Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Oshkosh, WI

Photo of Mindful Living Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oshkosh, WI
Mindful Living Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshkosh, WI 54901  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR, DBT, Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems therapy.
Are past experiences holding you back in life from participating in relationships, feeling confident in your daily life endeavors or achieving your personal goals? I have a passion for helping individuals to process through events that are interfering with them enjoying and actively participating in their lives in present time. I have extensive experience working with people struggling from trauma, and am a certified Brainspotting Therapist, as well as trained in EMDR and IFS Therapy. Therapy is a relationship, and I treat each of my clients with respect and integrity, approaching this relationship in a warm, validating manner.
I specialize in EMDR, DBT, Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems therapy.
Are past experiences holding you back in life from participating in relationships, feeling confident in your daily life endeavors or achieving your personal goals? I have a passion for helping individuals to process through events that are interfering with them enjoying and actively participating in their lives in present time. I have extensive experience working with people struggling from trauma, and am a certified Brainspotting Therapist, as well as trained in EMDR and IFS Therapy. Therapy is a relationship, and I treat each of my clients with respect and integrity, approaching this relationship in a warm, validating manner.
(920) 376-9879 View (920) 376-9879
Photo of Kaitlyn Bork, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oshkosh, WI
Kaitlyn Bork
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Oshkosh, WI 54901
Hi there! My name is Kaitlyn Bork. The first thing that I want to say is welcome to my page! I typically like to tell my clients that I am a human first and focus on building a collaborative relationship together. One of my primary goals in therapy is to create a space where you feel respected and safe to explore different areas to meet your goals.
Hi there! My name is Kaitlyn Bork. The first thing that I want to say is welcome to my page! I typically like to tell my clients that I am a human first and focus on building a collaborative relationship together. One of my primary goals in therapy is to create a space where you feel respected and safe to explore different areas to meet your goals.
(920) 696-9171 View (920) 696-9171
Photo of Rebecca Laird, Counselor in Oshkosh, WI
Rebecca Laird
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshkosh, WI 54901
I have over 20 years of experience providing warm, compassionate care using the most current, research based treatment approaches. My work is highly individualized and tailored to your own unique needs and circumstances as a client. I have worked with a wide variety of people and problems over the years. I love my work and I am deeply committed to helping you achieve your goals. I am doing office visits as well as teletherapy.
I have over 20 years of experience providing warm, compassionate care using the most current, research based treatment approaches. My work is highly individualized and tailored to your own unique needs and circumstances as a client. I have worked with a wide variety of people and problems over the years. I love my work and I am deeply committed to helping you achieve your goals. I am doing office visits as well as teletherapy.
(920) 541-6657 View (920) 541-6657
Photo of Andrea L La Barre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oshkosh, WI
Andrea L La Barre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oshkosh, WI 54901
Not accepting new clients
I personally believe in my clients' innate ability to heal and in their capacity to do so. I have a special interest in working with kids 10+ years old, teenagers, couples and families, but also enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience treating those experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, ADHD, women's issues, grief, marital and family issues. I am a collaborative and strength-based Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that therapy goals and techniques are based on the individual's and/or family's needs, and I meet them where they are at.
I personally believe in my clients' innate ability to heal and in their capacity to do so. I have a special interest in working with kids 10+ years old, teenagers, couples and families, but also enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience treating those experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, ADHD, women's issues, grief, marital and family issues. I am a collaborative and strength-based Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that therapy goals and techniques are based on the individual's and/or family's needs, and I meet them where they are at.
(920) 383-3146 View (920) 383-3146
Photo of Lisbet Aguilar- Bilingual Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oshkosh, WI
Lisbet Aguilar- Bilingual Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oshkosh, WI 54901
Not accepting new clients
YOU are meant to flourish! Although we are all created unique and unrepeatable, we all aspire to be happy and live well. Worry, anxiety, depression, life changes, being unhappy and unfulfilled can be an obstacle to our flourishing. Like a diamond, no scratch, chip, or fracture can damage our innate beauty. The human person is capable of achieving and bringing inner joy and happiness through healing and the fulfillment of their personal goals.
