Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Katrina Deschene, Counselor, LPCC
Katrina Deschene
Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Some specific models I am trained in are: EMDR, TF-CBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, humanistic approaches, attachment bio-behavioral catch up, CBT, DBT, and internal family systems.
Hi, I am Katrina Deschene and have been a licensed professional counselor for the last 4 years in MN and a year in ND. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Some specific models I am trained in are: EMDR, TF-CBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, humanistic approaches, attachment bio-behavioral catch up, CBT, DBT, and internal family systems.
Hi, I am Katrina Deschene and have been a licensed professional counselor for the last 4 years in MN and a year in ND. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(763) 415-7904 View (763) 415-7904
Photo of Jason Kell, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Jason Kell
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55413
I’m also trained in and utilizes experiential approaches such as Experiential Play Therapy (EPT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Brainspotting, and Sandtray Therapy.
I’ve received my Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Denver Seminary, and practice as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I specializes in therapies that work towards the healing of people who have experienced trauma and other stress-related disorders. I’m fully trained as an EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapist. Moreover, I have completed the Somatic Experiencing (Beginning I, II & III) training modules through the SE Trauma Institute focused on healing and restoration.
I’m also trained in and utilizes experiential approaches such as Experiential Play Therapy (EPT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Brainspotting, and Sandtray Therapy.
I’ve received my Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Denver Seminary, and practice as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I specializes in therapies that work towards the healing of people who have experienced trauma and other stress-related disorders. I’m fully trained as an EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapist. Moreover, I have completed the Somatic Experiencing (Beginning I, II & III) training modules through the SE Trauma Institute focused on healing and restoration.
(763) 878-7568 View (763) 878-7568
Photo of Adam Todd Fieldson, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Adam Todd Fieldson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Adam uses IFS, psychodynamic, and Adlerian approaches with his clients.
Adam is a down-to-earth optimist who believes that positive change is always possible, even in difficult circumstances. Therapy is the process of identifying and actualizing positive change. Adam wants to nonjudgmentally explore your whole self, even the difficult to share parts. Through this exploration, he hopes to help you find deeper understanding of your authentic self. We are constantly told what we should want out of life, what we should be doing, how we should show up in the world. Adam wants to foster your bravery and agency to ignore the shoulds and define your own path.
Adam uses IFS, psychodynamic, and Adlerian approaches with his clients.
Adam is a down-to-earth optimist who believes that positive change is always possible, even in difficult circumstances. Therapy is the process of identifying and actualizing positive change. Adam wants to nonjudgmentally explore your whole self, even the difficult to share parts. Through this exploration, he hopes to help you find deeper understanding of your authentic self. We are constantly told what we should want out of life, what we should be doing, how we should show up in the world. Adam wants to foster your bravery and agency to ignore the shoulds and define your own path.
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Photo of Karen Knab, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Karen Knab
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I utilize family systems theory, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care.
Do you struggle with perfectionism, a lot of internal pressure, and responsibility? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and struggling in certain areas of your life? Do you have a hard time expressing yourself and being heard in relationships? I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with relationships of all kinds - family, workplace, romantic - and want to feel less stress and tension, and more harmony in their interpersonal relationships.
I utilize family systems theory, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care.
Do you struggle with perfectionism, a lot of internal pressure, and responsibility? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and struggling in certain areas of your life? Do you have a hard time expressing yourself and being heard in relationships? I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with relationships of all kinds - family, workplace, romantic - and want to feel less stress and tension, and more harmony in their interpersonal relationships.
(651) 661-3471 View (651) 661-3471
Photo of Maggie Evans, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, ATR-BC
Maggie Evans
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, ATR-BC
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I appreciate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while drawing from my understanding of psychodynamic and attachment theory, narrative therapy, IFS, and trauma sensitive approaches.
Life presents inevitable challenges. Problems are problems. People are not problems. I will work alongside you to be curious and draw out your innate knowing and expertise. You share in my belief in the power of metaphor and meaning-making as a healing medium. This may include creative processes with art materials or it can be through "talk therapy" as well. We will work as collaborators to achieve greater self-awareness that allows you to move forward with confidence, less fear, self judgement and criticism.
