Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Peach Bottom, PA

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Photo of Megan Boudreau, Pre-Licensed Professional in Peach Bottom, PA
Megan Boudreau
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Quarryville, PA 17566
It's hard work to look inward at ourselves. I would like to come along side of you to find ways to experience healing from your hurt. As a therapist I hope to build you up when you've been knocked down and get you to a place where you can find peace and confidence in your self again.
It's hard work to look inward at ourselves. I would like to come along side of you to find ways to experience healing from your hurt. As a therapist I hope to build you up when you've been knocked down and get you to a place where you can find peace and confidence in your self again.
(717) 455-3044 View (717) 455-3044
Photo of Edward Zajac, Pre-Licensed Professional in Peach Bottom, PA
Edward Zajac
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
Quarryville, PA 17566
Sometimes we don’t know what isn’t working, it’s just that we don’t feel good. Sometimes we know that something isn’t working for us but don’t know how to change it. Then there are times when we know what the issue is and what we need to do to change that but get or feel stuck where we are. Talking with someone can be very helpful in sorting all of this out. Whether you know what is wrong or not, whether you know what to change or not, we can work together to identify how to help you feel better. If you are feeling stuck, confused, anxious, depressed, have been hurt or are hurting let’s get together and talk about it.
Sometimes we don’t know what isn’t working, it’s just that we don’t feel good. Sometimes we know that something isn’t working for us but don’t know how to change it. Then there are times when we know what the issue is and what we need to do to change that but get or feel stuck where we are. Talking with someone can be very helpful in sorting all of this out. Whether you know what is wrong or not, whether you know what to change or not, we can work together to identify how to help you feel better. If you are feeling stuck, confused, anxious, depressed, have been hurt or are hurting let’s get together and talk about it.
(717) 922-5493 View (717) 922-5493
Photo of Carol Glover, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peach Bottom, PA
Carol Glover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Quarryville, PA 17566
Burned out. Overwhelmed. Never feeling you're enough. You know you're taking on too many tasks, whether it be from guilt or obligation. Unfortunately, it seems impossible to say "no" even when saying "yes" to others means denying your own needs. Of course, that leads to everyone depending on you, with almost no time to take a break. You've been pulled in so many directions that you're constantly exhausted; your mind won't stop. You wonder how you got in this situation and if it will ever change. You're craving a balanced life with energy and hope for the future, but wonder if you have what it takes to make the change.
Burned out. Overwhelmed. Never feeling you're enough. You know you're taking on too many tasks, whether it be from guilt or obligation. Unfortunately, it seems impossible to say "no" even when saying "yes" to others means denying your own needs. Of course, that leads to everyone depending on you, with almost no time to take a break. You've been pulled in so many directions that you're constantly exhausted; your mind won't stop. You wonder how you got in this situation and if it will ever change. You're craving a balanced life with energy and hope for the future, but wonder if you have what it takes to make the change.
(717) 276-4332 View (717) 276-4332
Photo of New Hope Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peach Bottom, PA
New Hope Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Quarryville, PA 17566
New Hope Counseling exists to provide hope and restoration through compassionate, professional counseling made available to individuals regardless of their ability to pay for services. New Hope strives to create a safe and trusting environment and values collaboration that promotes excellence, communication that speaks the truth in love, commitment to integrity and accountability in all our interactions. New Hope has served Lancaster County for 25 years as a non-profit, out-patient counseling center accessible to all individuals. We provide therapy to children, teens, adults, older adults, couples and families.
New Hope Counseling exists to provide hope and restoration through compassionate, professional counseling made available to individuals regardless of their ability to pay for services. New Hope strives to create a safe and trusting environment and values collaboration that promotes excellence, communication that speaks the truth in love, commitment to integrity and accountability in all our interactions. New Hope has served Lancaster County for 25 years as a non-profit, out-patient counseling center accessible to all individuals. We provide therapy to children, teens, adults, older adults, couples and families.
(717) 356-9699 View (717) 356-9699
Photo of Sara Heinzman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Peach Bottom, PA
Sara Heinzman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Quarryville, PA 17566
I believe that everyone has a unique story, deserving an equally unique therapeutic experience that speaks to their story and prompts the change they desire most. I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults. I work with my clients addressing: ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Chronic Illness, Learning Disabilities, Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive, Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Developing Coping and Social Skills, Pregnancy/Postpartum, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Esteem, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Distress, and Grief and Loss.
I believe that everyone has a unique story, deserving an equally unique therapeutic experience that speaks to their story and prompts the change they desire most. I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults. I work with my clients addressing: ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Chronic Illness, Learning Disabilities, Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive, Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Developing Coping and Social Skills, Pregnancy/Postpartum, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Esteem, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Distress, and Grief and Loss.
