Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Steuben County, IN

Photo of Fairview Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Fairview Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Angola, IN 46703
I am privileged to be a faith based counselor. One of my specialities is resolving marital difficulties. I also do a significant amount of individual counseling helping people recover from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I listen carefully to your needs and goals, and then focus on succintly finding the blocks that are preventing your happiness and joy in life. I have over twenty years of professional experience in counseling as well as the practical experience of being married and raising children to adulthood. Please view my website at Janice-A-King.com for more information.
I am privileged to be a faith based counselor. One of my specialities is resolving marital difficulties. I also do a significant amount of individual counseling helping people recover from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I listen carefully to your needs and goals, and then focus on succintly finding the blocks that are preventing your happiness and joy in life. I have over twenty years of professional experience in counseling as well as the practical experience of being married and raising children to adulthood. Please view my website at Janice-A-King.com for more information.
(260) 488-8361 View (260) 488-8361
Photo of Jessica Witmer, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
Jessica Witmer
Counselor, MSEd, MA, CHT, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Angola, IN 46703
NOTE: Limited availability for daytime hours. Waitlist for evenings. Do you sometimes feel like your nervous system is failing you? Do you have emotional (or physical) symptoms that you suspect are rooted in some kind of shock, ongoing conflict, or trauma? Do you feel like you are constantly in "fight or flight" mode and wonder if you will ever be able to truly rest? Many of my clients have sought help from MDs, and even alternative health practitioners, only to discover the source of their pain and exhaustion was untreated trauma. But I would love to tell you, there is hope: there is treatment for shock and trauma.
NOTE: Limited availability for daytime hours. Waitlist for evenings. Do you sometimes feel like your nervous system is failing you? Do you have emotional (or physical) symptoms that you suspect are rooted in some kind of shock, ongoing conflict, or trauma? Do you feel like you are constantly in "fight or flight" mode and wonder if you will ever be able to truly rest? Many of my clients have sought help from MDs, and even alternative health practitioners, only to discover the source of their pain and exhaustion was untreated trauma. But I would love to tell you, there is hope: there is treatment for shock and trauma.
(260) 748-8542 View (260) 748-8542
Photo of Tim LaGro, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
Tim LaGro
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Angola, IN 46703
I believe that all of us have some struggle with being addicted to something in life, if we are honest with ourselves. I have found that this develops out of a desire to numb emotional pain that we have not been able to work through. I read recently that 80% of us have experienced some type of trauma and have not worked through that underlying pain causing us to find ways to suppress it. In doing so we develop relational problems internally which then manifest with our family, our work, friends and others.
I believe that all of us have some struggle with being addicted to something in life, if we are honest with ourselves. I have found that this develops out of a desire to numb emotional pain that we have not been able to work through. I read recently that 80% of us have experienced some type of trauma and have not worked through that underlying pain causing us to find ways to suppress it. In doing so we develop relational problems internally which then manifest with our family, our work, friends and others.
(260) 230-4392 View (260) 230-4392

Online Therapists

Photo of Christine F. Goss, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
Christine F. Goss
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Everyone needs a space where they feel their thoughts and feelings matter. I aim to create a space where people can explore what's on their mind without fear of judgment. I’m experienced with EMDR and Internal Family Systems informed care, which are powerful approaches that help people to process trauma and become a wiser, more balanced version of themselves. I specialize in treating PTSD, issues with dissociation, LGBTQ+, and anxiety/depression. I also enjoy working with addictions or those who are in recovery from addictions, as well as with children and teens.
Everyone needs a space where they feel their thoughts and feelings matter. I aim to create a space where people can explore what's on their mind without fear of judgment. I’m experienced with EMDR and Internal Family Systems informed care, which are powerful approaches that help people to process trauma and become a wiser, more balanced version of themselves. I specialize in treating PTSD, issues with dissociation, LGBTQ+, and anxiety/depression. I also enjoy working with addictions or those who are in recovery from addictions, as well as with children and teens.
