Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Iowa

Photo of Shelly Johnson, Counselor in Iowa
Shelly Johnson
Counselor, LMHC, CIFST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Level 3, Certified IFS Therapist, trained by the IFS Institute.
Life is a journey that we are all navigating through in an effort to find who we really are, what our passions are, & what we truly desire; this is necessary to have an embodied experience of authentic healing, self-expression, and living. My ‘deepest’ intention for my clients is that they feel uplifted & more closely aligned w/ their hearts’ true desires. I encourage clients to cultivate a genuine & authentic approach to life, regardless of earlier life experiences, beliefs, or messaging. Are you ready to take that inner journey of exploration & discovery, without having to do it alone?
I am a Level 3, Certified IFS Therapist, trained by the IFS Institute.
Life is a journey that we are all navigating through in an effort to find who we really are, what our passions are, & what we truly desire; this is necessary to have an embodied experience of authentic healing, self-expression, and living. My ‘deepest’ intention for my clients is that they feel uplifted & more closely aligned w/ their hearts’ true desires. I encourage clients to cultivate a genuine & authentic approach to life, regardless of earlier life experiences, beliefs, or messaging. Are you ready to take that inner journey of exploration & discovery, without having to do it alone?
(515) 446-7351 View (515) 446-7351
Photo of Breann Goodall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Breann Goodall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
Therapy modes I specialize in include trauma processing and IFS with particular focus on using somatic and experiential models.
Welcome to your therapy journey! I'm so glad you're here. As a clinical social worker, my goal is to work with those who are seeking to heal from past trauma, cope with various mood disorders, or manage day-to-day stress. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming and strive for equity through person-centered care. Using a person-centered, trauma-focused approach I will work with you to cultivate hope & self-compassion.
Therapy modes I specialize in include trauma processing and IFS with particular focus on using somatic and experiential models.
Welcome to your therapy journey! I'm so glad you're here. As a clinical social worker, my goal is to work with those who are seeking to heal from past trauma, cope with various mood disorders, or manage day-to-day stress. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming and strive for equity through person-centered care. Using a person-centered, trauma-focused approach I will work with you to cultivate hope & self-compassion.
(515) 954-9865 View (515) 954-9865
Photo of Joel Greenberg, Psychologist in Iowa
Joel Greenberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
I'm experienced in a variety of approaches and find CBT, DBT, IFS (internal family systems), motivational interviewing, and interpersonal approaches emphasizing improving communication and relationships to be most immediately helpful.
I work with teens and adults experiencing a wide range of issues and concerns including anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, drug and alcohol use, work/school problems, relationship issues, gender, sexual orientation, self harm, and suicidality. In addition to discussing the challenges that led you to this place in your life, many find it helpful to discuss goals for therapy, as well as hopes, aspirations, and strengths, in order to help you create a path toward the life that you seek.
I'm experienced in a variety of approaches and find CBT, DBT, IFS (internal family systems), motivational interviewing, and interpersonal approaches emphasizing improving communication and relationships to be most immediately helpful.
I work with teens and adults experiencing a wide range of issues and concerns including anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, drug and alcohol use, work/school problems, relationship issues, gender, sexual orientation, self harm, and suicidality. In addition to discussing the challenges that led you to this place in your life, many find it helpful to discuss goals for therapy, as well as hopes, aspirations, and strengths, in order to help you create a path toward the life that you seek.
