Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in South Boston, Boston, MA

Photo of Sam Leary, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Boston, Boston, MA
Sam Leary
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
Some of the common modalities I use are internal family systems, art therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
You've braved the first, and often most difficult step by reaching out. My name is Sam and I help clients ages 18 and up struggling with anxiety, depression, life stressors/ transitions and men's mental health. I truly believe that the therapeutic process is a place for self-exploration and that you have all the knowledge within yourself to reach your goals. As a therapist, my goal is to create a collaborative and comfortable environment for you to explore your treatment needs.
Some of the common modalities I use are internal family systems, art therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
You've braved the first, and often most difficult step by reaching out. My name is Sam and I help clients ages 18 and up struggling with anxiety, depression, life stressors/ transitions and men's mental health. I truly believe that the therapeutic process is a place for self-exploration and that you have all the knowledge within yourself to reach your goals. As a therapist, my goal is to create a collaborative and comfortable environment for you to explore your treatment needs.
(413) 357-1090 View (413) 357-1090
Photo of Dr. Mara Richman in South Boston, Boston, MA
Dr. Mara Richman
PhD, MA, Psych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210
I collaborate with clients and integrate various evidence-based approaches tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT).
I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and young professionals on their journey towards healing and growth. With expertise in anxiety, trauma, relationships, and depression, I provide a compassionate and empowering space for my clients to explore their emotions, themselves, and their internal workings. I collaborate with clients to identify the underlying causes of their anxiety, challenge thought patterns, and figure out who they are. I provide a warm, safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, find their voice, and towards creating a more fulfilling life. I believe we are a team.
I collaborate with clients and integrate various evidence-based approaches tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT).
I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and young professionals on their journey towards healing and growth. With expertise in anxiety, trauma, relationships, and depression, I provide a compassionate and empowering space for my clients to explore their emotions, themselves, and their internal workings. I collaborate with clients to identify the underlying causes of their anxiety, challenge thought patterns, and figure out who they are. I provide a warm, safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, find their voice, and towards creating a more fulfilling life. I believe we are a team.
(617) 404-3860 View (617) 404-3860
Photo of Lily Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Lily Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210
I take a holistic approach, drawing from a variety of approaches to incorporate both the mind and body; most commonly incorporating acceptance and commitment (ACT), internal family systems (IFS), cognitive behavioral (CBT), and other creative outlets such as art, play, and yoga.
I believe everyone deserves a warm, safe space to process life's experiences! I will work with you in a collaborative manner that often involves education, encouragement, humor, and careful listening. Together, we will connect to your emotional experience, explore why certain patterns of thinking and behaving exist, heal wounds of the past, and create meaningful change for you. My focus is on supporting teens and young adults to compassionately navigate things like anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors/transitions, self worth, identity, and relationships.
I take a holistic approach, drawing from a variety of approaches to incorporate both the mind and body; most commonly incorporating acceptance and commitment (ACT), internal family systems (IFS), cognitive behavioral (CBT), and other creative outlets such as art, play, and yoga.
I believe everyone deserves a warm, safe space to process life's experiences! I will work with you in a collaborative manner that often involves education, encouragement, humor, and careful listening. Together, we will connect to your emotional experience, explore why certain patterns of thinking and behaving exist, heal wounds of the past, and create meaningful change for you. My focus is on supporting teens and young adults to compassionately navigate things like anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors/transitions, self worth, identity, and relationships.
(617) 545-0442 View (617) 545-0442
Photo of Sarah Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Sarah Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210
If you or your family members are experiencing depression, anxiety or relationship issues, whether from a painful or traumatic history or more recent difficulties, I would like to help. Through talking we begin to understand, become less alone with our pain, and build a bridge to recovery. I welcome working with adults from diverse backgrounds, from various cultures and at different points in their healing process. My method is to blend the more traditional psychodynamic approach with concrete strategies. The tools I use are mostly derived from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Model (IFS), and EMDR.
If you or your family members are experiencing depression, anxiety or relationship issues, whether from a painful or traumatic history or more recent difficulties, I would like to help. Through talking we begin to understand, become less alone with our pain, and build a bridge to recovery. I welcome working with adults from diverse backgrounds, from various cultures and at different points in their healing process. My method is to blend the more traditional psychodynamic approach with concrete strategies. The tools I use are mostly derived from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Model (IFS), and EMDR.
