Photo of Elizabeth Gallo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Elizabeth Gallo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202
I use an eclectic approach and techniques from Adlerian psychology, somatics, Internal Family Systems parts work, narrative therapy, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness.
I welcome all kinds of clients to my practice, and I'm lucky to work with clients from 19-89 (so far!). My clients are often focused on feeling and functioning better through an exploration of their identities, histories, current situations and goals for the future. I particularly enjoy working with people on issues of depression and/or anxiety, changes in body size and/or ability, chronic pain, trauma, gender and sexuality issues, work and life transitions, aging, stress management, and parenting challenges. My work centers around fostering awareness of and compassion for yourself in moving through everyday life.
I use an eclectic approach and techniques from Adlerian psychology, somatics, Internal Family Systems parts work, narrative therapy, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness.
I welcome all kinds of clients to my practice, and I'm lucky to work with clients from 19-89 (so far!). My clients are often focused on feeling and functioning better through an exploration of their identities, histories, current situations and goals for the future. I particularly enjoy working with people on issues of depression and/or anxiety, changes in body size and/or ability, chronic pain, trauma, gender and sexuality issues, work and life transitions, aging, stress management, and parenting challenges. My work centers around fostering awareness of and compassion for yourself in moving through everyday life.
(847) 321-7872 View (847) 321-7872
Photo of Bonnie Fights, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Bonnie Fights
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I offer compassionate support and the chance to be truly heard and accepted just as you are. I work within a holistic framework that encompasses many different approaches (Person Centered, Behavioral, IFS, EMDR, Mindfulness, Body/Mind). Depending on your needs and preferences, your therapy may include exploring your inner world, getting feedback and support, healing past emotional wounds, obtaining clarity and insight, finding new directions, or trying on new behaviors and skills. We will work together to find approaches that are most effective for you.
I offer compassionate support and the chance to be truly heard and accepted just as you are. I work within a holistic framework that encompasses many different approaches (Person Centered, Behavioral, IFS, EMDR, Mindfulness, Body/Mind). Depending on your needs and preferences, your therapy may include exploring your inner world, getting feedback and support, healing past emotional wounds, obtaining clarity and insight, finding new directions, or trying on new behaviors and skills. We will work together to find approaches that are most effective for you.
(224) 212-1130 View (224) 212-1130
Photo of Maranda Easton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Maranda Easton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
I am warm, curious, and direct when needed, influenced by relational, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems approaches.
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. You might feel stuck in patterns of thoughts or behaviors that are stopping you from fully engaging in the life you want to live. I work with you to process what may be contributing to your pain and to recognize your many strengths within. We each deserve to be seen for all that we are by someone who cares. Honoring your unique personality and needs, we will determine how the therapeutic relationship can best serve you.
I am warm, curious, and direct when needed, influenced by relational, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems approaches.
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. You might feel stuck in patterns of thoughts or behaviors that are stopping you from fully engaging in the life you want to live. I work with you to process what may be contributing to your pain and to recognize your many strengths within. We each deserve to be seen for all that we are by someone who cares. Honoring your unique personality and needs, we will determine how the therapeutic relationship can best serve you.
(847) 320-0933 View (847) 320-0933
Photo of Ruth Minnick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Ruth Minnick
Licensed Professional Counselor, M, A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202
I integrate evidenced-based practices such as breath-work, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused Therapy, all under a psychodynamic therapy lens.
You matter. I seek to highlight & build upon your unique strengths with a focus on overall wellness in mind, body, spirit & community. I believe we all have the tools to reach our highest potential. I aim to understand what might be getting in the way of you being your most authentic, talented self. I specialize in helping others access & heal their pain by engaging the nervous system to unlock trauma & emotions to release them. Body integration allows us to feel alive & open to get more of life. I blend evidenced-based practices such as somatic, breathwork, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, & EFT under a psychodynamic therapy lens.
I integrate evidenced-based practices such as breath-work, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused Therapy, all under a psychodynamic therapy lens.
