Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Woodside, NY

Photo of Nicole Sanchez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodside, NY 11377  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing integrated EMDR to LGBTQ+ youth and adults, who are struggling with complex trauma and feeling disturbed by painful past experiences. They most often feel like they are a burden, incompetent or often find themselves endlessly ruminating over worst case scenarios. Therapy is initiated when they realize that they are ready to stop spiraling and begin experiencing a sense of grounding and connection. There has been an acknowledgement that they do not have to stay stuck. Their desire to feel confident, secure, and live authentically outweighs the fear to work through their pain.
I specialize in providing integrated EMDR to LGBTQ+ youth and adults, who are struggling with complex trauma and feeling disturbed by painful past experiences. They most often feel like they are a burden, incompetent or often find themselves endlessly ruminating over worst case scenarios. Therapy is initiated when they realize that they are ready to stop spiraling and begin experiencing a sense of grounding and connection. There has been an acknowledgement that they do not have to stay stuck. Their desire to feel confident, secure, and live authentically outweighs the fear to work through their pain.
(929) 202-9987 View (929) 202-9987
Photo of Bill Brennan, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bill Brennan
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodside, NY 11377  (Online Only)
Does living sometimes feel like a chore? Are you looking for a life that feels richer, livelier, and more manageable? I understand how painful these struggles can be. I also hear something important in you calling out to be found and known. I would be very glad if you did not have to look for it alone. I see my job as supporting you on your unique path toward wholeness and self-acceptance.
Does living sometimes feel like a chore? Are you looking for a life that feels richer, livelier, and more manageable? I understand how painful these struggles can be. I also hear something important in you calling out to be found and known. I would be very glad if you did not have to look for it alone. I see my job as supporting you on your unique path toward wholeness and self-acceptance.
(718) 557-9441 View (718) 557-9441
Photo of Rezowana K. Linta, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Rezowana K. Linta
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodside, NY 11377
Taking this step in pursuing therapy to honor yourself and your journey of personal growth is to be commended! You are the expert of your own lived experience and together we will create a personalized and transformative plan to place you on the path toward increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and change. Using trauma-informed therapy, I specialize in providing individual/group counseling to survivors of Gender-Based Violence. In addition I have experience working with at-risk adolescent and the LGBTQ population. As a first-generation immigrant and a woman of color, I am particularly interested in empowering all individuals.
Taking this step in pursuing therapy to honor yourself and your journey of personal growth is to be commended! You are the expert of your own lived experience and together we will create a personalized and transformative plan to place you on the path toward increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and change. Using trauma-informed therapy, I specialize in providing individual/group counseling to survivors of Gender-Based Violence. In addition I have experience working with at-risk adolescent and the LGBTQ population. As a first-generation immigrant and a woman of color, I am particularly interested in empowering all individuals.
(516) 980-4183 View (516) 980-4183
Photo of Samantha Herrera, LCSW-R, CFTP, ADHD-CC, ASDCS, CSAT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Herrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CFTP, ADHD-CC, ASDCS, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodside, NY 11377  (Online Only)
Are you a woman struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship conflicts? Perhaps you're dealing with intimacy/ sexual addictions, porn addictions, partner betrayal trauma, family conflicts or parenting challenges, including neurodivergent children w/ special needs. If these issues affect your daily life and leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or lost, know that there is hope for a better life. You don't have to settle for less or live unhappy anymore. It shouldn’t be so hard to live better, people can change, there is hope and answers. I am here to tell you there is light at the end of the tunnel!
Are you a woman struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship conflicts? Perhaps you're dealing with intimacy/ sexual addictions, porn addictions, partner betrayal trauma, family conflicts or parenting challenges, including neurodivergent children w/ special needs. If these issues affect your daily life and leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or lost, know that there is hope for a better life. You don't have to settle for less or live unhappy anymore. It shouldn’t be so hard to live better, people can change, there is hope and answers. I am here to tell you there is light at the end of the tunnel!
(631) 210-6255 View (631) 210-6255

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Yiyao Ding, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yiyao Ding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
My practice is informed by IFS and Art Therapy, and is relational and strength-based .
Need a space to care for yourself and tend to your own needs? I welcome you. Healing through therapy, although sometimes stigmatized, is an experience that most of us need in the current world. Our lives have been disrupted by unexpected and devastating events, which intensifies our stress, anxiety and loneliness. There is no better time to connect. Partnering with me, you can create a space where you feel comfortable connecting with your tender parts, discovering your strength, and most importantly, being your genuine self with no apology. That’s my experience as a client of therapy, and also what I want to offer you.
My practice is informed by IFS and Art Therapy, and is relational and strength-based .
