Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Miami Lakes, FL

Photo of Sarai Nammur, Counselor in Miami Lakes, FL
Sarai Nammur
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Lakes, FL 33014
If you are someone who has been through pain but you know there is more to life and more that you can give, you have come to the right place. I have acquired a strong belief that the only true path to well-being, happiness, and living a fulfilled life is to learn the mindset, attitudes, and mental characteristics needed to thrive. Many times in our journey through life we lose sight of our true purpose and potential when the cloud of past and current painful experiences/memories hang over us and manifests themselves as hopelessness, low self-esteem, feelings of low self-worth, overwhelming emotions, negative choices, and despair.
If you are someone who has been through pain but you know there is more to life and more that you can give, you have come to the right place. I have acquired a strong belief that the only true path to well-being, happiness, and living a fulfilled life is to learn the mindset, attitudes, and mental characteristics needed to thrive. Many times in our journey through life we lose sight of our true purpose and potential when the cloud of past and current painful experiences/memories hang over us and manifests themselves as hopelessness, low self-esteem, feelings of low self-worth, overwhelming emotions, negative choices, and despair.
(786) 244-7714 View (786) 244-7714
Photo of Belen Gangotena, Counselor in Miami Lakes, FL
Belen Gangotena
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Lakes, FL 33016
The decision to pursue therapy to help guide you towards making the decisions that will best serve you in life can be the first step towards success. Perhaps you are struggling with a relationship that has become toxic or just feels stuck? Maybe you are feeling frustrated with yourself as you do not know how to break the cycles that are holding you back? Has a difficult situation in your past created obstacles for you that seem difficult to overcome? These are the times when we need a safe place to heal and recover.
The decision to pursue therapy to help guide you towards making the decisions that will best serve you in life can be the first step towards success. Perhaps you are struggling with a relationship that has become toxic or just feels stuck? Maybe you are feeling frustrated with yourself as you do not know how to break the cycles that are holding you back? Has a difficult situation in your past created obstacles for you that seem difficult to overcome? These are the times when we need a safe place to heal and recover.
(954) 440-7546 View (954) 440-7546
Photo of Yisel Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Yisel Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, TIRF, TIRT, CTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Lakes, FL 33018
You are the expert! I will provide a safe space for individuals to heal in a non-judgmental way. I believe in the mind-body connection, practicing with a holistic approach to help get individuals to a healthier self. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist , EMDR therapist , Hypnotherapist, Certified Trauma Professional and Certified Sound Therapy Facilitator . I incorporate in my practice holistic services such as : Reiki, Sound bath, Meditation and Mindfulness. I have enjoyed working with clients doing individual, couples and family sessions in both English and Spanish. Hablo Espanol! Available in office sessions & Telehealth
You are the expert! I will provide a safe space for individuals to heal in a non-judgmental way. I believe in the mind-body connection, practicing with a holistic approach to help get individuals to a healthier self. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist , EMDR therapist , Hypnotherapist, Certified Trauma Professional and Certified Sound Therapy Facilitator . I incorporate in my practice holistic services such as : Reiki, Sound bath, Meditation and Mindfulness. I have enjoyed working with clients doing individual, couples and family sessions in both English and Spanish. Hablo Espanol! Available in office sessions & Telehealth
(786) 886-3470 View (786) 886-3470

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joshua Davis, Counselor in Miami Lakes, FL
Joshua Davis
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33138  (Online Only)
Extensively trained in family systems theory, NeuroAffective Relationship Model, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I have developed an expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families using a non-judgmental, non-shaming, compassionate, and collaborative approach.
Oh Hey! I am Josh, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in relationships, starting with the relationship with yourself and others. I enjoy working with Queer and LGBTQIA+ individuals and non-traditional relationships. So many of us have had to forfeit either our authenticity or connection to operate in the world. My passion is to help individuals and families connect, accept, and love their authentic selves and facilitate deeper connections with their loved ones.
Extensively trained in family systems theory, NeuroAffective Relationship Model, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I have developed an expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families using a non-judgmental, non-shaming, compassionate, and collaborative approach.
