Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Chattanooga, TN

Photo of Jan F Sherbak, Psychologist in Chattanooga, TN
Jan F Sherbak
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37404  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist trained to work Adolescents and Adults who are experiencing many forms of psychological distress including depression, anxiety, life transitions, loss, and divorce. I am also a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist trained to work with all Eating Disorders, including Anorexia, Bulimia, Food Addiction and Compulsive Overeating. I use an eclectic and individualized approach to treatment with a strong focus on the Internal Family Systems treatment model. This model helps to more deeply explore wounds and burdens within the individual and then work to heal those wounds in a respectful and compassionate way
I am a clinical psychologist trained to work Adolescents and Adults who are experiencing many forms of psychological distress including depression, anxiety, life transitions, loss, and divorce. I am also a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist trained to work with all Eating Disorders, including Anorexia, Bulimia, Food Addiction and Compulsive Overeating. I use an eclectic and individualized approach to treatment with a strong focus on the Internal Family Systems treatment model. This model helps to more deeply explore wounds and burdens within the individual and then work to heal those wounds in a respectful and compassionate way
(423) 781-6943 View (423) 781-6943
Photo of Anna Downer Youngs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chattanooga, TN
Anna Downer Youngs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37411
Anna works in the here-and-now, integrating somatic techniques, EMDR and parts work with IFS to support clients with safety and attentiveness.
Anna loves working with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger issues, parenting struggles and chronic pain. Anna is a person of faith who works with persons of all backgrounds and faith or non-faith orientations. Anna offers radical acceptance of the client's experience and perspective, working together toward greater insight, connectedness, personal power and integrated health. ​Anna gives the client a thorough understanding of treatment so the client is an empowered and confident agent in the healing process. Anna values non-violence, empathy, and direct communication so that healing is pursued as safely and quickly as possible.
Anna works in the here-and-now, integrating somatic techniques, EMDR and parts work with IFS to support clients with safety and attentiveness.
Anna loves working with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger issues, parenting struggles and chronic pain. Anna is a person of faith who works with persons of all backgrounds and faith or non-faith orientations. Anna offers radical acceptance of the client's experience and perspective, working together toward greater insight, connectedness, personal power and integrated health. ​Anna gives the client a thorough understanding of treatment so the client is an empowered and confident agent in the healing process. Anna values non-violence, empathy, and direct communication so that healing is pursued as safely and quickly as possible.
(423) 220-4545 View (423) 220-4545
Photo of Erin K White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chattanooga, TN
Erin K White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MAMFTC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37415
I use an integrative and holistic approach — drawing from Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, HRV Biofeedback, and my Level 1 Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, and other approaches.
I use my training and years of experience to build relationships with clients that produce wholeness and healing. I believe the care, trust, and honesty in the counseling relationship can help people move from surviving (maybe just barely) to thriving. I want my clients to experience renewal in their lives.
I use an integrative and holistic approach — drawing from Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, HRV Biofeedback, and my Level 1 Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, and other approaches.
I use my training and years of experience to build relationships with clients that produce wholeness and healing. I believe the care, trust, and honesty in the counseling relationship can help people move from surviving (maybe just barely) to thriving. I want my clients to experience renewal in their lives.
(423) 205-1264 View (423) 205-1264
Photo of Phil Houston, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Phil Houston
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
A typical session with me may include breathwork, mindfulness-based practices, EMDR, Somatic-Attachment Therapy, IFS "parts" work, or CBT.
I work with individuals to help them strengthen the relationship with themselves and others while learning how to live a more meaningful life. Working with me, you will learn techniques and practices that help you to increase self-awareness and embrace authenticity in life. It is my belief that there is nothing inherently "wrong" with us, but instead we develop certain behaviors and patterns in an effort to protect ourselves from some type of pain. Together, we will explore what is holding you back and you will learn practical tools that will support you in understanding and processing your emotions.
A typical session with me may include breathwork, mindfulness-based practices, EMDR, Somatic-Attachment Therapy, IFS "parts" work, or CBT.
