Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Tamaqua, PA

Photo of Hugh Vrablic, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tamaqua, PA
Hugh Vrablic
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Tamaqua, PA 18252
My goal as a therapist is to empower others to reach their fullest potential with their healthiest mind and skill-set. Working together, we can build upon your skills to find balance and relief. I am currently seeing clients virtually, as well as seeing clients in my private practice office on a limited basis due to COVID.
My goal as a therapist is to empower others to reach their fullest potential with their healthiest mind and skill-set. Working together, we can build upon your skills to find balance and relief. I am currently seeing clients virtually, as well as seeing clients in my private practice office on a limited basis due to COVID.
(484) 699-7722 View (484) 699-7722

Online Therapists

Photo of Leyla Richards, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tamaqua, 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 Rachel Oristano, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tamaqua, PA
Rachel Oristano
Pre-Licensed Professional, DSCM, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19129
I have completed my Level 1 Training of Internal Family Systems (IFS).
We are connective, social beings, and we all need a support system to help guide us out of the ruts in which we find ourselves. I want to empower you to harness your own strengths, meet the world on your own terms, and make your needs heard, even if you're having trouble finding your voice.
I have completed my Level 1 Training of Internal Family Systems (IFS).
We are connective, social beings, and we all need a support system to help guide us out of the ruts in which we find ourselves. I want to empower you to harness your own strengths, meet the world on your own terms, and make your needs heard, even if you're having trouble finding your voice.
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Photo of Tressa Dabney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tamaqua, PA
Tressa Dabney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
In my work, I pull from different models, including ACT, psychodynamic therapy, IFS, relational and attachment-based, and somatic approaches.
Therapy is one avenue to building a life that is more authentic, connected, and filled with meaning. My goal as a therapist is to co-create a space that is warm and safe where you can approach issues from a strengths-based lens, and where curiosity and creativity can flourish. As a therapist, I value my unique relationship with each client, and I am deeply grateful to be able to witness growth, meaning-making, and changes that positively impact a client’s life. Therapy is a unique, personal, and specific journey, and I am humbled and eager to be on that journey with each individual client with whom I work.
In my work, I pull from different models, including ACT, psychodynamic therapy, IFS, relational and attachment-based, and somatic approaches.
Therapy is one avenue to building a life that is more authentic, connected, and filled with meaning. My goal as a therapist is to co-create a space that is warm and safe where you can approach issues from a strengths-based lens, and where curiosity and creativity can flourish. As a therapist, I value my unique relationship with each client, and I am deeply grateful to be able to witness growth, meaning-making, and changes that positively impact a client’s life. Therapy is a unique, personal, and specific journey, and I am humbled and eager to be on that journey with each individual client with whom I work.
(484) 446-2519 View (484) 446-2519
Photo of Laura Chandler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tamaqua, PA
Laura Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
Eagles Counseling is also specializes in children, adolescents, music therapy, IFS, DBT, EMDR, and CBT.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief, or trauma? Is your marriage falling apart? Is your child struggling with behavioral problems, depression, or anxiety? Are you looking for a highly qualified therapist? Are you looking for a therapist that will help you to get well quickly?
Eagles Counseling is also specializes in children, adolescents, music therapy, IFS, DBT, EMDR, and CBT.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief, or trauma? Is your marriage falling apart? Is your child struggling with behavioral problems, depression, or anxiety? Are you looking for a highly qualified therapist? Are you looking for a therapist that will help you to get well quickly?
(484) 324-4404 View (484) 324-4404
Photo of Alisa Stamps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tamaqua, PA
Alisa Stamps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a certified Gestalt and IFS therapist, and am also certified in Dr.
You look in the mirror and see the "bad" traits. That you're not thin enough, not righteous enough, not "good" enough. You realize that these traits were projected there by someone else--a partner, or maybe even a parent. You want to recover from perhaps a lifetime of emotional pain and narcissistic abuse but you don't know where to begin...I specialize in treating adult children of narcissists, cult abuse/religious trauma survivors, and those struggling with disordered eating and body image issues. I can support you in developing your inner strengths so that when you look in the mirror it will be your true self staring back at you.
I am a certified Gestalt and IFS therapist, and am also certified in Dr.
You look in the mirror and see the "bad" traits. That you're not thin enough, not righteous enough, not "good" enough. You realize that these traits were projected there by someone else--a partner, or maybe even a parent. You want to recover from perhaps a lifetime of emotional pain and narcissistic abuse but you don't know where to begin...I specialize in treating adult children of narcissists, cult abuse/religious trauma survivors, and those struggling with disordered eating and body image issues. I can support you in developing your inner strengths so that when you look in the mirror it will be your true self staring back at you.
