Photo of Catherine Crew, Psychologist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Catherine Crew
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kerns, Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer individual therapy for adults using an integrative approach of Gestalt therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness-based therapy.
​​I strongly believe that people are designed to move towards healing when given the opportunity. Over time, life experiences, outdated beliefs, and new habits get us out of alignment with what feels true to ourselves. Within the safety and support of the therapeutic relationship, I help my clients increase awareness of these misalignments and re-activate their internal healing mechanisms.
I offer individual therapy for adults using an integrative approach of Gestalt therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness-based therapy.
​​I strongly believe that people are designed to move towards healing when given the opportunity. Over time, life experiences, outdated beliefs, and new habits get us out of alignment with what feels true to ourselves. Within the safety and support of the therapeutic relationship, I help my clients increase awareness of these misalignments and re-activate their internal healing mechanisms.
(971) 803-6277 View (971) 803-6277
Photo of Zaida Gomez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Zaida Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kerns, Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I was trained from a Family Systems perspective, which means that I look at what’s going on in your life and how this is impacted by your family, context, environment and systems as a whole.
Are you struggling to find your way while dealing with family expectations and pressure? Is it hard to feel like what you’re doing is “enough”? Maybe you’re struggling with anxious thoughts or conflict with important people in your life. I am here to help in creating healthy boundaries and to help you feel confident in the life you want to live.
I was trained from a Family Systems perspective, which means that I look at what’s going on in your life and how this is impacted by your family, context, environment and systems as a whole.
Are you struggling to find your way while dealing with family expectations and pressure? Is it hard to feel like what you’re doing is “enough”? Maybe you’re struggling with anxious thoughts or conflict with important people in your life. I am here to help in creating healthy boundaries and to help you feel confident in the life you want to live.
(503) 382-8762 View (503) 382-8762
Photo of Andrea Valde, Professional Counselor Associate in Kerns, Portland, OR
Andrea Valde
Professional Counselor Associate, NCC
Verified Verified
Kerns, Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I value the opportunity to support people in making changes they want in their life and to bear witness to people moving forward on a path they want for themselves. I have experience working with people who navigating anxiety, depression, impact of traumatic experiences, disability related to physical and mental health concerns, impacts of aging, chronic pain, substance use challenges, and adjusting to major life changes. I enjoy supporting effective interpersonal communication, developing coping strategies relevant to each individual, mindfulness practice, and developing healthy dynamics with natural supports.
I value the opportunity to support people in making changes they want in their life and to bear witness to people moving forward on a path they want for themselves. I have experience working with people who navigating anxiety, depression, impact of traumatic experiences, disability related to physical and mental health concerns, impacts of aging, chronic pain, substance use challenges, and adjusting to major life changes. I enjoy supporting effective interpersonal communication, developing coping strategies relevant to each individual, mindfulness practice, and developing healthy dynamics with natural supports.
(503) 664-7872 View (503) 664-7872
Photo of Tiffany Kettermann, Counselor in Kerns, Portland, OR
Tiffany Kettermann
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kerns, Portland, OR 97214
Are you struggling to understand a relationship that may be abusive, trying to heal from trauma, or need support with gender, identity, or LGBTQ2SIA+ issues? Health Allies specializes in healing from narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma. We also have many therapist who specialize and identify with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. If you have struggled with any of the above, we can help you sort out your goals for healing and help you get to a better place.
Are you struggling to understand a relationship that may be abusive, trying to heal from trauma, or need support with gender, identity, or LGBTQ2SIA+ issues? Health Allies specializes in healing from narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma. We also have many therapist who specialize and identify with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. If you have struggled with any of the above, we can help you sort out your goals for healing and help you get to a better place.
(503) 831-9909 View (503) 831-9909
Photo of Clark Hazel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Clark Hazel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kerns, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Are you looking to make changes in your life but are unsure of where to start? It can be especially challenging to navigate life right now with the pandemic, economic uncertainty, and the unveiling of the multitude of intertwined systems of oppression we find ourselves in at this time. You are not alone in experiencing concerns, outrage, and fear. I am here to accompany you in navigating these challenges and also acknowledging the joy in life. You are deserving of support and a space to talk openly. I am someone you can trust to process your fears and anxieties with as well as cultivate hope for your future.