I work with individuals to help them strengthen the relationship with themselves and others while learning how to live a more meaningful life. Working with me, you will learn techniques and practices that help you to increase self-awareness and embrace authenticity in life. It is my belief that there is nothing inherently "wrong" with us, but instead we develop certain behaviors and patterns in an effort to protect ourselves from some type of pain. Together, we will explore what is holding you back and you will learn practical tools that will support you in understanding and processing your emotions.
(423) 537-6661 View (423) 537-6661
Photo of Wesley Nichols, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Wesley Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, QTAP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
In that process I use many tools, including training in IFS, EMDR and the Enneagram, to help you in your journey.
We all have areas of our lives where we feel stuck. We can’t seem to figure out what’s going on inside us or in our situations. Even if we see a problem, we might not know how to navigate it. Counseling is an experience that helps you safely explore these places to make sense of your experience and find more clarity for the experiences to come. Together, we sift through the combination of thoughts, emotions, experiences, and patterns that make up who we are to find deeper understanding, clarity, and peace.
In that process I use many tools, including training in IFS, EMDR and the Enneagram, to help you in your journey.
We all have areas of our lives where we feel stuck. We can’t seem to figure out what’s going on inside us or in our situations. Even if we see a problem, we might not know how to navigate it. Counseling is an experience that helps you safely explore these places to make sense of your experience and find more clarity for the experiences to come. Together, we sift through the combination of thoughts, emotions, experiences, and patterns that make up who we are to find deeper understanding, clarity, and peace.
(423) 301-5621 View (423) 301-5621
Photo of Andi Fisher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chattanooga, TN
Andi Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MACC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
My work experience includes elements of Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I approach counseling with the understanding that all individuals have a unique story that is deserving of a safe space to process and heal. I believe that the counseling room can be a place that encourages hope and helps individuals enter into a healthier, deeper, and richer understanding of both themselves and others. Although I have a degree in Christian counseling, my practice welcomes individuals of all worldviews to engage with their stories in a way that invites restoration and healing. In addition to my time at Gordon-Conwell, I have been trained in EMDR, DBT Skills Training, and am a Certified First Responder Associate.
My work experience includes elements of Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I approach counseling with the understanding that all individuals have a unique story that is deserving of a safe space to process and heal. I believe that the counseling room can be a place that encourages hope and helps individuals enter into a healthier, deeper, and richer understanding of both themselves and others. Although I have a degree in Christian counseling, my practice welcomes individuals of all worldviews to engage with their stories in a way that invites restoration and healing. In addition to my time at Gordon-Conwell, I have been trained in EMDR, DBT Skills Training, and am a Certified First Responder Associate.
(423) 592-5608 View (423) 592-5608
Photo of Katie Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Katie Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
I utilize psychodynamic, mindfulness, trauma-informed therapy, and internal family systems (IFS), also known as "parts work" therapy.
Hi! I'm so glad you are here. Finding a therapist can be intimidating. I get it. This is a big, beautiful step you are taking. I want you to know that I value you as a life survivalist. Though it was painful, you have made it. You are a survivor. I would love the opportunity to create a safe space with you so that you may grow and evolve at your own pace in an environment where you are seen, heard, and accepted. My hope is for you to discover empowerment within yourself throughout our time together.
I utilize psychodynamic, mindfulness, trauma-informed therapy, and internal family systems (IFS), also known as "parts work" therapy.
Hi! I'm so glad you are here. Finding a therapist can be intimidating. I get it. This is a big, beautiful step you are taking. I want you to know that I value you as a life survivalist. Though it was painful, you have made it. You are a survivor. I would love the opportunity to create a safe space with you so that you may grow and evolve at your own pace in an environment where you are seen, heard, and accepted. My hope is for you to discover empowerment within yourself throughout our time together.
(423) 564-5984 View (423) 564-5984
Photo of Julie Fickley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chattanooga, TN
Julie Fickley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I primarily use Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR to help clients find internal stability and security and heal from wounds both past and present.
Life is filled with so much beauty and pain. We have all been through more than enough difficulties in the past few years. Perhaps what is currently challenging for you has also brought up wounds from your past. Perhaps you are overwhelmed and can no longer manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Perhaps you feel ashamed or alone or hopeless. I am here to help.
I primarily use Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR to help clients find internal stability and security and heal from wounds both past and present.