(515) 859-8586 View (515) 859-8586
Photo of Greg Allen Fuqua, Counselor in Iowa
Greg Allen Fuqua
Counselor, MA, T-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
I either have training-in or at-times employ, Telehealth, IFS (Internal Family Systems) work, as well as CBT, DBT, SE , Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt approaches and I have advanced training as a Certified Counselor for Neurodiverse Couples and I am an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
I'm Greg Fuqua, MA, T-LMHC, at Lifeworks (Des Moines). I am not currently taking new clients and referrals. I work with clients 13 yrs old and up. I have an art as therapy program for cancer survivors through Above and Beyond Cancer. I also love working with individuals, couples and families, sexual and gender diversity, neurodiversity, ADHD, chronic disease, cancer, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma and more. I often use Art Therapy, SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
I either have training-in or at-times employ, Telehealth, IFS (Internal Family Systems) work, as well as CBT, DBT, SE , Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt approaches and I have advanced training as a Certified Counselor for Neurodiverse Couples and I am an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
I'm Greg Fuqua, MA, T-LMHC, at Lifeworks (Des Moines). I am not currently taking new clients and referrals. I work with clients 13 yrs old and up. I have an art as therapy program for cancer survivors through Above and Beyond Cancer. I also love working with individuals, couples and families, sexual and gender diversity, neurodiversity, ADHD, chronic disease, cancer, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma and more. I often use Art Therapy, SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
(515) 316-2460 View (515) 316-2460
Photo of Samantha R Snovelle, Counselor in Iowa
Samantha R Snovelle
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
I also use a combination of other approaches, including mindfulness, ACT, IFS, relationship based attachement work, and body focused somatic methods.
I believe in the value of realtionships in therapy and the power that can bring in both our relationships with ourselves and others, to aid in healing trauma and our early life relational wounds. I also believe in the work of learning to be more connected to ourselves, our own bodies, sensations, emotions and needs in order to have and create these relationships in our lives. I work well with clients who are motivated to learn, grow and embrace the change process. I am comfortable working with clients from all walks of life and backgrounds. I prefer working with individual clients and adults at this time.
I also use a combination of other approaches, including mindfulness, ACT, IFS, relationship based attachement work, and body focused somatic methods.
I believe in the value of realtionships in therapy and the power that can bring in both our relationships with ourselves and others, to aid in healing trauma and our early life relational wounds. I also believe in the work of learning to be more connected to ourselves, our own bodies, sensations, emotions and needs in order to have and create these relationships in our lives. I work well with clients who are motivated to learn, grow and embrace the change process. I am comfortable working with clients from all walks of life and backgrounds. I prefer working with individual clients and adults at this time.
(515) 852-5482 View (515) 852-5482
Photo of Sally J Henderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Sally J Henderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
My approaches include Internal Family Systems Therapy (Completed IFS Level 1 Training), EMDR, EFT, and use of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to help manage differences between people more effectively.
I enjoy using practical approaches to assist individuals and couples improve their communication, activate their strengths, learn new skills, and better ways of coping with emotions and relationships. From 1999 to 2012 I taught a class on relationships at the University of Iowa. When it's useful, I help my clients by sharing information from the class with them.
My approaches include Internal Family Systems Therapy (Completed IFS Level 1 Training), EMDR, EFT, and use of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to help manage differences between people more effectively.
I enjoy using practical approaches to assist individuals and couples improve their communication, activate their strengths, learn new skills, and better ways of coping with emotions and relationships. From 1999 to 2012 I taught a class on relationships at the University of Iowa. When it's useful, I help my clients by sharing information from the class with them.
(319) 423-3982 View (319) 423-3982
Photo of Peyton Milstead, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Peyton Milstead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Through approaches rooted in IFS, DBT, and CBT I aim to help clients, understand their feelings, build self-confidence, learn essential coping skills, effective communication, a strong sense of identity.
Hello! I am Peyton Milstead, a dedicated therapist specializing in providing support and empowerment to children, adolescents, and families on their unique journeys of growth and healing. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and families can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate healthier relationships. My passion lies in utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients navigate life's challenges with grace and strength
Through approaches rooted in IFS, DBT, and CBT I aim to help clients, understand their feelings, build self-confidence, learn essential coping skills, effective communication, a strong sense of identity.
Hello! I am Peyton Milstead, a dedicated therapist specializing in providing support and empowerment to children, adolescents, and families on their unique journeys of growth and healing. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and families can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate healthier relationships. My passion lies in utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients navigate life's challenges with grace and strength
(515) 316-2083 View (515) 316-2083
Photo of Sarah Gallagher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Sarah Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atkins, IA 52206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are new to therapy or you are looking to return to a safe space; it is my intention to provide a supportive environment to help you feel better. I use a combination of evidence based interventions that are tailored to your unique needs. My practice has roots from humanistic and integrative frameworks and I am trained in Polyvagal EMDR and have specialized training in EMDR for perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders through The Touchstone Institute. I have certificates in ACT, DBT and CBT modalities and am informed in Internal Family Systems. I will collaborate with you to select the most effective modality.
