Photo of Sherry M. White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sherry M. White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
In my practice, I utilize components of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Positive Psychology and more to aid in the self-discovery and healing process.
Has anyone ever mentioned that you're stronger than you think? Let's be real, sometimes being resilient feels like you're running a never-ending marathon. Each time you conquer one obstacle, another one pops up out of nowhere. Or maybe you've been wrestling with the same issues for what feels like forever, with no sign of relief in sight. It's only natural to wonder, "When will things start looking up for me?" and "Will I ever start feeling better? " Trust me, I get it! I am not merely the therapist sitting across the screen from you - truth be told, I have been you.
In my practice, I utilize components of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Positive Psychology and more to aid in the self-discovery and healing process.
Has anyone ever mentioned that you're stronger than you think? Let's be real, sometimes being resilient feels like you're running a never-ending marathon. Each time you conquer one obstacle, another one pops up out of nowhere. Or maybe you've been wrestling with the same issues for what feels like forever, with no sign of relief in sight. It's only natural to wonder, "When will things start looking up for me?" and "Will I ever start feeling better? " Trust me, I get it! I am not merely the therapist sitting across the screen from you - truth be told, I have been you.
(202) 804-2402 View (202) 804-2402
Photo of District Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
District Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
With over a decade of experience, we use an eclectic approach, drawing on humanism, CBT, internal family systems (IFS), psychodynamic theory, mindfulness meditation, positive psychology, emotion-focused therapy, acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), and attachment theory.
District Psychotherapy is a counseling practice serving Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We specialize in young and middle-age adults (18-40’s) facing life challenges and/or mental health issues; or simply seeking greater fulfillment in life. Our most common treatment areas are anxiety, depression, career & relationship difficulties, ADHD, OCD, panic attacks, and trauma—among others. Sometimes just feeling stuck or adrift.
With over a decade of experience, we use an eclectic approach, drawing on humanism, CBT, internal family systems (IFS), psychodynamic theory, mindfulness meditation, positive psychology, emotion-focused therapy, acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), and attachment theory.
District Psychotherapy is a counseling practice serving Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We specialize in young and middle-age adults (18-40’s) facing life challenges and/or mental health issues; or simply seeking greater fulfillment in life. Our most common treatment areas are anxiety, depression, career & relationship difficulties, ADHD, OCD, panic attacks, and trauma—among others. Sometimes just feeling stuck or adrift.
(833) 465-0720 View (833) 465-0720
Photo of Susannah Herrada, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Susannah Herrada
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Waitlist for new clients
My academic training includes advanced trauma-informed approaches and I lean into DBT, CBT, and IFS.
Whether you're looking to get unstuck, make meaning of the past, or find a way forward, it's easier with someone walking alongside you. We can keep it super practical and forward-focused with creative problem-solving, go deep to examine the past, or do a little of both. However you'd like to approach this space, we can find strategies to leverage your strengths and find more balance.
My academic training includes advanced trauma-informed approaches and I lean into DBT, CBT, and IFS.
Whether you're looking to get unstuck, make meaning of the past, or find a way forward, it's easier with someone walking alongside you. We can keep it super practical and forward-focused with creative problem-solving, go deep to examine the past, or do a little of both. However you'd like to approach this space, we can find strategies to leverage your strengths and find more balance.
(202) 804-0223 View (202) 804-0223
Photo of Jacqueline Trombley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jacqueline Trombley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
I have over 12 years experience working with both adolescents and adults. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, and other relationship related challenges. I have a level 1 and level 2 trauma certificate from the Ferentz institute and work with both childhood and adult trauma. I am also an Internal Family Systems Certified Therapist. Though trauma is my speciality, I have experience with a wide range of mental health issues.
I have over 12 years experience working with both adolescents and adults. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, and other relationship related challenges. I have a level 1 and level 2 trauma certificate from the Ferentz institute and work with both childhood and adult trauma. I am also an Internal Family Systems Certified Therapist. Though trauma is my speciality, I have experience with a wide range of mental health issues.
