Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Scottdale, PA

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Photo of Courtney Brooke Kubovcik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottdale, PA
Courtney Brooke Kubovcik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Connellsville, PA 15425
If I told you that overwhelm is a symptom rather than a way of life, would that surprise you? I find that many of my clients come to me in various stages of overwhelm, some experiencing immense anxiety, others who have flopped into a state of depression, and many oscillating between the two. The lifestyles and demands of many people's lives creates a life that feels exhausting and overwhelming. As an integrative practitioner, I help clients learn how to support their bodies to manage stress, overcome barriers that our minds put around us to keep us from change, and find spiritual tools that support spiritual growth and development.
If I told you that overwhelm is a symptom rather than a way of life, would that surprise you? I find that many of my clients come to me in various stages of overwhelm, some experiencing immense anxiety, others who have flopped into a state of depression, and many oscillating between the two. The lifestyles and demands of many people's lives creates a life that feels exhausting and overwhelming. As an integrative practitioner, I help clients learn how to support their bodies to manage stress, overcome barriers that our minds put around us to keep us from change, and find spiritual tools that support spiritual growth and development.
(724) 414-6202 View (724) 414-6202
Photo of Deborah Marie Migyanko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottdale, PA
Deborah Marie Migyanko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Connellsville, PA 15425
I create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe in sharing their stories. I specialize in areas such as adolescents, young adults, families of adolescents, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, sport, health, human performance and trauma. I believe in treating the person as a whole. I can provide you with various coping skills. I am passionate about assisting my clients to move forward in their lives.
I create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe in sharing their stories. I specialize in areas such as adolescents, young adults, families of adolescents, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, sport, health, human performance and trauma. I believe in treating the person as a whole. I can provide you with various coping skills. I am passionate about assisting my clients to move forward in their lives.
(724) 918-0311 View (724) 918-0311
Photo of Momentum Couples and Family Therapy LLC., Marriage & Family Therapist in Scottdale, PA
Momentum Couples and Family Therapy LLC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Connellsville, PA 15425
Momentum Couples and Family Therapy provides a wide range of mental health services including, but not limited to the following: conflicts or problems with a partner, difficulty adjusting to a new school, trying to cope with a divorce or separation, family conflict with children or need of parental support, struggling with decisions about marriage, physical, sexual, or psychological abuse; past or present, loneliness, anxiety, fear or thoughts of suicide, low self-esteem, assertiveness and decision making, depression, sexual orientation, lack of motivation, out of control thoughts/ behaviors, difficulty with attention/concentration, coping with medical illness, unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.
Momentum Couples and Family Therapy provides a wide range of mental health services including, but not limited to the following: conflicts or problems with a partner, difficulty adjusting to a new school, trying to cope with a divorce or separation, family conflict with children or need of parental support, struggling with decisions about marriage, physical, sexual, or psychological abuse; past or present, loneliness, anxiety, fear or thoughts of suicide, low self-esteem, assertiveness and decision making, depression, sexual orientation, lack of motivation, out of control thoughts/ behaviors, difficulty with attention/concentration, coping with medical illness, unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.
(724) 359-2037 View (724) 359-2037
Photo of H Jane Koresko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Scottdale, PA
H Jane Koresko
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dunbar, PA 15431
I want to work with you if you are motivated to better your life. I will assist you to achieve your goal with the least amount of effort. There is a better way and a better place than where you are stuck right now.
I want to work with you if you are motivated to better your life. I will assist you to achieve your goal with the least amount of effort. There is a better way and a better place than where you are stuck right now.
(724) 566-5107 View (724) 566-5107

Online Therapists

Photo of Charles Warren, Pre-Licensed Professional in Scottdale, PA
Charles Warren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
I use a trauma informed lens and a non-judgmental framework in therapy that can include mindfulness, internal family systems (IFS), compassion focused, and feminist based theories focused on empowerment.
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
I use a trauma informed lens and a non-judgmental framework in therapy that can include mindfulness, internal family systems (IFS), compassion focused, and feminist based theories focused on empowerment.
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
(412) 998-7334 View (412) 998-7334
Photo of Jennie Ringeisen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottdale, PA
Jennie Ringeisen
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
I have focuses in strengths based counseling, Gestalt therapy, internal family systems therapy, solution focused therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Hi, my name is Jennie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My therapy style is based on us all being human and needing support and guidance throughout our lives. I decided to go into the counseling field because I believe that every person deserves to have care in their life. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and older adults.