(617) 917-3759 View (617) 917-3759
Photo of Mind Mechanic Rapid Resolution Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Mind Mechanic Rapid Resolution Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210  (Online Only)
My work integrates the best elements of the most effective treatment approaches available, including Internal Family Systems and Rapid Resolution Therapy.
If you could let go of anything, what would it be? I provide short-term, intensive therapy that resolves the cause of your issue. I am a practitioner of Mimetic Therapies. This means I facilitate profound and transformational experiences in the resolution of Trauma/PTSD and Grief/Loss, as well as panic, depression, phobia, and pain for anyone- regardless of background- interested in feeling better. My ideal client is done talking about it, done doing workbooks, done understanding the cause. I connect deeply and directly with the parts of you that have been trying so hard to protect and heal your self and cause them to collaborate.
My work integrates the best elements of the most effective treatment approaches available, including Internal Family Systems and Rapid Resolution Therapy.
If you could let go of anything, what would it be? I provide short-term, intensive therapy that resolves the cause of your issue. I am a practitioner of Mimetic Therapies. This means I facilitate profound and transformational experiences in the resolution of Trauma/PTSD and Grief/Loss, as well as panic, depression, phobia, and pain for anyone- regardless of background- interested in feeling better. My ideal client is done talking about it, done doing workbooks, done understanding the cause. I connect deeply and directly with the parts of you that have been trying so hard to protect and heal your self and cause them to collaborate.
(508) 960-7537 View (508) 960-7537
Photo of Lauren Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Lauren Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210  (Online Only)
I am Level 1 trained in Internal Family Systems, a modality which allows for exploration of the many parts of your identity and innermost truths.
I am skilled in working with young adults, adults, couples, & college students who are in a moments of doubt, transition and unease. If you are experiencing low moods, anxiety spirals and difficulty regulating emotions, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with clients to find the roots of their pains. I offer a safe space where we are free to explore how your childhood, relationships, and present environment have impacted who you are. I believe you are the expert of your own life, and empower you to make lasting changes.
I am Level 1 trained in Internal Family Systems, a modality which allows for exploration of the many parts of your identity and innermost truths.
I am skilled in working with young adults, adults, couples, & college students who are in a moments of doubt, transition and unease. If you are experiencing low moods, anxiety spirals and difficulty regulating emotions, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with clients to find the roots of their pains. I offer a safe space where we are free to explore how your childhood, relationships, and present environment have impacted who you are. I believe you are the expert of your own life, and empower you to make lasting changes.
(857) 887-4797 View (857) 887-4797
Photo of Wayne Kessler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Wayne Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), EMDR, Narrative therapy, and IFS.
If you are experiencing anxiety, career or work-related stress, toxic work environments, relationship issues, low self-confidence, illness, school challenges, layoffs, grief/loss, career transition, or retirement, I can help. If you are finding it difficult to manage your stress, anxiety, sleep, depression, or ADHD, why not get help dealing with your symptoms, feelings, thoughts, and emotions? You should not have to suffer alone. Advances in therapy now allow for a transformative experience and can help you achieve things for yourself that you never thought possible. Get the support you need by contacting me to get started.
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), EMDR, Narrative therapy, and IFS.
If you are experiencing anxiety, career or work-related stress, toxic work environments, relationship issues, low self-confidence, illness, school challenges, layoffs, grief/loss, career transition, or retirement, I can help. If you are finding it difficult to manage your stress, anxiety, sleep, depression, or ADHD, why not get help dealing with your symptoms, feelings, thoughts, and emotions? You should not have to suffer alone. Advances in therapy now allow for a transformative experience and can help you achieve things for yourself that you never thought possible. Get the support you need by contacting me to get started.
(339) 329-8046 View (339) 329-8046
Photo of Lauren Drean, Marriage & Family Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Lauren Drean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist with 15+ years' experience, offering a unique blend of therapies including EFT, sex therapy, and am IFS informed. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families move from feeling stuck to healing and growth, covering areas like relationships, communication, anxiety, boundaries, and more. My approach is rooted in compassion, education, and laughter and my goal is to guide clients to discover their paths to healing and progress. I hold a Master's degree from BYU and am licensed in MA and MN. I'm looking forward to working with you!