You matter. I seek to highlight & build upon your unique strengths with a focus on overall wellness in mind, body, spirit & community. I believe we all have the tools to reach our highest potential. I aim to understand what might be getting in the way of you being your most authentic, talented self. I specialize in helping others access & heal their pain by engaging the nervous system to unlock trauma & emotions to release them. Body integration allows us to feel alive & open to get more of life. I blend evidenced-based practices such as somatic, breathwork, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, & EFT under a psychodynamic therapy lens.
(847) 716-2486 View (847) 716-2486
Photo of Julie Scher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Julie Scher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202
Waitlist for new clients
Certified IFS Therapist.
I am a relational therapist working with individuals, couples, and those in non-traditional relationships. Seeking support from psychotherapy is a sign of inner strength and hope, even when it feels as if ones world has turned inside-out. Life rarely allows any of us a free pass; births and deaths, personal crises, relationship troubles, childhood trauma, etc. may meet any one of us head-on at sometime during our lives. Seeking help from psychotherapy is a worthwhile path to take when ways of coping no longer seem effective. I nurture the possibility of deeper understanding and self-knowledge by creatively engaging the whole person.
Certified IFS Therapist.
I am a relational therapist working with individuals, couples, and those in non-traditional relationships. Seeking support from psychotherapy is a sign of inner strength and hope, even when it feels as if ones world has turned inside-out. Life rarely allows any of us a free pass; births and deaths, personal crises, relationship troubles, childhood trauma, etc. may meet any one of us head-on at sometime during our lives. Seeking help from psychotherapy is a worthwhile path to take when ways of coping no longer seem effective. I nurture the possibility of deeper understanding and self-knowledge by creatively engaging the whole person.
(847) 607-1297 View (847) 607-1297
Photo of Jared Robl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Jared Robl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I also use EMDR, solution focused therapy, psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems and CBT approaches to effectively treat the entire person or relationship.
This summer, take the courageous step towards self-discovery and growth. Let's work together to uncover the insights and transformations you seek, building a brighter, more fulfilling path forward. I know that starting or restarting therapy can be intimidating and finding the right fit is important. In my practice I take time to work with clients to feel understood without judgement while building meaningful insight. Building communication, understanding, compassion, and confronting difficult patterns are important components to consider when looking for a therapist and these are hallmarks of my work with clients.
I also use EMDR, solution focused therapy, psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems and CBT approaches to effectively treat the entire person or relationship.
This summer, take the courageous step towards self-discovery and growth. Let's work together to uncover the insights and transformations you seek, building a brighter, more fulfilling path forward. I know that starting or restarting therapy can be intimidating and finding the right fit is important. In my practice I take time to work with clients to feel understood without judgement while building meaningful insight. Building communication, understanding, compassion, and confronting difficult patterns are important components to consider when looking for a therapist and these are hallmarks of my work with clients.
(312) 883-8865 View (312) 883-8865
Photo of Yingjia Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Yingjia Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I utilize a wide range of approaches including CBT, CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), ACT, DBT, Psychodynamic, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed, client-centered, evidence-based, Strength-based, and other approaches.
I'm passionate about supporting multicultural individuals, immigrants, and other marginalized populations to deal with life challenges associated with acculturation, life transitions, and trauma. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, students, adults, and their families who have been going through life transitions and stresses together. I’m specialized in working with individuals to address depression, anxiety, ADHD, perinatal issues, grief, stress management, intergenerational conflicts, complex trauma, communication, relationship issues, etc. I incorporate multiculturalism into my practice.
I utilize a wide range of approaches including CBT, CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), ACT, DBT, Psychodynamic, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed, client-centered, evidence-based, Strength-based, and other approaches.
I'm passionate about supporting multicultural individuals, immigrants, and other marginalized populations to deal with life challenges associated with acculturation, life transitions, and trauma. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, students, adults, and their families who have been going through life transitions and stresses together. I’m specialized in working with individuals to address depression, anxiety, ADHD, perinatal issues, grief, stress management, intergenerational conflicts, complex trauma, communication, relationship issues, etc. I incorporate multiculturalism into my practice.