YOU are meant to flourish! Although we are all created unique and unrepeatable, we all aspire to be happy and live well. Worry, anxiety, depression, life changes, being unhappy and unfulfilled can be an obstacle to our flourishing. Like a diamond, no scratch, chip, or fracture can damage our innate beauty. The human person is capable of achieving and bringing inner joy and happiness through healing and the fulfillment of their personal goals.
(920) 259-2604 View (920) 259-2604

Online Therapists

Photo of Patti Bee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oshkosh, WI
Patti Bee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704  (Online Only)
Patti Bee, LPC is a seasoned IFS Therapist with 10+ years of experience, using the Internal Family Systems Therapy Model. Patti works with adults who sense something unresolved from childhood. You may suspect something inside feels a bit damaged or broken and you are left feeling baffled on how to access that, what exactly it is. Or, you clearly know what it is but don't know how to repair it. Patti has specialized expertise to access those elusive places deep in the subconscious mind, & gently assists you in finding real results, that repair issues that other therapy could to seem to reach. Call Patti Today!
Patti Bee, LPC is a seasoned IFS Therapist with 10+ years of experience, using the Internal Family Systems Therapy Model. Patti works with adults who sense something unresolved from childhood. You may suspect something inside feels a bit damaged or broken and you are left feeling baffled on how to access that, what exactly it is. Or, you clearly know what it is but don't know how to repair it. Patti has specialized expertise to access those elusive places deep in the subconscious mind, & gently assists you in finding real results, that repair issues that other therapy could to seem to reach. Call Patti Today!
(608) 602-8517 View (608) 602-8517
Photo of Kaitlin Rose Sherman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oshkosh, WI
Kaitlin Rose Sherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
I employ evidence-based models, including EMDR, IFS, CBT and EFT.
My therapeutic process is defined by a commitment to nurturing personal evolution through inquisitiveness, empathy and challenging our unconscious biases. I explore how our experiences intersect with society and systemic challenges, helping clients navigate life's complexities. I foster empowerment, self compassion and growth. I deeply believe in your innate wisdom and aim to create a a warm, authentic space where you feel valued.. In our collaborative journey, I will help you find meaning, understanding and compassion to your concerns. Please contact with me with any questions.
I employ evidence-based models, including EMDR, IFS, CBT and EFT.
My therapeutic process is defined by a commitment to nurturing personal evolution through inquisitiveness, empathy and challenging our unconscious biases. I explore how our experiences intersect with society and systemic challenges, helping clients navigate life's complexities. I foster empowerment, self compassion and growth. I deeply believe in your innate wisdom and aim to create a a warm, authentic space where you feel valued.. In our collaborative journey, I will help you find meaning, understanding and compassion to your concerns. Please contact with me with any questions.
(608) 580-5615 View (608) 580-5615
Photo of Sarah M. Luecke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oshkosh, WI
Sarah M. Luecke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Sarah Luecke. I have lived all over Wisconsin, from small farming communities to the Milwaukee metro area. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Wisconsin – Stout. I provide tele-therapy service from the comfort and convenience of your home to individuals, couples, and families for the entire state. My focus is on family systems and I have extensive experience in grief and loss. I am also an approved provider for the Wisconsin Farmer Wellness program.
Hello, my name is Sarah Luecke. I have lived all over Wisconsin, from small farming communities to the Milwaukee metro area. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Wisconsin – Stout. I provide tele-therapy service from the comfort and convenience of your home to individuals, couples, and families for the entire state. My focus is on family systems and I have extensive experience in grief and loss. I am also an approved provider for the Wisconsin Farmer Wellness program.
(262) 394-8498 View (262) 394-8498
Photo of Emerging Minds Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oshkosh, WI
Emerging Minds Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54914
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) who has explored trauma treatment modalities that include: Emotional Freedoms Techniques (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
In person and virtual in WI and virtual only in CO and FL. My ideal client is one who is curious about themselves and seeking to find internal growth. My specialization is in trauma so those interested in how trauma gets processed in the body, the understanding of how mental health concerns like anxiety and depression play a role in our daily life, and ultimately what can we do to help find solutions to better understand options for caring for ourselves and others. I would be honored to help you where ever your starting point is.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) who has explored trauma treatment modalities that include: Emotional Freedoms Techniques (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
In person and virtual in WI and virtual only in CO and FL. My ideal client is one who is curious about themselves and seeking to find internal growth. My specialization is in trauma so those interested in how trauma gets processed in the body, the understanding of how mental health concerns like anxiety and depression play a role in our daily life, and ultimately what can we do to help find solutions to better understand options for caring for ourselves and others. I would be honored to help you where ever your starting point is.