Oh Hey! I am Josh, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in relationships, starting with the relationship with yourself and others. I enjoy working with Queer and LGBTQIA+ individuals and non-traditional relationships. So many of us have had to forfeit either our authenticity or connection to operate in the world. My passion is to help individuals and families connect, accept, and love their authentic selves and facilitate deeper connections with their loved ones.
(305) 407-1908 View (305) 407-1908
Photo of Lindsay M Syeh, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Miami Lakes, FL
Lindsay M Syeh
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hialeah, FL 33018  (Online Only)
I am a professionally trained EMDR therapist working towards certification, Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-Informed approaches.
If you're here you're wondering "how do I"... unpack unhelpful/toxic behaviors and beliefs? and/or unhealthy self-sabotaging patterns that may interfere with being emotionally present/available, emotionally aware, accessing meaning, joy, intimate connections, peace, purpose, and an authentic-wholehearted life. We will work together to deconstruct limiting beliefs, unhealthy attachments, mood dysregulation, and discover different ways to incorporate adaptive beliefs that contribute to a healthy, thriving, and a vibrant life.
I am a professionally trained EMDR therapist working towards certification, Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-Informed approaches.
If you're here you're wondering "how do I"... unpack unhelpful/toxic behaviors and beliefs? and/or unhealthy self-sabotaging patterns that may interfere with being emotionally present/available, emotionally aware, accessing meaning, joy, intimate connections, peace, purpose, and an authentic-wholehearted life. We will work together to deconstruct limiting beliefs, unhealthy attachments, mood dysregulation, and discover different ways to incorporate adaptive beliefs that contribute to a healthy, thriving, and a vibrant life.
(305) 690-0727 View (305) 690-0727
Photo of Deborah Tome, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Deborah Tome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33015
I am a laid-back therapist. I have over 40 years of experience in this profession and have learned a variety of approaches and techniques. My top modalities are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, Family Systems, Dialectical (DBT), Family / Marital, Interpersonal, Mindfulness, Trauma Therapy, and Couples Therapy. My specialties are Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Coping Skills, Trauma, and PTSD. I believe our relationship is a partnership, with both of us working as a team to provide you with success!
I am a laid-back therapist. I have over 40 years of experience in this profession and have learned a variety of approaches and techniques. My top modalities are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, Family Systems, Dialectical (DBT), Family / Marital, Interpersonal, Mindfulness, Trauma Therapy, and Couples Therapy. My specialties are Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Coping Skills, Trauma, and PTSD. I believe our relationship is a partnership, with both of us working as a team to provide you with success!
(813) 796-7584 View (813) 796-7584
Photo of Lexi Kuntz, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Miami Lakes, FL
Lexi Kuntz
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33012  (Online Only)
My therapeutic techniques include CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Grief Therapy, Attachment-Based, Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Family Systems, Mindfulness & Confidence-Building.
Are you in need of a non-judgmental and safe environment to express and process your feelings, emotions, and thoughts? Do you feel uncertain of the next steps to take to improve your overall well-being? If you answered yes to either of the questions, then you’ve come to the right place! My name is Lexi Kuntz, and I strive to help people improve their quality of life. Together, we identify the barriers that are getting in the way and learn effective coping skills to help foster a meaningful life. With a passion for supporting others, I help guide individuals in identifying their own strengths and values to reach their goals.
My therapeutic techniques include CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Grief Therapy, Attachment-Based, Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Family Systems, Mindfulness & Confidence-Building.
Are you in need of a non-judgmental and safe environment to express and process your feelings, emotions, and thoughts? Do you feel uncertain of the next steps to take to improve your overall well-being? If you answered yes to either of the questions, then you’ve come to the right place! My name is Lexi Kuntz, and I strive to help people improve their quality of life. Together, we identify the barriers that are getting in the way and learn effective coping skills to help foster a meaningful life. With a passion for supporting others, I help guide individuals in identifying their own strengths and values to reach their goals.
(561) 621-4021 View (561) 621-4021
Photo of Oasis Integrative Counseling Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Oasis Integrative Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miramar, FL 33025
I employ a variety of evidence-based approaches that may include but not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.
