Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in McKinney, TX

Photo of Melissa Druskis in McKinney, TX
Melissa Druskis
MS, BCBS, LBA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I seamlessly integrate behavioral methods like Acceptance & Commitment Therapy & graduated exposure with methods from my trauma-informed coaching using Internal Family Systems, polyvagal theory, Brainspotting, & hypnosis.
You can visualize your ideal self, yet anxiety, trauma, and negative habits are holding you back. I have been there and I understand the struggle, but your actions and thoughts are all behavior and they can be changed. With my unique approach as a behavior analyst and trauma-informed coach, we can collaboratively devise a tailored plan for meaningful change. While traditional talk therapy has its merits, I'm not a therapist—I am a behavioral scientist and coach. If you've hit a plateau in your self-help journey or feel stuck in your current behaviors, let's explore a more structured, action-based path to healing and growth.
I seamlessly integrate behavioral methods like Acceptance & Commitment Therapy & graduated exposure with methods from my trauma-informed coaching using Internal Family Systems, polyvagal theory, Brainspotting, & hypnosis.
You can visualize your ideal self, yet anxiety, trauma, and negative habits are holding you back. I have been there and I understand the struggle, but your actions and thoughts are all behavior and they can be changed. With my unique approach as a behavior analyst and trauma-informed coach, we can collaboratively devise a tailored plan for meaningful change. While traditional talk therapy has its merits, I'm not a therapist—I am a behavioral scientist and coach. If you've hit a plateau in your self-help journey or feel stuck in your current behaviors, let's explore a more structured, action-based path to healing and growth.
(469) 966-7864 View (469) 966-7864
Photo of Victoria Mercado, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Victoria Mercado
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Using various techniques such as EMDR, CBT, and IFS I can help each client meet their goals and accomplish balance in their daily life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from St. Edwards University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, life adjustment issues, gender/identity, and grief. Throughout my career I have used life experiences and tailored treatment plans uniquely to each individual client. I strive to bear witness and guide each person through his or her personal journey to reach their goals.
Using various techniques such as EMDR, CBT, and IFS I can help each client meet their goals and accomplish balance in their daily life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from St. Edwards University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, life adjustment issues, gender/identity, and grief. Throughout my career I have used life experiences and tailored treatment plans uniquely to each individual client. I strive to bear witness and guide each person through his or her personal journey to reach their goals.
(469) 207-1959 View (469) 207-1959
Photo of Jodi McKee, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jodi McKee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, ATR-BC, MBA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
My therapeutic toolbox includes aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems work.
Are you interested in self-development and personal growth? Are you tired of repeating dysfunctional patterns in your life? Are you ready to become the main character of your story? I'd love to walk with you on this journey and help remove any obstacles in your way. I have over 20 years of experience helping children, teens, adults, and families find mental wellness. I am a Board-Certified Registered Art Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and I believe in the power of art therapy as an efficient and effective tool for healing.
My therapeutic toolbox includes aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems work.
Are you interested in self-development and personal growth? Are you tired of repeating dysfunctional patterns in your life? Are you ready to become the main character of your story? I'd love to walk with you on this journey and help remove any obstacles in your way. I have over 20 years of experience helping children, teens, adults, and families find mental wellness. I am a Board-Certified Registered Art Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and I believe in the power of art therapy as an efficient and effective tool for healing.
(972) 845-8942 View (972) 845-8942
Photo of Heidi Johanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Heidi Johanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a trained specialist in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Prolonged Exposure, Internal Family Systems and EMDR which is highly effective in healing PTSD, trauma and other related disorders/issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, Bi-polar disorder, addiction, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, gender/identity, family and relationship issues. Throughout my career I've had the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele that has shaped my ability to be understanding and accepting. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of the counseling experience.
I am a trained specialist in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Prolonged Exposure, Internal Family Systems and EMDR which is highly effective in healing PTSD, trauma and other related disorders/issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, Bi-polar disorder, addiction, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, gender/identity, family and relationship issues. Throughout my career I've had the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele that has shaped my ability to be understanding and accepting. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of the counseling experience.
(682) 305-2787 View (682) 305-2787
Photo of Kathryn Oden, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Kathryn Oden, PhD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
The way we look at and think about our lives has a profound impact on the way we experience our lives. It is necessary to shift our thoughts in order to effectively relieve anxiety, depression, and our inability to move forward from past disappointments and traumatic experiences. I utilize Cognitive Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. These approaches are offered within a setting of compassion and nonjudgment. I have found the integration of mental, spiritual, and physical experience important in improving psychological health and helping people connect with their own inner guidance.
