Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Millerstown, PA

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Photo of Megan Wolfe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Millerstown, PA
Megan Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Millersburg, PA 17061
It's not every day that you muster the courage to reach out and try a new therapist or perhaps therapy for the very first time. Maybe you are hoping to move past old stories or challenge things that feel like they're holding you back? My clients teach me about their own life experiences in a safe, caring environment. I collaborate to help them rewrite empowered stories for the present and the future. My aim is to provide a safe and respectful space for self-exploration.
It's not every day that you muster the courage to reach out and try a new therapist or perhaps therapy for the very first time. Maybe you are hoping to move past old stories or challenge things that feel like they're holding you back? My clients teach me about their own life experiences in a safe, caring environment. I collaborate to help them rewrite empowered stories for the present and the future. My aim is to provide a safe and respectful space for self-exploration.
(717) 527-6586 View (717) 527-6586

Online Therapists

Photo of Phil Wieszczyk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Millerstown, PA
Phil Wieszczyk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MMT, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Attachment theory, Jungian psychology, and internal family systems/parts psychology approaches guide my practice.
Hello! I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed professional counselor and music therapist with over 10 years' experience serving individuals and families in institutional, outpatient, and community settings. My experience includes work with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with mood disorders, anxiety, anger-related concerns, post-traumatic stress, relationship difficulties, chemical dependency and other addictive behaviors, motivational and self-esteem problems, as well as those with developmental delays.
Attachment theory, Jungian psychology, and internal family systems/parts psychology approaches guide my practice.
Hello! I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed professional counselor and music therapist with over 10 years' experience serving individuals and families in institutional, outpatient, and community settings. My experience includes work with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with mood disorders, anxiety, anger-related concerns, post-traumatic stress, relationship difficulties, chemical dependency and other addictive behaviors, motivational and self-esteem problems, as well as those with developmental delays.
(814) 200-6989 View (814) 200-6989
Photo of Lacey L Binkley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Millerstown, PA
Lacey L Binkley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CMNLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Breinigsville, PA 18031
I incorporate an individualized, person-centered approach including: internal family systems (IFS), mindfulness, meditation, positive psychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Now accepting telehealth clients in FL and PA! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in: treatment of adults, anxiety and depression, life-stage transition, trauma, relationships, life coaching, self-esteem development, and navigation of personal challenges.
I incorporate an individualized, person-centered approach including: internal family systems (IFS), mindfulness, meditation, positive psychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Now accepting telehealth clients in FL and PA! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in: treatment of adults, anxiety and depression, life-stage transition, trauma, relationships, life coaching, self-esteem development, and navigation of personal challenges.
(610) 298-9512 View (610) 298-9512
Photo of Erin Glasscott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Millerstown, PA
Erin Glasscott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Limerick, PA 19468
I incorporate different interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy, polyvagal theory, and internal family systems.
Are you a young adult dealing primarily with anxiety and life transition issues? This could be a recent college graduate starting their first big job, a major transition. I like walking beside them through these transitions and being an additional support. I also like helping people learn breathing techniques to manage anxiety and learn about polyvagal theory and a bottom-up approach. I enjoy working with clients who can articulate their goals, such as managing anxiety better and working on anxiety in different settings.
I incorporate different interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy, polyvagal theory, and internal family systems.
Are you a young adult dealing primarily with anxiety and life transition issues? This could be a recent college graduate starting their first big job, a major transition. I like walking beside them through these transitions and being an additional support. I also like helping people learn breathing techniques to manage anxiety and learn about polyvagal theory and a bottom-up approach. I enjoy working with clients who can articulate their goals, such as managing anxiety better and working on anxiety in different settings.
(484) 998-1303 View (484) 998-1303
Photo of Katrina Heeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Millerstown, PA
Katrina Heeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
Frequently utilizing Internal Family Systems theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing techniques, and have basic training of EMDR.
Mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, anger, stress, etc., are just that- symptoms! These symptoms are our bodies way of telling us "something's not right" or "there needs to be a change here." It is imperative that we are mindful in listening to our bodies, and intentionally work to meet our emotional needs. In therapy, we dedicate time to build insight, strengthen more compassionate mindsets, and learn coping skills which regulate our bodies.
Frequently utilizing Internal Family Systems theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing techniques, and have basic training of EMDR.
Mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, anger, stress, etc., are just that- symptoms! These symptoms are our bodies way of telling us "something's not right" or "there needs to be a change here." It is imperative that we are mindful in listening to our bodies, and intentionally work to meet our emotional needs. In therapy, we dedicate time to build insight, strengthen more compassionate mindsets, and learn coping skills which regulate our bodies.
(814) 205-9079 View (814) 205-9079
Photo of Chandler Ballbach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Millerstown, PA
Chandler Ballbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382  (Online Only)
I draw from evidence-based practices, such as Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, and EMDR.