(872) 266-7962 View (872) 266-7962
Photo of Brit Creelman, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
Brit Creelman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My way of doing therapy involves insight-oriented exploration and problem solving, and an invitation to make deeper contact with core issues and inner healing potential via somatic experience and "parts work." I'm trained as an IFS therapist and can be an especially good fit for those with established mindfulness practices and an ability to tune into inner experience. While working with me you may find yourself looking at problems in a new way, with more curiosity and self compassion. Less judgement.
My way of doing therapy involves insight-oriented exploration and problem solving, and an invitation to make deeper contact with core issues and inner healing potential via somatic experience and "parts work." I'm trained as an IFS therapist and can be an especially good fit for those with established mindfulness practices and an ability to tune into inner experience. While working with me you may find yourself looking at problems in a new way, with more curiosity and self compassion. Less judgement.
(224) 509-9439 View (224) 509-9439
Photo of Rhonda Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Rhonda Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
I am also trained in EMDR and IFS which are very helpful in treating a myriad of issues and traumas both large and small.
It is common to feel like the wheels have fallen off after life hands you the unexpected. It is my passion to help adults who have been contending with stressful, often traumatizing, life experiences to heal, restore and transform. I look forward to providing you with a safe place to explore, find solutions and move forward.
I am also trained in EMDR and IFS which are very helpful in treating a myriad of issues and traumas both large and small.
It is common to feel like the wheels have fallen off after life hands you the unexpected. It is my passion to help adults who have been contending with stressful, often traumatizing, life experiences to heal, restore and transform. I look forward to providing you with a safe place to explore, find solutions and move forward.
(847) 496-9504 View (847) 496-9504
Photo of Andrew Ross, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Andrew Ross
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I draw on leading edge interventions including EMDR, CBT, IFS, and EFT as well as attuned, empathic conversation to help people change their physical and emotional state, learn new skills, develop new strategies, and overcome old blockages.
Do you feel stuck emotionally, financially, or relationally and the old strategies just aren't working? I integrate evidence based interventions to help adults of all ages break through limits like depression, anxiety, and trauma into a more abundant life. Since session space is somewhat limited, I've organized the most important knowledge I've come across in the last decade to create a website full of free videos, skills, and guides to resolve depression, anxiety, trauma and more. Feel free to use these resources whether or not you are a client. I hope you enjoy and reach out at any time to schedule a free 15 minute consult call.
I draw on leading edge interventions including EMDR, CBT, IFS, and EFT as well as attuned, empathic conversation to help people change their physical and emotional state, learn new skills, develop new strategies, and overcome old blockages.
Do you feel stuck emotionally, financially, or relationally and the old strategies just aren't working? I integrate evidence based interventions to help adults of all ages break through limits like depression, anxiety, and trauma into a more abundant life. Since session space is somewhat limited, I've organized the most important knowledge I've come across in the last decade to create a website full of free videos, skills, and guides to resolve depression, anxiety, trauma and more. Feel free to use these resources whether or not you are a client. I hope you enjoy and reach out at any time to schedule a free 15 minute consult call.
(847) 999-7118 View (847) 999-7118
Photo of Annie Novotny, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Annie Novotny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LCPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I may integrate mindfulness and meditation techniques, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems into sessions in order to best support the therapeutic process.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
I may integrate mindfulness and meditation techniques, somatic work, and Internal Family Systems into sessions in order to best support the therapeutic process.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
(708) 572-3801 View (708) 572-3801
Photo of Eugene Shiver, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Eugene Shiver
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I am actively attuned and engaged with clients and use an integrative approach, drawing when appropriate from a range of lenses (Psychodynamic, Jungian, Internal Family Systems, and Object Relations). While I am trained and experienced in cognitively-based therapies (CBT), I thrive when using depth approaches, because I am passionate about guiding individuals toward new levels self-awareness. The process often results in psychological maturation and improvements in inner life and relationships.
I am actively attuned and engaged with clients and use an integrative approach, drawing when appropriate from a range of lenses (Psychodynamic, Jungian, Internal Family Systems, and Object Relations). While I am trained and experienced in cognitively-based therapies (CBT), I thrive when using depth approaches, because I am passionate about guiding individuals toward new levels self-awareness. The process often results in psychological maturation and improvements in inner life and relationships.