The way we look at and think about our lives has a profound impact on the way we experience our lives. It is necessary to shift our thoughts in order to effectively relieve anxiety, depression, and our inability to move forward from past disappointments and traumatic experiences. I utilize Cognitive Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. These approaches are offered within a setting of compassion and nonjudgment. I have found the integration of mental, spiritual, and physical experience important in improving psychological health and helping people connect with their own inner guidance.
(972) 597-2525 View (972) 597-2525
Photo of Sarahbeth Holman, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Sarahbeth Holman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
I am also drawn to the IFS model of counseling.
I am a professional counselor offering in person and tele-therapy. I am licensed to work in Texas and Colorado. If you are in Colorado and want to work with me via tele-therapy please reach out. If you are in the midst of struggle, counseling can help. Change is possible and I am here to support you every step of the way. If you find yourself dealing with anxiety, depression or overwhelm, and can no longer cope alone please reach out. Don't suffer alone! I work with children, adolescents and adults to to support them as they find their way to peace.
I am also drawn to the IFS model of counseling.
I am a professional counselor offering in person and tele-therapy. I am licensed to work in Texas and Colorado. If you are in Colorado and want to work with me via tele-therapy please reach out. If you are in the midst of struggle, counseling can help. Change is possible and I am here to support you every step of the way. If you find yourself dealing with anxiety, depression or overwhelm, and can no longer cope alone please reach out. Don't suffer alone! I work with children, adolescents and adults to to support them as they find their way to peace.
(469) 425-7014 View (469) 425-7014
Photo of Manuel Vicente, LPC Associate in McKinney, TX
Manuel Vicente
LPC Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I use various treatment modalities such as EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, CPT, Functional Family Therapy, or motivational interviewing to address specific concerns or problems.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I graduated with a MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, Domestic violent relationships, substance use disorders and life adjustment stressors. My goal as a counselor is to find a tailored approach to meeting each client's specific needs to help uncover their strength. The years of experience I have in the behavioral health field has helped shaped me to be non judgmental.
I use various treatment modalities such as EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, CPT, Functional Family Therapy, or motivational interviewing to address specific concerns or problems.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I graduated with a MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, Domestic violent relationships, substance use disorders and life adjustment stressors. My goal as a counselor is to find a tailored approach to meeting each client's specific needs to help uncover their strength. The years of experience I have in the behavioral health field has helped shaped me to be non judgmental.
(817) 518-6126 View (817) 518-6126
Photo of Ellen Chernoff Simon, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Ellen Chernoff Simon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, BCB, CA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Internal Family Systems & hypnotherapy can help you access your inner wisdom and support the body's natural ability to heal.
If you feel anxious or depressed about a problem or habit you want to change worsened by stress such as weight issues, relationship concerns or addictions, then hypnotherapy & neurofeedback together can help you regain a sense of peace & enhanced well being. I also practice IFS & bio- neurofeedback. I believe in a mind body approach to help reduce stress from physical conditions such as pain, illness, sleep and digestive disorders. It is my intention to empower every person to experience their innate wisdom & inner guidance. I am certified in Ketamine assisted therapy which takes place in my office. Contact me if you are interested.
Internal Family Systems & hypnotherapy can help you access your inner wisdom and support the body's natural ability to heal.
If you feel anxious or depressed about a problem or habit you want to change worsened by stress such as weight issues, relationship concerns or addictions, then hypnotherapy & neurofeedback together can help you regain a sense of peace & enhanced well being. I also practice IFS & bio- neurofeedback. I believe in a mind body approach to help reduce stress from physical conditions such as pain, illness, sleep and digestive disorders. It is my intention to empower every person to experience their innate wisdom & inner guidance. I am certified in Ketamine assisted therapy which takes place in my office. Contact me if you are interested.
(972) 891-9696 View (972) 891-9696
Photo of Christina Felicetti, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Christina Felicetti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am trained in various trauma-focused approaches, and specifically use treatment modalities like: Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, Experiential Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I believe that we are all hard-wired for connection, relationships, and safe attachment. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to become the best version of themselves. I believe that we often get stuck in life attempting to solve problems the same way over and over. Once we get caught in this pattern, especially in relationships, we begin to argue over how we are fighting instead of working through relationship barriers. I help my clients learn new skills that will allow them to break problematic cycles and find new ways to connect with others.
I am trained in various trauma-focused approaches, and specifically use treatment modalities like: Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, Experiential Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I believe that we are all hard-wired for connection, relationships, and safe attachment. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to become the best version of themselves. I believe that we often get stuck in life attempting to solve problems the same way over and over. Once we get caught in this pattern, especially in relationships, we begin to argue over how we are fighting instead of working through relationship barriers. I help my clients learn new skills that will allow them to break problematic cycles and find new ways to connect with others.