I love working with teens (15 years and older), young adults, and adults experiencing concerns related to abuse, anger, anxiety, bullying, depression, divorce, family stressors, grief, life transitions, living losses, loneliness, parental addiction, perfectionism, relationships, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and school stressors. My clients tell me I am compassionate, hopeful, committed, accepting, and very patient. I work extensively with clients from diverse cultures and identities and am committed to fostering an open and inclusive therapy practice. I have significant experience supporting clients with complex trauma histories.
I draw from evidence-based practices, such as Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, and EMDR.
I love working with teens (15 years and older), young adults, and adults experiencing concerns related to abuse, anger, anxiety, bullying, depression, divorce, family stressors, grief, life transitions, living losses, loneliness, parental addiction, perfectionism, relationships, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and school stressors. My clients tell me I am compassionate, hopeful, committed, accepting, and very patient. I work extensively with clients from diverse cultures and identities and am committed to fostering an open and inclusive therapy practice. I have significant experience supporting clients with complex trauma histories.
(484) 989-9773 View (484) 989-9773
Photo of Athena Lombardo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Millerstown, PA
Athena Lombardo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
East Greenville, PA 18041  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With a blend of Holistic, Internal Family Systems, and Humanistic approaches, including tools from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I offer a unique approach.
I specialize in working with individuals who grapple with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and substance abuse. If you find yourself feeling disconnected from your true self or struggling to prioritize your needs, our work together will focus on unraveling the layers that hinder self-awareness and authentic living.
With a blend of Holistic, Internal Family Systems, and Humanistic approaches, including tools from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I offer a unique approach.
I specialize in working with individuals who grapple with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and substance abuse. If you find yourself feeling disconnected from your true self or struggling to prioritize your needs, our work together will focus on unraveling the layers that hinder self-awareness and authentic living.
(267) 367-6319 View (267) 367-6319
Photo of Mary Yost, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Millerstown, PA
Mary Yost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Villanova, PA 19085  (Online Only)
Mary believes in using therapy that has been proven to help, which is why she has advanced trainings in evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Exposure-Response Prevention (ERP).
Mary is a licensed therapist who has spent years treating individuals for a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Mary’s goal is to help her clients better understand themselves in order to achieve lasting change.
Mary believes in using therapy that has been proven to help, which is why she has advanced trainings in evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Exposure-Response Prevention (ERP).
Mary is a licensed therapist who has spent years treating individuals for a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Mary’s goal is to help her clients better understand themselves in order to achieve lasting change.
(484) 759-9329 View (484) 759-9329
Photo of JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Millerstown, PA
JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Reading, PA 19601  (Online Only)
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
(484) 334-4170 View (484) 334-4170
Photo of Kelly Ozelski LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Millerstown, PA
Kelly Ozelski LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lebanon, PA 17042
Waitlist for new clients
I work with Contextual Therapy while employing the principles of Internal Family Systems (www.
Thank you for considering working with me as your therapist. Whom ever you decide to choose I wish you comfort and growth in your life. I am open and curious to work with a wide variety of clients and situations. I work hard to collaborate with every person that comes to me for support. My desire is to creatively and competently explore the issues that create unbalance and difficulty in your life, and help you develop the awareness and skills to address and honor these areas of conflict and tension.
I work with Contextual Therapy while employing the principles of Internal Family Systems (www.
Thank you for considering working with me as your therapist. Whom ever you decide to choose I wish you comfort and growth in your life. I am open and curious to work with a wide variety of clients and situations. I work hard to collaborate with every person that comes to me for support. My desire is to creatively and competently explore the issues that create unbalance and difficulty in your life, and help you develop the awareness and skills to address and honor these areas of conflict and tension.
(877) 731-2504 View (877) 731-2504
Photo of Integrate Therapy + Wellness Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Millerstown, PA
Integrate Therapy + Wellness Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bird In Hand, PA 17505
Our licensed mental health clinicians have a variety of experience and specialized training, including IFS, EMDR, DBT, CBT, Gottman, and person centered therapy.
You deserve to feel peace and fulfillment as you navigate life and relationships. We are a group of professionally trained therapists that work with individuals and couples that are healing from trauma, utilizing Gottman and EMDR. We care deeply for our clients. If you are working through difficult relationships, anxiety, depression, PTSD, feeling like a burden, or struggling with codependency, we can help. Our licensed therapists specialize with various ages and populations, including teens, young adults, and adults. You are capable of healing and feeling well! We will partner with you to help you reach your goals.
Our licensed mental health clinicians have a variety of experience and specialized training, including IFS, EMDR, DBT, CBT, Gottman, and person centered therapy.