(240) 213-9099 View (240) 213-9099
Photo of Duncan Price, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Duncan Price
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I am also receiving on-going training in Internal Family Systems work, as well as in Somatic / Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
My goal is to create a safe and accepting environment that allows us to better explore the issues you are facing. I believe that one of the most important elements of counseling is the therapeutic relationship. I value a trusting, open, and interactive relationship that allows us to improve insight into your struggles and issues, and develop a plan for recovery and healing.
I am also receiving on-going training in Internal Family Systems work, as well as in Somatic / Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
My goal is to create a safe and accepting environment that allows us to better explore the issues you are facing. I believe that one of the most important elements of counseling is the therapeutic relationship. I value a trusting, open, and interactive relationship that allows us to improve insight into your struggles and issues, and develop a plan for recovery and healing.
(202) 601-3836 View (202) 601-3836
Photo of Andie Chilson, Counselor in Washington, DC
Andie Chilson
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Some of my go-to approaches include ACT, IFS, and solution-focused therapy.
Hi, I’m Andie! I’m a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in DC offering services to adolescents and adults of all genders. My areas of expertise include eating disorders, body image challenges, anxiety, stress, and trauma. I have seen what it looks like when someone has had their life overrun by an eating disorder, chronic stress, or unresolved trauma. I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they do the incredibly challenging work of reclaiming their lives to live in accordance with their own values.
Some of my go-to approaches include ACT, IFS, and solution-focused therapy.
Hi, I’m Andie! I’m a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in DC offering services to adolescents and adults of all genders. My areas of expertise include eating disorders, body image challenges, anxiety, stress, and trauma. I have seen what it looks like when someone has had their life overrun by an eating disorder, chronic stress, or unresolved trauma. I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they do the incredibly challenging work of reclaiming their lives to live in accordance with their own values.
(202) 556-3614 View (202) 556-3614
Photo of Allie L Swanson, Counselor in Washington, DC
Allie L Swanson
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
I use an Internal Family Systems and Psychodynamic approach to explore how past relationships have impacted your worldview.
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor under the direct supervision of Jamaal A. Crone MAR, M.Ed., LPC at The Crone Esquivel Group, LLC. Change begins by creating awareness and understanding. Sometimes life experiences leave us lost and confused. My role is to act as a flashlight to illuminate your journey towards a more meaningful life. Email Inquiries preferred!
I use an Internal Family Systems and Psychodynamic approach to explore how past relationships have impacted your worldview.
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor under the direct supervision of Jamaal A. Crone MAR, M.Ed., LPC at The Crone Esquivel Group, LLC. Change begins by creating awareness and understanding. Sometimes life experiences leave us lost and confused. My role is to act as a flashlight to illuminate your journey towards a more meaningful life. Email Inquiries preferred!
(202) 804-8422 View (202) 804-8422
Photo of Anna D'Avanzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Anna D'Avanzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I utilize a combination of mindfulness and body awareness techniques, internal-family systems work, and creative art approaches for clients of all ages.
Young adulthood is one of the most formative and also challenging years of our lives. Your path forward might not always feel obvious or smooth. As a therapist, I provide a safe and empathetic environment for you to explore what matters to you most. The people I work with face challenges around major life changes and adjustments, school, college, and careers, relationship issues, family conflict, and parent-child conflict. I have many years of experience helping clients work through past trauma, those with anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
I utilize a combination of mindfulness and body awareness techniques, internal-family systems work, and creative art approaches for clients of all ages.
Young adulthood is one of the most formative and also challenging years of our lives. Your path forward might not always feel obvious or smooth. As a therapist, I provide a safe and empathetic environment for you to explore what matters to you most. The people I work with face challenges around major life changes and adjustments, school, college, and careers, relationship issues, family conflict, and parent-child conflict. I have many years of experience helping clients work through past trauma, those with anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
(202) 410-6796 View (202) 410-6796
Photo of Mengqi Li, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Mengqi Li
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic framework integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), EMDR and Brainspotting.