(717) 837-5717 View (717) 837-5717

Online Therapists

Photo of Genevieve Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peach Bottom, PA
Genevieve Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist trained in EMDR that also likes to pull from components of IFS therapy.
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of everyday life? Many individuals, just like you, often find themselves at a crossroads, questioning whether a solution actually exists. That is until they discover the transformative power of EMDR therapy. EMDR therapy can expedite your healing journey. Through bilateral stimulation or eye movements, EMDR helps you reprocess traumatic memories that might be at the root of your overwhelm.
I am a therapist trained in EMDR that also likes to pull from components of IFS therapy.
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of everyday life? Many individuals, just like you, often find themselves at a crossroads, questioning whether a solution actually exists. That is until they discover the transformative power of EMDR therapy. EMDR therapy can expedite your healing journey. Through bilateral stimulation or eye movements, EMDR helps you reprocess traumatic memories that might be at the root of your overwhelm.
(267) 459-8294 View (267) 459-8294
Photo of Pedro Molteni, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peach Bottom, PA
Pedro Molteni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I define myself as an IFS-informed EMDR therapist. I believe that therapy's main goal is to help us come to terms with our past and move on with our lives. What helped us adapt to our environment before, may be maladaptive now. We may experience stressful situations, and these situations may negatively impact the way we see ourselves, the way that we see others, the way that we see the world, and the way that we see our future. The good news is that with courage, curiosity, and introspection, we can change even the most deep-seated negative beliefs about ourselves and others; we can become aware of, and change the way we react.
I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I define myself as an IFS-informed EMDR therapist. I believe that therapy's main goal is to help us come to terms with our past and move on with our lives. What helped us adapt to our environment before, may be maladaptive now. We may experience stressful situations, and these situations may negatively impact the way we see ourselves, the way that we see others, the way that we see the world, and the way that we see our future. The good news is that with courage, curiosity, and introspection, we can change even the most deep-seated negative beliefs about ourselves and others; we can become aware of, and change the way we react.
(215) 486-0739 View (215) 486-0739
Photo of Then You Stand Enrichment Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peach Bottom, PA
Then You Stand Enrichment Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
Counseling is more than telling your story. It is a dynamic process we engage in together, compassionately and diligently. It couples personal exploration with education. Having completed the level 1 training for Internal Family Systems I create a safe space for all parts of self to be present in the room. All parts are welcomed and honored as an intricate part of creating who we are. I also utilize an active Sensorimotor and trauma informed approach to help you re-establish emotional and relational balance. Whatever struggle you are facing: depression, anxiety, addiction, troubled relationships, the therapeutic process can help.
Counseling is more than telling your story. It is a dynamic process we engage in together, compassionately and diligently. It couples personal exploration with education. Having completed the level 1 training for Internal Family Systems I create a safe space for all parts of self to be present in the room. All parts are welcomed and honored as an intricate part of creating who we are. I also utilize an active Sensorimotor and trauma informed approach to help you re-establish emotional and relational balance. Whatever struggle you are facing: depression, anxiety, addiction, troubled relationships, the therapeutic process can help.
(267) 245-6941 View (267) 245-6941
Photo of Julianna Fomenko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peach Bottom, PA
Julianna Fomenko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
I utilize psychodynamic, family systems, attachment-based, cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness approaches.
Making sense of your anxieties, fears or depression can feel overwhelming. We all have the need to be connected and challenged so that we can grow into our best self. I believe that therapy should be hard but rewarding work that can be translated into actionable behavior outside of treatment. The cornerstone of making change is finding a therapist who promotes a sense of safety, compassion and respect to allow your true self to emerge and thrive. I have over 15 years of clinical practice experience in New York City and Philadelphia and value working with diverse individuals and families.
I utilize psychodynamic, family systems, attachment-based, cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness approaches.
Making sense of your anxieties, fears or depression can feel overwhelming. We all have the need to be connected and challenged so that we can grow into our best self. I believe that therapy should be hard but rewarding work that can be translated into actionable behavior outside of treatment. The cornerstone of making change is finding a therapist who promotes a sense of safety, compassion and respect to allow your true self to emerge and thrive. I have over 15 years of clinical practice experience in New York City and Philadelphia and value working with diverse individuals and families.
(215) 278-4425 View (215) 278-4425
Photo of Mika Namir, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peach Bottom, PA
Mika Namir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I have also have completed training in EMDR, and am an Internal Family Systems level one practitioner.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step" - If you are here you are taking the first one. I would love to be your journey companion, tour guide and sideline cheerleader. I offer a supportive, validating and encouraging environment to help you feel empowered to explore and overcome barriers to find the personal depth you seek to understand. I believe people can be healed and find sense of peace in a good alliance with a well-trained therapist. It is my job to provide you an environment where you will feel comfortable to explore your inner world.