You deserve to feel peace and fulfillment as you navigate life and relationships. We are a group of professionally trained therapists that work with individuals and couples that are healing from trauma, utilizing Gottman and EMDR. We care deeply for our clients. If you are working through difficult relationships, anxiety, depression, PTSD, feeling like a burden, or struggling with codependency, we can help. Our licensed therapists specialize with various ages and populations, including teens, young adults, and adults. You are capable of healing and feeling well! We will partner with you to help you reach your goals.
(717) 452-4270 View (717) 452-4270
Photo of Donna J Cardinal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Millerstown, PA
Donna J Cardinal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BASW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dillsburg, PA 17019  (Online Only)
I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities (cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, family systems, strength based, behavioral psychodynamic).
There are times in life when you may need someone to talk to. Do you long for a greater sense of balance in your life? Therapy can help you with making difficult decisions, changing problematic behaviors and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. I am Donna J Cardinal. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. I am accepting new clients.
I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities (cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, family systems, strength based, behavioral psychodynamic).
There are times in life when you may need someone to talk to. Do you long for a greater sense of balance in your life? Therapy can help you with making difficult decisions, changing problematic behaviors and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. I am Donna J Cardinal. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. I am accepting new clients.
(717) 502-9741 View (717) 502-9741
Photo of Katlyn Owens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Millerstown, PA
Katlyn Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearfield, PA 16830
I implement a range of interventions based on specific client needs, and include a psychodynamic approach as well as an internal family systems approach to treatment.
Whether you are experiencing a new emotional challenge , adjusting to a new season of life, or reflecting on past experiences, as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to help. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, reflective, and supportive environment for individuals to express and process their experiences and emotions. I approach my clients in a non judgmental way acknowledging they are the experts on themselves. Through therapy it is my belief that individuals will gain a deeper understanding of themselves to make lasting and meaningful changes in their lives.
I implement a range of interventions based on specific client needs, and include a psychodynamic approach as well as an internal family systems approach to treatment.
Whether you are experiencing a new emotional challenge , adjusting to a new season of life, or reflecting on past experiences, as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to help. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, reflective, and supportive environment for individuals to express and process their experiences and emotions. I approach my clients in a non judgmental way acknowledging they are the experts on themselves. Through therapy it is my belief that individuals will gain a deeper understanding of themselves to make lasting and meaningful changes in their lives.
(814) 250-3279 View (814) 250-3279
Photo of Leyla Richards, Pre-Licensed Professional in Millerstown, PA
Leyla Richards
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
I work with individuals and couples, using Internal Family Systems ("parts work") and Emotionally Focused Therapy, and lots of humor and real-world considerations.
My ideal client isn't defined by part of their identity as much as it is their circumstances. I consider a lot of social conditioning when working with my individual clients, especially with men's issues and women's issues. I work with couples who may be discussing separation or who are navigating parenthood and new life stages. My goal is always to help my clients access their vulnerability, which is where our most helpful tools hang out, so they can experience pleasant changes outside of the office.
I work with individuals and couples, using Internal Family Systems ("parts work") and Emotionally Focused Therapy, and lots of humor and real-world considerations.
My ideal client isn't defined by part of their identity as much as it is their circumstances. I consider a lot of social conditioning when working with my individual clients, especially with men's issues and women's issues. I work with couples who may be discussing separation or who are navigating parenthood and new life stages. My goal is always to help my clients access their vulnerability, which is where our most helpful tools hang out, so they can experience pleasant changes outside of the office.
(484) 673-6223 View (484) 673-6223
Photo of Maria Christina Salomone Gabelberger, Psychologist in Millerstown, PA
Maria Christina Salomone Gabelberger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19380
Some tools I offer: meditation, hypnotherapy, IFS, CBT, nature-walk therapy, yoga & energy therapy.
In my experience, inside every person there is a psychological center, like a ‘Light’ leading us to love, healing, joy and growth. In a deep place in each of us, it is always present, though sometimes hidden. Known by many different names and through many different senses - center, core, soul, real-self, heart or unconscious, it is wise and kind and delights to do no harm, and intends only good. We all have a longing to connect to this profound potential, goodness and love within ourselves, within others and in all. I enjoy supporting folks in their journey back to this connection.
Some tools I offer: meditation, hypnotherapy, IFS, CBT, nature-walk therapy, yoga & energy therapy.
In my experience, inside every person there is a psychological center, like a ‘Light’ leading us to love, healing, joy and growth. In a deep place in each of us, it is always present, though sometimes hidden. Known by many different names and through many different senses - center, core, soul, real-self, heart or unconscious, it is wise and kind and delights to do no harm, and intends only good. We all have a longing to connect to this profound potential, goodness and love within ourselves, within others and in all. I enjoy supporting folks in their journey back to this connection.
(610) 915-8793 View (610) 915-8793
Photo of Easin M Beck, Pre-Licensed Professional in Millerstown, PA
Easin M Beck
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
I integrate parts-work, family systems theory, and EMDR.