Life is filled with so much beauty and pain. We have all been through more than enough difficulties in the past few years. Perhaps what is currently challenging for you has also brought up wounds from your past. Perhaps you are overwhelmed and can no longer manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Perhaps you feel ashamed or alone or hopeless. I am here to help.
(423) 205-6841 View (423) 205-6841
Photo of Justin Holyfield, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Justin Holyfield
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405
Art has been integral to human development and expression. For centuries art has been used to explore, explain, and express both our emotions and the world around us. In art therapy sessions we utilize artistic mediums such as: watercolors, pencils, markers, paint, and clay as well as more traditional talk therapy elements to tackle complex feelings and emotions, to dive into self identity, decrease stress, and everything that sits in between. I enjoy working with LGBTQ+, religious trauma, Internal family systems, identity formation, and depressive and anxiety disorders. But I am open to anyone who is interested in art therapy
Art has been integral to human development and expression. For centuries art has been used to explore, explain, and express both our emotions and the world around us. In art therapy sessions we utilize artistic mediums such as: watercolors, pencils, markers, paint, and clay as well as more traditional talk therapy elements to tackle complex feelings and emotions, to dive into self identity, decrease stress, and everything that sits in between. I enjoy working with LGBTQ+, religious trauma, Internal family systems, identity formation, and depressive and anxiety disorders. But I am open to anyone who is interested in art therapy
(423) 840-7816 View (423) 840-7816
Photo of Jenna Gettys in Chattanooga, TN
Jenna Gettys
TLMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37415
I am a therapist who enjoys working with teen and adult individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, grief, and relational conflict. I draw upon the Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model with clients to help them develop the qualities of curiosity, calm, creativity, clarity, courage, compassion, and connectedness for self and others. I also use Restoration Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My ultimate goal is to facilitate a therapeutic journey that allows me to walk with clients toward greater health and healing.
I am a therapist who enjoys working with teen and adult individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, grief, and relational conflict. I draw upon the Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model with clients to help them develop the qualities of curiosity, calm, creativity, clarity, courage, compassion, and connectedness for self and others. I also use Restoration Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My ultimate goal is to facilitate a therapeutic journey that allows me to walk with clients toward greater health and healing.
(423) 556-3266 View (423) 556-3266
Photo of Nickole Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Nickole Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37402
I utilize EMDR, IFS, and DMNS to help resolve both one-time trauma and complex trauma from childhood.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and you may feel out of control, but positive life changes are possible. I will provide a safe environment to help you identify your fears, clarify the vision you have for your well-being, and give you skills to achieve your goals. I specialize in trauma, attachment wounding, emotion regulation, anxiety, depression, grief, and couples issues. I work with individual adults and couples. I love my work and find it extremely rewarding when clients' relationships become more fulfilling and they take charge of their life.
I utilize EMDR, IFS, and DMNS to help resolve both one-time trauma and complex trauma from childhood.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and you may feel out of control, but positive life changes are possible. I will provide a safe environment to help you identify your fears, clarify the vision you have for your well-being, and give you skills to achieve your goals. I specialize in trauma, attachment wounding, emotion regulation, anxiety, depression, grief, and couples issues. I work with individual adults and couples. I love my work and find it extremely rewarding when clients' relationships become more fulfilling and they take charge of their life.
(423) 793-3434 View (423) 793-3434
Photo of Griffin Hatcliff, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Griffin Hatcliff
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37409
I am trained in multiple forms of couples counseling, play therapy, and work from multiple modalities including IFS, CBT, and EFT.
Depression, Anxiety, family conflict and general reactivity are each common experiences in one's life. I work to provide an individualized treatment plan for each person walking through these common experiences. I believe that by fostering curiosity and compassion about ourselves and our own experiences, we learn to react to others in this same way. I work with a wide range of clients varying in age, demographics, beliefs, backgrounds and goals. I work to facilitate this curious and compassionate environment in which my clients can work toward decreasing reactivity through increasing self understanding.
I am trained in multiple forms of couples counseling, play therapy, and work from multiple modalities including IFS, CBT, and EFT.