I appreciate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while drawing from my understanding of psychodynamic and attachment theory, narrative therapy, IFS, and trauma sensitive approaches.
Life presents inevitable challenges. Problems are problems. People are not problems. I will work alongside you to be curious and draw out your innate knowing and expertise. You share in my belief in the power of metaphor and meaning-making as a healing medium. This may include creative processes with art materials or it can be through "talk therapy" as well. We will work as collaborators to achieve greater self-awareness that allows you to move forward with confidence, less fear, self judgement and criticism.
(612) 979-2833 View (612) 979-2833
Photo of Chaya Luss - Compassion Therapy with Chaya, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Compassion Therapy with Chaya
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55416
I am trained in the IFS and EMDR therapy models.
I provide therapeutic solutions to adults and teenagers that are struggling with relationships, low self-worth, high levels of anxiety and depression. I specialize in working with clients who have a history of trauma related to family dysfunction, difficult relationships, or loss of loved ones. My clients are looking to restore confidence, clarity, and serenity to their lives.
I am trained in the IFS and EMDR therapy models.
I provide therapeutic solutions to adults and teenagers that are struggling with relationships, low self-worth, high levels of anxiety and depression. I specialize in working with clients who have a history of trauma related to family dysfunction, difficult relationships, or loss of loved ones. My clients are looking to restore confidence, clarity, and serenity to their lives.
(612) 445-2947 View (612) 445-2947
Photo of Grace Iverson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Grace Iverson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Minneapolis, MN 55407
My work is informed by my training in IFS, as well as a restorative justice framework, existentialism, attachment, experiential therapy and queer theory.
I enjoy working with a variety of folks in both individual therapy and couples work, including those who identify as neurodivergent, queer, have depression, anxiety, burnout, or trauma. As a marriage and family therapist I emphasize all kinds of relationships as a core place we learn and grow as we navigate the natural ruptures and repairs in relationships.
My work is informed by my training in IFS, as well as a restorative justice framework, existentialism, attachment, experiential therapy and queer theory.
I enjoy working with a variety of folks in both individual therapy and couples work, including those who identify as neurodivergent, queer, have depression, anxiety, burnout, or trauma. As a marriage and family therapist I emphasize all kinds of relationships as a core place we learn and grow as we navigate the natural ruptures and repairs in relationships.
(651) 381-5884 View (651) 381-5884
Photo of Lauren Ebert, LAMFT
Lauren Ebert
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I primarily use evidence-based systemic/relational modalities and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) in my work.
My passion for being a therapist is rooted in relationships. We cannot survive and thrive without connection to others - yet how can it get so messy and complicated!? As a couples and family therapist, I am dedicated to support you through those hard times. Viewing your relationship as my "client", I aim to help identify patterns and cycles that are keeping you stuck and disconnected. Your differences are complex, but I view them as possibilities to build a strong team. In addition to couples work, I enjoy working with individuals experiencing family and relationship issues, career concerns, anxiety, and difficult life transitions.
I primarily use evidence-based systemic/relational modalities and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) in my work.
My passion for being a therapist is rooted in relationships. We cannot survive and thrive without connection to others - yet how can it get so messy and complicated!? As a couples and family therapist, I am dedicated to support you through those hard times. Viewing your relationship as my "client", I aim to help identify patterns and cycles that are keeping you stuck and disconnected. Your differences are complex, but I view them as possibilities to build a strong team. In addition to couples work, I enjoy working with individuals experiencing family and relationship issues, career concerns, anxiety, and difficult life transitions.
(612) 445-4013 View (612) 445-4013
Photo of Nina Hernandez Beithon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Nina Hernandez Beithon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55419
I'm also flexible in my approach and have utilized interpersonal processing, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), insight-oriented work, art, play, and DBT skills with clients in the past.
Hi, I’m Nina (she/her) and I’m so glad you’re here! As a Mixed (Indigenous Mexican and White Settler), bi/queer, polyamorous, fat, cis woman, I bring an inclusive, anti-oppressive, and decolonial lens to therapy. I work with individuals of all ages (children, teens, and adults) and offer a compassionate, affirming space that honors your identity and experiences. I enjoy working with folks on issues connected to sex, dating, and relationships; trauma healing (personal and generational); identity exploration (racial/cultural/gender/sexuality); body positivity & self-esteem (from a Fat Liberation lens); and pregnancy/parenting.