(260) 235-5134 View (260) 235-5134
Photo of Paige Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Paige Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46805  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I tailor treatment to client needs and use the most effective, research-based techniques from a variety of treatments including cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, motivational interviewing, strengths-based, behavioral therapy, internal family systems and experiential therapy.
Hello! I’m so grateful you have started your journey toward mental health. My name is Paige and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about working with folks to support them through life’s (sometimes many) stressors. Embarking on the journey of self-discovery and healing is a courageous step, and I'm here to offer compassionate support along the way. Whether you're seeking guidance for anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship issues, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic alliance that empowers you to embrace positive change and enhance your overall well-being.
As a therapist, I tailor treatment to client needs and use the most effective, research-based techniques from a variety of treatments including cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, motivational interviewing, strengths-based, behavioral therapy, internal family systems and experiential therapy.
Hello! I’m so grateful you have started your journey toward mental health. My name is Paige and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about working with folks to support them through life’s (sometimes many) stressors. Embarking on the journey of self-discovery and healing is a courageous step, and I'm here to offer compassionate support along the way. Whether you're seeking guidance for anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship issues, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic alliance that empowers you to embrace positive change and enhance your overall well-being.
(574) 857-4859 View (574) 857-4859
Photo of Greg Isch, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
Greg Isch
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Waitlist for new clients
C.G. Jung wrote, "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." I am interested in helping people bring their unconscious (traumas, memories, trapped emotions, younger selves, stuck energy) safely into conscious awareness so these parts can be unburdened and healed. There are many ways to do this: EMDR, ego state/IFS, breath work, somatic therapy, meditation, among others. I love shadow work and helping clients heal at the deepest level. I typically have a waitlist, but the length of expected wait time varies from time to time.
C.G. Jung wrote, "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." I am interested in helping people bring their unconscious (traumas, memories, trapped emotions, younger selves, stuck energy) safely into conscious awareness so these parts can be unburdened and healed. There are many ways to do this: EMDR, ego state/IFS, breath work, somatic therapy, meditation, among others. I love shadow work and helping clients heal at the deepest level. I typically have a waitlist, but the length of expected wait time varies from time to time.
(260) 366-0576 View (260) 366-0576
Photo of David Harold Werdine II, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
David Harold Werdine II
Counselor, BS, MS, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
La Porte, IN 46350
The main types of Therapy I use are Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.
Hello, I'm David. I have over 4 years of experience working as a Mental Health Counselor. I am passionate about helping people to live more satisfying lives. You are the only person, who has the correct solutions to the problems you are seeking help for, but when people have difficulty solving their problems, it is generally because the various aspects of the solutions are not recognized as being connected in a logical way. I can help you discover events in your life that have a significant effect on the way you feel now. I can assist you in using facts to discover the correct ways of interpreting these events.
The main types of Therapy I use are Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.
Hello, I'm David. I have over 4 years of experience working as a Mental Health Counselor. I am passionate about helping people to live more satisfying lives. You are the only person, who has the correct solutions to the problems you are seeking help for, but when people have difficulty solving their problems, it is generally because the various aspects of the solutions are not recognized as being connected in a logical way. I can help you discover events in your life that have a significant effect on the way you feel now. I can assist you in using facts to discover the correct ways of interpreting these events.
(219) 327-3298 View (219) 327-3298
Photo of Taryn Mau, Marriage & Family Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Taryn Mau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Tippecanoe, IN 46570  (Online Only)
I offer individual, couples, or family therapy using an integrative approach and family systems theory.
Many of my clients enter therapy for the first time not knowing what to expect. As your therapist, I will explain the therapy process and paint a clear picture of where we are going. I work to provide an empathetic, safe environment for all of my clients, but I am especially skilled at helping clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transition & existential issues. My training also equips me to work with couples and families struggling with a wide variety of challenges. Some of these may include infidelity, parenting issues, and pre-marital counseling. I love helping couples connect who are struggling to do so.
I offer individual, couples, or family therapy using an integrative approach and family systems theory.