Whether you are new to therapy or you are looking to return to a safe space; it is my intention to provide a supportive environment to help you feel better. I use a combination of evidence based interventions that are tailored to your unique needs. My practice has roots from humanistic and integrative frameworks and I am trained in Polyvagal EMDR and have specialized training in EMDR for perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders through The Touchstone Institute. I have certificates in ACT, DBT and CBT modalities and am informed in Internal Family Systems. I will collaborate with you to select the most effective modality.
(319) 984-4149 View (319) 984-4149
Photo of ., Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
My goal is to inspire hope and help you discover the tools you need to solve your unique concerns while using a strengths-based, internal family systems and systemic approach. I am currently pursuing my play therapy certification and have great and broad interests in attachment issues, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, sex therapy, internet pornography addiction, and the social pressures of being single or divorced. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, families, and children. Change is possible! Let's explore the possibilities together.
My goal is to inspire hope and help you discover the tools you need to solve your unique concerns while using a strengths-based, internal family systems and systemic approach. I am currently pursuing my play therapy certification and have great and broad interests in attachment issues, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, sex therapy, internet pornography addiction, and the social pressures of being single or divorced. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, families, and children. Change is possible! Let's explore the possibilities together.
(319) 552-6619 View (319) 552-6619
Photo of Katy Burno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Katy Burno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245
I am EMDR trained and draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), positive psychology, and brain science.
I help individuals feel more calm, confident, and in control. We unearth and eliminate old, outdated patterns that leave you exhausted, anxious, or depressed. We rewrite the scripts, identify your strengths, and build skills, so you can heal and live into the person you want to be for this next chapter of your life. Ultimately, we work to create your vision of a meaningful life with the tools you need to feel empowered and fulfilled.
I am EMDR trained and draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), positive psychology, and brain science.
I help individuals feel more calm, confident, and in control. We unearth and eliminate old, outdated patterns that leave you exhausted, anxious, or depressed. We rewrite the scripts, identify your strengths, and build skills, so you can heal and live into the person you want to be for this next chapter of your life. Ultimately, we work to create your vision of a meaningful life with the tools you need to feel empowered and fulfilled.
(319) 820-4383 View (319) 820-4383
Photo of Nichole Olson, Psychologist in Iowa
Nichole Olson
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
I integrate IFS, EMDR, ACT, and trauma-based approaches into my work with clients.
I feel grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside others on their journeys towards healing and growth. I take a collaborative and empowering approach. I believe that the client is the expert in their life, and I view my role as being a guide as clients reflect on their experiences, identify patterns that are causing distress, connect with their emotions, and work towards meaningful changes. I believe that creating a therapeutic relationship that is safe, validating, and accepting is an essential component of the change process.
I integrate IFS, EMDR, ACT, and trauma-based approaches into my work with clients.
I feel grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside others on their journeys towards healing and growth. I take a collaborative and empowering approach. I believe that the client is the expert in their life, and I view my role as being a guide as clients reflect on their experiences, identify patterns that are causing distress, connect with their emotions, and work towards meaningful changes. I believe that creating a therapeutic relationship that is safe, validating, and accepting is an essential component of the change process.
(515) 505-1997 View (515) 505-1997
Sarah Kosiba
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
Sioux City, IA 51106
Thank-you for taking the first steps in finding help. You or a loved one may be hurting from unhealed trauma, unhealthy communication patterns, anger, shame and regret. There is hope through the therapy process where adults, adolescents, families, and couples can develop the skills they need to heal themselves, to grow, and to thrive. My work is evidence-based, creative and unique. It is grounded in behavioral change, family systems, narrative, and traditional talk therapy, which has been shown to effectively reduce trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, and grief.
Thank-you for taking the first steps in finding help. You or a loved one may be hurting from unhealed trauma, unhealthy communication patterns, anger, shame and regret. There is hope through the therapy process where adults, adolescents, families, and couples can develop the skills they need to heal themselves, to grow, and to thrive. My work is evidence-based, creative and unique. It is grounded in behavioral change, family systems, narrative, and traditional talk therapy, which has been shown to effectively reduce trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, and grief.