(972) 236-4969 View (972) 236-4969
Photo of Marc Kitano, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Marc Kitano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults with mood disorders, anxiety and depression. I pride myself in providing a warm, safe and caring environment while sharing insight as appropriate. My training as a family therapist has given me skills to provide support in building healthy relationships, restoring hope and finding resilience.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults with mood disorders, anxiety and depression. I pride myself in providing a warm, safe and caring environment while sharing insight as appropriate. My training as a family therapist has given me skills to provide support in building healthy relationships, restoring hope and finding resilience.
(469) 535-7770 View (469) 535-7770
Photo of Thomas Lee, Pre-Licensed Professional in McKinney, TX
Thomas Lee
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072
All of us have a story and history that we carry. One to be honored, valued, and heard. Throughout our lives, however, that has not always been the case and we are impacted by our relationships and environments that bring us to where we are today. We carry the brokenness from different aspects of our lives with us, which is often confusing, heavy, and tiring. Therapy is a special place, but also vulnerable, requiring a great amount of courage. That being said I hope to provide a safe space to explore some of the ways things should not have been how they were and traumas you may have experienced.
All of us have a story and history that we carry. One to be honored, valued, and heard. Throughout our lives, however, that has not always been the case and we are impacted by our relationships and environments that bring us to where we are today. We carry the brokenness from different aspects of our lives with us, which is often confusing, heavy, and tiring. Therapy is a special place, but also vulnerable, requiring a great amount of courage. That being said I hope to provide a safe space to explore some of the ways things should not have been how they were and traumas you may have experienced.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of David LaPell, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
David LaPell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I specialize in treating individuals with ADHD, emotional or sexual trauma, anxiety-based disorders, PTSD, depression, relationship challenges, pornography addiction, family members of addicts and alcoholics, and dissociative disorders. Additionally, I have substantial experience working with teens to address issues related to self-esteem.
I specialize in treating individuals with ADHD, emotional or sexual trauma, anxiety-based disorders, PTSD, depression, relationship challenges, pornography addiction, family members of addicts and alcoholics, and dissociative disorders. Additionally, I have substantial experience working with teens to address issues related to self-esteem.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Taylor Buckner, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in McKinney, TX
Taylor Buckner
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am passionate about working with adults who are seeking help for trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA affirming care, mood disorders, and trauma informed parenting. I also work with veterans who are struggling to transition back to civilian life. I served in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman and trained as a behavioral health technician which was an invaluable experience that solidified my journey to working in mental health. I enjoy fostering a healing environment for my clients and watching them grow into finding self-discovery.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am passionate about working with adults who are seeking help for trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA affirming care, mood disorders, and trauma informed parenting. I also work with veterans who are struggling to transition back to civilian life. I served in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman and trained as a behavioral health technician which was an invaluable experience that solidified my journey to working in mental health. I enjoy fostering a healing environment for my clients and watching them grow into finding self-discovery.
(469) 960-2941 View (469) 960-2941
Photo of Alison Caby Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in McKinney, TX
Alison Caby Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, LPC-A, EMDR, ICP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
My hope as a counselor is to create a safe space for clients to bring their deepest hurts and pain to light, ushering in hope, healing, and redemption. I am passionate about sitting well with my clients in their pain, understanding their unique stories, and using evidence based therapy to turn suffering into growth. I am a National Certified Counselor, an EMDRIA approved EMDR trained therapist pursing certification through EMDRIA, as well as an IASIS Micro Current Neurofeedback Certified Provider (ICP).
My hope as a counselor is to create a safe space for clients to bring their deepest hurts and pain to light, ushering in hope, healing, and redemption. I am passionate about sitting well with my clients in their pain, understanding their unique stories, and using evidence based therapy to turn suffering into growth. I am a National Certified Counselor, an EMDRIA approved EMDR trained therapist pursing certification through EMDRIA, as well as an IASIS Micro Current Neurofeedback Certified Provider (ICP).
(972) 846-9220 View (972) 846-9220
Photo of CHART Counseling Services, Erin Smith-Spearman , Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
CHART Counseling Services, Erin Smith-Spearman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Are you ready to surrender to the fact that your way of managing your personal and professional life is only making things worse? If so, I am ready to jump in and help! I specialize in conflict resolution, restoring relationships, and improving personal, academic, and professional development. In addition, I help my clients work to identify, explore, address, and resolve any unprocessed traumas or stressors that may be affecting their ability to be the best version of themselves. I not only help clients become new people, I strive to promote change that can break family cycles and significantly improve the entire family's dynamic.
Are you ready to surrender to the fact that your way of managing your personal and professional life is only making things worse? If so, I am ready to jump in and help! I specialize in conflict resolution, restoring relationships, and improving personal, academic, and professional development. In addition, I help my clients work to identify, explore, address, and resolve any unprocessed traumas or stressors that may be affecting their ability to be the best version of themselves. I not only help clients become new people, I strive to promote change that can break family cycles and significantly improve the entire family's dynamic.