In addition to being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I have also have completed training in EMDR, and am an Internal Family Systems level one practitioner.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step" - If you are here you are taking the first one. I would love to be your journey companion, tour guide and sideline cheerleader. I offer a supportive, validating and encouraging environment to help you feel empowered to explore and overcome barriers to find the personal depth you seek to understand. I believe people can be healed and find sense of peace in a good alliance with a well-trained therapist. It is my job to provide you an environment where you will feel comfortable to explore your inner world.
(267) 633-8664 View (267) 633-8664
Photo of Eriach Fox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peach Bottom, PA
Eriach Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
With 25 years of experience in behavior health services, I can create a compassionate and supportive environment to begin working with parts of you that have become stuck by using psychodynamic and trauma-focused approaches such as EMDR therapy, internal family systems (IFS), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
Many of us may become stuck at different stages in our lives for myriad reasons. Its possible you may or may not be aware of what events may have led to this which can manifest in mental health and/or substance use difficulties. Examples range from traumatic events such as abuse, neglect, and death of loved ones; oft under-emphasized circumstances such as daily stress, breakups, life changes/transitions, and loss of employment; or broader systemic issues such as racism, poverty, and other types of discrimination. If you are looking to identify the stuck parts to help all of you move forward, this is a good place to start.
With 25 years of experience in behavior health services, I can create a compassionate and supportive environment to begin working with parts of you that have become stuck by using psychodynamic and trauma-focused approaches such as EMDR therapy, internal family systems (IFS), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
Many of us may become stuck at different stages in our lives for myriad reasons. Its possible you may or may not be aware of what events may have led to this which can manifest in mental health and/or substance use difficulties. Examples range from traumatic events such as abuse, neglect, and death of loved ones; oft under-emphasized circumstances such as daily stress, breakups, life changes/transitions, and loss of employment; or broader systemic issues such as racism, poverty, and other types of discrimination. If you are looking to identify the stuck parts to help all of you move forward, this is a good place to start.
(215) 469-1932 View (215) 469-1932
Photo of Julia Markovitz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Peach Bottom, PA
Julia Markovitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143
I work well with clients on attachment, family of origin, relational needs, gender and sexuality, ENM, and IFS.
I’ve wanted to be a therapist since I was a teenager and I still can’t imagine doing anything else. It is such a great privilege to hear your life stories. I think it takes a lot of bravery to walk into my office and share your inner thoughts and feelings with me, especially if you haven’t experienced a lot of empathic listening in your life. As a fellow frequenter of the couch myself, I know how hard it can be! And also, how deeply meaningful. Through my own journey of healing from trauma and witnessing profound transformations in my clients, I bring more than just clinical tools to the therapeutic process.
I work well with clients on attachment, family of origin, relational needs, gender and sexuality, ENM, and IFS.
I’ve wanted to be a therapist since I was a teenager and I still can’t imagine doing anything else. It is such a great privilege to hear your life stories. I think it takes a lot of bravery to walk into my office and share your inner thoughts and feelings with me, especially if you haven’t experienced a lot of empathic listening in your life. As a fellow frequenter of the couch myself, I know how hard it can be! And also, how deeply meaningful. Through my own journey of healing from trauma and witnessing profound transformations in my clients, I bring more than just clinical tools to the therapeutic process.
(215) 618-9572 View (215) 618-9572
Photo of Anita Devine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peach Bottom, PA
Anita Devine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I have extensive training in EMDR Therapy and Parts Work ( IFS informed).
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance.
I have extensive training in EMDR Therapy and Parts Work ( IFS informed).
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance.
(215) 461-3925 View (215) 461-3925
Photo of Chris McKee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peach Bottom, PA
Chris McKee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19109
I work with adult individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties and many other concerns using IFS.
Feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed? Want to improve your relationships? Challenging times can also be opportunities because they activate the parts of us that need healing. This can also cause extreme feelings and thoughts to hijack us, making us feel overwhelmed or stuck. I truly believe we each have everything we need to live from a place of calm, courage, curiosity, and creativity. We just need to release the obstacles and burdens we carry and learn how to relate to ourselves differently.
I work with adult individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties and many other concerns using IFS.
Feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed? Want to improve your relationships? Challenging times can also be opportunities because they activate the parts of us that need healing. This can also cause extreme feelings and thoughts to hijack us, making us feel overwhelmed or stuck. I truly believe we each have everything we need to live from a place of calm, courage, curiosity, and creativity. We just need to release the obstacles and burdens we carry and learn how to relate to ourselves differently.