(719) 284-2595 View (719) 284-2595
Photo of Professional Services Group, Psychologist in Oshkosh, WI
Professional Services Group
Psychologist, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53188
We use a variety of evidence based practices, including Internal Family Systems, PCIT, EMDR, CRM, Circle of Security Parenting, and neurofeedback.
Professional Services Group (PSG) provides individual, group, family, and couples therapy in Kenosha, Racine, West Allis, West Bend, Fort Atkinson, Waukesha, and Janesville for individuals struggling with a variety of mental health and substance abuse issues. We have therapists who work with clients as young as 4 years old, as well as adolescents, and adults. We are a trauma-informed practice that believes that it is our job to help clients reach their goals, on their terms. We also offer holistic services, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Reiki, Sound Healing, Trauma-Informed Yoga, and Neurobiofeedback.
We use a variety of evidence based practices, including Internal Family Systems, PCIT, EMDR, CRM, Circle of Security Parenting, and neurofeedback.
Professional Services Group (PSG) provides individual, group, family, and couples therapy in Kenosha, Racine, West Allis, West Bend, Fort Atkinson, Waukesha, and Janesville for individuals struggling with a variety of mental health and substance abuse issues. We have therapists who work with clients as young as 4 years old, as well as adolescents, and adults. We are a trauma-informed practice that believes that it is our job to help clients reach their goals, on their terms. We also offer holistic services, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Reiki, Sound Healing, Trauma-Informed Yoga, and Neurobiofeedback.
(262) 419-3694 View (262) 419-3694
Photo of Katherine Usher, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Oshkosh, WI
Katherine Usher
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711
I seek to create a non-judgmental and collaborative environment to explore one's current, past, and future goals. I am learning Internal Family Systems Therapy as well as Sensorimotor Therapy to work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have experience working with adolescents, anxiety, divorce, life transitions, and religious or cult trauma. I offer both in-person and virtual therapy sessions, as well as group therapy and workshops. If you’re curious about becoming a client, the first step is a conversation. I have completed Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I seek to create a non-judgmental and collaborative environment to explore one's current, past, and future goals. I am learning Internal Family Systems Therapy as well as Sensorimotor Therapy to work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have experience working with adolescents, anxiety, divorce, life transitions, and religious or cult trauma. I offer both in-person and virtual therapy sessions, as well as group therapy and workshops. If you’re curious about becoming a client, the first step is a conversation. I have completed Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
(608) 465-4661 View (608) 465-4661
Photo of Jessica Gutierrez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oshkosh, WI
Jessica Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, ICS, SEP-IT
Verified Verified
Monona, WI 53716  (Online Only)
Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems are my primary modalities along with other models.
Hi I'm Jessica! I’m taking new clients for June. I'm a somatic-oriented therapist in Madison, WI with over 18 years of experience. My primary specialties are anxiety, panic and trauma as well as supporting those who identify difficulties with relationships, self-esteem, boundaries and identity. Other focus areas: life transitions, secondary trauma, parenting, depression, ADHD, chronic stress and burn out, chronic pain and autoimmunity. I have a special interest in working with teens 16+, young adults, women, BIPOC, immigrants of color, LGBTQIA+ as well as highly sensitive, intuitive and/or creative people.
Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems are my primary modalities along with other models.
Hi I'm Jessica! I’m taking new clients for June. I'm a somatic-oriented therapist in Madison, WI with over 18 years of experience. My primary specialties are anxiety, panic and trauma as well as supporting those who identify difficulties with relationships, self-esteem, boundaries and identity. Other focus areas: life transitions, secondary trauma, parenting, depression, ADHD, chronic stress and burn out, chronic pain and autoimmunity. I have a special interest in working with teens 16+, young adults, women, BIPOC, immigrants of color, LGBTQIA+ as well as highly sensitive, intuitive and/or creative people.