(267) 642-5396 View (267) 642-5396
Photo of Ken Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tamaqua, PA
Ken Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I also incorporate somatic based interventions, CBT techniques, IFS, Narrative Therapy, and tend to incorporate humor into sessions as a form of healing.
You deserve to have every part of yourself be valued, honored, and felt in a way that acknowledges the complexities of life that centers YOUR truth and authenticity. As a first-generation, Queer, Non-Binary, Black and spiritual being, I see the healing space as a transformative space where folx can step in and tap in to those parts of yourself that can really help to facilitate the connection between mind, body, and heart.
I also incorporate somatic based interventions, CBT techniques, IFS, Narrative Therapy, and tend to incorporate humor into sessions as a form of healing.
You deserve to have every part of yourself be valued, honored, and felt in a way that acknowledges the complexities of life that centers YOUR truth and authenticity. As a first-generation, Queer, Non-Binary, Black and spiritual being, I see the healing space as a transformative space where folx can step in and tap in to those parts of yourself that can really help to facilitate the connection between mind, body, and heart.
(484) 623-6847 View (484) 623-6847
Photo of Phil Wieszczyk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tamaqua, 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 McPherson Clinical & Consulting Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tamaqua, PA
McPherson Clinical & Consulting Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EMBA, LPC, NCC, CDWF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wyncote, PA 19095
MCCS is dedicated to creating representation in the therapy room by cultivating safe spaces for BIPOC and creating access to highly sought after modalities such as IFS, EMDR, Brainspotting, and more.
McPherson Clinical & Consulting Services is a BIPOC focused and LGBTQIA+ affirming mental health group practice located in Wyncote, PA that services the entire State of Pennsylvania. Featuring BIPOC clinicians with various intersectional identities and specialties, we strive to provide individualized, trauma-informed, and evidence based care for individuals (18+ years old), couples, families, and groups within the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ community.
MCCS is dedicated to creating representation in the therapy room by cultivating safe spaces for BIPOC and creating access to highly sought after modalities such as IFS, EMDR, Brainspotting, and more.
McPherson Clinical & Consulting Services is a BIPOC focused and LGBTQIA+ affirming mental health group practice located in Wyncote, PA that services the entire State of Pennsylvania. Featuring BIPOC clinicians with various intersectional identities and specialties, we strive to provide individualized, trauma-informed, and evidence based care for individuals (18+ years old), couples, families, and groups within the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ community.
(267) 535-2110 View (267) 535-2110
Photo of Yvonne M. Fausett, Psychologist in Tamaqua, PA
Yvonne M. Fausett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Langhorne, PA 19047
With a background in psychodynamic, family systems and attachment theories, I believe we become who we are as a result of our experiences growing up in our families.
TELEHEALTH (audio/video) SESSIONS ARE AVAILABLE. Throughout our lives, we all experience challenges with sadness, worry and anger that can reach overwhelming levels. When the stress of these feelings negatively impacts daily functioning, relationships, work performance or physical health, it is time to learn what can be done differently. Through active listening, supporting, challenging and providing education about the interplay of thoughts, feelings and behaviors, I work collaboratively and non-judgmentally with my clients to understand themselves better to create a more satisfying life and stronger, more confident sense of self.
With a background in psychodynamic, family systems and attachment theories, I believe we become who we are as a result of our experiences growing up in our families.
TELEHEALTH (audio/video) SESSIONS ARE AVAILABLE. Throughout our lives, we all experience challenges with sadness, worry and anger that can reach overwhelming levels. When the stress of these feelings negatively impacts daily functioning, relationships, work performance or physical health, it is time to learn what can be done differently. Through active listening, supporting, challenging and providing education about the interplay of thoughts, feelings and behaviors, I work collaboratively and non-judgmentally with my clients to understand themselves better to create a more satisfying life and stronger, more confident sense of self.
(267) 244-9557 View (267) 244-9557
Photo of Deirdre Myers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tamaqua, PA
Deirdre Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146  (Online Only)
I am able to offer services which include CBT/DBT, IFS, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Person Centered informed counseling all virtual so I can reach clients from all over Michigan and Pennsylvania!.
Hi! Ever wonder if therapy is right for you? How do you find the right therapist? Well, let me tell you about who I am. I'm someone who is passionate about helping others and understand how heavy burdens can weigh on your heart. Over the past two years, I've dedicated myself to the world of healing. It's been an amazing journey guiding clients through difficult challenges like anxiety, OCD, phobias, depression, trauma, ADHD/ADD, ODD, and the aftermath of domestic violence and sexual assault. I'm here to lend an empathetic ear and offer support in any way I can. Let's work together to find the light at the end of the tunnel.
I am able to offer services which include CBT/DBT, IFS, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Person Centered informed counseling all virtual so I can reach clients from all over Michigan and Pennsylvania!.