Depression, Anxiety, family conflict and general reactivity are each common experiences in one's life. I work to provide an individualized treatment plan for each person walking through these common experiences. I believe that by fostering curiosity and compassion about ourselves and our own experiences, we learn to react to others in this same way. I work with a wide range of clients varying in age, demographics, beliefs, backgrounds and goals. I work to facilitate this curious and compassionate environment in which my clients can work toward decreasing reactivity through increasing self understanding.
(423) 205-1112 x103 View (423) 205-1112 x103
Photo of A. G. Estes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chattanooga, TN
A. G. Estes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, TLMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37403
I utilize Internal Family Systems and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques alongside Play Therapy consisting of toys, games, and activities that allow children to feel in charge of their decisions in a safe and empowering way.
Day-to-day life can be exhausting. Maybe you were laying your child down for bed, and they said something that scared you or maybe your family is going through transitions, and you're worried about how they are responding to it. Through the therapeutic relationship, I join alongside children (ages 3-12), families, and individuals to provide an empathic, welcoming place where fears and hopelessness can be replaced with coping skills and a greater understanding of oneself. I work with children experiencing big emotions, behavioral/school difficulties, anxiety, self-esteem, and low social engagement.
I utilize Internal Family Systems and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques alongside Play Therapy consisting of toys, games, and activities that allow children to feel in charge of their decisions in a safe and empowering way.
Day-to-day life can be exhausting. Maybe you were laying your child down for bed, and they said something that scared you or maybe your family is going through transitions, and you're worried about how they are responding to it. Through the therapeutic relationship, I join alongside children (ages 3-12), families, and individuals to provide an empathic, welcoming place where fears and hopelessness can be replaced with coping skills and a greater understanding of oneself. I work with children experiencing big emotions, behavioral/school difficulties, anxiety, self-esteem, and low social engagement.
(423) 430-6307 View (423) 430-6307
Photo of Amy Fowler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Amy Fowler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37403
I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy techniques.
If you feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions and life events, an empathetic ear can be a source of healing. I am passionate about working toward hope with those who feel stuck, broken, isolated, or for whom change seems impossible. I advocate for and teach clients the power of fierce self-compassion, which allows them to explore their thoughts, emotions, and actions more clearly. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, chronic health issues, marital and parental challenges, spiritual wounds, disordered eating, and addictions.
I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy techniques.
If you feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions and life events, an empathetic ear can be a source of healing. I am passionate about working toward hope with those who feel stuck, broken, isolated, or for whom change seems impossible. I advocate for and teach clients the power of fierce self-compassion, which allows them to explore their thoughts, emotions, and actions more clearly. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, chronic health issues, marital and parental challenges, spiritual wounds, disordered eating, and addictions.
(423) 454-3268 View (423) 454-3268
Photo of Elle Hartness, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Elle Hartness
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCMHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37415
Elle engages in a trauma-informed, person-centered approach, and integrates tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Elle specializes in working with girls and women presenting with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and body image concerns.
Elle engages in a trauma-informed, person-centered approach, and integrates tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Elle specializes in working with girls and women presenting with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and body image concerns.
(615) 398-6078 View (615) 398-6078
Photo of Gray Bryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Gray Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37409  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience as a therapist in outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, cancer treatment facilities, substance abuse treatment centers and schools. With 10 years of serving both individuals and family systems, I have addressed a vast array of symptoms related to mental health concerns. I tend to focus on the whole body and its connections. I understand counseling as growth, much in the same way a tree grows. In counseling we honor our roots, noting where we came from while stretching our branches high and reaching for what we wish to become.
I have experience as a therapist in outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, cancer treatment facilities, substance abuse treatment centers and schools. With 10 years of serving both individuals and family systems, I have addressed a vast array of symptoms related to mental health concerns. I tend to focus on the whole body and its connections. I understand counseling as growth, much in the same way a tree grows. In counseling we honor our roots, noting where we came from while stretching our branches high and reaching for what we wish to become.