I have focuses in strengths based counseling, Gestalt therapy, internal family systems therapy, solution focused therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Hi, my name is Jennie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My therapy style is based on us all being human and needing support and guidance throughout our lives. I decided to go into the counseling field because I believe that every person deserves to have care in their life. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and older adults.
(724) 414-3446 View (724) 414-3446
Photo of Dr Mary Berge & Associates, Psychologist in Scottdale, PA
Dr Mary Berge & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnstown, PA 15905  (Online Only)
We use a variety of therapeutic models, such as cognitive behavioral, family systems, and EMDR.
At Dr. Mary Berge and Associates, you will be provided with the best care in the region, in our serene, and confidential, private practice setting. Our highly trained mental health specialists are ready to help you & your family, so don't wait another day to start changing your life... call now for an appointment.
We use a variety of therapeutic models, such as cognitive behavioral, family systems, and EMDR.
At Dr. Mary Berge and Associates, you will be provided with the best care in the region, in our serene, and confidential, private practice setting. Our highly trained mental health specialists are ready to help you & your family, so don't wait another day to start changing your life... call now for an appointment.
(814) 247-0994 View (814) 247-0994
Photo of Intensive Care Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottdale, PA
Intensive Care Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I’m trained to use Eye Movement Desensitization Resolution (EMDR) therapy, and I’m certified in Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems.
I am a trauma therapist who enjoys helping individuals and families bring more joy and compassion to their relationships. I am available to meet with you for a series of intensive virtual sessions or for several days of intensive in-home work. I bring understanding and light as we work to overcome emotional hardships based on common problems including anger, anxiety, grief, depression, phobias, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder, relational problems and more.
I’m trained to use Eye Movement Desensitization Resolution (EMDR) therapy, and I’m certified in Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems.
I am a trauma therapist who enjoys helping individuals and families bring more joy and compassion to their relationships. I am available to meet with you for a series of intensive virtual sessions or for several days of intensive in-home work. I bring understanding and light as we work to overcome emotional hardships based on common problems including anger, anxiety, grief, depression, phobias, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder, relational problems and more.
(412) 754-7627 View (412) 754-7627
Photo of Sarah Vogel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottdale, PA
Sarah Vogel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
She comes with a unique skill set and uses a variety of therapeutic techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance therapy, dialectal therapy, internal family systems, exposure and response exercises and trauma interventions.
Whether you are having challenges adjusting to stressful life events, or you have experienced personal trauma(s) that you are having difficulty processing, Sarah is a compassionate, well rounded professional who will work alongside you through your inner healing journey. Together, you will create treatment goals that will help guide you as you develop practical and life changing coping strategies. Sarah also believes in an inclusive and comprehensive therapeutic approach. With your consent, she collaborates with other professionals providing medical or mental health services to you to ensure coordination and quality care.
She comes with a unique skill set and uses a variety of therapeutic techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance therapy, dialectal therapy, internal family systems, exposure and response exercises and trauma interventions.
Whether you are having challenges adjusting to stressful life events, or you have experienced personal trauma(s) that you are having difficulty processing, Sarah is a compassionate, well rounded professional who will work alongside you through your inner healing journey. Together, you will create treatment goals that will help guide you as you develop practical and life changing coping strategies. Sarah also believes in an inclusive and comprehensive therapeutic approach. With your consent, she collaborates with other professionals providing medical or mental health services to you to ensure coordination and quality care.
(412) 520-3149 View (412) 520-3149
Photo of Madison Krull, Pre-Licensed Professional in Scottdale, PA
Madison Krull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
I utilize feminist theory, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems Theory (IFS) in my practice.
INSTANT availability for Aetna and self-pay clients! Are the ups and downs of life too much to handle all at once? Are your relationships suffering as a result? I strive to create a comfortable, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space where you can openly be yourself. I will show up to each session exuding curiosity, empathy, respect, and humor. Together we will understand and navigate the struggles or mental health challenges that no longer serve you. In tandem, we will develop insight, strategies, and skills to help you navigate your life with meaning and authenticity.
I utilize feminist theory, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems Theory (IFS) in my practice.