Are you looking to make changes in your life but are unsure of where to start? It can be especially challenging to navigate life right now with the pandemic, economic uncertainty, and the unveiling of the multitude of intertwined systems of oppression we find ourselves in at this time. You are not alone in experiencing concerns, outrage, and fear. I am here to accompany you in navigating these challenges and also acknowledging the joy in life. You are deserving of support and a space to talk openly. I am someone you can trust to process your fears and anxieties with as well as cultivate hope for your future.
(971) 365-3367 View (971) 365-3367
Photo of Dan Rubin, Psychologist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Dan Rubin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kerns, Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is based on mindfulness and self-compassion. Mindfulness teaches us how to be present and self-compassion teaches how to be a friend and ally to ourselves no matter what. I offer a warm and safe relationship, good old fashioned listening, and skills to improve effective communication, managing and learning from emotions, self-acceptance, compassion, and connecting with and living your values. Mindfulness-based therapy is practical, evidence-based, and it works. You don't have to be stuck, overwhelmed, or feel disconnected from your life. You can make positive changes, heal, grow, and thrive.
My approach to therapy is based on mindfulness and self-compassion. Mindfulness teaches us how to be present and self-compassion teaches how to be a friend and ally to ourselves no matter what. I offer a warm and safe relationship, good old fashioned listening, and skills to improve effective communication, managing and learning from emotions, self-acceptance, compassion, and connecting with and living your values. Mindfulness-based therapy is practical, evidence-based, and it works. You don't have to be stuck, overwhelmed, or feel disconnected from your life. You can make positive changes, heal, grow, and thrive.
(503) 894-3068 View (503) 894-3068
Photo of Teresa Zahariades, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Teresa Zahariades
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kerns, Portland, OR 97232
It is time. You are experiencing an internal nudge to examine your life. You want results- to feel more alive, awake and connected to yourself and a life congruent with what matters to you. You want to rediscover (or find for the first time) the best version of yourself. Our sessions will focus on what it means to feel content, aware, fulfilled and live an intentional life. The potential is wired within you. The transformational process has already started as you search for the right match. I provide uniquely focused and steady guidance for you to better understand yourself and live life differently. Contact me to start.
It is time. You are experiencing an internal nudge to examine your life. You want results- to feel more alive, awake and connected to yourself and a life congruent with what matters to you. You want to rediscover (or find for the first time) the best version of yourself. Our sessions will focus on what it means to feel content, aware, fulfilled and live an intentional life. The potential is wired within you. The transformational process has already started as you search for the right match. I provide uniquely focused and steady guidance for you to better understand yourself and live life differently. Contact me to start.
(971) 315-4922 View (971) 315-4922
Photo of Katrina Clark: Beyond Healing LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Katrina Clark: Beyond Healing LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kerns, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
To get to the source of your concerns, I use the proven techniques of EMDR and IFS-Informed Therapy in combination with principles from attachment theory, health psychology and somatic interventions.
It takes courage to reach out for support. No matter where you're at on your journey, know that every part of you is welcome here. Over the years as a clinician, I've had the honor of helping hundreds of people recover from the effects of stress, anxiety, depression and trauma. My mission is to help you understand and heal the root of your struggles so that you can connect to the things that are most important to you in life. I offer EMDR Intensive therapy retreats as well as a limited amount of individual sessions.
To get to the source of your concerns, I use the proven techniques of EMDR and IFS-Informed Therapy in combination with principles from attachment theory, health psychology and somatic interventions.
It takes courage to reach out for support. No matter where you're at on your journey, know that every part of you is welcome here. Over the years as a clinician, I've had the honor of helping hundreds of people recover from the effects of stress, anxiety, depression and trauma. My mission is to help you understand and heal the root of your struggles so that you can connect to the things that are most important to you in life. I offer EMDR Intensive therapy retreats as well as a limited amount of individual sessions.