(872) 204-1788 View (872) 204-1788
Photo of Tori Hairston, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Tori Hairston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202
This approach includes a comprehensive use of: Internal Family Systems, Emotions Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Biblical Counseling (if applicable), Body-work, elements of Neuropsychology, & other therapies for holistic healing.
Are you ready for breakthrough or simply desiring to heal on a deeper level? Well— as a compassionate, trauma-informed therapist, I am honored to walk alongside clients on their road to freedom through mental health healing. I endeavor to provide a safe space to bear witness to your innermost thoughts, feelings, & emotions while honoring them compassionately & without judgement. This therapeutic journey will lead you to heal your childhood & relationship wounds, break free from old behavioral patterns or negative thought loops, explore your identity, navigate life transitions, change the narrative of your story, & restore your hope.
This approach includes a comprehensive use of: Internal Family Systems, Emotions Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Biblical Counseling (if applicable), Body-work, elements of Neuropsychology, & other therapies for holistic healing.
Are you ready for breakthrough or simply desiring to heal on a deeper level? Well— as a compassionate, trauma-informed therapist, I am honored to walk alongside clients on their road to freedom through mental health healing. I endeavor to provide a safe space to bear witness to your innermost thoughts, feelings, & emotions while honoring them compassionately & without judgement. This therapeutic journey will lead you to heal your childhood & relationship wounds, break free from old behavioral patterns or negative thought loops, explore your identity, navigate life transitions, change the narrative of your story, & restore your hope.
(847) 750-4709 View (847) 750-4709
Photo of Talia Elior Neiman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Talia Elior Neiman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Sometimes it can be hard to talk about our hopes, dreams, concerns and issues. We need a safe space to slowly open up and feel seen. Through the use of expressive arts therapy, we can work together until we feel comfortable expressing things verbally, or not. Through my experiences as a therapist, I have learned other ways of expressing our grief and trauma without having to talk about it. Maybe you have only been in talk therapy before and can't imagine another way of doing things. But there are other options
Sometimes it can be hard to talk about our hopes, dreams, concerns and issues. We need a safe space to slowly open up and feel seen. Through the use of expressive arts therapy, we can work together until we feel comfortable expressing things verbally, or not. Through my experiences as a therapist, I have learned other ways of expressing our grief and trauma without having to talk about it. Maybe you have only been in talk therapy before and can't imagine another way of doing things. But there are other options
(224) 219-0105 View (224) 219-0105
Photo of Laura Duprey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Laura Duprey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
After practicing law for a few years, I realized I was more drawn to the human experience than the legal one. Now I have the privilege of working with people to discover their unique strengths and gifts, gain a better understanding of what motivates their behavior and make positive changes consistent with their goals. I am an empathic and supportive therapist who listens without judgment while also challenging my clients to seek growth. Through genuine connection and collaboration, I hope to empower my clients to face challenges using their existing strengths and to make positive changes in their lives.
After practicing law for a few years, I realized I was more drawn to the human experience than the legal one. Now I have the privilege of working with people to discover their unique strengths and gifts, gain a better understanding of what motivates their behavior and make positive changes consistent with their goals. I am an empathic and supportive therapist who listens without judgment while also challenging my clients to seek growth. Through genuine connection and collaboration, I hope to empower my clients to face challenges using their existing strengths and to make positive changes in their lives.
(847) 396-9676 View (847) 396-9676
Photo of Rob Samp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Rob Samp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMPC, MA
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializing in Complex Trauma, Athletics-Focused Counseling, and Alcohol and Drug use. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and athletic populations using a collaborative approach that fosters a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. My goal is to work together with you to help navigate your life’s journey. If you have ever felt blocked or unreasonably triggered, have had flashbacks to unpleasant moments in your life, or are unreasonably afraid of the future, we can work towards more adaptive responses to otherwise detrimental, "freezing" moments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializing in Complex Trauma, Athletics-Focused Counseling, and Alcohol and Drug use. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and athletic populations using a collaborative approach that fosters a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. My goal is to work together with you to help navigate your life’s journey. If you have ever felt blocked or unreasonably triggered, have had flashbacks to unpleasant moments in your life, or are unreasonably afraid of the future, we can work towards more adaptive responses to otherwise detrimental, "freezing" moments.
