Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Trappe, PA

Photo of Adrianne Wagner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Trappe, PA
Adrianne Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Trappe, PA 19426
Openings April 2024: You constantly feel overwhelmed. Despite giving it your all, you constantly feeling like you're failing. You’re tired of being filled with insecurity, self-doubt and that voice that tells you “this is all there is”. There are times you can envision a better life. You try to adopt better habits and a healthier outlook but quickly find yourself exhausted, defeated and wondering if you're just broken. While everyone around you seems to have it all together, your anxiety has you feeling grumpy, sad, impatient, and wanting to hide from everyone.
Openings April 2024: You constantly feel overwhelmed. Despite giving it your all, you constantly feeling like you're failing. You’re tired of being filled with insecurity, self-doubt and that voice that tells you “this is all there is”. There are times you can envision a better life. You try to adopt better habits and a healthier outlook but quickly find yourself exhausted, defeated and wondering if you're just broken. While everyone around you seems to have it all together, your anxiety has you feeling grumpy, sad, impatient, and wanting to hide from everyone.
(610) 624-8952 View (610) 624-8952
Photo of Frank D LoRiggio, Licensed Professional Counselor in Trappe, PA
Frank D LoRiggio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Trappe, PA 19426  (Online Only)
You made it to this website either for yourself or for a loved one you care deeply about. Life can bring many challenges and struggles. Pain, fear, and suffering can hold you back and prevent you from being the person you were meant to be. Imagine what your life would look like after getting past those barriers. See yourself go from just getting by to thriving in your life. Where your health is a strength rather than a challenge. You can do it and I would like to accompany you on your journey. Call to see how I can help.
You made it to this website either for yourself or for a loved one you care deeply about. Life can bring many challenges and struggles. Pain, fear, and suffering can hold you back and prevent you from being the person you were meant to be. Imagine what your life would look like after getting past those barriers. See yourself go from just getting by to thriving in your life. Where your health is a strength rather than a challenge. You can do it and I would like to accompany you on your journey. Call to see how I can help.
(484) 854-2185 View (484) 854-2185
Photo of Nina R Aniskevich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Trappe, PA
Nina R Aniskevich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Trappe, PA 19426
This is the first step to becoming a new you. Life can often be overwhelming and filled with obstacles. Making changes is not always easy, but it is possible to overcome the negative feelings in order to reach your full potential. Past and present issues can cause stress, anxiety and depression if not dealt with properly. At PA Horizons Counseling, we can provide an opportunity for you to achieve the life you want. Our team of therapists aim to guide you through your journey in discovering your true self. We believe therapy is essential to recovery. Call today to set up a free consultation and to discuss how we can help you.
This is the first step to becoming a new you. Life can often be overwhelming and filled with obstacles. Making changes is not always easy, but it is possible to overcome the negative feelings in order to reach your full potential. Past and present issues can cause stress, anxiety and depression if not dealt with properly. At PA Horizons Counseling, we can provide an opportunity for you to achieve the life you want. Our team of therapists aim to guide you through your journey in discovering your true self. We believe therapy is essential to recovery. Call today to set up a free consultation and to discuss how we can help you.
(484) 464-9681 View (484) 464-9681

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leyla Richards, Pre-Licensed Professional in Trappe, 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 Ken Beldon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Trappe, PA
Ken Beldon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I have completed Level 1 Training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), in addition to training in other approaches.
As a therapist, I work with my clients to help them move toward a fulfilling, connected, and meaningful life. As human beings, we each have core yearnings to belong, to feel our experience is meaningful, and to know our lives matter. Unfortunately, because life sometimes involves emotional, psychological, social, and physical pain we can get stuck in patterns that don’t serve us. I help people develop insight into who they are and what they want, so they can make choices with greater clarity and confidence and live with greater balance and healing.
I have completed Level 1 Training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), in addition to training in other approaches.
As a therapist, I work with my clients to help them move toward a fulfilling, connected, and meaningful life. As human beings, we each have core yearnings to belong, to feel our experience is meaningful, and to know our lives matter. Unfortunately, because life sometimes involves emotional, psychological, social, and physical pain we can get stuck in patterns that don’t serve us. I help people develop insight into who they are and what they want, so they can make choices with greater clarity and confidence and live with greater balance and healing.
(610) 379-1395 View (610) 379-1395
Photo of Susan D. Draper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Trappe, PA
Susan D. Draper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462  (Online Only)
I utilize an integrative and client-centered approach combining Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Family Systems, Adlerian, Existential, and Narrative therapies along with Motivational Interviewing to help clients pursue the change and motivation necessary to achieve their personal life goals, and restore functionality to their everyday lives and relationships.