(503) 925-6994 View (503) 925-6994
Photo of Laurie Crandall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Laurie Crandall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Kerns, Portland, OR 97232
Not accepting new clients
I look at family systems and how they impact your functioning.
I offer professional therapy to support people and families in creating the change and movement they hope for in their lives. People often struggle with life challenges, relationships, unhelpful patterns of behavior, or feeling stuck and unable to make the changes that they want. I believe it is possible to move forward in a fulfilling and healthy way through support, empathy, exploration and collaborative challenge. I specialize in working with: teenager and parent relationships; couples challenges; trauma/stress reactivity; anxiety, attachment issues, depression and mood disorders; life transitions, personality difficulties, and lifestyle/health and wellness.
I look at family systems and how they impact your functioning.
I offer professional therapy to support people and families in creating the change and movement they hope for in their lives. People often struggle with life challenges, relationships, unhelpful patterns of behavior, or feeling stuck and unable to make the changes that they want. I believe it is possible to move forward in a fulfilling and healthy way through support, empathy, exploration and collaborative challenge. I specialize in working with: teenager and parent relationships; couples challenges; trauma/stress reactivity; anxiety, attachment issues, depression and mood disorders; life transitions, personality difficulties, and lifestyle/health and wellness.
(503) 536-1231 View (503) 536-1231
Photo of Verda Dew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Verda Dew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kerns, Portland, OR 97232
Not accepting new clients
*******I am not taking new clients at this time***********Each person deserves the benefit of thinking about life in a meaningful way with gentle guidance through counseling. I would be privileged to join you on this journey. As a therapist, I specialize in assisting people through challenging life moments. Using solution-focused techniques and empowerment methods, we’ll identify steps to resolve your personal challenges and reach your goals. I have more than 11 years experience working with individuals and families experiencing challenges with parenting, anxiety, depression, life transition, and addiction issues.
*******I am not taking new clients at this time***********Each person deserves the benefit of thinking about life in a meaningful way with gentle guidance through counseling. I would be privileged to join you on this journey. As a therapist, I specialize in assisting people through challenging life moments. Using solution-focused techniques and empowerment methods, we’ll identify steps to resolve your personal challenges and reach your goals. I have more than 11 years experience working with individuals and families experiencing challenges with parenting, anxiety, depression, life transition, and addiction issues.
(503) 451-6049 View (503) 451-6049

Online Therapists

Photo of Angie Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerns, Portland, OR
Angie Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
I most often use IFS (Internal Family Systems), CBT, and Person Centered Therapy.
As a counselor, I have experience working with all kinds of people and mental health concerns. One specialty area I have is helping people recover from trauma. I also work with concerns of depression, anxiety, life changes, self-esteem, and more. I honor the value of every person and enjoy utilizing a person’s strengths to help them find solutions to living their best life.
I most often use IFS (Internal Family Systems), CBT, and Person Centered Therapy.
As a counselor, I have experience working with all kinds of people and mental health concerns. One specialty area I have is helping people recover from trauma. I also work with concerns of depression, anxiety, life changes, self-esteem, and more. I honor the value of every person and enjoy utilizing a person’s strengths to help them find solutions to living their best life.
(541) 583-4853 View (541) 583-4853
Photo of David C Manfield, Psychologist in Kerns, Portland, OR
David C Manfield
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
I am a therapist with over thirty years clinical experience. Over the years I've worked with and helped hundreds of individuals and couples through a wide range of difficulties. My style is respectful, interactive and dynamic. I've learned that there are a lot ways to help, to heal and to promote personal growth, and that no particular approach fits every person or situation. Anxious? Depressed? Or individuals with problems arising from recent traumatic events or from childhood trauma or neglect, whose parents may have been inconsistent or worse, I often combine EMDR, IFS and other mindfulness strategies.