Need a space to care for yourself and tend to your own needs? I welcome you. Healing through therapy, although sometimes stigmatized, is an experience that most of us need in the current world. Our lives have been disrupted by unexpected and devastating events, which intensifies our stress, anxiety and loneliness. There is no better time to connect. Partnering with me, you can create a space where you feel comfortable connecting with your tender parts, discovering your strength, and most importantly, being your genuine self with no apology. That’s my experience as a client of therapy, and also what I want to offer you.
View
Photo of Zoe C Liang, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoe C Liang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
IFS (Internal Family Therapy).
Welcome to view my profile. I believe that our moments of great struggle can also hold the most powerful potential for growth. The pain we face is an invitation for ourselves to deepen and expand. My lifelong curiosity with resilience and transformation has led me down a path where I support my clients in their journey. My consistent learning and self-reflection have allowed me to be clients' anchor and their holding environment. Together we work to bring changes and heal what has been getting in the way of the life you would like lead.
IFS (Internal Family Therapy).
Welcome to view my profile. I believe that our moments of great struggle can also hold the most powerful potential for growth. The pain we face is an invitation for ourselves to deepen and expand. My lifelong curiosity with resilience and transformation has led me down a path where I support my clients in their journey. My consistent learning and self-reflection have allowed me to be clients' anchor and their holding environment. Together we work to bring changes and heal what has been getting in the way of the life you would like lead.
(718) 395-5482 View (718) 395-5482
Photo of Jennifer Varley, MA, LMHC, LPC, CCHt, EMDR, Counselor
Jennifer Varley
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, CCHt, EMDR
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
My holistic approach to therapy that includes EMDR, Heart Centered Hypnotherapy, Hypnosis, Elements of IFS (Internal Family Systems), Energy Psychology (EFT), Mindfulness/Meditation & Holistic Health.
Are you ready to break free from old patterns and beliefs that are holding you back? Are you sick and tired of talking about your problems over and over without any results? I can help. My approach works directly with the subconscious mind to re-wire past experiences. I'm a good fit for those who have tried other modalities without success and are ready to change. I help adults uncover hidden truths, heal past traumas, re-wire limiting beliefs & align with their true path.
My holistic approach to therapy that includes EMDR, Heart Centered Hypnotherapy, Hypnosis, Elements of IFS (Internal Family Systems), Energy Psychology (EFT), Mindfulness/Meditation & Holistic Health.
Are you ready to break free from old patterns and beliefs that are holding you back? Are you sick and tired of talking about your problems over and over without any results? I can help. My approach works directly with the subconscious mind to re-wire past experiences. I'm a good fit for those who have tried other modalities without success and are ready to change. I help adults uncover hidden truths, heal past traumas, re-wire limiting beliefs & align with their true path.
(929) 499-0317 View (929) 499-0317
Photo of Rachel Jacobs, LCSW, CASAC, Trauma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC, Trauma
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
My training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, and DBT will inform our work together.
No matter how "together" you may appear on the outside, when you are hurting on the inside, life can feel overwhelming. If you are ready to work through your struggles, I would love to help guide you. My belief is that you have the capacity to face the challenges in your life and be the best version of yourself you can be. I am here to help you find your inner wisdom and to feel better. I am passionate about working with the following issues: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and work/career issues.
My training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, and DBT will inform our work together.
No matter how "together" you may appear on the outside, when you are hurting on the inside, life can feel overwhelming. If you are ready to work through your struggles, I would love to help guide you. My belief is that you have the capacity to face the challenges in your life and be the best version of yourself you can be. I am here to help you find your inner wisdom and to feel better. I am passionate about working with the following issues: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and work/career issues.
(929) 930-4928 View (929) 930-4928
Photo of Mary Ann Lewis, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ann Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105
I integrate 3 treatment modalities into my practice: psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Taking the initial steps to begin psychotherapy can be intimidating but the process of therapy has the potential to transform your life. Survival skills that may have helped us in the past may have become an obstacle to thriving in the present. This may contribute to feeling stuck in painful relationships, unrewarding jobs and struggling with depression and anxiety.
I integrate 3 treatment modalities into my practice: psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Taking the initial steps to begin psychotherapy can be intimidating but the process of therapy has the potential to transform your life. Survival skills that may have helped us in the past may have become an obstacle to thriving in the present. This may contribute to feeling stuck in painful relationships, unrewarding jobs and struggling with depression and anxiety.
(718) 215-9767 View (718) 215-9767
Photo of Tiffani Donelli, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffani Donelli
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11106  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm not the kind of therapist who nods & asks: "How do you feel about that?" My approach is integrative and I am trained in IFS, EMDR, and Psychodynamic modalities.
As a therapist I focus on developing a greater sense of awareness and presence. I believe that we all want to be understood and accepted at a deep level. I respect your courage and time investment to be willing to look within and make uncomfortable changes. I work in collaborative way and strive to create a safe, accepting and caring environment that I hope is also challenging and insightful to my clients. committed to resolving unhealthy thinking, perceptions, and behaviors.