Many of my clients enter therapy for the first time not knowing what to expect. As your therapist, I will explain the therapy process and paint a clear picture of where we are going. I work to provide an empathetic, safe environment for all of my clients, but I am especially skilled at helping clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transition & existential issues. My training also equips me to work with couples and families struggling with a wide variety of challenges. Some of these may include infidelity, parenting issues, and pre-marital counseling. I love helping couples connect who are struggling to do so.
(469) 813-7645 View (469) 813-7645
Photo of Cheryl Bauer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Cheryl Bauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46635
I have specialized training in several different modalities including; CBT, Internal Family Systems (level 2), DBT, addictions counseling, Compassionate Inquiry, and Grief Therapy.
Life is difficult and involves growth and change which is not always easy or comfortable. I believe in empowering people to reach their full potential by providing services that are strengths-based, practical, holistic, and focused on promoting long lasting change. I strive to create a supportive, trusting and safe therapeutic relationship in which people can heal from their trauma, reconnect with themselves, and realize their goals. I have had a great deal of experience in working with people that struggle with addictions of all types, trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Any questions are welcome.
I have specialized training in several different modalities including; CBT, Internal Family Systems (level 2), DBT, addictions counseling, Compassionate Inquiry, and Grief Therapy.
Life is difficult and involves growth and change which is not always easy or comfortable. I believe in empowering people to reach their full potential by providing services that are strengths-based, practical, holistic, and focused on promoting long lasting change. I strive to create a supportive, trusting and safe therapeutic relationship in which people can heal from their trauma, reconnect with themselves, and realize their goals. I have had a great deal of experience in working with people that struggle with addictions of all types, trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Any questions are welcome.
(574) 766-7741 View (574) 766-7741
Photo of Grace Love and Connection, Marriage & Family Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Grace Love and Connection
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46835
Waitlist for new clients
Brooke Sellhorn is trained in attachment-based interventions, emotion-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, crisis management, and family systems.
Grace Love and Connection is a group of clinicians who are passionate about hope and healing. With a spectrum of interests and specialties, our clinicians are able to meet your family's needs. Grace Love and Connection counselors are able to address individual concerns, mental health issues, children's behaviors, adolescent anxiety, emotional health struggles, interpersonal conflict, and family crisis. Counseling is facilitated in a warm environment and within the safety of a non-judgmental, professional relationship.
Brooke Sellhorn is trained in attachment-based interventions, emotion-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, crisis management, and family systems.
Grace Love and Connection is a group of clinicians who are passionate about hope and healing. With a spectrum of interests and specialties, our clinicians are able to meet your family's needs. Grace Love and Connection counselors are able to address individual concerns, mental health issues, children's behaviors, adolescent anxiety, emotional health struggles, interpersonal conflict, and family crisis. Counseling is facilitated in a warm environment and within the safety of a non-judgmental, professional relationship.
(260) 370-6573 View (260) 370-6573
Photo of Nancy Hoback, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Nancy Hoback
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Porte, IN 46350
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in EMDR and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
If you feel overwhelmed by small things, if panic attacks or anxiety are holding you back, if you feel down or depressed, it may be time to seek counseling. If you just feel that you want more out of life, therapy can also be a great way to acheive that. I can help you learn to manage depression and anxiety, while growing in confidence and self value. You can become the person you were meant to be. Call me for a brief telephone consult. I can help.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in EMDR and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
If you feel overwhelmed by small things, if panic attacks or anxiety are holding you back, if you feel down or depressed, it may be time to seek counseling. If you just feel that you want more out of life, therapy can also be a great way to acheive that. I can help you learn to manage depression and anxiety, while growing in confidence and self value. You can become the person you were meant to be. Call me for a brief telephone consult. I can help.
(219) 228-8757 View (219) 228-8757
Photo of Su Roth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Su Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46804  (Online Only)
I have been trained and have successfully utilized EMDR, Trauma Focused-CBT, & Internal Family Systems Informed Approach to help my clients.
Your child, teen, or you as an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health problems due to recent life changes or past traumatic experiences? Your children not talking to you about what they are going through but you can clearly tell they are struggling? It's important that our children have a way to express how they are feeling in a safe environment. It's challenging to be a parent/caregiver and I am here to help navigate these tricky situations. I am passionate about helping children, pre-teens, teens, and young adults overcome their struggles and help improve their relationships with their loved ones.