(712) 624-7685 View (712) 624-7685
Photo of Kayla Dick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Kayla Dick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Kayla's clinical focus draws inspiration from Internal Family Systems and parts work, tapping into the profound potential for inner strength and guidance.
Kayla Dick (she/they) areas of focus include LGBTQIA+ issues and addressing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. Her expertise lies in assisting those grappling with depression, anxiety, and PTSD, tailoring my approach to each individual's needs. She works primarily with young adults and teens.
Kayla's clinical focus draws inspiration from Internal Family Systems and parts work, tapping into the profound potential for inner strength and guidance.
Kayla Dick (she/they) areas of focus include LGBTQIA+ issues and addressing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. Her expertise lies in assisting those grappling with depression, anxiety, and PTSD, tailoring my approach to each individual's needs. She works primarily with young adults and teens.
(319) 804-9312 View (319) 804-9312
Photo of Janice Marie Garry, Counselor in Iowa
Janice Marie Garry
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
I integrate brain science, attachment theory, internal family systems, solution focused and mindfulness approaches.
As your partner in the counseling journey, I provide a compassionate and supportive healing environment to assist you in facing your life challenges. I work primarily with adults, specializing in personal and career transitions, relationship distress, anxiety, and recovery from traumatic events. I draw from 18 years of evidence-based practice to personalize an approach that meets your unique needs. Working from a wholistic perspective incorporating biological, relational, emotional, and spiritual elements, my goal is to empower you to create greater satisfaction and happiness in your life and relationships.
I integrate brain science, attachment theory, internal family systems, solution focused and mindfulness approaches.
As your partner in the counseling journey, I provide a compassionate and supportive healing environment to assist you in facing your life challenges. I work primarily with adults, specializing in personal and career transitions, relationship distress, anxiety, and recovery from traumatic events. I draw from 18 years of evidence-based practice to personalize an approach that meets your unique needs. Working from a wholistic perspective incorporating biological, relational, emotional, and spiritual elements, my goal is to empower you to create greater satisfaction and happiness in your life and relationships.
(319) 774-2152 View (319) 774-2152
Photo of Jennifer Haidar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Jennifer Haidar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311  (Online Only)
I am honored to walk alongside children, adolescents, adults and couples as they learn to navigate and find strength and purpose in their own story. I believe therapy is a healing relationship, in which individuals are empowered to use their own gifts and resiliency to heal and grow. I utilize several trauma-informed therapeutic approaches including EMDR, CBT, and IFS. With children, I enjoy using play, art, bibliotherapy and sand tray therapy alongside EMDR.
I am honored to walk alongside children, adolescents, adults and couples as they learn to navigate and find strength and purpose in their own story. I believe therapy is a healing relationship, in which individuals are empowered to use their own gifts and resiliency to heal and grow. I utilize several trauma-informed therapeutic approaches including EMDR, CBT, and IFS. With children, I enjoy using play, art, bibliotherapy and sand tray therapy alongside EMDR.
(515) 206-8307 View (515) 206-8307
Photo of Sue Cyr Counseling Services PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Sue Cyr Counseling Services PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
My approach is based on Family Systems theory, a theory that considers the client both as an individual and as a part of many larger relationship systems (family, work, social).
All of us are in some way coping with change in our lives, whether these changes are by choice or by circumstance. And all of us deserve an understanding ear, a soft shoulder and a nonjudgmental space to be genuinely ourselves.
My approach is based on Family Systems theory, a theory that considers the client both as an individual and as a part of many larger relationship systems (family, work, social).
All of us are in some way coping with change in our lives, whether these changes are by choice or by circumstance. And all of us deserve an understanding ear, a soft shoulder and a nonjudgmental space to be genuinely ourselves.
(515) 220-2602 View (515) 220-2602
Photo of Carly Nielsen, Counselor in Iowa
Carly Nielsen
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Harlan, IA 51537
I use approaches informed by aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Adlerian principles to support client's therapeutic goals and improve their quality of life.