No matter what has brought you to therapy, your experience is valid. I believe that even the most unlikeable, confusing, extreme parts of you have a wisdom to be understood, a protectiveness to be thanked, and a vulnerability to be seen and held. In my practice, I will seek to meet you exactly where you are, and together we can tend to the unique challenges in your life. My ultimate goal is for clients to uncover their essential self—to rediscover their own innate wisdom and strength that can face whatever life brings.
My therapeutic framework integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), EMDR and Brainspotting.
No matter what has brought you to therapy, your experience is valid. I believe that even the most unlikeable, confusing, extreme parts of you have a wisdom to be understood, a protectiveness to be thanked, and a vulnerability to be seen and held. In my practice, I will seek to meet you exactly where you are, and together we can tend to the unique challenges in your life. My ultimate goal is for clients to uncover their essential self—to rediscover their own innate wisdom and strength that can face whatever life brings.
(202) 360-4285 View (202) 360-4285
Photo of Geri M. Ferber, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Geri M. Ferber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
My time sensitive psychotherapy practice is informed by IFS, Sensorimotor, mindfulness, psychodynamic & other modalities.
As a senior therapist, my practice focuses on maintaining psychological health and well being for seniors who might prosper from making psychological adjustments in light of newly emerging age-related obstacles. Some may need to manage declining vitality and declining abilities, or to accept a changing sense of one's physical condition, or to cope with new losses and new fears. For others, troubling thoughts of past losses and traumas may come into heightened focus. Establishing new but vital relationships may become necessary and it may be helpful to forge new roles to enhance the pleasure of this life stage.
My time sensitive psychotherapy practice is informed by IFS, Sensorimotor, mindfulness, psychodynamic & other modalities.
As a senior therapist, my practice focuses on maintaining psychological health and well being for seniors who might prosper from making psychological adjustments in light of newly emerging age-related obstacles. Some may need to manage declining vitality and declining abilities, or to accept a changing sense of one's physical condition, or to cope with new losses and new fears. For others, troubling thoughts of past losses and traumas may come into heightened focus. Establishing new but vital relationships may become necessary and it may be helpful to forge new roles to enhance the pleasure of this life stage.
(202) 851-9224 View (202) 851-9224
Photo of Jennifer Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Jennifer Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CCTP, MAEd
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I may use a combination of CBT, ACT, IFS, Trauma Focused, mindfulness and relational theory as well as coaching techniques to guide our work.
I specialize in therapy for individuals and couples struggling with emotional, thought-based, and relational problems and those facing major life transitions, grief and trauma. I provide an engaged, safe and compassionate space where you can tell your story and explore how thoughts and past experiences impact the way you feel, behave, relate to others and manage life's challenges. I then assist you in finding healthy alternatives and an empowered path forward.
I may use a combination of CBT, ACT, IFS, Trauma Focused, mindfulness and relational theory as well as coaching techniques to guide our work.
I specialize in therapy for individuals and couples struggling with emotional, thought-based, and relational problems and those facing major life transitions, grief and trauma. I provide an engaged, safe and compassionate space where you can tell your story and explore how thoughts and past experiences impact the way you feel, behave, relate to others and manage life's challenges. I then assist you in finding healthy alternatives and an empowered path forward.
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Photo of Tiffani Boykin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Tiffani Boykin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, LCPC, RYT200, IARP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Mindfulness, IFS and EMDR are essential components of my approach to support you during sessions.
I believe in the infinite potential within each individual. My approach is grounded in humanism, evidenced based interventions, and the wholistic wellness model.. As a therapist I consider physical, environmental, social, and spiritual factors in addition to emotional and mental issues contributing to presenting concerns.
Mindfulness, IFS and EMDR are essential components of my approach to support you during sessions.
I believe in the infinite potential within each individual. My approach is grounded in humanism, evidenced based interventions, and the wholistic wellness model.. As a therapist I consider physical, environmental, social, and spiritual factors in addition to emotional and mental issues contributing to presenting concerns.
(202) 759-2447 View (202) 759-2447
Photo of Krysta Michaelides, Counselor in Washington, DC
Krysta Michaelides
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
In couples therapy, I draw from EFT, IFS, & Sex Therapy.
