Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Winchester, KY

Photo of Christina Chaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winchester, KY
Christina Chaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTRS
Verified Verified
Winchester, KY 40391
Discover the power of positive energy in life. By using a holistic approach to treat Mind, Body, and Spirit, I can help you concentrate on finding solutions, identify your strengths, increase your confidence, and overcome emotional barriers that keep you from moving forward. I understand the unique challenges adolescents are facing and welcome the opportunity to empower them to make positive changes. I have experience in successfully helping couples and families learn how to repair and rebuild their relationships. I encourage you to explore yourself and your goals in a safe, validating, and non-judgmental environment.
Discover the power of positive energy in life. By using a holistic approach to treat Mind, Body, and Spirit, I can help you concentrate on finding solutions, identify your strengths, increase your confidence, and overcome emotional barriers that keep you from moving forward. I understand the unique challenges adolescents are facing and welcome the opportunity to empower them to make positive changes. I have experience in successfully helping couples and families learn how to repair and rebuild their relationships. I encourage you to explore yourself and your goals in a safe, validating, and non-judgmental environment.
(859) 340-8779 View (859) 340-8779
Photo of Amber Riley, Counselor in Winchester, KY
Amber Riley
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Winchester, KY 40391  (Online Only)
This is not the life you pictured, is it? You know things need to change but have no idea where to start. Being a human in this fast-paced society is quite difficult and often times heartbreaking. I strive to place the therapeutic relationship as my primary focus, because until someone feels authentically accepted, change is not going to be possible.
This is not the life you pictured, is it? You know things need to change but have no idea where to start. Being a human in this fast-paced society is quite difficult and often times heartbreaking. I strive to place the therapeutic relationship as my primary focus, because until someone feels authentically accepted, change is not going to be possible.
(539) 224-5296 View (539) 224-5296

Online Therapists

Photo of Kyle Coma-Thompson, Counselor in Winchester, KY
Kyle Coma-Thompson
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
I take an integrative approach to therapy, providing a range of techniques to meet you where you are and draw on your strengths. I have experience assisting children, teens, and adults in group and individual clinical settings. I am trained in EMDR and incorporate elements of Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) along with mindfulness-based forms of treatment such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My work with teens and children frequently applies techniques from Expressive Therapy and Play Therapy.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, providing a range of techniques to meet you where you are and draw on your strengths. I have experience assisting children, teens, and adults in group and individual clinical settings. I am trained in EMDR and incorporate elements of Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) along with mindfulness-based forms of treatment such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My work with teens and children frequently applies techniques from Expressive Therapy and Play Therapy.
(502) 305-5449 View (502) 305-5449
Photo of Emily Aust, Counselor in Winchester, KY
Emily Aust
Counselor, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, KY 41101
I use aspects of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems.
Healing is a rocky and messy journey, we often quit and walk away from it before we see the true beauty of what healing can do for us. We all have a different road we have walked and each of our goals are different. If you want to start working on yourself but fear the road ahead, I encourage you to reach out and walk the path with me. If you are battling addiction, trauma, low self-esteem or self-worth, or if you are just trying to figure out the next path to take, I encourage you to reach out and we can walk the path together.
I use aspects of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems.
Healing is a rocky and messy journey, we often quit and walk away from it before we see the true beauty of what healing can do for us. We all have a different road we have walked and each of our goals are different. If you want to start working on yourself but fear the road ahead, I encourage you to reach out and walk the path with me. If you are battling addiction, trauma, low self-esteem or self-worth, or if you are just trying to figure out the next path to take, I encourage you to reach out and we can walk the path together.
(606) 294-9509 View (606) 294-9509
Photo of Becca Saylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winchester, KY
Becca Saylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40505
My techniques use Internal Family Systems, inner child work, somatic processing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, polyvagal theory, the Havening technique, and yoga.
My passion is working with survivors of adulthood and childhood trauma (including religious trauma or religious deconstruction) using both talk therapy and somatic processing/movement (including yoga)
My techniques use Internal Family Systems, inner child work, somatic processing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, polyvagal theory, the Havening technique, and yoga.