I am a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist with 15+ years' experience, offering a unique blend of therapies including EFT, sex therapy, and am IFS informed. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families move from feeling stuck to healing and growth, covering areas like relationships, communication, anxiety, boundaries, and more. My approach is rooted in compassion, education, and laughter and my goal is to guide clients to discover their paths to healing and progress. I hold a Master's degree from BYU and am licensed in MA and MN. I'm looking forward to working with you!
(617) 996-7463 View (617) 996-7463
Photo of Kaitlin Silkowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Kaitlin Silkowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
South Boston, Boston, MA 02127
My approach to therapy is grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and other trauma-informed interventions like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I believe strongly in the resilience of people, and that a healthy therapeutic relationship can promote trust, healing, and personal growth. I believe that successful therapy is predicated on having a strong therapeutic alliance; the connection and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. Taking a strength-based perspective, I listen deeply and reflectively to sustain a non-judgmental and safe environment. I am passionate about helping clients fully process past experiences and thrive in relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
My approach to therapy is grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and other trauma-informed interventions like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I believe strongly in the resilience of people, and that a healthy therapeutic relationship can promote trust, healing, and personal growth. I believe that successful therapy is predicated on having a strong therapeutic alliance; the connection and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. Taking a strength-based perspective, I listen deeply and reflectively to sustain a non-judgmental and safe environment. I am passionate about helping clients fully process past experiences and thrive in relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
(914) 677-1628 View (914) 677-1628
Photo of Sarah Garrity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Sarah Garrity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Boston, Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
I utilize CBT, DBT, internal family systems, and EMDR.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with trauma, relationship challenges, low-self-esteem, or who are coping with behaviors such as disordered eating or substance use. I take a warm, collaborative and holistic approach to help you better understand yourself, un-learn old ways of being, and develop the capacity to manage all that life brings. Together, at a pace you are comfortable with, we can explore places in your life where you feel stuck, and move towards the life you want to live. My goal is to help you find peace with yourself and with your body.
I utilize CBT, DBT, internal family systems, and EMDR.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with trauma, relationship challenges, low-self-esteem, or who are coping with behaviors such as disordered eating or substance use. I take a warm, collaborative and holistic approach to help you better understand yourself, un-learn old ways of being, and develop the capacity to manage all that life brings. Together, at a pace you are comfortable with, we can explore places in your life where you feel stuck, and move towards the life you want to live. My goal is to help you find peace with yourself and with your body.
(617) 500-1492 View (617) 500-1492
Photo of Jessica Ann Chmielewski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Jessica Ann Chmielewski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Boston, Boston, MA 02127
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate and dedicated to working with females navigating the complexities and the growing pains of adulthood. As a female in modern day society, we consistently face the external pressures of life transitions, mood management, social relationships, family, career, health, comparison, body image and self-esteem. We will work together to create a care plan that highlights and supports your individual needs and goals when it comes to mental health and symptom management.
I am passionate and dedicated to working with females navigating the complexities and the growing pains of adulthood. As a female in modern day society, we consistently face the external pressures of life transitions, mood management, social relationships, family, career, health, comparison, body image and self-esteem. We will work together to create a care plan that highlights and supports your individual needs and goals when it comes to mental health and symptom management.
(857) 227-9208 View (857) 227-9208
Photo of Active Inquiry Coaching in South Boston, Boston, MA
Active Inquiry Coaching
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210  (Online Only)
I specialize in guiding clients through pivotal moments, particularly during life and career transitions. Whether you're navigating a shift in your current personal or professional path, or craving a more purposeful direction, our collaborative journey aims to bring clarity, resilience, and transformative strategies to your life. I hold a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from New York University, Business from George Washington University and I am clinically certified in Holistic Health and Nutrition from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition.
I specialize in guiding clients through pivotal moments, particularly during life and career transitions. Whether you're navigating a shift in your current personal or professional path, or craving a more purposeful direction, our collaborative journey aims to bring clarity, resilience, and transformative strategies to your life. I hold a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from New York University, Business from George Washington University and I am clinically certified in Holistic Health and Nutrition from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition.