I am a Caribbean immigrant who has resided in the US for over several decades. I am passionate about incorporating a holistic approach to providing psychotherapy services to a diverse multicultural population within the South Florida region. My practice that focuses on therapy with individuals, couples, and families, includes children (ages 5 through 12), adolescents, and adults. My ideal client is one who, because of cultural or ethnic differences, may be hesitant toward accessing counseling elsewhere.
I employ a variety of evidence-based approaches that may include but not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.
I am a Caribbean immigrant who has resided in the US for over several decades. I am passionate about incorporating a holistic approach to providing psychotherapy services to a diverse multicultural population within the South Florida region. My practice that focuses on therapy with individuals, couples, and families, includes children (ages 5 through 12), adolescents, and adults. My ideal client is one who, because of cultural or ethnic differences, may be hesitant toward accessing counseling elsewhere.
(305) 770-6933 View (305) 770-6933
Photo of Melissa Moreno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Melissa Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33184  (Online Only)
Life can be hard! My approach to therapy is to share with you a safe, non-judgmental space which we can build a strong therapeutic relationship so that together we can explore the challenges you face and develop a way to make changes and choices in your life so that your life is easier. I use a mix of evidence-based practices and approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I will support you through our collaborative work in addressing harm, coping strategies, and facilitating healing. Through collaboration and support I will help empower you to understand your feelings and behavior.
Life can be hard! My approach to therapy is to share with you a safe, non-judgmental space which we can build a strong therapeutic relationship so that together we can explore the challenges you face and develop a way to make changes and choices in your life so that your life is easier. I use a mix of evidence-based practices and approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I will support you through our collaborative work in addressing harm, coping strategies, and facilitating healing. Through collaboration and support I will help empower you to understand your feelings and behavior.
(845) 665-1234 View (845) 665-1234
Photo of Anse Daniel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Anse Daniel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Miramar, FL 33025
I see therapy as a collaborative process every step of the way- from goal setting through achieving goals. I believe that each individual, couple, and family has a different way to relating to the world, and I treat each client based on their individual needs. We work together to identify strengths, and focus on what we know is already working. Then, together, we face challenges and build new skills to accomplish goals. I use therapeutic techniques that are designed to meet those goals (e.g. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT, Family Systems, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy-DBT).
I see therapy as a collaborative process every step of the way- from goal setting through achieving goals. I believe that each individual, couple, and family has a different way to relating to the world, and I treat each client based on their individual needs. We work together to identify strengths, and focus on what we know is already working. Then, together, we face challenges and build new skills to accomplish goals. I use therapeutic techniques that are designed to meet those goals (e.g. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT, Family Systems, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy-DBT).
(954) 573-2472 View (954) 573-2472
Photo of Mendel Toron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Mendel Toron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Miami Beach, FL 33162
This includes somatic training (Sensorimotor Psychotherapy), EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Psychodynamic approaches.
Healing from trauma requires a specialized, attuned, and integrative process. The emotional wounds of the past are hidden and often appear as anxiety, relational challenges, disconnection, and more. At its core, trauma disconnects us from ourself and makes us feel that who and what we are is "not enough." This leaves us feeling empty and seeking replacements to fill that void. By addressing our trauma, we integrate this healing at the deeper emotional, body, and spiritual levels. With a safe, supportive space, we can tap into our internal wisdom and bring about this transformational work.
This includes somatic training (Sensorimotor Psychotherapy), EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Psychodynamic approaches.
Healing from trauma requires a specialized, attuned, and integrative process. The emotional wounds of the past are hidden and often appear as anxiety, relational challenges, disconnection, and more. At its core, trauma disconnects us from ourself and makes us feel that who and what we are is "not enough." This leaves us feeling empty and seeking replacements to fill that void. By addressing our trauma, we integrate this healing at the deeper emotional, body, and spiritual levels. With a safe, supportive space, we can tap into our internal wisdom and bring about this transformational work.