I have four years of experience working in a therapeutic setting with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, self-esteem issues, anxiety, grief/loss, as well as many other mental health challenges. I'm not only interested in individual work but also I have an interest in couples counseling to support people in achieving higher relationship satisfaction. I'm open to working with clients ranging in age from early adolescents to older adults (12 to 99).
I use approaches informed by aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Adlerian principles to support client's therapeutic goals and improve their quality of life.
I have four years of experience working in a therapeutic setting with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, self-esteem issues, anxiety, grief/loss, as well as many other mental health challenges. I'm not only interested in individual work but also I have an interest in couples counseling to support people in achieving higher relationship satisfaction. I'm open to working with clients ranging in age from early adolescents to older adults (12 to 99).
(712) 227-5401 View (712) 227-5401
Photo of Marie Villhauer, Counselor in Iowa
Marie Villhauer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
Accepting clients for 9am-3pm appointments, all 4pm appointments are full. My clients, friends, and family would describe me as their personal cheerleader. My goal as your therapist is to help you identify what barriers are holding you back and assisting you to overcome them. I want to encourage you every step of the way. I utilize Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Gottman Couples and narrative therapy to help you reach your goals. I completed level one IFS training in 2022.
Accepting clients for 9am-3pm appointments, all 4pm appointments are full. My clients, friends, and family would describe me as their personal cheerleader. My goal as your therapist is to help you identify what barriers are holding you back and assisting you to overcome them. I want to encourage you every step of the way. I utilize Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Gottman Couples and narrative therapy to help you reach your goals. I completed level one IFS training in 2022.
(515) 375-2514 View (515) 375-2514
Photo of Peace of Mind Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Iowa
Peace of Mind Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MSE, LMHC, NCC, BCTP-II, EMDR
Verified Verified
Indianola, IA 50125
I have specialized in treating trauma for over 15 years, utilizing modern therapeutic approaches including CBT, TF-CPT, DBT, EMDR, Hypnosis, Somatic therapy interventions and IFS informed therapy.
In the face of life's challenges, I am privileged to assist you on your path toward strength and resilience, guiding you to reclaim your Peace of Mind. Whether you are grappling with Life Transitions, Divorce, Work-related concerns, LGBTQAA+ related issues, Anger, Stress, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Relationship struggles, Trauma, or Abuse Recovery, I offer evidence-based services to assist you in processing and overcoming the impact these challenges have on your life. If you are ready to schedule a phone consultation, you can schedule a time at the following URL: peaceofmindcounseling.clientsecure.me
I have specialized in treating trauma for over 15 years, utilizing modern therapeutic approaches including CBT, TF-CPT, DBT, EMDR, Hypnosis, Somatic therapy interventions and IFS informed therapy.
In the face of life's challenges, I am privileged to assist you on your path toward strength and resilience, guiding you to reclaim your Peace of Mind. Whether you are grappling with Life Transitions, Divorce, Work-related concerns, LGBTQAA+ related issues, Anger, Stress, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Relationship struggles, Trauma, or Abuse Recovery, I offer evidence-based services to assist you in processing and overcoming the impact these challenges have on your life. If you are ready to schedule a phone consultation, you can schedule a time at the following URL: peaceofmindcounseling.clientsecure.me
(515) 962-5561 View (515) 962-5561
Photo of Shannon Haus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Shannon Haus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, t-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
As a trauma-informed therapist utilizing EMDR, ACT, Ego State/ IFS and CBT, I emphasize the importance of acceptance, mindfulness, and commitment to values-driven actions. I support clients in working through difficult experiences, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, procrastination, indecision, and moving forward during transitional stages of life, including high school, college, graduate school, sports, retirement, and more. I guide them in embracing these experiences while moving forward with their lives. I have expertise with people ranging in age from 15-70. Extensive background working with college students.
As a trauma-informed therapist utilizing EMDR, ACT, Ego State/ IFS and CBT, I emphasize the importance of acceptance, mindfulness, and commitment to values-driven actions. I support clients in working through difficult experiences, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, procrastination, indecision, and moving forward during transitional stages of life, including high school, college, graduate school, sports, retirement, and more. I guide them in embracing these experiences while moving forward with their lives. I have expertise with people ranging in age from 15-70. Extensive background working with college students.
(515) 454-2202 View (515) 454-2202

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.