Hi! Ever wonder if therapy is right for you? How do you find the right therapist? Well, let me tell you about who I am. I'm someone who is passionate about helping others and understand how heavy burdens can weigh on your heart. Over the past two years, I've dedicated myself to the world of healing. It's been an amazing journey guiding clients through difficult challenges like anxiety, OCD, phobias, depression, trauma, ADHD/ADD, ODD, and the aftermath of domestic violence and sexual assault. I'm here to lend an empathetic ear and offer support in any way I can. Let's work together to find the light at the end of the tunnel.
(989) 461-3883 View (989) 461-3883
Photo of Tracy Steen, Psychologist in Tamaqua, PA
Tracy Steen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have also received training in how to use IFS-informed EMDR to help people to better understand their personalities.
I offer virtual sessions or in-person appointments at my office in Rittenhouse Square. Clients who are seeking to be more confident, powerful, and effective are likely to work well with me. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families from a positive psychology perspective, helping them to use their strengths to improve their moods and their lives. I can help clients and their loved ones overcome trauma and addiction, and I can help clients improve their current relationships and dating success. Developed over more than 20 years of experience, my interpersonal style is non-judgmental, encouraging, and solution-oriented.
I have also received training in how to use IFS-informed EMDR to help people to better understand their personalities.
I offer virtual sessions or in-person appointments at my office in Rittenhouse Square. Clients who are seeking to be more confident, powerful, and effective are likely to work well with me. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families from a positive psychology perspective, helping them to use their strengths to improve their moods and their lives. I can help clients and their loved ones overcome trauma and addiction, and I can help clients improve their current relationships and dating success. Developed over more than 20 years of experience, my interpersonal style is non-judgmental, encouraging, and solution-oriented.
(215) 458-2213 View (215) 458-2213
Photo of Dana Joud, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tamaqua, PA
Dana Joud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am informed by Psychodynamic theory, Relational therapy, Internal Family Systems, Jungian Dream Analysis, and Somatic Strategies.
I am a Syrian, Queer, & Genderfluid clinician. As an immigrant kid raised in queer subcultures in the Pacific Northwest, my therapy practice is inspired by writers, creators, and organizers who complicate the narratives of our human existence. I believe the personal is deeply political and therapy is a tool to help us identify how our bodies, relationships, and internal beliefs have been impacted by systems of power and oppression. I utilize celebration, gentleness, and reflection alongside various modalities to inform my practice in session for a customized approach with each person who enters into a therapy relationship with me.
I am informed by Psychodynamic theory, Relational therapy, Internal Family Systems, Jungian Dream Analysis, and Somatic Strategies.
I am a Syrian, Queer, & Genderfluid clinician. As an immigrant kid raised in queer subcultures in the Pacific Northwest, my therapy practice is inspired by writers, creators, and organizers who complicate the narratives of our human existence. I believe the personal is deeply political and therapy is a tool to help us identify how our bodies, relationships, and internal beliefs have been impacted by systems of power and oppression. I utilize celebration, gentleness, and reflection alongside various modalities to inform my practice in session for a customized approach with each person who enters into a therapy relationship with me.
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Photo of Elise Gaul, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tamaqua, PA
Elise Gaul
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I am an experienced practitioner providing evidenced-based therapies including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Hypnotherapy, CBT, mindfulness and others for processing grief and trauma, lowering anxiety, reducing pain symptoms, and improving mood.
Are you feeling off balance or distressed physically and emotionally due to a recent loss, past trauma, or stressful life circumstances? You need to process your experience plus tools and practices to enjoy a healthy mind-- one that is that is present, focused, responsive, and resilient. Your life is precious. Now is the time to make it the best it can be with positive mind states, a sense of purpose, and connection. A healthy mind is the best predictor of a happy life!
I am an experienced practitioner providing evidenced-based therapies including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Hypnotherapy, CBT, mindfulness and others for processing grief and trauma, lowering anxiety, reducing pain symptoms, and improving mood.
Are you feeling off balance or distressed physically and emotionally due to a recent loss, past trauma, or stressful life circumstances? You need to process your experience plus tools and practices to enjoy a healthy mind-- one that is that is present, focused, responsive, and resilient. Your life is precious. Now is the time to make it the best it can be with positive mind states, a sense of purpose, and connection. A healthy mind is the best predictor of a happy life!
(610) 202-0905 View (610) 202-0905
Photo of Donna J Cardinal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tamaqua, 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 Raine Aslan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tamaqua, PA
Raine Aslan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
My goal is to create an accepting and non-judgmental space where people feel safe, heard, and understood. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems therapy/parts work, and dialectical behavioral therapy skills to work with adults, teens, and children ages 10 and above.