Everyone has a lens through which we view the world created by our unique experiences, struggles, triumphs, and diverse cultural languages, but so often we feel as if we lack the voice to express our true selves and needs to others. We struggle to find the courage to live authentically in a world that often doesn’t understand or validate our humanity, empathy, and sense of self. As we find self-empowerment, we can come together to empower our families, communities, and ultimately our world as a united whole to meet the challenges we face as human beings. Therapy can help overcome past trauma to help us live fully in the present.
I utilize an integrative and client-centered approach combining Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Family Systems, Adlerian, Existential, and Narrative therapies along with Motivational Interviewing to help clients pursue the change and motivation necessary to achieve their personal life goals, and restore functionality to their everyday lives and relationships.
Everyone has a lens through which we view the world created by our unique experiences, struggles, triumphs, and diverse cultural languages, but so often we feel as if we lack the voice to express our true selves and needs to others. We struggle to find the courage to live authentically in a world that often doesn’t understand or validate our humanity, empathy, and sense of self. As we find self-empowerment, we can come together to empower our families, communities, and ultimately our world as a united whole to meet the challenges we face as human beings. Therapy can help overcome past trauma to help us live fully in the present.
(610) 825-9400 View (610) 825-9400
Photo of Acacia Masso, Licensed Professional Counselor in Trappe, PA
Acacia Masso
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach drawing from narrative, IFS, art therapy and somatic perspectives, with some incorporation of ACT, CBT, and DBT skills.
I view clients as the experts in their own lives, and my goal is to create a warm, empathetic, and supportive partnership. I support people experiencing trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. As someone raised in Uganda, South Sudan, and Kenya, moving to the United States as a young adult, I am interested in supporting people processing cross-cultural transition and bicultural identity, as well as intergenerational, communal trauma and survivor’s guilt. As a queer therapist, I enjoy supporting LGBTQ+ clients as well.
I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach drawing from narrative, IFS, art therapy and somatic perspectives, with some incorporation of ACT, CBT, and DBT skills.
I view clients as the experts in their own lives, and my goal is to create a warm, empathetic, and supportive partnership. I support people experiencing trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. As someone raised in Uganda, South Sudan, and Kenya, moving to the United States as a young adult, I am interested in supporting people processing cross-cultural transition and bicultural identity, as well as intergenerational, communal trauma and survivor’s guilt. As a queer therapist, I enjoy supporting LGBTQ+ clients as well.
(610) 421-0542 View (610) 421-0542
Photo of Stefanie Helman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Trappe, PA
Stefanie Helman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
We utilize a wellness focus and evidenced-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family System (IFS), Gottman Method & Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
With over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, I provide a non-judgmental & safe space for each of my clients that promotes growth & self-discovery. I utilize a refreshingly straightforward style that incorporates humor and empathy to connect to individuals and couples on a "real" level. I work with adolescents, young adults, & adults struggling with: Stress Reduction & Management, Self-Esteem & Self-Worth, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, Perinatal & Postpartum, Parenting Stress, Age & Life Transition, Relationship & Communication, Work/Career (speciality in law enforcement) , & Dealing with Divorce.
We utilize a wellness focus and evidenced-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family System (IFS), Gottman Method & Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
With over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, I provide a non-judgmental & safe space for each of my clients that promotes growth & self-discovery. I utilize a refreshingly straightforward style that incorporates humor and empathy to connect to individuals and couples on a "real" level. I work with adolescents, young adults, & adults struggling with: Stress Reduction & Management, Self-Esteem & Self-Worth, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, Perinatal & Postpartum, Parenting Stress, Age & Life Transition, Relationship & Communication, Work/Career (speciality in law enforcement) , & Dealing with Divorce.
(215) 437-0790 View (215) 437-0790
Photo of Michele Saffier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Trappe, PA
Michele Saffier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422
I have trained in Vpassiana meditation and am currently training in Action Methods and Internal Family Systems.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified sex addiction therapist as well as Level 3 EMDR practitioner. I have been been practicing for over 25 years. I have specialized in infidelity, chronic infidelity, betrayal trauma and sexual addiction treatment since 1996 with a particular interest in working with partners. I develop partners programs utilizing the trauma model which views the partner as a victim of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My private practice office is Blue Bell, Pennsylvania where I conduct groups, individual, couples and family therapy for sexual compulsion, partners and their families.