I am a therapist with over thirty years clinical experience. Over the years I've worked with and helped hundreds of individuals and couples through a wide range of difficulties. My style is respectful, interactive and dynamic. I've learned that there are a lot ways to help, to heal and to promote personal growth, and that no particular approach fits every person or situation. Anxious? Depressed? Or individuals with problems arising from recent traumatic events or from childhood trauma or neglect, whose parents may have been inconsistent or worse, I often combine EMDR, IFS and other mindfulness strategies.
(503) 446-5093 View (503) 446-5093
Photo of Erin Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Erin Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC1
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Erin's specialties include treating substance abuse, therapy for teens 14 and older, trauma, PTSD/C-PTSD work, boundary setting, domestic violence, relapse preventions, suicide prevention, and connecting with the inner child with therapies including IFS and DBT.
Erin Taylor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of Oregon, with over two decades of clinical experience. As a highly sensitive person with a passion for integrating trauma-informed care across all systems of care, empathy is the driving force behind Erin’s work. Drawing eclectically from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, existentialism, systems theory, polyvagal theory, and positive disintegration, Erin uses each moment as a guide for the next. Erin is also known for encouraging creativity throughout the therapeutic process.
Erin's specialties include treating substance abuse, therapy for teens 14 and older, trauma, PTSD/C-PTSD work, boundary setting, domestic violence, relapse preventions, suicide prevention, and connecting with the inner child with therapies including IFS and DBT.
Erin Taylor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of Oregon, with over two decades of clinical experience. As a highly sensitive person with a passion for integrating trauma-informed care across all systems of care, empathy is the driving force behind Erin’s work. Drawing eclectically from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, existentialism, systems theory, polyvagal theory, and positive disintegration, Erin uses each moment as a guide for the next. Erin is also known for encouraging creativity throughout the therapeutic process.
(503) 470-2499 View (503) 470-2499
Photo of Lark Ryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Lark Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I foster healing the traumatic wounds that limit you using EMDR and IFS ego state work to resolve what keeps us stuck.
Ready for change? We can choose to grow past the limitations that keep us stuck. In my practice I listen carefully to your dreams and fears, and work to release you from the limits of the past. I tailor therapy to each unique individual to help you reach your goals. My therapy style is warm, direct, compassionate, and collaborative. I foster the growth process through challenging old patterns and helping new possibilities emerge. My work is grounded in the mind-body connection and mindfulness.
I foster healing the traumatic wounds that limit you using EMDR and IFS ego state work to resolve what keeps us stuck.
Ready for change? We can choose to grow past the limitations that keep us stuck. In my practice I listen carefully to your dreams and fears, and work to release you from the limits of the past. I tailor therapy to each unique individual to help you reach your goals. My therapy style is warm, direct, compassionate, and collaborative. I foster the growth process through challenging old patterns and helping new possibilities emerge. My work is grounded in the mind-body connection and mindfulness.
(503) 461-7663 View (503) 461-7663
Photo of Heather Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerns, Portland, OR
Heather Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
Depending on the goals you have, Heather may utilize a variety of techniques within your sessions that include mindfulness, attachment-based therapy, internal family systems therapy (IFS) and existential/humanistic questioning.
Heather is a compassionate guide who listens deeply and accepts you where you’re at. She helps you explore your strengths and limitations within a safe context where your thoughts and emotions can be felt, communicated, and understood. Heather is experienced in working with clients struggling with depression, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, relationship stress, and personal growth/exploration. She is specialized in helping women who have experienced infertility or loss due to miscarriage & is an Enneagram expert.
Depending on the goals you have, Heather may utilize a variety of techniques within your sessions that include mindfulness, attachment-based therapy, internal family systems therapy (IFS) and existential/humanistic questioning.
Heather is a compassionate guide who listens deeply and accepts you where you’re at. She helps you explore your strengths and limitations within a safe context where your thoughts and emotions can be felt, communicated, and understood. Heather is experienced in working with clients struggling with depression, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, relationship stress, and personal growth/exploration. She is specialized in helping women who have experienced infertility or loss due to miscarriage & is an Enneagram expert.