(215) 261-5185 View (215) 261-5185
Photo of Elizabeth Pensack, Pre-Licensed Professional in Peach Bottom, PA
Elizabeth Pensack
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Macungie, PA 18062  (Online Only)
While my approach is eclectic, I often use skills from psychodynamic therapy, internal family systems, and DBT.
Whether you're brand new to therapy or have prior experience, I am here to meet you exactly where you are - free of judgement and expectations. No matter the reason you're here, I believe you are the expert of everything that is "you", and I am here to be a sounding board and supportive co-navigator in your healing journey.
While my approach is eclectic, I often use skills from psychodynamic therapy, internal family systems, and DBT.
Whether you're brand new to therapy or have prior experience, I am here to meet you exactly where you are - free of judgement and expectations. No matter the reason you're here, I believe you are the expert of everything that is "you", and I am here to be a sounding board and supportive co-navigator in your healing journey.
(610) 756-9697 View (610) 756-9697
Photo of Jess Hundley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peach Bottom, PA
Jess Hundley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shippensburg, PA 17257
I use IFS (parts work), DBT and EMDR to help people reprocess traumatic events, heal attachment wounds, and manage stress more effectively.
When I started working in mental health I discovered how many therapists shy away from treating trauma survivors. Because of this, many clients have difficulty finding a trauma informed therapist. I decided to dedicate my career to working with those who have been neglected by caregivers, romantic partners, and medical professionals. Anyone who has experienced trauma understands how it can impact every part of their life and make it difficult to trust anyone again. My clients are incredibly diverse, but all hope to create and maintain healthy boundaries that deepen connection with others as they learn to identify safe relationships.
I use IFS (parts work), DBT and EMDR to help people reprocess traumatic events, heal attachment wounds, and manage stress more effectively.
When I started working in mental health I discovered how many therapists shy away from treating trauma survivors. Because of this, many clients have difficulty finding a trauma informed therapist. I decided to dedicate my career to working with those who have been neglected by caregivers, romantic partners, and medical professionals. Anyone who has experienced trauma understands how it can impact every part of their life and make it difficult to trust anyone again. My clients are incredibly diverse, but all hope to create and maintain healthy boundaries that deepen connection with others as they learn to identify safe relationships.
(717) 931-7881 View (717) 931-7881
Photo of Miller Potoma, Pre-Licensed Professional in Peach Bottom, PA
Miller Potoma
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
I am IFS informed and utilize art therapy to deepen self-understanding and promote healing with clients.
Accepting PA Clients! Are you in search of a therapist who understands the unique experiences of trans and queer individuals? Are you navigating how to address trauma, cope with late-stage capitalism, handle ADHD and autistic burnout, or explore gender and sexuality? I am committed to serving individuals within my community, particularly those who identify as trans and queer. I approach my practice as kink-aware, anti-capitalist, pro-sex worker, and knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships.
I am IFS informed and utilize art therapy to deepen self-understanding and promote healing with clients.
Accepting PA Clients! Are you in search of a therapist who understands the unique experiences of trans and queer individuals? Are you navigating how to address trauma, cope with late-stage capitalism, handle ADHD and autistic burnout, or explore gender and sexuality? I am committed to serving individuals within my community, particularly those who identify as trans and queer. I approach my practice as kink-aware, anti-capitalist, pro-sex worker, and knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships.
(215) 398-1589 View (215) 398-1589
Photo of Mary Yost, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peach Bottom, 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 Lacey L Binkley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peach Bottom, 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
Sheila McManus
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
When working with more impaired clients, I work with a family systems approach, aimed at altering antecedents and consequences.
Rewrite your past and your coping strategies will flourish. No matter how strange or painful our life or relationships are, we can understand them to minimize their power to damage us today and tomorrow. We should not deny tragedy when it visits us. And yet, we can re-conceive of most situations to make them more manageable. This is the most gratifying work we can do as people. I am a thoroughly experienced diagnostician who has trained in all popular theories of human development, with an especially strong background in women's issues. I have treated patients from highly diverse backgrounds.
When working with more impaired clients, I work with a family systems approach, aimed at altering antecedents and consequences.
Rewrite your past and your coping strategies will flourish. No matter how strange or painful our life or relationships are, we can understand them to minimize their power to damage us today and tomorrow. We should not deny tragedy when it visits us. And yet, we can re-conceive of most situations to make them more manageable. This is the most gratifying work we can do as people. I am a thoroughly experienced diagnostician who has trained in all popular theories of human development, with an especially strong background in women's issues. I have treated patients from highly diverse backgrounds.
(215) 260-2367 View (215) 260-2367
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.