INSTANT availability for Aetna and self-pay clients! Are the ups and downs of life too much to handle all at once? Are your relationships suffering as a result? I strive to create a comfortable, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space where you can openly be yourself. I will show up to each session exuding curiosity, empathy, respect, and humor. Together we will understand and navigate the struggles or mental health challenges that no longer serve you. In tandem, we will develop insight, strategies, and skills to help you navigate your life with meaning and authenticity.
(412) 910-2994 View (412) 910-2994
Photo of David Gresko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottdale, PA
David Gresko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
My treatment methods include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, Guided Visualization, Life Coaching, Faith Based counseling and Motivational Interviewing.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
My treatment methods include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, Guided Visualization, Life Coaching, Faith Based counseling and Motivational Interviewing.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
(412) 385-6997 View (412) 385-6997
Photo of Erin Glasscott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottdale, PA
Erin Glasscott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
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.
(412) 991-1687 View (412) 991-1687
Photo of Melissa Helfer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottdale, PA
Melissa Helfer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
While I use person centered therapy to meet each client where they are at, interventions such as CBT, DBT, REBT, IFS, mindfulness and motivational interviewing are used throughout therapy to retrain the brain.
Close your eyes and take a moment to reflect back on the last time you felt a sense of peace and belonging or your inner light sparked joy. Maybe you want to experience more of this or need guidance on how to create it. Take a moment and thank yourself for prioritizing your motivation to change, heal, and become that best version of yourself today.
While I use person centered therapy to meet each client where they are at, interventions such as CBT, DBT, REBT, IFS, mindfulness and motivational interviewing are used throughout therapy to retrain the brain.
Close your eyes and take a moment to reflect back on the last time you felt a sense of peace and belonging or your inner light sparked joy. Maybe you want to experience more of this or need guidance on how to create it. Take a moment and thank yourself for prioritizing your motivation to change, heal, and become that best version of yourself today.
(412) 274-1660 View (412) 274-1660
Alison J Seltzer LPC LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Altoona, PA 16602  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems or the PARTS Model) as well as BT (Behavior Therapy) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
It is a privilege to be an Outpatient Therapist. My clients are the BEST teachers. I would like to teach my clients to be their own therapists and/or to re-parent their parts to function in this world at their highest ability. I completely and thoroughly appreciate and am grateful for every moment even the not so good ones (usually the lesson we need to learn). I want to help my clients learn happiness comes from within, happiness is their responsibility and we ALL deserve to be happy and to feel loved and accepted. The journey is the challenge and turning challenges into opportunities is the goal.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems or the PARTS Model) as well as BT (Behavior Therapy) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
It is a privilege to be an Outpatient Therapist. My clients are the BEST teachers. I would like to teach my clients to be their own therapists and/or to re-parent their parts to function in this world at their highest ability. I completely and thoroughly appreciate and am grateful for every moment even the not so good ones (usually the lesson we need to learn). I want to help my clients learn happiness comes from within, happiness is their responsibility and we ALL deserve to be happy and to feel loved and accepted. The journey is the challenge and turning challenges into opportunities is the goal.
(814) 264-3577 View (814) 264-3577
Photo of Liz Peace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottdale, PA
Liz Peace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natrona Heights, PA 15065  (Online Only)
I utilize a combination of EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support clients in creating a deeper connection with their authentic selves.
Life is a journey, not a destination- and no one has to travel their path alone. The greatest joy I experience from doing this work is helping people discover and love their authentic selves. I firmly believe that there are no bad people- only bad moments- and those moments do not have to define us. Whether you are struggling with feelings of shame, guilt, or just looking to build a deeper understanding, I am here to walk with you on that journey. My areas of specialization include Autism and ADHD, PTSD, complex trauma, and issues surrounding incarceration.
I utilize a combination of EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support clients in creating a deeper connection with their authentic selves.
Life is a journey, not a destination- and no one has to travel their path alone. The greatest joy I experience from doing this work is helping people discover and love their authentic selves. I firmly believe that there are no bad people- only bad moments- and those moments do not have to define us. Whether you are struggling with feelings of shame, guilt, or just looking to build a deeper understanding, I am here to walk with you on that journey. My areas of specialization include Autism and ADHD, PTSD, complex trauma, and issues surrounding incarceration.
(724) 903-5074 View (724) 903-5074
Photo of Quiet Retreat Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottdale, PA
Quiet Retreat Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
D student who practices Gestalt and IFS.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
D student who practices Gestalt and IFS.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
(724) 573-8992 View (724) 573-8992
Photo of Sarah Amelia Edmiston, Pre-Licensed Professional in Scottdale, PA
Sarah Amelia Edmiston
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I utilize Interpersonal Process, Internal Family Systems, Dialectical-Behavioral, mindfulness, and somatic approaches to psychotherapy.