My passion is working with survivors of adulthood and childhood trauma (including religious trauma or religious deconstruction) using both talk therapy and somatic processing/movement (including yoga)
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Photo of Jay Smith, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Winchester, KY
Jay Smith
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport, KY 41071
I also use a variety of other therapeutic modalities in my practice, including CBT, Narrative Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has been working with adults and adolescents for over a decade. I primarily work with adults who are open to interpersonal therapy aimed at helping discover, understand, and strengthen coping skills for managing life's stressors and living your most authentic life. My goal is to understand you and your world as best as I can from your perspective so that I can be as helpful to you as possible in making meaningful changes in your life. Accepting new clients, in-person and telehealth sessions offered. See below for insurances accepted.
I also use a variety of other therapeutic modalities in my practice, including CBT, Narrative Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has been working with adults and adolescents for over a decade. I primarily work with adults who are open to interpersonal therapy aimed at helping discover, understand, and strengthen coping skills for managing life's stressors and living your most authentic life. My goal is to understand you and your world as best as I can from your perspective so that I can be as helpful to you as possible in making meaningful changes in your life. Accepting new clients, in-person and telehealth sessions offered. See below for insurances accepted.
(859) 279-4211 View (859) 279-4211
Photo of Leah Richmond, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winchester, KY
Leah Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222  (Online Only)
Many people suffer alone with mental health issues for years before they ask for help. I use Buddhist meditation techniques along with evidence based trauma therapies to help people break through these harmful patterns. I offer a variety of approaches including EMDR, IFS, and meditation/mindfulness techniques that are uniquely suited to treat trauma and associated issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and PTSD. Individual, family, and group therapy options are currently available.
Many people suffer alone with mental health issues for years before they ask for help. I use Buddhist meditation techniques along with evidence based trauma therapies to help people break through these harmful patterns. I offer a variety of approaches including EMDR, IFS, and meditation/mindfulness techniques that are uniquely suited to treat trauma and associated issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and PTSD. Individual, family, and group therapy options are currently available.
(502) 236-9104 View (502) 236-9104
Photo of Michael Bennett, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Winchester, KY
Michael Bennett
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Nicholasville, KY 40340  (Online Only)
My specialties include: Trauma, PTSD, & Posttraumatic Growth; Dissociative Disorders & Dissociative Identity Disorder Treatment; C-PTSD & Borderline Personality Disorder; Religious Trauma Syndrome & Issues of Spirituality/Faith; Dysfunctional Family Systems: Emotionally Immature Parents & Codependent Patterns; LGBTQIA+ Relationships, Experiences.
Often in adulthood, we gain awareness of the maladaptive patterns and traumatizing experiences which have impacted us since childhood. The first step in post-traumatic growth is seeing that the patterns no longer benefit us, or recognizing that processing trauma can make life more meaningful. If you're here and seeking a guide for your post-trauma growth journey, connecting with a therapist may be the next step for you. When supported, you can connect to your own vision and self-power to create and accomplish your healing goals. Learn more at www.trailheadtherapist.com.
My specialties include: Trauma, PTSD, & Posttraumatic Growth; Dissociative Disorders & Dissociative Identity Disorder Treatment; C-PTSD & Borderline Personality Disorder; Religious Trauma Syndrome & Issues of Spirituality/Faith; Dysfunctional Family Systems: Emotionally Immature Parents & Codependent Patterns; LGBTQIA+ Relationships, Experiences.
Often in adulthood, we gain awareness of the maladaptive patterns and traumatizing experiences which have impacted us since childhood. The first step in post-traumatic growth is seeing that the patterns no longer benefit us, or recognizing that processing trauma can make life more meaningful. If you're here and seeking a guide for your post-trauma growth journey, connecting with a therapist may be the next step for you. When supported, you can connect to your own vision and self-power to create and accomplish your healing goals. Learn more at www.trailheadtherapist.com.
(859) 800-3560 View (859) 800-3560
Photo of Natalie Deering in Winchester, KY
Natalie Deering
MS, LPP, CMI, YT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Thomas, KY 41075
I am a Level 2 trained IFS therapist that incorporates meditation and movement for deeper healing.