(865) 217-0518 View (865) 217-0518
Photo of Joylene Kara Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Joylene Kara Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37407
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Passionate about helping people grow and change, I use a caring and empathic relationship combined with scientifically researched approaches validated to help clients reach their goals. My main specialities include working with women's issues, grief and trauma, individuals and families dealing with addictions, codependency, religious trauma, relationship difficulties, domestic violence, depression, and anxiety. I use an integrated approach focusing on family systems and internal family systems for healing.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Passionate about helping people grow and change, I use a caring and empathic relationship combined with scientifically researched approaches validated to help clients reach their goals. My main specialities include working with women's issues, grief and trauma, individuals and families dealing with addictions, codependency, religious trauma, relationship difficulties, domestic violence, depression, and anxiety. I use an integrated approach focusing on family systems and internal family systems for healing.
(706) 963-1002 View (706) 963-1002
Photo of Aaron M Free, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Aaron M Free
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LMSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37402  (Online Only)
With expertise in pain management therapies, EMDR, and IFS, I'm equipped to assist you in building the life you want.
Are you exhausted from the relentless grip of chronic aches, pains, or the weight of trauma and dissociation? Do you want to get back to enjoying the things you used to? Are you looking to work with someone who understands your LGBTQ+ identity? If you're here, you've already taken the first step towards finding relief and reclaiming control over your life. I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship focused on setting goals, tracking progress, and facilitating healing. Beyond our therapy sessions, my commitment extends to actively researching resources, interventions, and personalized solutions to fit your needs.
With expertise in pain management therapies, EMDR, and IFS, I'm equipped to assist you in building the life you want.
Are you exhausted from the relentless grip of chronic aches, pains, or the weight of trauma and dissociation? Do you want to get back to enjoying the things you used to? Are you looking to work with someone who understands your LGBTQ+ identity? If you're here, you've already taken the first step towards finding relief and reclaiming control over your life. I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship focused on setting goals, tracking progress, and facilitating healing. Beyond our therapy sessions, my commitment extends to actively researching resources, interventions, and personalized solutions to fit your needs.
(865) 327-2011 View (865) 327-2011
Photo of Diana Partington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chattanooga, TN
Diana Partington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37403
I also have training in several trauma treatments including EMDR, EFT and IFS.
If you struggle with overwhelming emotions, I can teach you skills in a supportive, engaging environment. You can join my Online DBT skills training groups from anywhere in the world. I also offer Individual DBT therapy for people in Tennessee, including Skills Coaching by phone, Individual Therapy and group. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a highly effective, well researched therapy. The work demands a lot from Therapist and client. And it is worth it! Most clients report that my sense of humor and authenticity is one of the reasons they like working with me. I really value the use of "irreverence" in DBT.
I also have training in several trauma treatments including EMDR, EFT and IFS.
If you struggle with overwhelming emotions, I can teach you skills in a supportive, engaging environment. You can join my Online DBT skills training groups from anywhere in the world. I also offer Individual DBT therapy for people in Tennessee, including Skills Coaching by phone, Individual Therapy and group. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a highly effective, well researched therapy. The work demands a lot from Therapist and client. And it is worth it! Most clients report that my sense of humor and authenticity is one of the reasons they like working with me. I really value the use of "irreverence" in DBT.
(615) 205-4476 View (615) 205-4476
Photo of Ryan Danielle Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Ryan Danielle Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421  (Online Only)
Are you seeking inner peace? Desperate for relief from the troubles surrounding you? Anxious, scared, lonely, sad or confused? It can be hard raising children. Typically after giving birth many moms find themselves in a sea of emotions. In this stage of life that can be labeled “blissful,” it may actually feel overwhelming. Your idea of being a perfect parent is shattered on the floor, along with the heaps of laundry and scattered toys. Your childhood trauma may be getting triggered and it can feel exhausting. You want to be fully present for your family and more importantly yourself. This is the time to reach out and get help.
Are you seeking inner peace? Desperate for relief from the troubles surrounding you? Anxious, scared, lonely, sad or confused? It can be hard raising children. Typically after giving birth many moms find themselves in a sea of emotions. In this stage of life that can be labeled “blissful,” it may actually feel overwhelming. Your idea of being a perfect parent is shattered on the floor, along with the heaps of laundry and scattered toys. Your childhood trauma may be getting triggered and it can feel exhausting. You want to be fully present for your family and more importantly yourself. This is the time to reach out and get help.
(423) 456-9281 View (423) 456-9281


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.