As your therapist, I will help you cultivate self-compassion, curiosity, and courage to confront your life challenges. My work with each client is individualized and collaborative depending on a multitude of client factors. My approach is warm, well-rounded, and authentic. I will ensure that your therapeutic outcomes are meaningful and sustainable. You will feel seen, heard, and supported in every step of our work. I use an integrated trauma-informed, feminist, humanistic, psychoanalytic, relational, and existential approach to therapy that fosters openness and curiosity.
I utilize Interpersonal Process, Internal Family Systems, Dialectical-Behavioral, mindfulness, and somatic approaches to psychotherapy.
As your therapist, I will help you cultivate self-compassion, curiosity, and courage to confront your life challenges. My work with each client is individualized and collaborative depending on a multitude of client factors. My approach is warm, well-rounded, and authentic. I will ensure that your therapeutic outcomes are meaningful and sustainable. You will feel seen, heard, and supported in every step of our work. I use an integrated trauma-informed, feminist, humanistic, psychoanalytic, relational, and existential approach to therapy that fosters openness and curiosity.
(412) 891-8769 View (412) 891-8769
Photo of Michael McCormick Quirk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottdale, PA
Michael McCormick Quirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
In my practice, you can explore through EMDR, IFS, DBT, ACT, and Music Therapy what it would be like to accept all parts of yourself.
Are you your biggest critic? I believe that we can learn to be compassionate towards ourselves.  I have over 20 years experience helping individuals with anxiety, depression and trauma to cultivate more self-compassion.
In my practice, you can explore through EMDR, IFS, DBT, ACT, and Music Therapy what it would be like to accept all parts of yourself.
Are you your biggest critic? I believe that we can learn to be compassionate towards ourselves.  I have over 20 years experience helping individuals with anxiety, depression and trauma to cultivate more self-compassion.
(412) 547-5791 View (412) 547-5791
Photo of Resilience Counseling and Wellness LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottdale, PA
Resilience Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Gibsonia, PA 15044
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize different treatment modalities but focus on the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and internal family systems therapy.
Do you or your child struggle with anxious thoughts? Have you been feeling more stressed or sad than usual lately? If so, I might be able to help. I offer a safe and compassionate space, along with guidance and support so you can begin to talk through the emotional difficulties and find balance again. I have worked with parents, children and individuals for over twenty years in the field of mental health helping them overcome challenges by leaning on and building up their natural resilience.
I utilize different treatment modalities but focus on the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and internal family systems therapy.
Do you or your child struggle with anxious thoughts? Have you been feeling more stressed or sad than usual lately? If so, I might be able to help. I offer a safe and compassionate space, along with guidance and support so you can begin to talk through the emotional difficulties and find balance again. I have worked with parents, children and individuals for over twenty years in the field of mental health helping them overcome challenges by leaning on and building up their natural resilience.
(724) 613-4965 View (724) 613-4965
Photo of Michael Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottdale, PA
Michael Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
If you come to therapy knowing what you want, I can support you with a personalized variety of clinical approaches, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness.
Even when we feel lost, there is always a path to a more hopeful future. As your therapist, I can help you find your way forward: Toward your goals, toward self-understanding, and toward peace and satisfaction. I’ve worked with people from many walks of life successfully and focus on helping those who find their lives unmanageable or fundamentally unfulfilling, especially when it involves difficult childhoods or traumatic experiences. I make space in our sessions to give genuine human support, from philosophical soul searching to practical goal setting, with a balance of humility, humor, and psychological insights.
If you come to therapy knowing what you want, I can support you with a personalized variety of clinical approaches, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness.
Even when we feel lost, there is always a path to a more hopeful future. As your therapist, I can help you find your way forward: Toward your goals, toward self-understanding, and toward peace and satisfaction. I’ve worked with people from many walks of life successfully and focus on helping those who find their lives unmanageable or fundamentally unfulfilling, especially when it involves difficult childhoods or traumatic experiences. I make space in our sessions to give genuine human support, from philosophical soul searching to practical goal setting, with a balance of humility, humor, and psychological insights.
(412) 405-6089 View (412) 405-6089

See more therapy options for Scottdale

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.