  (Online Only)
As a marriage and family therapist associate, I can offer you professional support and guidance in navigating challenges and overcoming obstacles in your life. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals, couples and teenagers. I have a solid understanding of various therapeutic approaches and techniques that can be tailored to your specific needs. I believe in taking a holistic approach to therapy, acknowledging the interconnectedness of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By considering all aspects of your life, we can work together to develop strategies that promote overall health and happiness.
As a marriage and family therapist associate, I can offer you professional support and guidance in navigating challenges and overcoming obstacles in your life. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals, couples and teenagers. I have a solid understanding of various therapeutic approaches and techniques that can be tailored to your specific needs. I believe in taking a holistic approach to therapy, acknowledging the interconnectedness of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By considering all aspects of your life, we can work together to develop strategies that promote overall health and happiness.
(831) 346-0888 View (831) 346-0888
Photo of Brain Health Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Brain Health Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT, BCN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95819
At the Brain Health Clinic Our mission is to help you discover or rediscover your potential by leading a life that is more satisfying. We do this through many avenues. We offer biofeedback, neurofeedback, neuromodulation and psychotherapy. If you are seeking a therapist, it is likely because you are experiencing significant upset in your life. It is as important to us as it is to you that we have the right relationship that works for both of us. Give us a call and we will find the right therapist within our group for you.
At the Brain Health Clinic Our mission is to help you discover or rediscover your potential by leading a life that is more satisfying. We do this through many avenues. We offer biofeedback, neurofeedback, neuromodulation and psychotherapy. If you are seeking a therapist, it is likely because you are experiencing significant upset in your life. It is as important to us as it is to you that we have the right relationship that works for both of us. Give us a call and we will find the right therapist within our group for you.
(916) 398-2613 View (916) 398-2613
Photo of Anika Thielbar, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Anika Thielbar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I have been privileged to have experienced a very diverse clientele. Currently I am accepting clients who are LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, those who are working on trauma or traumatic pasts, 'outside the box' or deep thinkers, and/or those who have lived diverse/alternative lives. When contacting me, please say what about this profile you were interested in, and why you think we might be a good match.
I have been privileged to have experienced a very diverse clientele. Currently I am accepting clients who are LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, those who are working on trauma or traumatic pasts, 'outside the box' or deep thinkers, and/or those who have lived diverse/alternative lives. When contacting me, please say what about this profile you were interested in, and why you think we might be a good match.
(510) 296-3637 View (510) 296-3637
Photo of Dobbs Psychology, Inc. , Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Dobbs Psychology, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, CA 95492  (Online Only)
For me, it is vital that you feel heard and supported all times, without judgment. Together, we will strategize how to best cope with daily stressors effectively and easily. I can help you leave the past behind through self-forgiveness and by creating a much more positive present, and thus, future. Often, we talk to ourselves in very negative ways and this determines our reactions and limitations, as well as our worldview. I will help you radically improve your self-esteem and take on each day's challenges feeling strong and at peace with yourself. I also specialize in trauma. My way of treating it is effective and painless.
For me, it is vital that you feel heard and supported all times, without judgment. Together, we will strategize how to best cope with daily stressors effectively and easily. I can help you leave the past behind through self-forgiveness and by creating a much more positive present, and thus, future. Often, we talk to ourselves in very negative ways and this determines our reactions and limitations, as well as our worldview. I will help you radically improve your self-esteem and take on each day's challenges feeling strong and at peace with yourself. I also specialize in trauma. My way of treating it is effective and painless.
(707) 309-6991 View (707) 309-6991
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.