I'm also flexible in my approach and have utilized interpersonal processing, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), insight-oriented work, art, play, and DBT skills with clients in the past.
Hi, I’m Nina (she/her) and I’m so glad you’re here! As a Mixed (Indigenous Mexican and White Settler), bi/queer, polyamorous, fat, cis woman, I bring an inclusive, anti-oppressive, and decolonial lens to therapy. I work with individuals of all ages (children, teens, and adults) and offer a compassionate, affirming space that honors your identity and experiences. I enjoy working with folks on issues connected to sex, dating, and relationships; trauma healing (personal and generational); identity exploration (racial/cultural/gender/sexuality); body positivity & self-esteem (from a Fat Liberation lens); and pregnancy/parenting.
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Photo of Emma Schneider, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Emma Schneider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Minneapolis, MN 55408
My therapeutic approach is influenced by Narrative, Acceptance and Commitment, and Dialectical Behavioral therapies, somatic and mindfulness practices, Internal Family Systems, and trauma-focused techniques.
As a human navigating this ever-changing world, it is my belief that we each hold knowledge, power, and peace within ourselves. However, it is fair to say that we don't always feel this way. I have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, shame, depression, life change, and trauma. My therapeutic goal is to hold space for you, support you, and help you enrich your life. I am committed to social justice and believe that systemic dynamics influence a person's mental health. I continually strive to have a validating space for all identities, and I advocate for anti-oppression on both community and systemic platforms.
My therapeutic approach is influenced by Narrative, Acceptance and Commitment, and Dialectical Behavioral therapies, somatic and mindfulness practices, Internal Family Systems, and trauma-focused techniques.
As a human navigating this ever-changing world, it is my belief that we each hold knowledge, power, and peace within ourselves. However, it is fair to say that we don't always feel this way. I have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, shame, depression, life change, and trauma. My therapeutic goal is to hold space for you, support you, and help you enrich your life. I am committed to social justice and believe that systemic dynamics influence a person's mental health. I continually strive to have a validating space for all identities, and I advocate for anti-oppression on both community and systemic platforms.
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Photo of Jaiden Mahlberg, Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Jaiden Mahlberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Minneapolis, MN 55416
I use a family systems framework and believe that creating a lasting support network is as vital to the healing process as the air you breathe.
Areas that I work in include anxiety, depression, relationship troubles, sexual wellness, trauma, and grief & loss. I employ techniques from Internal Family systems ( IFS), Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
I use a family systems framework and believe that creating a lasting support network is as vital to the healing process as the air you breathe.
Areas that I work in include anxiety, depression, relationship troubles, sexual wellness, trauma, and grief & loss. I employ techniques from Internal Family systems ( IFS), Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
(651) 296-4937 View (651) 296-4937
Photo of Stacy Christensen, Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Stacy Christensen
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Minneapolis, MN 55403
I incorporate Dynamic and Relational approaches, ACT, IFS, mindfulness-based interventions, and trauma focused therapies.
I take a social justice approach to my practice and understand that the personal is often political. Due to strongly held beliefs, I work to establish a safe and supportive therapeutic place for clients of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I incorporate Dynamic and Relational approaches, ACT, IFS, mindfulness-based interventions, and trauma focused therapies.
I take a social justice approach to my practice and understand that the personal is often political. Due to strongly held beliefs, I work to establish a safe and supportive therapeutic place for clients of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(763) 296-2813 View (763) 296-2813
Photo of Susan Daub, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Susan Daub
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma using multiple approaches including CBT, ACT and IFS.
Hi there! My name is Susan Daub and I hold a Master's Degree in Behavioral Health from the University of Minnesota. I am a dually licensed alcohol and drug counselor and mental health therapist. I have been working in the health and wellness field for 15+ years. I am a creative person and work well with clients who are open to exploring creative approaches in their recovery journey.