(608) 938-8567 View (608) 938-8567
Photo of Amberly Stevens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oshkosh, WI
Amberly Stevens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety and depression? Do you struggle with negative beliefs about yourself? Is it hard for you to make sense of your emotions? I have experience working with people with depression and anxiety disorders, complex-PTSD and trauma. I focus on emotions with my clients and can help you get curious about the information your emotions are trying to communicate. I approach my work with a trauma lens, I am trained in EMDR and I am IFS-informed (Internal Family Systems or Parts work).
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety and depression? Do you struggle with negative beliefs about yourself? Is it hard for you to make sense of your emotions? I have experience working with people with depression and anxiety disorders, complex-PTSD and trauma. I focus on emotions with my clients and can help you get curious about the information your emotions are trying to communicate. I approach my work with a trauma lens, I am trained in EMDR and I am IFS-informed (Internal Family Systems or Parts work).
(608) 938-8355 View (608) 938-8355
Photo of Judith A Toor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oshkosh, WI
Judith A Toor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCW, LMFT, CCH
Verified Verified
New Berlin, WI 53146  (Online Only)
These models include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Holographic Memory Resolution (HMR), Hypnotherapy, Dream Analysis, Metaphor Building and EMDR.
I enjoy working with clients who want to learn more about the inner workings of their psyche, who are ready to take the first steps on their journey to heal and are motivated to do the necessary work. I take a holistic approach tending to each person's physical, mental/cognitive, emotional and spiritual aspects. My personal style is one of honesty, creativity, nonjudgmental acceptance and yes, at times, humor. I see myself as a guide who walks with each client, providing a safe, caring and supportive presence.
These models include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Holographic Memory Resolution (HMR), Hypnotherapy, Dream Analysis, Metaphor Building and EMDR.
I enjoy working with clients who want to learn more about the inner workings of their psyche, who are ready to take the first steps on their journey to heal and are motivated to do the necessary work. I take a holistic approach tending to each person's physical, mental/cognitive, emotional and spiritual aspects. My personal style is one of honesty, creativity, nonjudgmental acceptance and yes, at times, humor. I see myself as a guide who walks with each client, providing a safe, caring and supportive presence.
(262) 710-2620 View (262) 710-2620
Photo of Jessica Wolfe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oshkosh, WI
Jessica Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shorewood, WI 53211
I believe that if we do not cope and deal with trauma that happens in our life, trauma will take over and infiltrate into all areas of our life. I have experience in counseling stroke survivors and survivors of sexual, physical, emotional and mental abuse. In addition, I’m experienced in helping clients work through grief and loss issues. My approach is diverse and client specific focusing on empowerment and becoming active participants in our life. By utilizing a variety of psycho-therapeutic techniques consistent with CBT, DBT, IFS and Trauma informed care, clients will feel supported through their mental health journey.
I believe that if we do not cope and deal with trauma that happens in our life, trauma will take over and infiltrate into all areas of our life. I have experience in counseling stroke survivors and survivors of sexual, physical, emotional and mental abuse. In addition, I’m experienced in helping clients work through grief and loss issues. My approach is diverse and client specific focusing on empowerment and becoming active participants in our life. By utilizing a variety of psycho-therapeutic techniques consistent with CBT, DBT, IFS and Trauma informed care, clients will feel supported through their mental health journey.
(414) 240-0308 View (414) 240-0308
Photo of David Michael Guilfoose, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oshkosh, WI
David Michael Guilfoose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MEdu
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719  (Online Only)
David is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in guiding adults in exploring and identifying patterns that influence anxiety and depression. He has more than 20 years experience working with individuals across the lifespan in a diversity of work settings. David is thoughtful and compassionate with an educational background in philosophy and psychology. Some of the approaches he identifies with to influence positive growth and healing are Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Holistic modalities. David works both virtually and in-person and can be contacted by phone or email.
David is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in guiding adults in exploring and identifying patterns that influence anxiety and depression. He has more than 20 years experience working with individuals across the lifespan in a diversity of work settings. David is thoughtful and compassionate with an educational background in philosophy and psychology. Some of the approaches he identifies with to influence positive growth and healing are Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Holistic modalities. David works both virtually and in-person and can be contacted by phone or email.
(608) 828-3636 View (608) 828-3636
Photo of Amal Othman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oshkosh, WI
Amal Othman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
Resilience is the capacity to prepare for, recover from, and adapt in the face of stress, challenge or adversity. I provide a brave space for holistic health and well-being. I offer compassionate and integrative counseling to individuals and couples. I explore with you the practice of resilience, the embodiment of wellness, and how to access your innate wisdom to empower yourself and improve the quality of your life. My clinical approach is influenced by Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, and various relational, cognitive, and behavioral modalities.