I have been trained and have successfully utilized EMDR, Trauma Focused-CBT, & Internal Family Systems Informed Approach to help my clients.
Your child, teen, or you as an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health problems due to recent life changes or past traumatic experiences? Your children not talking to you about what they are going through but you can clearly tell they are struggling? It's important that our children have a way to express how they are feeling in a safe environment. It's challenging to be a parent/caregiver and I am here to help navigate these tricky situations. I am passionate about helping children, pre-teens, teens, and young adults overcome their struggles and help improve their relationships with their loved ones.
(260) 253-2579 View (260) 253-2579
Photo of Carolyne Andersohn, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
Carolyne Andersohn
Counselor, LMHC, LCAC, MA
Verified Verified
Elkhart, IN 46514
My professional experience has extended over the past 25 years. I have worked with clients of many ages 6-66 years old.. My training includes using EMDR and Internal Family Systems for trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for increased rational thought, Art Therapy for expression of emotion and release of negative emotions, as well an alternative way to encounter problems; and Reality Therapy to identify concrete needs and how to get those needs met. I am a licensed mental health counselor and art therapist. I have worked in, and have experience in addictions.
My professional experience has extended over the past 25 years. I have worked with clients of many ages 6-66 years old.. My training includes using EMDR and Internal Family Systems for trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for increased rational thought, Art Therapy for expression of emotion and release of negative emotions, as well an alternative way to encounter problems; and Reality Therapy to identify concrete needs and how to get those needs met. I am a licensed mental health counselor and art therapist. I have worked in, and have experience in addictions.
(574) 500-2499 View (574) 500-2499
Photo of Laura Elena Zarandona, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
Laura Elena Zarandona
Counselor, LMHC, MS, IFS L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mishawaka, IN 46545
Elena Zarandona is working exclusively with Internal Family Systems.
Zarandona Counseling and Assessment Services has expanded as a group practice. We currently have 6 therapists, ranging in specialty, and provide services for children 14 years old and up, teens, and adults. Three of our therapists are Spanish speakers. While Elena Zarandona is currently accepting a limited number of new clients, she is happy to recommend any of the therapist working with her. When you call, please explain who the appointment is for so we can match you with the best therapist to meet your needs.
Elena Zarandona is working exclusively with Internal Family Systems.
Zarandona Counseling and Assessment Services has expanded as a group practice. We currently have 6 therapists, ranging in specialty, and provide services for children 14 years old and up, teens, and adults. Three of our therapists are Spanish speakers. While Elena Zarandona is currently accepting a limited number of new clients, she is happy to recommend any of the therapist working with her. When you call, please explain who the appointment is for so we can match you with the best therapist to meet your needs.
(574) 307-9953 View (574) 307-9953
Photo of Brittany Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Brittany Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46615
I utilize a variety of approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other evidenced-based modalities to meet individual needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, youth, and adults. I received my bachelor degree and Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University South Bend.
I utilize a variety of approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other evidenced-based modalities to meet individual needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, youth, and adults. I received my bachelor degree and Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University South Bend.
(574) 766-7501 View (574) 766-7501
Photo of Hannah Cook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Hannah Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LLMFT, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Bend, IN 46628
Hannah utilizes evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), the Gottman Method, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Living in relationships with others is hard work. It’s complicated and it’s often hard to know what healthy relationships are meant to look, feel, or sound like. As a limited Marriage and Family and Professional Counselor, Hannah gets the deep complexities of human relationships and specializes in providing therapy to couples, families, and individuals. She is passionate about helping clients build stronger, healthier relationships – relationships that just work and feel better.
Hannah utilizes evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), the Gottman Method, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Living in relationships with others is hard work. It’s complicated and it’s often hard to know what healthy relationships are meant to look, feel, or sound like. As a limited Marriage and Family and Professional Counselor, Hannah gets the deep complexities of human relationships and specializes in providing therapy to couples, families, and individuals. She is passionate about helping clients build stronger, healthier relationships – relationships that just work and feel better.