(331) 256-1603 View (331) 256-1603
Photo of Linda A. Hogan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Linda A. Hogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I provide a safe environment where you will be listened to with care, compassion, understanding and respect and where your goals for therapy will be honored and supported. I am experienced and skilled in helping individuals, couples, families and groups with a variety of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, panic disorder and agoraphobia, addictions, compulsive behaviors, self esteem and identity issues, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, life transitions, abuse issues, and chronic or acute health problems. My approach is flexible and individually tailored to meet the needs of each person seeking help.
I provide a safe environment where you will be listened to with care, compassion, understanding and respect and where your goals for therapy will be honored and supported. I am experienced and skilled in helping individuals, couples, families and groups with a variety of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, panic disorder and agoraphobia, addictions, compulsive behaviors, self esteem and identity issues, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, life transitions, abuse issues, and chronic or acute health problems. My approach is flexible and individually tailored to meet the needs of each person seeking help.
(224) 676-9715 View (224) 676-9715
Photo of Scott Conklin, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Scott Conklin
Counselor, LCPC, MEd, NCC, MFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Many of us want to have closer, happier, more genuine relationships with our children, spouses, partners, and friends. We may feel stuck, unsatisfied or trapped in our careers or in school, overwhelmed by a strong sense of pressure coming from all directions. There are feelings of stress, anger, guilt or a sense of loneliness that get in the way, too. Often we compare ourselves to others and fall short of expectations. We may look "fine" on the outside, but on the inside, we don't feel fine.
Many of us want to have closer, happier, more genuine relationships with our children, spouses, partners, and friends. We may feel stuck, unsatisfied or trapped in our careers or in school, overwhelmed by a strong sense of pressure coming from all directions. There are feelings of stress, anger, guilt or a sense of loneliness that get in the way, too. Often we compare ourselves to others and fall short of expectations. We may look "fine" on the outside, but on the inside, we don't feel fine.
(312) 967-9196 View (312) 967-9196
Photo of Briana Moretti, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Briana Moretti
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ALMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I believe a large part of my ability to attend to the needs of my clients comes from the effects of my own healing journey, and that my personal and professional experiences allow me to bring a unique perspective to my practice with clients, one rooted in compassion and empathy. I am dedicated to supporting you in overcoming your past traumas, rediscovering your inner self, and redefining your self-concept for a more fulfilling life.
I believe a large part of my ability to attend to the needs of my clients comes from the effects of my own healing journey, and that my personal and professional experiences allow me to bring a unique perspective to my practice with clients, one rooted in compassion and empathy. I am dedicated to supporting you in overcoming your past traumas, rediscovering your inner self, and redefining your self-concept for a more fulfilling life.
(847) 416-8673 View (847) 416-8673
Photo of Alethea Gough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Alethea Gough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
I respect that coming to therapy is a choice a client makes to do something good for themselves, and that it can be challenging to choose you, or to open up to someone new. Social work strongly believes in the autonomy of the client, and I believe people are the experts on themselves. As a therapist, I'm present to meet you where you are at and to help with what is most important to you. My personality is laid back, and as a therapist I feel I'm open minded, easy to talk to, and accepting. I enjoy supporting people in defining goals and taking steps to achieve them.
I respect that coming to therapy is a choice a client makes to do something good for themselves, and that it can be challenging to choose you, or to open up to someone new. Social work strongly believes in the autonomy of the client, and I believe people are the experts on themselves. As a therapist, I'm present to meet you where you are at and to help with what is most important to you. My personality is laid back, and as a therapist I feel I'm open minded, easy to talk to, and accepting. I enjoy supporting people in defining goals and taking steps to achieve them.
(773) 974-3694 View (773) 974-3694
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.