(503) 741-2593 View (503) 741-2593
Photo of Wren Christine Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerns, Portland, OR
Wren Christine Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Currently I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, addictions, and grief. While I have received training in a number of approaches, my goal is to offer you interventions and tools that best fit for you. I am most influenced by IFS, DBT, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Art Therapy. I look through the lens of trauma, and I take a behaviorally specific approach to support experiences of transformation into long term change and growth. You can expect to have tools and skills to practice in between session to support your work.
Currently I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, addictions, and grief. While I have received training in a number of approaches, my goal is to offer you interventions and tools that best fit for you. I am most influenced by IFS, DBT, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Art Therapy. I look through the lens of trauma, and I take a behaviorally specific approach to support experiences of transformation into long term change and growth. You can expect to have tools and skills to practice in between session to support your work.
(971) 414-3413 View (971) 414-3413
Photo of Day Hancock-Murphy (They-He), Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kerns, Portland, OR
Day Hancock-Murphy (They-He)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I deeply enjoy working with Individuals in particular who are members of the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, couples, ENM and poly individuals to address systemic oppression, racism, trauma, and use Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Current Openings! EMDR available! This life can be hard and the things we go through can have a profound impact on how we navigate life, no matter how big or small. My practice is especially attuned to the needs of individuals and communities who have been othered or exist on the periphery, whether due to their identity, relationship structure, or lifestyle choices. Neurodiversity, people of color, members of the LGBTQIA+, you are welcome here. From navigating non-monogamy and polyamory to exploring kink-positive dynamics and body-affirming philosophies, I offer a safe haven for those seeking understanding and validation.
I deeply enjoy working with Individuals in particular who are members of the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, couples, ENM and poly individuals to address systemic oppression, racism, trauma, and use Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Current Openings! EMDR available! This life can be hard and the things we go through can have a profound impact on how we navigate life, no matter how big or small. My practice is especially attuned to the needs of individuals and communities who have been othered or exist on the periphery, whether due to their identity, relationship structure, or lifestyle choices. Neurodiversity, people of color, members of the LGBTQIA+, you are welcome here. From navigating non-monogamy and polyamory to exploring kink-positive dynamics and body-affirming philosophies, I offer a safe haven for those seeking understanding and validation.
(971) 306-5515 View (971) 306-5515
Photo of Mike Schwarting, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerns, Portland, OR
Mike Schwarting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC1
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I hold an MS in Mental Health Counseling and a graduate certificate in couples and family systems, and am deeply devoted to helping people integrate their experiences into their daily lives.
Hi I am glad you are here. I’m Mike Schwarting, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oregon. I am currently accepting new patients and I am able to offer individual and couples counseling currently. I believe that therapy is a process of making connections between people. In a chaotic and unsettled world, having a real connection with a knowledgeable, kind, and above all supportive therapist can mean the difference between despair and living the life you deserve.
I hold an MS in Mental Health Counseling and a graduate certificate in couples and family systems, and am deeply devoted to helping people integrate their experiences into their daily lives.
Hi I am glad you are here. I’m Mike Schwarting, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oregon. I am currently accepting new patients and I am able to offer individual and couples counseling currently. I believe that therapy is a process of making connections between people. In a chaotic and unsettled world, having a real connection with a knowledgeable, kind, and above all supportive therapist can mean the difference between despair and living the life you deserve.
(503) 483-6000 View (503) 483-6000
Photo of Willamette Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerns, Portland, OR
Willamette Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
(971) 803-4515 View (971) 803-4515
Photo of Revae Hackett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerns, Portland, OR
Revae Hackett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97266
Thanks for stopping by! I am here to support you wherever you are in your journey. Whether you are navigating life transitions, relationship distress, or seeking healing and healthier ways of coping after trauma or loss therapy can help. My goal is to support my clients in creating the change that will lead to living a more fulfilling life.
Thanks for stopping by! I am here to support you wherever you are in your journey. Whether you are navigating life transitions, relationship distress, or seeking healing and healthier ways of coping after trauma or loss therapy can help. My goal is to support my clients in creating the change that will lead to living a more fulfilling life.
(503) 854-0515 View (503) 854-0515

See more therapy options for Kerns, Portland

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.