(617) 315-2825 View (617) 315-2825
Photo of Molly McCarthy, Counselor in South Boston, Boston, MA
Molly McCarthy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02127
Waitlist for new clients
You appear to have it together all the time, but deep down you feel a chronic sense that you are falling short, imperfect or not good enough. You may be exhausted from the voice of imposter syndrome. Holding boundaries is so hard. You feel so much pressure to get it perfect or get it right. You question your capabilities. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to let go of questioning yourself. You’re ready to move past the fears that keep you stuck. Most of all, you’re ready to trust deeply in your worth and capabilities
You appear to have it together all the time, but deep down you feel a chronic sense that you are falling short, imperfect or not good enough. You may be exhausted from the voice of imposter syndrome. Holding boundaries is so hard. You feel so much pressure to get it perfect or get it right. You question your capabilities. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to let go of questioning yourself. You’re ready to move past the fears that keep you stuck. Most of all, you’re ready to trust deeply in your worth and capabilities
View
Photo of Monique E West, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Monique E West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210  (Online Only)
I believe strongly in the trans-formative energy of the human spirit. I believe that with self determination and a knowledgeable, non-judgmental approach one can reach a place of absolute self-fulfillment, genuine inner peace & meaningful healthy connections with others. Clients have told me that I have a natural ability to create an environment that encourages self exploration & a safe space. I work with adult ADHD/ADD; I offer organizational and time management techniques. I specialize in couples work. I also specialize in treating therapist as the client around issues of professional burn out, stress management and trauma.
I believe strongly in the trans-formative energy of the human spirit. I believe that with self determination and a knowledgeable, non-judgmental approach one can reach a place of absolute self-fulfillment, genuine inner peace & meaningful healthy connections with others. Clients have told me that I have a natural ability to create an environment that encourages self exploration & a safe space. I work with adult ADHD/ADD; I offer organizational and time management techniques. I specialize in couples work. I also specialize in treating therapist as the client around issues of professional burn out, stress management and trauma.
(646) 362-3101 View (646) 362-3101
Photo of Sarah Porell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Sarah Porell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Sarah and I honor your quest for healing. Perhaps I can join and help guide on this phase of your journey. I am a seasoned licensed independent clinical social worker in the Boston, MA area with over 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages and walks of life. In addition to a degree in Social Work, I also hold a masters degree in Pastoral Ministry and a certificate in Spiritual direction.
Hello. My name is Sarah and I honor your quest for healing. Perhaps I can join and help guide on this phase of your journey. I am a seasoned licensed independent clinical social worker in the Boston, MA area with over 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages and walks of life. In addition to a degree in Social Work, I also hold a masters degree in Pastoral Ministry and a certificate in Spiritual direction.
(617) 676-0374 View (617) 676-0374
Photo of Molly Donovan, Counselor in South Boston, Boston, MA
Molly Donovan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210
Do you feel sad, anxious, or stuck in a pattern of behavior that's not making you happy? Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress? Coming to therapy is a time for you to reflect upon yourself, the quality of your life and your relationships. I provide a supportive, safe, nonjudgmental space to share your feelings and address aspects of yourself and your life that you'd like to change or enhance.
Do you feel sad, anxious, or stuck in a pattern of behavior that's not making you happy? Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress? Coming to therapy is a time for you to reflect upon yourself, the quality of your life and your relationships. I provide a supportive, safe, nonjudgmental space to share your feelings and address aspects of yourself and your life that you'd like to change or enhance.
(617) 765-0902 View (617) 765-0902
Photo of Malachy John Fallon, Counselor in South Boston, Boston, MA
Malachy John Fallon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! My name is Malachy. I’m so happy that you have taken on this journey of growth and healing. I’m a licensed professional clinical counselor and love working with people from different walks of life, backgrounds and cultures. As a counselor I’m here to help empower you to find and unlock the answers that are within you. Together as a team we will explore what you would like to work through in the way that best fits your needs. I believe in holding a respectful, supportive, validating and healing space for people I work with. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, phase of life issues and trauma.
Hello and welcome! My name is Malachy. I’m so happy that you have taken on this journey of growth and healing. I’m a licensed professional clinical counselor and love working with people from different walks of life, backgrounds and cultures. As a counselor I’m here to help empower you to find and unlock the answers that are within you. Together as a team we will explore what you would like to work through in the way that best fits your needs. I believe in holding a respectful, supportive, validating and healing space for people I work with. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, phase of life issues and trauma.