(210) 908-5198 View (210) 908-5198
Photo of Brandy Porche, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Brandy Porche
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Licensed in Texas and Illinois. As we navigate our unique journey in life, sometimes additional support is needed along the way. My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. My role as a therapist is to help educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Examining the core of your presenting symptoms can be challenging but you are worth the life changing experience. I work with couples, families, & individuals including adults and adolescents ages 14+.
Licensed in Texas and Illinois. As we navigate our unique journey in life, sometimes additional support is needed along the way. My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. My role as a therapist is to help educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Examining the core of your presenting symptoms can be challenging but you are worth the life changing experience. I work with couples, families, & individuals including adults and adolescents ages 14+.
(469) 436-9298 View (469) 436-9298
Photo of Journey to HopeWell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Journey to HopeWell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel lost, guilty, or exhausted? If so, I specialize in helping caregivers discover ways to feel less tense and more in control of their lives. Together, we identify and create new experiences to reduce the struggles of change, sadness, & stress. I understand caregivers may feel guilty or shameful about being exhausted. I help you learn more about your wants and needs to reduce negative thought patterns & unhealthy cycles in your life. My genuine approach supports you in managing life transitions for you to rediscover balance so you may heal, grieve & evolve for positive connections with yourself and those around you.
Do you ever feel lost, guilty, or exhausted? If so, I specialize in helping caregivers discover ways to feel less tense and more in control of their lives. Together, we identify and create new experiences to reduce the struggles of change, sadness, & stress. I understand caregivers may feel guilty or shameful about being exhausted. I help you learn more about your wants and needs to reduce negative thought patterns & unhealthy cycles in your life. My genuine approach supports you in managing life transitions for you to rediscover balance so you may heal, grieve & evolve for positive connections with yourself and those around you.
(214) 319-8498 View (214) 319-8498
Photo of Traci Leann Munden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Traci Leann Munden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, CTTP, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
We all hit a point in our lives where we could use a little support. I am honored to assist as one makes those life transitions. We can take a team approach to finding solutions to obstacles in your way. I have a passion for helping those with addictions. Those can be substance abuse or process addictions such as gambling or sex or love. This experience has allowed me to work with co-morbidities with depression and anxiety. We can evaluate the reality of where you are and where you would like to be. I am also trained in complex trauma. I am currently accepting new patients via telehealth only.
We all hit a point in our lives where we could use a little support. I am honored to assist as one makes those life transitions. We can take a team approach to finding solutions to obstacles in your way. I have a passion for helping those with addictions. Those can be substance abuse or process addictions such as gambling or sex or love. This experience has allowed me to work with co-morbidities with depression and anxiety. We can evaluate the reality of where you are and where you would like to be. I am also trained in complex trauma. I am currently accepting new patients via telehealth only.
(972) 845-5638 View (972) 845-5638
Photo of Denise Dalgarn, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Denise Dalgarn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071  (Online Only)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with almost 18 years of experience. Are you struggling in your work or family life? Is it impacting your relationships? Most of us go through life events that leave us battered and bruised but there are some things that we might go through that stay with us and impact our ability to navigate our daily lives. Many of us have experienced that and there is a way to walk through it and come out on the other side leaving the pain behind but keeping any meaningful lessons safely with us. If you have experienced this kind of incident, it would be a privilege to walk that journey to healing with you.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with almost 18 years of experience. Are you struggling in your work or family life? Is it impacting your relationships? Most of us go through life events that leave us battered and bruised but there are some things that we might go through that stay with us and impact our ability to navigate our daily lives. Many of us have experienced that and there is a way to walk through it and come out on the other side leaving the pain behind but keeping any meaningful lessons safely with us. If you have experienced this kind of incident, it would be a privilege to walk that journey to healing with you.
(972) 645-2341 View (972) 645-2341
Photo of Luigi Leos, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Luigi Leos
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
In my practice I focus on Freedom - The freedom to love and be loved authentically. In life we can be held back by obstacles we can't see as well as by obstacles we can see. I specialize in helping clients working to free themselves from those roadblocks. Successful clients have entered my office asking questions like: "No matter what I say, my spouse hears something different." "Why am I doing this, again?" "I've done everything I know, and not advancing at work," "Why won't these thoughts (fears) leave me alone?"
In my practice I focus on Freedom - The freedom to love and be loved authentically. In life we can be held back by obstacles we can't see as well as by obstacles we can see. I specialize in helping clients working to free themselves from those roadblocks. Successful clients have entered my office asking questions like: "No matter what I say, my spouse hears something different." "Why am I doing this, again?" "I've done everything I know, and not advancing at work," "Why won't these thoughts (fears) leave me alone?"
(469) 703-8141 View (469) 703-8141
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.