A client stated after a session with calmness and clarity in their voice, "That felt like a deep tissue massage of the mind". Our innate healing potential can feel out of reach when we're overwhelmed with feelings, thoughts, and uncomfortable physical sensations due to anxiety, trauma, and stress. But with IFS therapy, I can help you access the healing energy within. Together, we can befriend and heal the parts inside you that are stuck in extreme roles and help these parts feel calm and balanced. "I experienced a shift that changed everything. I can't recommend Natalie highly enough."- Client.
I am a Level 2 trained IFS therapist that incorporates meditation and movement for deeper healing.
A client stated after a session with calmness and clarity in their voice, "That felt like a deep tissue massage of the mind". Our innate healing potential can feel out of reach when we're overwhelmed with feelings, thoughts, and uncomfortable physical sensations due to anxiety, trauma, and stress. But with IFS therapy, I can help you access the healing energy within. Together, we can befriend and heal the parts inside you that are stuck in extreme roles and help these parts feel calm and balanced. "I experienced a shift that changed everything. I can't recommend Natalie highly enough."- Client.
(502) 385-4828 View (502) 385-4828
Photo of Beth Lyons, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Winchester, KY
Beth Lyons
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
I specialize in guiding those with trauma in the healing process through proven practices such as EMDR and Internal Family Systems techniques that heal at a deeper level.
As a licensed professional clinical counselor with 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in helping people discover their best selves and their own power to overcome trauma and adversity. If you find yourself being controlled by the events of your past and your own emotions, that may be because our bodies and brains are wired for protection and preservation. When that happens, our own thoughts and feelings can seem to betray us and hold us back with feelings of overwhelm, depression and anxiety. However, our bodies also have the intrinsic ability to heal given the right guidance and interventions.
I specialize in guiding those with trauma in the healing process through proven practices such as EMDR and Internal Family Systems techniques that heal at a deeper level.
As a licensed professional clinical counselor with 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in helping people discover their best selves and their own power to overcome trauma and adversity. If you find yourself being controlled by the events of your past and your own emotions, that may be because our bodies and brains are wired for protection and preservation. When that happens, our own thoughts and feelings can seem to betray us and hold us back with feelings of overwhelm, depression and anxiety. However, our bodies also have the intrinsic ability to heal given the right guidance and interventions.
(502) 403-2257 View (502) 403-2257
Photo of Anthony Meza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winchester, KY
Anthony Meza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40502
I have been working with the members of our community for over eight years and have partnered with various agencies throughout the city to ensure success for my clients. Throughout my education and experience, I have found that the therapeutic approaches I favor, but not limited to, are Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I would like to utilize my experience gained throughout my career to empower clients from all age ranges with-in the Lexington community.
I have been working with the members of our community for over eight years and have partnered with various agencies throughout the city to ensure success for my clients. Throughout my education and experience, I have found that the therapeutic approaches I favor, but not limited to, are Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I would like to utilize my experience gained throughout my career to empower clients from all age ranges with-in the Lexington community.
(859) 800-7158 View (859) 800-7158
Photo of Melissa M Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winchester, KY
Melissa M Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
Internal Family Systems is a transformative, evidence-based psychotherapy that helps people heal by accessing and loving their protective and wounded inner parts.
I’m Melissa Johnson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Internal Family Systems practitioner. I offer consultation services to therapists and individual therapy services to adults who want to address life transitions, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, recovery maintenance, and trauma. Additionally, I offer clinical supervision to social workers, facilitate a peer consultation group, and teach a course on Conflict Management to individuals and organizations.
Internal Family Systems is a transformative, evidence-based psychotherapy that helps people heal by accessing and loving their protective and wounded inner parts.
I’m Melissa Johnson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Internal Family Systems practitioner. I offer consultation services to therapists and individual therapy services to adults who want to address life transitions, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, recovery maintenance, and trauma. Additionally, I offer clinical supervision to social workers, facilitate a peer consultation group, and teach a course on Conflict Management to individuals and organizations.