(954) 466-4443 View (954) 466-4443
Photo of James Cote, Counselor in Miami Lakes, FL
James Cote
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33147  (Online Only)
We will work together from an Internal Family Systems perspective, an integrative, holistic approach to therapy which will guide you in transforming your life from the inside out by tapping into your innate ability to heal deep emotional wounds, release toxic beliefs, and lead your life from a place of true self-confidence, balance, and purpose.
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in the State of Florida with 5+ years of professional experience supporting and empowering adults struggling with a wide array of mental health challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, trauma & abuse, addiction, depression, meaninglessness, grief & loss, family conflict, anger management, identity issues, and relationship problems. I maintain an open and safe space for you to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
We will work together from an Internal Family Systems perspective, an integrative, holistic approach to therapy which will guide you in transforming your life from the inside out by tapping into your innate ability to heal deep emotional wounds, release toxic beliefs, and lead your life from a place of true self-confidence, balance, and purpose.
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in the State of Florida with 5+ years of professional experience supporting and empowering adults struggling with a wide array of mental health challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, trauma & abuse, addiction, depression, meaninglessness, grief & loss, family conflict, anger management, identity issues, and relationship problems. I maintain an open and safe space for you to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
(561) 823-3646 View (561) 823-3646
Photo of Megan Bush, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Miami Lakes, FL
Megan Bush
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33138  (Online Only)
Through a combination of CBT, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and somatic practices, you'll learn to regulate your nervous system, build self-compassion, embody your ideal self, and live life through a new identity that feels uniquely aligned and authentic to YOU.
Are you yearning to live a fulfilling, harmonious life, but can't seem to figure out how to get there? Do you feel stuck in complacency and self-judgment, unable to get to where you’d like to be despite your best efforts? You are not alone. I believe that we all have a powerful capacity for change inside of us, but often, we need a bit of help to unlock it. Using a collaborative, compassionate, personable, and often playful approach, I specialize in helping women find the authenticity, confidence, and agency needed to live with deep fulfillment and joy.
Through a combination of CBT, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and somatic practices, you'll learn to regulate your nervous system, build self-compassion, embody your ideal self, and live life through a new identity that feels uniquely aligned and authentic to YOU.
Are you yearning to live a fulfilling, harmonious life, but can't seem to figure out how to get there? Do you feel stuck in complacency and self-judgment, unable to get to where you’d like to be despite your best efforts? You are not alone. I believe that we all have a powerful capacity for change inside of us, but often, we need a bit of help to unlock it. Using a collaborative, compassionate, personable, and often playful approach, I specialize in helping women find the authenticity, confidence, and agency needed to live with deep fulfillment and joy.
(786) 686-8710 View (786) 686-8710
Photo of Jacqueline Adamson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Jacqueline Adamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33025  (Online Only)
I utilize humanistic, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral techniques while conceptualizing from a family systems perspective when helping with relationship issues.
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Florida and Texas with over 15 years experience working as a therapist. I have worked with many clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression and anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, work/life balance, trauma, and abuse. My counseling style is compassionate and engaging. I believe as a part of the human condition we all come to face difficulties in life and we are all deserving of respect, empathy, and understanding in our time of need.
I utilize humanistic, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral techniques while conceptualizing from a family systems perspective when helping with relationship issues.
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Florida and Texas with over 15 years experience working as a therapist. I have worked with many clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression and anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, work/life balance, trauma, and abuse. My counseling style is compassionate and engaging. I believe as a part of the human condition we all come to face difficulties in life and we are all deserving of respect, empathy, and understanding in our time of need.
(321) 346-7673 View (321) 346-7673
Photo of Alexsis M Machado, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Alexsis M Machado
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hialeah, FL 33018  (Online Only)
I work primarily with individuals or families going through difficulties and looking to over come hardship and transform their lives. Growing up my love for this field came from my strong sense of empathy and desire to connect and understand the pain of others. As a child I experienced emotions at an intense level and was easily misunderstood . This created a passion within me to help others be understood and understand themselves and their emotions so that they can have the power to better their lives.