Resilience is the capacity to prepare for, recover from, and adapt in the face of stress, challenge or adversity. I provide a brave space for holistic health and well-being. I offer compassionate and integrative counseling to individuals and couples. I explore with you the practice of resilience, the embodiment of wellness, and how to access your innate wisdom to empower yourself and improve the quality of your life. My clinical approach is influenced by Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, and various relational, cognitive, and behavioral modalities.
(608) 200-3215 View (608) 200-3215
Photo of Renewal & Healing Behavioral Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oshkosh, WI
Renewal & Healing Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD(c), LPC, SAC
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
I am certified in EMDR and Internal Family systems.
By fostering a collaborative relationship built on trust and empathy, I guide my clients towards self-discovery and lasting change. My practice is not just about overcoming challenges, but about embracing growth and finding a harmonious balance in both personal and professional life. I integrate techniques from a variety of evidence-based practices, including the transformative power of EMDR.
I am certified in EMDR and Internal Family systems.
By fostering a collaborative relationship built on trust and empathy, I guide my clients towards self-discovery and lasting change. My practice is not just about overcoming challenges, but about embracing growth and finding a harmonious balance in both personal and professional life. I integrate techniques from a variety of evidence-based practices, including the transformative power of EMDR.
(262) 599-6367 View (262) 599-6367
Photo of Amy Marie Plum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oshkosh, WI
Amy Marie Plum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Delafield, WI 53018
These include: sand tray, Internal Family Systems, Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Holographic Memory Resolution (HMR), guided relaxation and journeying on an infrared and bio-acoustic mat, and therapeutic art such as dioramas, mask making, and left handed self portrait drawing.
What drives my 25 year experience in the field of clinical psychology is a superpower that I believe belongs to everyone, sacred curiosity. In partnering with my client to develop this superpower we build the foundation for the following: healing past trauma, working through loss and transition, developing a consistent emotional regulation practice, harnessing creative energies in productive ways, building self-awareness without judgement, and fostering conflict resolution skills that bring harmony to social relationships. Clients who are drawn to my work seek creative embodied ways of healing and self-exploring.
These include: sand tray, Internal Family Systems, Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Holographic Memory Resolution (HMR), guided relaxation and journeying on an infrared and bio-acoustic mat, and therapeutic art such as dioramas, mask making, and left handed self portrait drawing.
What drives my 25 year experience in the field of clinical psychology is a superpower that I believe belongs to everyone, sacred curiosity. In partnering with my client to develop this superpower we build the foundation for the following: healing past trauma, working through loss and transition, developing a consistent emotional regulation practice, harnessing creative energies in productive ways, building self-awareness without judgement, and fostering conflict resolution skills that bring harmony to social relationships. Clients who are drawn to my work seek creative embodied ways of healing and self-exploring.
(262) 667-5371 View (262) 667-5371
Photo of Claire Riddiough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oshkosh, WI
Claire Riddiough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
I use a combination of techniques, including Somatic therapy, Brainspotting, Mindfulness, ACT, IFS, CBT, DBT, Reiki, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
It is my passion to support individuals on their path to personal healing and transformation. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or confused. Through the collaborative therapeutic process, we will discover deeper insights into your struggles and strengths, and I will guide you in practices that bring relief. You will learn techniques to use outside of our sessions that help you connect to yourself, others and the present moment. My aim is to help you feel more embodied, become confident in your ability to navigate stressors in daily life, feel empowered to take meaningful action, and gain access to inner peace.
I use a combination of techniques, including Somatic therapy, Brainspotting, Mindfulness, ACT, IFS, CBT, DBT, Reiki, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
It is my passion to support individuals on their path to personal healing and transformation. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or confused. Through the collaborative therapeutic process, we will discover deeper insights into your struggles and strengths, and I will guide you in practices that bring relief. You will learn techniques to use outside of our sessions that help you connect to yourself, others and the present moment. My aim is to help you feel more embodied, become confident in your ability to navigate stressors in daily life, feel empowered to take meaningful action, and gain access to inner peace.
(608) 200-5956 View (608) 200-5956
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.