I have trained in Vpassiana meditation and am currently training in Action Methods and Internal Family Systems.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified sex addiction therapist as well as Level 3 EMDR practitioner. I have been been practicing for over 25 years. I have specialized in infidelity, chronic infidelity, betrayal trauma and sexual addiction treatment since 1996 with a particular interest in working with partners. I develop partners programs utilizing the trauma model which views the partner as a victim of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My private practice office is Blue Bell, Pennsylvania where I conduct groups, individual, couples and family therapy for sexual compulsion, partners and their families.
(215) 600-4764 View (215) 600-4764
Photo of Katlyn Walters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Trappe, PA
Katlyn Walters
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
eco systemic family systems, DBT, IFS and narrative therapy etc.
Empathy for the realities of human suffering and trauma in our world, drew me to devote my career to therapy. I have a passion for helping children, teens, young adults, parents and families understand the patterns of harm that are contributing to their suffering. I believe each individual who enters the therapy process possesses the ability to explore the roots of their suffering and begin the journey toward healing.
eco systemic family systems, DBT, IFS and narrative therapy etc.
Empathy for the realities of human suffering and trauma in our world, drew me to devote my career to therapy. I have a passion for helping children, teens, young adults, parents and families understand the patterns of harm that are contributing to their suffering. I believe each individual who enters the therapy process possesses the ability to explore the roots of their suffering and begin the journey toward healing.
(484) 255-8725 View (484) 255-8725
Photo of Anna Clemente, Pre-Licensed Professional in Trappe, PA
Anna Clemente
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Hi! My name is Anna Clemente and I am one of the counselors at Willow Wellness Center. I believe in empowering clients to explore the systems around them and challenge their negative thought patterns while in a non-judgmental and warm environment for personal growth. I follow an integrative, collaborative, and individualized approach with an emphasis on a family systems and cognitive behavioral theoretical approach.
Hi! My name is Anna Clemente and I am one of the counselors at Willow Wellness Center. I believe in empowering clients to explore the systems around them and challenge their negative thought patterns while in a non-judgmental and warm environment for personal growth. I follow an integrative, collaborative, and individualized approach with an emphasis on a family systems and cognitive behavioral theoretical approach.
(610) 467-2352 View (610) 467-2352
Photo of Eating Disorder And Trauma Therapy Lisa DePaul, Licensed Professional Counselor in Trappe, PA
Eating Disorder And Trauma Therapy Lisa DePaul
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lansdale, PA 19446
I utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), somatic therapy, and attachment theory.
You find yourself feeling overwhelmed by life and your emotions. Maybe you have turned to substances or food to ease the pain. You have lost trust in yourself and others. You desperately want to feel better in your body and more connected to life. Perhaps you grew up in a dysfunctional family and you do not want to repeat the same patterns. Do you want to feel more aligned with your authentic self and create a fulfilling life? Maybe you participated in talk therapy and now feel ready to go deeper. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward, therapy can help. Whatever brings you here, you are not alone.
I utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), somatic therapy, and attachment theory.
You find yourself feeling overwhelmed by life and your emotions. Maybe you have turned to substances or food to ease the pain. You have lost trust in yourself and others. You desperately want to feel better in your body and more connected to life. Perhaps you grew up in a dysfunctional family and you do not want to repeat the same patterns. Do you want to feel more aligned with your authentic self and create a fulfilling life? Maybe you participated in talk therapy and now feel ready to go deeper. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward, therapy can help. Whatever brings you here, you are not alone.
(484) 878-4515 View (484) 878-4515
Photo of Lauren Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Trappe, PA
Lauren Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
I work primarily from the Internal Family Systems approach which gives us a framework to heal from within and to find balance in our lives.
Sometimes, life is really hard. Difficult experiences and past traumas can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, shut down and alone. Relief and some hope would feel so welcome right now. Together we'll find a path to peace and balance. We will get to know the parts of you that may be carrying anxiety, depression, shame, fear, relationship issues, addictions, grief, loss, or other experiences.
I work primarily from the Internal Family Systems approach which gives us a framework to heal from within and to find balance in our lives.
Sometimes, life is really hard. Difficult experiences and past traumas can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, shut down and alone. Relief and some hope would feel so welcome right now. Together we'll find a path to peace and balance. We will get to know the parts of you that may be carrying anxiety, depression, shame, fear, relationship issues, addictions, grief, loss, or other experiences.