My goal is to create an accepting and non-judgmental space where people feel safe, heard, and understood. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems therapy/parts work, and dialectical behavioral therapy skills to work with adults, teens, and children ages 10 and above.
(484) 552-9628 View (484) 552-9628
Photo of Katherine T Martin, Psychologist in Tamaqua, PA
Katherine T Martin
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
My practice is focused on establishing empathy and trust while collaborating with the client to define attainable goals. Drawing from more than 25 years of experience in aiding individuals, children, and families, my expertise spans psychotherapy, family systems, neuropsychology, and cognitive behavioral methodologies. Rooted in respect for humanities and the arts, I provide a distinctive and comprehensive approach to fostering mental and emotional wellness.
My practice is focused on establishing empathy and trust while collaborating with the client to define attainable goals. Drawing from more than 25 years of experience in aiding individuals, children, and families, my expertise spans psychotherapy, family systems, neuropsychology, and cognitive behavioral methodologies. Rooted in respect for humanities and the arts, I provide a distinctive and comprehensive approach to fostering mental and emotional wellness.
(215) 709-9824 View (215) 709-9824
Photo of Meredith Watkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tamaqua, PA
Meredith Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, HHC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
I use a range of therapeutic techniques to accomplish this, including DBT, CBT, Internal Family Systems, and somatic and narrative therapies.
Having an eating disorder can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to control your life. I help you or your teenager understand the function their eating disorder has played in their life, and how to create a healthier way to move forward, free of the eating disorder’s rules and fears. When working with teens, I also help parents better understand their child’s experience and how best to support them. While I specialize in eating disorders, I also support clients through parenting, divorce, career transitions, and managing the stressors of everyday life, including break-ups and the often-tricky transition into adulthood.
I use a range of therapeutic techniques to accomplish this, including DBT, CBT, Internal Family Systems, and somatic and narrative therapies.
Having an eating disorder can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to control your life. I help you or your teenager understand the function their eating disorder has played in their life, and how to create a healthier way to move forward, free of the eating disorder’s rules and fears. When working with teens, I also help parents better understand their child’s experience and how best to support them. While I specialize in eating disorders, I also support clients through parenting, divorce, career transitions, and managing the stressors of everyday life, including break-ups and the often-tricky transition into adulthood.
(484) 559-6707 View (484) 559-6707
Photo of Angel Vaccaro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tamaqua, PA
Angel Vaccaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, Angel V, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dunmore, PA 18509
I use a variety of approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, narrative, eclectic, internal family systems, faith-based, dialectical behavior therapy, person-centered, and trauma-focused.
I'm Angel and I am excited that you found my page. I am a professional counselor licensed in Pennsylvania with over 8 years of counseling experience working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, and addictions. I love working with individuals to find freedom and remove any obstacles that prevent living the life they have always dreamed of. My therapy style is unique, creative, individual, warm, and accepting. I treat individuals with respect, compassion, and empathy. My ability to see different perspectives enables me to meet people where they are.
I use a variety of approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, narrative, eclectic, internal family systems, faith-based, dialectical behavior therapy, person-centered, and trauma-focused.
I'm Angel and I am excited that you found my page. I am a professional counselor licensed in Pennsylvania with over 8 years of counseling experience working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, and addictions. I love working with individuals to find freedom and remove any obstacles that prevent living the life they have always dreamed of. My therapy style is unique, creative, individual, warm, and accepting. I treat individuals with respect, compassion, and empathy. My ability to see different perspectives enables me to meet people where they are.
(272) 206-2060 View (272) 206-2060
Photo of Sara Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tamaqua, PA
Sara Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am trained in EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, and am training in parts work (IFS) therapy.
If you'd like to get free from relational trauma, I would love to help you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, emotional and narcissistic abuse, Trauma/PTSD, ACA / ACoA recovery for adult children of alcoholics and family dysfunction, Personality Disorders, and ADHD. I've worked in substance abuse recovery for 8 years and led a group for adults with ADHD with the national organization CHADD for 3 years. I work with abuse survivors and I lead an ongoing group for recovery from gaslighting, narcissistic and emotional abuse, betrayal trauma, and intimate partner violence. If you're going through hell, keep going.
I am trained in EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, and am training in parts work (IFS) therapy.
If you'd like to get free from relational trauma, I would love to help you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, emotional and narcissistic abuse, Trauma/PTSD, ACA / ACoA recovery for adult children of alcoholics and family dysfunction, Personality Disorders, and ADHD. I've worked in substance abuse recovery for 8 years and led a group for adults with ADHD with the national organization CHADD for 3 years. I work with abuse survivors and I lead an ongoing group for recovery from gaslighting, narcissistic and emotional abuse, betrayal trauma, and intimate partner violence. If you're going through hell, keep going.
(215) 910-4075 View (215) 910-4075
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.