(617) 765-1389 View (617) 765-1389
Photo of David C Miller, Counselor in South Boston, Boston, MA
David C Miller
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210
Waitlist for new clients
(waitlist) Anxiety, depression, stress in the family and it’s much worse during this time. What do you do? You are watching your child suffer but you just can’t find the right answers to help them. The entire home is turning into a battlefield. You know your child is in pain but they just won’t talk. Your own relationship with your partner is so strained you are both questioning how to carry on. Things have never seemed so hopeless but I am here to assure you there are answers. I am here to help your family confront these issues head on and overcome the adversity disrupting your lives.
(waitlist) Anxiety, depression, stress in the family and it’s much worse during this time. What do you do? You are watching your child suffer but you just can’t find the right answers to help them. The entire home is turning into a battlefield. You know your child is in pain but they just won’t talk. Your own relationship with your partner is so strained you are both questioning how to carry on. Things have never seemed so hopeless but I am here to assure you there are answers. I am here to help your family confront these issues head on and overcome the adversity disrupting your lives.
(351) 300-0294 View (351) 300-0294
Photo of Caroline Mary Corrigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, Boston, MA
Caroline Mary Corrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
South Boston, Boston, MA 02127
Everyone will eventually come upon an issue that they are struggling to process. Whether it is addiction, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma or recently being diagnosed with a serious illness, we all sometimes need the help of a professional to navigate personal challenges in life. Often we are hoping to facilitate change in our journey and are unsure on where to begin. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I specialize in helping those whose primary goal is to overcome life obstacles, recover from mental health issues, dual diagnosis and have the willingness to do so.
Everyone will eventually come upon an issue that they are struggling to process. Whether it is addiction, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma or recently being diagnosed with a serious illness, we all sometimes need the help of a professional to navigate personal challenges in life. Often we are hoping to facilitate change in our journey and are unsure on where to begin. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I specialize in helping those whose primary goal is to overcome life obstacles, recover from mental health issues, dual diagnosis and have the willingness to do so.
(774) 208-0631 View (774) 208-0631
Photo of Jamie Hatchett, Pre-Licensed Professional in South Boston, Boston, MA
Jamie Hatchett
Pre-Licensed Professional, Psy
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Boston, Boston, MA 02210
I am a psychotherapist, passionate about psychotherapy and the impact it can have on our societies. Trained in and from the UK, my passion for psychotherapy stems from my own experiences with therapy and the powerful impact it made on my own life as well as those around me that I hope to bring into my work. I have a reflective style that I bring into the therapeutic environment in order to achieve deeper and more authentic connections with my clients.
I am a psychotherapist, passionate about psychotherapy and the impact it can have on our societies. Trained in and from the UK, my passion for psychotherapy stems from my own experiences with therapy and the powerful impact it made on my own life as well as those around me that I hope to bring into my work. I have a reflective style that I bring into the therapeutic environment in order to achieve deeper and more authentic connections with my clients.
(339) 217-3705 View (339) 217-3705

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Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists

What is Internal Family Systems therapy?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on sub-personalities, or “families,” within a person, which may be made up of wounded parts and unpleasant emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities can come into conflict with each other and with an individual’s core Self, leaving the person feeling detached from positive traits such as the “8 C’s” of confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. By healing a patient’s wounded parts, a therapist aims to restore balance and bring on positive change.

How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

An IFS therapist will work with a patient to identify their particular sub-personalities, recognize the emotions powering them, and release them. By doing so, the patient should become more able to address any underlying problems their sub-personalities may have been trying to protect them from. Ultimately, a patient discovers ways to manage internal and external conflicts on their own, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, journaling, and making charts depicting the relationships between their core Self and their distinct parts.

Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

IFS therapy has been shown to help people address conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, fears and phobias, trauma, and substance use disorders. Some research has also found that it can help individuals deal with symptoms of physical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, everyday functioning, depressive feelings, and low self-compassion. There are some conditions for which IFS treatment, specifically discussions of one’s “parts,” may be less appropriate, such as schizophrenia or other states that involve psychosis or paranoia.

How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for IFS therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core concepts of IFS, some patients quickly make progress. While experiences vary, most will find that it is a relatively longer-term therapy, involving months and sometimes years of sessions.