(502) 804-2338 View (502) 804-2338
Photo of Ann D Minch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winchester, KY
Ann D Minch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40299
I'm trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and solution-focused approaches.
With over 25 yrs. of counseling experience I can help you create a new chapter to your life story. Do you feel "stuck", repeating patterns that get in the way of you having the life you want? Do you battle with depression, anxiety or low self-worth or are compulsive behaviors interfering with you achieving your goals? Do you struggle with family relationships or getting over childhood issues? Are you an adult or teen with ADHD & need help developing strategies to be successful? Do you have unresolved trauma?
I'm trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and solution-focused approaches.
With over 25 yrs. of counseling experience I can help you create a new chapter to your life story. Do you feel "stuck", repeating patterns that get in the way of you having the life you want? Do you battle with depression, anxiety or low self-worth or are compulsive behaviors interfering with you achieving your goals? Do you struggle with family relationships or getting over childhood issues? Are you an adult or teen with ADHD & need help developing strategies to be successful? Do you have unresolved trauma?
(502) 858-8694 View (502) 858-8694
Photo of Emily Bray O'Brien, Counselor in Winchester, KY
Emily Bray O'Brien
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Emily is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories and other negative life experiences to bring these to a more adaptive conclusion. Emily is also informed in Internal Family Systems (IFS), and utilizes CBT, Interpersonal, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Person-Centered, REBT, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-Focused therapy.
Emily is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories and other negative life experiences to bring these to a more adaptive conclusion. Emily is also informed in Internal Family Systems (IFS), and utilizes CBT, Interpersonal, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Person-Centered, REBT, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-Focused therapy.
(502) 804-2674 View (502) 804-2674
Photo of Birchwood Healing Place , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winchester, KY
Birchwood Healing Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40502
My therapeutic approach is IFS, psychodynamic and systems informed, I use a wholistic, person-centered, strengths-based and LGBTQIA+-aligned approach.
Hi there, I'm Sierra! If Emily Dickens quote “I am out with lanterns looking for myself” speaks to you, I may be your right fit. Choosing to seek growth, change and healing can be a brave decision. I believe connecting with a therapist can be an invaluable tool in the that process. I would be honored to support you in unraveling the complex and intricate tapestry of your inner world. During sessions with me - you will take lead as the conductor, and I will be the facilitator.
My therapeutic approach is IFS, psychodynamic and systems informed, I use a wholistic, person-centered, strengths-based and LGBTQIA+-aligned approach.
Hi there, I'm Sierra! If Emily Dickens quote “I am out with lanterns looking for myself” speaks to you, I may be your right fit. Choosing to seek growth, change and healing can be a brave decision. I believe connecting with a therapist can be an invaluable tool in the that process. I would be honored to support you in unraveling the complex and intricate tapestry of your inner world. During sessions with me - you will take lead as the conductor, and I will be the facilitator.
(859) 765-6138 View (859) 765-6138
Photo of Benjamin M Hoffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winchester, KY
Benjamin M Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40299
Utilizing my Level 1 training and years of expertise in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, I craft a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
Are you tired of feeling like a stranger in your own skin? Ready to reclaim your sense of belonging and control over your life? Let's embark on a journey together towards inner healing and self-discovery. Despite the pandemic of loneliness, anxiety, and depression, finding peace is possible. Whether you're grappling with past traumas, striving to boost your self-esteem, or simply seeking relief from the weight of negative emotions, I am here to guide you through every step of the process.
Utilizing my Level 1 training and years of expertise in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, I craft a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
Are you tired of feeling like a stranger in your own skin? Ready to reclaim your sense of belonging and control over your life? Let's embark on a journey together towards inner healing and self-discovery. Despite the pandemic of loneliness, anxiety, and depression, finding peace is possible. Whether you're grappling with past traumas, striving to boost your self-esteem, or simply seeking relief from the weight of negative emotions, I am here to guide you through every step of the process.