Are your relationships stressing you out? Do you find yourself walking on eggshells, afraid to tell people no? Do you find yourself saying yes out of guilt or obligation? I help adult children of emotionally immature parents process childhood wounds and move forward with peace, confidence, and self-compassion.
I integrate parts-work, family systems theory, and EMDR.
Are your relationships stressing you out? Do you find yourself walking on eggshells, afraid to tell people no? Do you find yourself saying yes out of guilt or obligation? I help adult children of emotionally immature parents process childhood wounds and move forward with peace, confidence, and self-compassion.
(484) 214-2876 View (484) 214-2876
Photo of Amanda Adkinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Millerstown, PA
Amanda Adkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
I take a client-led, strengths-based approach, utilizing mindfulness skills, cognitive behavioral therapy, and internal family systems therapy to support individuals as they address patterns/behaviors that are dysfunctional.
Everyone is on a journey, but not every journey is the same. My approach to therapy begins with meeting you where you are at in your journey and allowing you to create a space to share your story, supporting you as you address mental health issues you feel are creating challenges in your day-to-day life and creating the changes you desire. Together we can address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, major life transitions, and more so you can begin to thrive in your journey through life.
I take a client-led, strengths-based approach, utilizing mindfulness skills, cognitive behavioral therapy, and internal family systems therapy to support individuals as they address patterns/behaviors that are dysfunctional.
Everyone is on a journey, but not every journey is the same. My approach to therapy begins with meeting you where you are at in your journey and allowing you to create a space to share your story, supporting you as you address mental health issues you feel are creating challenges in your day-to-day life and creating the changes you desire. Together we can address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, major life transitions, and more so you can begin to thrive in your journey through life.
(814) 517-7581 View (814) 517-7581
Photo of Deborah Stoner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Millerstown, PA
Deborah Stoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emmaus, PA 18049
These include: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, DNMS (Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), Mindfulness, Traditional talk therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, & Attachment-Focused therapy.
You’ll find a relaxed & informal atmosphere in my office. Bodhi, the therapy dog, and I offer counseling to adults who would like help with anxiety/fears; injuries, illnesses, accidents and other trauma-related issues; negative thoughts; relationships; stress reduction/mindfulness; creativity and sports performance enhancement, & compassion fatigue. I also support adoptive parents struggling with children with insecure attachment & work with adult adoptees with relationship and trauma issues. Feel free to visit my website for more details.
These include: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, DNMS (Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), Mindfulness, Traditional talk therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, & Attachment-Focused therapy.
You’ll find a relaxed & informal atmosphere in my office. Bodhi, the therapy dog, and I offer counseling to adults who would like help with anxiety/fears; injuries, illnesses, accidents and other trauma-related issues; negative thoughts; relationships; stress reduction/mindfulness; creativity and sports performance enhancement, & compassion fatigue. I also support adoptive parents struggling with children with insecure attachment & work with adult adoptees with relationship and trauma issues. Feel free to visit my website for more details.
(610) 422-3815 View (610) 422-3815
Photo of Alyssa Andre, Pre-Licensed Professional in Millerstown, PA
Alyssa Andre
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Mount Joy, PA 17552
Alyssa earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC). After years as an educator and adolescent life coach, Alyssa pursued an education in therapeutic disciplines where she witnessed the vast needs of young people, families, and couples alike who were navigating relationships, trauma, mental health challenges, behavioral concerns, loss and change. Alyssa takes a holistic approach with her clients, specializing in adult and adolescent therapy, couples and families, and uses a client-centered approach informed by Internal Family Systems, and Adlerian Theory.
Alyssa earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC). After years as an educator and adolescent life coach, Alyssa pursued an education in therapeutic disciplines where she witnessed the vast needs of young people, families, and couples alike who were navigating relationships, trauma, mental health challenges, behavioral concerns, loss and change. Alyssa takes a holistic approach with her clients, specializing in adult and adolescent therapy, couples and families, and uses a client-centered approach informed by Internal Family Systems, and Adlerian Theory.
(717) 915-5882 View (717) 915-5882
Photo of Haydn Briggs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Millerstown, PA
Haydn Briggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP, CET III
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paoli, PA 19301
My specialty is systemic and experiential therapy— Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and psychodrama.
With courage, every person can develop the clarity and confidence to confront their challenges and restore wholeness to their lives. In connecting to your inner wisdom you open the door to self-compassion, peace, satisfaction, and transformation. I’m here to help empower you to do that.
My specialty is systemic and experiential therapy— Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and psychodrama.
With courage, every person can develop the clarity and confidence to confront their challenges and restore wholeness to their lives. In connecting to your inner wisdom you open the door to self-compassion, peace, satisfaction, and transformation. I’m here to help empower you to do that.
(484) 285-5213 View (484) 285-5213
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.