I work primarily with individuals or families going through difficulties and looking to over come hardship and transform their lives. Growing up my love for this field came from my strong sense of empathy and desire to connect and understand the pain of others. As a child I experienced emotions at an intense level and was easily misunderstood . This created a passion within me to help others be understood and understand themselves and their emotions so that they can have the power to better their lives.
(954) 324-2958 View (954) 324-2958
Photo of Rosa M Prado, LPC Intern in Miami Lakes, FL
Rosa M Prado
LPC Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33015
Helping others has been at the forefront of my life and that passion continues to flourish. Life circumstances have made me realize the limited availability of mental health professionals who were passionate, compassionate and empathetic. The interactions with diverse communities has made me aware of the critical need for mental health professionals in the area of child and adolescents, family counseling and support for those in the autism community. That has fueled a need in me to assist individuals and families establish lasting and fortified relationships in an effort to repair the family system.
Helping others has been at the forefront of my life and that passion continues to flourish. Life circumstances have made me realize the limited availability of mental health professionals who were passionate, compassionate and empathetic. The interactions with diverse communities has made me aware of the critical need for mental health professionals in the area of child and adolescents, family counseling and support for those in the autism community. That has fueled a need in me to assist individuals and families establish lasting and fortified relationships in an effort to repair the family system.
(954) 516-1383 View (954) 516-1383
Photo of Melisa P. Sheldon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Melisa P. Sheldon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33184
I believe everyone holds within them the key to their own mental and emotional wellness, but at times may need help finding it. We all face challenging times in our lives, and sometimes need some help getting through them. If you are having difficulty with anxiety or mood disorders, grief, family dysfunction, life transitions or just need help improving your life, I am here to help.
I believe everyone holds within them the key to their own mental and emotional wellness, but at times may need help finding it. We all face challenging times in our lives, and sometimes need some help getting through them. If you are having difficulty with anxiety or mood disorders, grief, family dysfunction, life transitions or just need help improving your life, I am here to help.
(786) 977-5173 View (786) 977-5173
Photo of Kariann Favillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Kariann Favillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami Gardens, FL 33169
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over ten years working with diverse populations across the age spectrum. My career began working with children, then eventually families, adults, and more currently, a complex Veteran population. I have a background working with children and childhood trauma, adults/families, and Veterans. I am comfortable and have experience treating most diagnoses, age groups, and populations.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over ten years working with diverse populations across the age spectrum. My career began working with children, then eventually families, adults, and more currently, a complex Veteran population. I have a background working with children and childhood trauma, adults/families, and Veterans. I am comfortable and have experience treating most diagnoses, age groups, and populations.
(786) 743-3376 View (786) 743-3376
Photo of Dr. Desirée N. Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Dr. Desirée N. Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, ACS
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33127  (Online Only)
Intimacy Injuries are rampant and even normalized in today’s environment. Whether these emotional wounds show up in regards to your relationship with yourself, your significant others, or your family members; the opportunity to ameliorate those hurts is here! In my work as a Psychotherapist, I specialize in Sex, Intimacy, and Trauma as well as a Bariatric Specialist with self-identity before and after Weight Loss Surgery. If you also identify as Highly Sensitive or Introverted, let's have a chat about how to uncover how you may be hiding your greatness in plain sight!
Intimacy Injuries are rampant and even normalized in today’s environment. Whether these emotional wounds show up in regards to your relationship with yourself, your significant others, or your family members; the opportunity to ameliorate those hurts is here! In my work as a Psychotherapist, I specialize in Sex, Intimacy, and Trauma as well as a Bariatric Specialist with self-identity before and after Weight Loss Surgery. If you also identify as Highly Sensitive or Introverted, let's have a chat about how to uncover how you may be hiding your greatness in plain sight!
View
Photo of Ambrosia Treatment Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Lakes, FL
Ambrosia Treatment Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, CCTSA, CCTSI
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33125
Don't settle for generic treatment. You deserve care that actually helps you stay sober for good.
Don't settle for generic treatment. You deserve care that actually helps you stay sober for good.
(561) 375-2688 View (561) 375-2688


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.