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma using multiple approaches including CBT, ACT and IFS.
Hi there! My name is Susan Daub and I hold a Master's Degree in Behavioral Health from the University of Minnesota. I am a dually licensed alcohol and drug counselor and mental health therapist. I have been working in the health and wellness field for 15+ years. I am a creative person and work well with clients who are open to exploring creative approaches in their recovery journey.
(763) 314-4830 View (763) 314-4830
Photo of Analisa Jayasekera, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Analisa Jayasekera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55419
My approach is integrative, drawing from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and Energy Focused Tapping (EFT).
As a relational therapist working with individuals and couples, I specialize in fostering healthy, authentic connections. Whether you're in a relationship navigating conflict and communication issues or an individual overwhelmed by people-pleasing and self-doubt, I can help. You might be struggling to express your true voice or constantly overextending to meet others’ needs. This can lead to burnout, resentment, and disconnection. Together, we’ll explore these patterns with curiosity and compassion so you can communicate more effectively and feel grounded, resourced, and fulfilled in your relationships and yourself.
My approach is integrative, drawing from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and Energy Focused Tapping (EFT).
As a relational therapist working with individuals and couples, I specialize in fostering healthy, authentic connections. Whether you're in a relationship navigating conflict and communication issues or an individual overwhelmed by people-pleasing and self-doubt, I can help. You might be struggling to express your true voice or constantly overextending to meet others’ needs. This can lead to burnout, resentment, and disconnection. Together, we’ll explore these patterns with curiosity and compassion so you can communicate more effectively and feel grounded, resourced, and fulfilled in your relationships and yourself.
(612) 662-7159 View (612) 662-7159
Photo of Thea Schmidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Thea Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Online Only
  I utilize both a psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems approach to help shed light on why we stay stuck in these unhealthy patterns.
It can feel overwhelming navigating our daily lives while also dealing with stress and trauma. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to work through whatever difficulties and challenges we find present in our lives. As we begin to release the weight and pain we have been carrying with us for so long, we open up to new ideas and possibilities. Ultimately we can move towards a life with more resilience and hope.
  I utilize both a psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems approach to help shed light on why we stay stuck in these unhealthy patterns.
It can feel overwhelming navigating our daily lives while also dealing with stress and trauma. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to work through whatever difficulties and challenges we find present in our lives. As we begin to release the weight and pain we have been carrying with us for so long, we open up to new ideas and possibilities. Ultimately we can move towards a life with more resilience and hope.
(612) 399-6035 View (612) 399-6035
Photo of Sarah Lazarewicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Sarah Lazarewicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I also utilize Somatic Experiencing, a body based modality, and frequently incorporate elements of IFS/parts work and mindfulness into my sessions.
I believe therapy can be a space to try on new ways of thinking and being, building insight and self-awareness so you can overcome blocks to creating the life you deeply desire. You can expect me to work hard to understand you and your history, offering an equal mix of nurturing, education and clear-sighted perspective. We’ll work together to chart a vision for the road ahead, noting areas for growth, needed skills, and current strengths and resources. In session, and in life, my style is informal, warm, playful and compassionate. I bring a body-positive, sex-positive, feminist and anti-oppressive lens to my work.
I also utilize Somatic Experiencing, a body based modality, and frequently incorporate elements of IFS/parts work and mindfulness into my sessions.
I believe therapy can be a space to try on new ways of thinking and being, building insight and self-awareness so you can overcome blocks to creating the life you deeply desire. You can expect me to work hard to understand you and your history, offering an equal mix of nurturing, education and clear-sighted perspective. We’ll work together to chart a vision for the road ahead, noting areas for growth, needed skills, and current strengths and resources. In session, and in life, my style is informal, warm, playful and compassionate. I bring a body-positive, sex-positive, feminist and anti-oppressive lens to my work.
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Photo of Augustin Kendall, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Augustin Kendall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am trained in IFS and Brainspotting, and ground my work in existential therapy and social justice counseling practices.