Ready to heal from past traumas? Financial stress impacting your well-being and ready for change? Are you seeking deeper attachment in your relationships? I work with heterosexual & LGBTQ+ individuals and couples exploring ways to live that fully meet your needs. I help clients address & alleviate stressors as they explore & resolve past emotional wounds & traumas. I offer couples support to strengthen their relationships & resolve issues preventing emotional & sexual intimacy. I’m licensed in DC/MD/VA, practicing under the clinical supervision of Lisa Smith, LPC. My background includes Wall Street, the legal industry & journalism.
In couples therapy, I draw from EFT, IFS, & Sex Therapy.
Ready to heal from past traumas? Financial stress impacting your well-being and ready for change? Are you seeking deeper attachment in your relationships? I work with heterosexual & LGBTQ+ individuals and couples exploring ways to live that fully meet your needs. I help clients address & alleviate stressors as they explore & resolve past emotional wounds & traumas. I offer couples support to strengthen their relationships & resolve issues preventing emotional & sexual intimacy. I’m licensed in DC/MD/VA, practicing under the clinical supervision of Lisa Smith, LPC. My background includes Wall Street, the legal industry & journalism.
(202) 846-2415 View (202) 846-2415
Photo of Dr. Jessica Klement, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Jessica Klement
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I feel passionate about helping clients make connections with the different parts of themselves and heal unhelpful patterns with Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
I work alongside adults and teens, treating anxiety, chronic stress, sleep problems, history of trauma, and/or co-occurring medical conditions. Most of us don’t recognize the ways in which we might be holding ourselves back, whether it be due to anxiety, our relationship with food, or beliefs that we have taken on from others. I’ve seen firsthand the transformation that is possible when you get out of your own way.
I feel passionate about helping clients make connections with the different parts of themselves and heal unhelpful patterns with Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
I work alongside adults and teens, treating anxiety, chronic stress, sleep problems, history of trauma, and/or co-occurring medical conditions. Most of us don’t recognize the ways in which we might be holding ourselves back, whether it be due to anxiety, our relationship with food, or beliefs that we have taken on from others. I’ve seen firsthand the transformation that is possible when you get out of your own way.
(214) 833-9383 View (214) 833-9383
Photo of Morgan Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Morgan Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, and yoga; my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients often struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore sources of trauma and healing with curiosity.
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, and yoga; my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients often struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore sources of trauma and healing with curiosity.
(609) 997-6138 View (609) 997-6138
Photo of Barbara Adika, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Barbara Adika
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Family-of-origin challenges, 1st and 2nd generation American/immigrant experiences, emotional neglect and abandonment and career related stress are my specializations. I help clients learn to maintain neutral behavioral, navigate cultural identity issues, experience physical and emotional safety, develop connectedness with self and others, navigate career and financial stress. Ability to tolerate and manage distress; identifying that cause dysregulation; decreasing dissociating or numbing; and modifying or activating healthy behavioral responses are my clients' treatment outcomes. I use CBT/DBT, IFS and ACT as foundations.
Family-of-origin challenges, 1st and 2nd generation American/immigrant experiences, emotional neglect and abandonment and career related stress are my specializations. I help clients learn to maintain neutral behavioral, navigate cultural identity issues, experience physical and emotional safety, develop connectedness with self and others, navigate career and financial stress. Ability to tolerate and manage distress; identifying that cause dysregulation; decreasing dissociating or numbing; and modifying or activating healthy behavioral responses are my clients' treatment outcomes. I use CBT/DBT, IFS and ACT as foundations.
(540) 329-2069 View (540) 329-2069
Photo of Liz Goggin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Liz Goggin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I have training and professional experience using internal family systems (IFS), psychodynamic/relational models, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
The problem is not within you (even though it probably feels like it is), and yet you have the ability to shift things internally and externally to become more present, increase your connection to self and others, and to live more fully in accordance with your values. I have helped people to change their relationships with substances and other addictions; worked with military veterans to rediscover community and purpose as civilians; and supported those with complex trauma to build a sense of trust and safety in relationships.