(484) 642-0818 View (484) 642-0818
Photo of Christie Birchall, Pre-Licensed Professional in Trappe, PA
Christie Birchall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CCTS-I, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
We utilize a wellness focus and evidenced-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family System (IFS), Gottman Method & Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
Immediate openings for in-person and virtual sessions! I have vast experience working with individuals who struggle with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, substance abuse, criminal involvement, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, as well as other personality/mood disorders. In my work, I utilize a person-centered approach that focuses on empathizing with you as an individual trying to heal from your experiences. I feel that my solution-based approach can help guide you through your issues and facilitate a more productive lifestyle.
We utilize a wellness focus and evidenced-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family System (IFS), Gottman Method & Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
Immediate openings for in-person and virtual sessions! I have vast experience working with individuals who struggle with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, substance abuse, criminal involvement, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, as well as other personality/mood disorders. In my work, I utilize a person-centered approach that focuses on empathizing with you as an individual trying to heal from your experiences. I feel that my solution-based approach can help guide you through your issues and facilitate a more productive lifestyle.
(484) 897-7786 View (484) 897-7786
Photo of Sofia Montgomery, Pre-Licensed Professional in Trappe, PA
Sofia Montgomery
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Waitlist for new clients
As a certified trauma professional, I aim to create a warm, inclusive, brave space in which my clients can explore their life experiences. I believe each individual is unique, as are their therapeutic needs, and I use a variety of evidence-based treatment models including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), IFS-informed, and mindfulness techniques to help guide our sessions. To that end, I also do not believe in pathologizing people, reducing them to a diagnosis or viewing them as a problem to “fix.” I believe in building a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship, to help re-define what the therapeutic space can be.
As a certified trauma professional, I aim to create a warm, inclusive, brave space in which my clients can explore their life experiences. I believe each individual is unique, as are their therapeutic needs, and I use a variety of evidence-based treatment models including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), IFS-informed, and mindfulness techniques to help guide our sessions. To that end, I also do not believe in pathologizing people, reducing them to a diagnosis or viewing them as a problem to “fix.” I believe in building a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship, to help re-define what the therapeutic space can be.
(484) 998-1405 View (484) 998-1405
Photo of Easin M Beck, Pre-Licensed Professional in Trappe, PA
Easin M Beck
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
I integrate parts-work, family systems theory, and EMDR.
Are your relationships stressing you out? Do you find yourself walking on eggshells, afraid to tell people no? Do you find yourself saying yes out of guilt or obligation? I help adult children of emotionally immature parents process childhood wounds and move forward with peace, confidence, and self-compassion.
I integrate parts-work, family systems theory, and EMDR.
Are your relationships stressing you out? Do you find yourself walking on eggshells, afraid to tell people no? Do you find yourself saying yes out of guilt or obligation? I help adult children of emotionally immature parents process childhood wounds and move forward with peace, confidence, and self-compassion.
(484) 214-2876 View (484) 214-2876
Photo of Restoration & Wellness LLC. ( Counseling Center), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Trappe, PA
Restoration & Wellness LLC. ( Counseling Center)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
Our team of professionals utilize a ‘whole-person approach’ to treatment using interventions such as, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and family systems approach.
Restoration & Wellness, LLC. is a mental health practice that provides counseling and therapy services for a wide range of psychological and other behavioral health challenges facing children, teens and adults.
Our team of professionals utilize a ‘whole-person approach’ to treatment using interventions such as, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and family systems approach.
Restoration & Wellness, LLC. is a mental health practice that provides counseling and therapy services for a wide range of psychological and other behavioral health challenges facing children, teens and adults.
(215) 718-1072 View (215) 718-1072
Photo of Erin Glasscott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Trappe, PA
Erin Glasscott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Limerick, PA 19468
I incorporate different interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy, polyvagal theory, and internal family systems.
Are you a young adult dealing primarily with anxiety and life transition issues? This could be a recent college graduate starting their first big job, a major transition. I like walking beside them through these transitions and being an additional support. I also like helping people learn breathing techniques to manage anxiety and learn about polyvagal theory and a bottom-up approach. I enjoy working with clients who can articulate their goals, such as managing anxiety better and working on anxiety in different settings.
I incorporate different interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy, polyvagal theory, and internal family systems.
Are you a young adult dealing primarily with anxiety and life transition issues? This could be a recent college graduate starting their first big job, a major transition. I like walking beside them through these transitions and being an additional support. I also like helping people learn breathing techniques to manage anxiety and learn about polyvagal theory and a bottom-up approach. I enjoy working with clients who can articulate their goals, such as managing anxiety better and working on anxiety in different settings.
(484) 998-1303 View (484) 998-1303
Photo of Raine Aslan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Trappe, 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 Meredith Watkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Trappe, PA
Meredith Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, HHC
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
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

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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.