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Photo of Chelsea Jordan, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
Chelsea Jordan
Counselor, MA, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46845
I use a variety of treatment modalities including Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and a graduate of Huntington University. I have worked with individuals in a community counseling center and university setting. I have growing experience working with adolescents, teens, young adults, and adults. Specific areas of experience and interest include: anxiety, depression, trauma, family and relationship issues, eating concerns, and stress management. I am also able to offer counseling from a distinctly Christian perspective if desired, but I enjoy connecting with people from all faith backgrounds.
I use a variety of treatment modalities including Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and a graduate of Huntington University. I have worked with individuals in a community counseling center and university setting. I have growing experience working with adolescents, teens, young adults, and adults. Specific areas of experience and interest include: anxiety, depression, trauma, family and relationship issues, eating concerns, and stress management. I am also able to offer counseling from a distinctly Christian perspective if desired, but I enjoy connecting with people from all faith backgrounds.
(260) 657-6830 View (260) 657-6830
Photo of Anna Riggenbach, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
Anna Riggenbach
Counselor, MA, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46845
I work from a combination of treatment modalities including Internal Family Systems Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am impressed by the strength and vulnerability of the individuals that I am fortunate to walk alongside. To be welcomed into the story of another is a tender privilege. I am passionate about creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere where growth can occur. As a licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and National Certified Counselor, I have experience working with children, teens, and adults in both university and community counseling settings. Areas of experience and special interest for me include anxiety, depression, grief, anger management, coping skills for stress, family and relationship issues, identity, and self-esteem.
I work from a combination of treatment modalities including Internal Family Systems Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am impressed by the strength and vulnerability of the individuals that I am fortunate to walk alongside. To be welcomed into the story of another is a tender privilege. I am passionate about creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere where growth can occur. As a licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and National Certified Counselor, I have experience working with children, teens, and adults in both university and community counseling settings. Areas of experience and special interest for me include anxiety, depression, grief, anger management, coping skills for stress, family and relationship issues, identity, and self-esteem.
(260) 217-5320 View (260) 217-5320
Photo of Christine Curless, Counselor in Steuben County, IN
Christine Curless
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wabash, IN 46992
I have a passion for helping people find the comfort of individual uniqueness - your “sweet spot”. I seek to help you work past the stresses and demands of our culture to find joy and peace. Finding healthy coping techniques will enable you to successfully navigate the hard and hurtful experiences that life dumps on us. As Rachel Naomi Remen says, "Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you - all of the expectations, all of the beliefs - and becoming who you are." Your journey is uniquely you, and I want to help you find peace and comfort in the life you’ve been given.
I have a passion for helping people find the comfort of individual uniqueness - your “sweet spot”. I seek to help you work past the stresses and demands of our culture to find joy and peace. Finding healthy coping techniques will enable you to successfully navigate the hard and hurtful experiences that life dumps on us. As Rachel Naomi Remen says, "Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you - all of the expectations, all of the beliefs - and becoming who you are." Your journey is uniquely you, and I want to help you find peace and comfort in the life you’ve been given.
(765) 740-4986 View (765) 740-4986
Photo of Latasia Sargent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Steuben County, IN
Latasia Sargent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617
To put it simply, I am here for you. I am here to help support and encourage your future growth. I use a person-focused approach and meet you where you're at in your healing journey. I have experience working with all ages of children and adults. I work with couples, families, and individuals struggling with everyday life stress, trauma, mood disorders, emotion management, as well as other mental health struggles. Let me be a safe space for you to feel heard and seen while working through the bad days, also being mindful to celebrate the good ones.
To put it simply, I am here for you. I am here to help support and encourage your future growth. I use a person-focused approach and meet you where you're at in your healing journey. I have experience working with all ages of children and adults. I work with couples, families, and individuals struggling with everyday life stress, trauma, mood disorders, emotion management, as well as other mental health struggles. Let me be a safe space for you to feel heard and seen while working through the bad days, also being mindful to celebrate the good ones.
(574) 626-1265 View (574) 626-1265

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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.