I have training and professional experience using internal family systems (IFS), psychodynamic/relational models, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
The problem is not within you (even though it probably feels like it is), and yet you have the ability to shift things internally and externally to become more present, increase your connection to self and others, and to live more fully in accordance with your values. I have helped people to change their relationships with substances and other addictions; worked with military veterans to rediscover community and purpose as civilians; and supported those with complex trauma to build a sense of trust and safety in relationships.
(650) 699-6980 View (650) 699-6980
Photo of Matt Sosnowsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Matt Sosnowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSW, MAPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Thanks for visiting my profile! I specialize in adults (college - 40's) dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship & career challenges, ADHD, OCD, panic attacks, and trauma. My approach is first to understand your struggles and perspective. And, as needed, supplement your instincts with clinical tools/ insights. I draw from modalities such as CBT, humanism, IFS, attachment theory & mindfulness (see Treatment Approach below). I'm also trained in Positive Psychology—aka. the scientific study of happiness. As such, I aim to help clients both (1) overcome challenges and (2) optimize passion/ well-being in their lives.
Thanks for visiting my profile! I specialize in adults (college - 40's) dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship & career challenges, ADHD, OCD, panic attacks, and trauma. My approach is first to understand your struggles and perspective. And, as needed, supplement your instincts with clinical tools/ insights. I draw from modalities such as CBT, humanism, IFS, attachment theory & mindfulness (see Treatment Approach below). I'm also trained in Positive Psychology—aka. the scientific study of happiness. As such, I aim to help clients both (1) overcome challenges and (2) optimize passion/ well-being in their lives.
(215) 398-1151 View (215) 398-1151
Photo of Gabrielle Katz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Gabrielle Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
My main therapeutic modalities consist of CBT, DBT, ERP, and trauma interventions like IFS& EMDR.
My approach to therapy is dealing with the problem at hand, while understanding that there is more beneath the surface. While I treat the current symptoms, I also help my clients figure out why these symptoms exist in the first place. I use a behavioral and cognitive approach, including tangible skills and collaborative accountability, to help with cessation of behaviors and decreasing discomfort with negative thoughts. At the same time, I also use a trauma-informed approach to help my clients become aware of, and heal from, the underlying core beliefs and memories that these behaviors and thoughts are trying to cope with.
My main therapeutic modalities consist of CBT, DBT, ERP, and trauma interventions like IFS& EMDR.
My approach to therapy is dealing with the problem at hand, while understanding that there is more beneath the surface. While I treat the current symptoms, I also help my clients figure out why these symptoms exist in the first place. I use a behavioral and cognitive approach, including tangible skills and collaborative accountability, to help with cessation of behaviors and decreasing discomfort with negative thoughts. At the same time, I also use a trauma-informed approach to help my clients become aware of, and heal from, the underlying core beliefs and memories that these behaviors and thoughts are trying to cope with.
(703) 386-7021 View (703) 386-7021
Photo of Paula D Atkinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Paula D Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, E-RYT, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
My goal for every one of my clients is peace, freedom and sanity. For over a decade, I have helped clients who suffer from depression and anxiety, relationship strife, self doubt and the deep despair that results from living in a society that worships perfection, productivity, restriction, and rigidity. ​ My passion is working with those who suffer from a history of dieting, disordered eating, food obsession, and body hatred. The treatment I provide is Body Justice-focused, weight neutral, and anti-diet. I am an IFS-trained therapist, our work together will be warm, playful, transformative, grounding, and fun!
My goal for every one of my clients is peace, freedom and sanity. For over a decade, I have helped clients who suffer from depression and anxiety, relationship strife, self doubt and the deep despair that results from living in a society that worships perfection, productivity, restriction, and rigidity. ​ My passion is working with those who suffer from a history of dieting, disordered eating, food obsession, and body hatred. The treatment I provide is Body Justice-focused, weight neutral, and anti-diet. I am an IFS-trained therapist, our work together will be warm, playful, transformative, grounding, and fun!
(213) 566-3719 View (213) 566-3719
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.