(502) 383-0237 View (502) 383-0237
Photo of Cailin McKinney, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Winchester, KY
Cailin McKinney
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40220
Waitlist for new clients
While I welcome new ideas and techniques, I frequently use DBT, CBT, and Internal Family Systems.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, based in Louisville, KY. I am currently providing services via telehealth and in person. I primarily work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. I also work with individuals in the LGBTQ+ community seeking LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
While I welcome new ideas and techniques, I frequently use DBT, CBT, and Internal Family Systems.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, based in Louisville, KY. I am currently providing services via telehealth and in person. I primarily work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. I also work with individuals in the LGBTQ+ community seeking LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
(606) 357-1594 View (606) 357-1594
Photo of Lee Alan Roussel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winchester, KY
Lee Alan Roussel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have more than 10 years of clinical practice. I am trained in treating adults, children, adolescents and families. I also have extensive training in addiction and dually diagnosed clients. My training is in areas of CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS and certified in Anger Management. I have practiced within outpatient and inpatient settings for the past 13 years. I am currently working on becoming a supervisor for LMFT's. I take a trauma informed, compassionate approach while addressing the issues and dynamics head on. I work extremely well with families, adults, kids, adolescents and couples.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have more than 10 years of clinical practice. I am trained in treating adults, children, adolescents and families. I also have extensive training in addiction and dually diagnosed clients. My training is in areas of CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS and certified in Anger Management. I have practiced within outpatient and inpatient settings for the past 13 years. I am currently working on becoming a supervisor for LMFT's. I take a trauma informed, compassionate approach while addressing the issues and dynamics head on. I work extremely well with families, adults, kids, adolescents and couples.
(502) 413-2578 View (502) 413-2578
Photo of Steven Smith, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Winchester, KY
Steven Smith
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Counseling approaches used include existential, gestalt, Internal Family Systems, structural family, and cognitive-behavioral.
Life is hard and there are no instructions. Sometimes we struggle with the big issues like death, anxiety, isolation and meaninglessness. Often, our relationship with family and other loved ones has has been challenging and painful. Substance use can truly destroy a life. For some there are specific quirks that are causing problems. Most of these issues require in-depth exploration; developing a better relationship to our minds, self and others; increased mindfulness and engagement with the world; and specific behavioral change. Having a trusted guide can be a great help.
Counseling approaches used include existential, gestalt, Internal Family Systems, structural family, and cognitive-behavioral.
Life is hard and there are no instructions. Sometimes we struggle with the big issues like death, anxiety, isolation and meaninglessness. Often, our relationship with family and other loved ones has has been challenging and painful. Substance use can truly destroy a life. For some there are specific quirks that are causing problems. Most of these issues require in-depth exploration; developing a better relationship to our minds, self and others; increased mindfulness and engagement with the world; and specific behavioral change. Having a trusted guide can be a great help.
(859) 605-5109 View (859) 605-5109
Photo of Christina Edwards, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Winchester, KY
Christina Edwards
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange, KY 40031
I have come to specialize in trauma with EMDR and IFS as primary treatment to help move negative messages from past traumas.
Are you struggling with not feeling good enough? Feeling too anxious to leave home or easily overwhelmed by daily life? Is your child struggling with maintaining behaviors at home or experienced significant trauma from home or school? If you're wanting to generally feel brighter so that you can live your best life now, then I can be there to help you heal. People often only think of trauma as a major disaster but it can be much less obvious like: negative self talk, negative sibling interactions, bad teachers, abusive relationships, parental overreactions and bullying. All leave scars and need some help to heal.
I have come to specialize in trauma with EMDR and IFS as primary treatment to help move negative messages from past traumas.
Are you struggling with not feeling good enough? Feeling too anxious to leave home or easily overwhelmed by daily life? Is your child struggling with maintaining behaviors at home or experienced significant trauma from home or school? If you're wanting to generally feel brighter so that you can live your best life now, then I can be there to help you heal. People often only think of trauma as a major disaster but it can be much less obvious like: negative self talk, negative sibling interactions, bad teachers, abusive relationships, parental overreactions and bullying. All leave scars and need some help to heal.
(502) 443-9313 View (502) 443-9313

Nearby Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists Searches for Winchester

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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.