Looking for a queer therapist? You found one. There’s weight to living in a world not built for you – one that’s actively hostile to you in many ways. Those little traumas of existing in a heteronormative world build up, even for old pros, and they take a toll. And then there are the struggles that have nothing to do with being part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. It would be great to talk about those, too, with a therapist you don’t have to explain yourself to. You’re done neglecting your feelings and instincts. You’re craving the confidence to be your authentic self and the clarity to focus on what’s really important.
I am trained in IFS and Brainspotting, and ground my work in existential therapy and social justice counseling practices.
Looking for a queer therapist? You found one. There’s weight to living in a world not built for you – one that’s actively hostile to you in many ways. Those little traumas of existing in a heteronormative world build up, even for old pros, and they take a toll. And then there are the struggles that have nothing to do with being part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. It would be great to talk about those, too, with a therapist you don’t have to explain yourself to. You’re done neglecting your feelings and instincts. You’re craving the confidence to be your authentic self and the clarity to focus on what’s really important.
(651) 564-8412 View (651) 564-8412
Photo of Shanda Guy, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Shanda Guy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403
I use evidence-based techniques from CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, & Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
I’m a post-graduate therapist working toward my LPCC credential. I provide therapy at Cabot Psychological Services under the supervision of Kate West, MSW, LICSW. My approach is goal-oriented, trauma-informed, and strengths-based, meaning we’ll work together to identify what’s holding you back while also highlighting your inner strengths.
I use evidence-based techniques from CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, & Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
I’m a post-graduate therapist working toward my LPCC credential. I provide therapy at Cabot Psychological Services under the supervision of Kate West, MSW, LICSW. My approach is goal-oriented, trauma-informed, and strengths-based, meaning we’ll work together to identify what’s holding you back while also highlighting your inner strengths.
(701) 720-4688 View (701) 720-4688
Photo of Dan Piñon, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dan Piñon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
I also incorporate tenets of brain science, somatic experiencing, sensorimotor psychotherapy, internal family systems, polyvagal theory, systems theory, and mindfulness into my practice.
My name is Dan Piñon (they/them) and I am a gender queer, mixed, latine (Mexican), neurodivergent therapist. I believe your body is profoundly wise and full of personal resources to support you through healing. Our work together can focus on collaboratively reintegrating your body and mind while exploring more effective ways to support yourself through life. I have had the honor of working with a wide variety of ages, background and needs. Specialty areas of mine include complex grief, neurodivergence, burnout, relational trauma, family wounds, somatic based practices, and identity exploration.
I also incorporate tenets of brain science, somatic experiencing, sensorimotor psychotherapy, internal family systems, polyvagal theory, systems theory, and mindfulness into my practice.
My name is Dan Piñon (they/them) and I am a gender queer, mixed, latine (Mexican), neurodivergent therapist. I believe your body is profoundly wise and full of personal resources to support you through healing. Our work together can focus on collaboratively reintegrating your body and mind while exploring more effective ways to support yourself through life. I have had the honor of working with a wide variety of ages, background and needs. Specialty areas of mine include complex grief, neurodivergence, burnout, relational trauma, family wounds, somatic based practices, and identity exploration.
(612) 255-9289 View (612) 255-9289
Photo of Kaylee Audrey Bond, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Kaylee Audrey Bond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I use attachment theory and a family systems lens to help you understand your communication and connection
I specialize with children 0-5, neurodivergent/queer/ gender questioning people of all ages, and couples. My individual sessions are trauma informed and social justice oriented with children, teens, and adults. I love helping with skills for neurodivergence, adjusting to life changes, parenting, pre/post natal and relationship issues. My couples are often Queer, Polyam, and Kink; although all couples are welcome. I also help couples with mental health impacts, parenting, sex issues, and identity.
I use attachment theory and a family systems lens to help you understand your communication and connection
I specialize with children 0-5, neurodivergent/queer/ gender questioning people of all ages, and couples. My individual sessions are trauma informed and social justice oriented with children, teens, and adults. I love helping with skills for neurodivergence, adjusting to life changes, parenting, pre/post natal and relationship issues. My couples are often Queer, Polyam, and Kink; although all couples are welcome. I also help couples with mental health impacts, parenting, sex issues, and identity.
(763) 415-7880 View (763) 415-7880
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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.