I'm not the kind of therapist who nods & asks: "How do you feel about that?" My approach is integrative and I am trained in IFS, EMDR, and Psychodynamic modalities.
As a therapist I focus on developing a greater sense of awareness and presence. I believe that we all want to be understood and accepted at a deep level. I respect your courage and time investment to be willing to look within and make uncomfortable changes. I work in collaborative way and strive to create a safe, accepting and caring environment that I hope is also challenging and insightful to my clients. committed to resolving unhealthy thinking, perceptions, and behaviors.
(646) 793-9662 View (646) 793-9662
Photo of Meghan Lincoln, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Lincoln
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11103  (Online Only)
I use the IFS (Internal Family Systems) model, along with other mind-body-spiritual approaches, to help clients listen inside, build self-trust, and reconnect to themselves as they navigate through suffering.
Welcome and thank you for your interest. I hope to have the honor of getting to know you on your healing journey. I work with a range of clients- those experiencing deep suffering, those seeking a deeper relationship with themselves, and others who are feeling far from who they are at their core.
I use the IFS (Internal Family Systems) model, along with other mind-body-spiritual approaches, to help clients listen inside, build self-trust, and reconnect to themselves as they navigate through suffering.
Welcome and thank you for your interest. I hope to have the honor of getting to know you on your healing journey. I work with a range of clients- those experiencing deep suffering, those seeking a deeper relationship with themselves, and others who are feeling far from who they are at their core.
(646) 956-2805 View (646) 956-2805
Photo of Paolo Diamantini, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paolo Diamantini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11106
I practice and integrate the following modalities: IFS, IFIO, psychodynamic psychotherapy and neuroscience.
You may feel lonely even when not alone, dissatisfied even as your life is in many ways successful. If you relate to loved ones without the experience of lasting intimacy, you may think that your deepest dreams were not realized, as if a cloud from yesterday is coloring everything differently from the way your life is meant to be. But now is not then, and life does not have to be a theater for reminiscing, loss or disillusionment. It is possible that underneath your suffering lies the sparkle of your true essence.
I practice and integrate the following modalities: IFS, IFIO, psychodynamic psychotherapy and neuroscience.
You may feel lonely even when not alone, dissatisfied even as your life is in many ways successful. If you relate to loved ones without the experience of lasting intimacy, you may think that your deepest dreams were not realized, as if a cloud from yesterday is coloring everything differently from the way your life is meant to be. But now is not then, and life does not have to be a theater for reminiscing, loss or disillusionment. It is possible that underneath your suffering lies the sparkle of your true essence.
(917) 809-6210 View (917) 809-6210
Photo of Danielle McDonaugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle McDonaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
While I draw from relational, psychodynamic, internal family systems and cognitive behavioral approaches, I find that the therapeutic relationship itself is key to healing.
Fred Rogers said, "What is mentionable, is manageable." I consistently find this to be true. Our thoughts and feelings can seem insurmountable when they stay in our minds and there is something wonderful about how verbal release can be powerfully unburdening. I love helping people find relief, clarity and hope.
While I draw from relational, psychodynamic, internal family systems and cognitive behavioral approaches, I find that the therapeutic relationship itself is key to healing.
Fred Rogers said, "What is mentionable, is manageable." I consistently find this to be true. Our thoughts and feelings can seem insurmountable when they stay in our minds and there is something wonderful about how verbal release can be powerfully unburdening. I love helping people find relief, clarity and hope.
(929) 930-2488 View (929) 930-2488
Photo of Jessica LaHood, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica LaHood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NY 11385
I draw on a variety of approaches including Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy and mindfulness based therapies.
I deeply believe in our innate drives toward healing. At times we need support to find our way along this path; this is where therapy can help. I employ a collaborative approach to develop curiosity and compassion for one’s whole self. In therapy we tune into the body’s wisdom, foster acceptance of our present selves, and reshape narratives of our past.
I draw on a variety of approaches including Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy and mindfulness based therapies.
I deeply believe in our innate drives toward healing. At times we need support to find our way along this path; this is where therapy can help. I employ a collaborative approach to develop curiosity and compassion for one’s whole self. In therapy we tune into the body’s wisdom, foster acceptance of our present selves, and reshape narratives of our past.
(929) 930-3709 View (929) 930-3709
Photo of Hafsa Shibli, LMHC
Hafsa Shibli
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11102
Using elements of DBT, IFS, and somatic therapies, I tailor our sessions to your needs.
Therapy is like getting a PhD in yourself, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of you. “Why is it so hard for me to say no?” “How do I manage my emotions?” “Will I ever feel better?” “Does everyone overthink or is it just me?” This is the space to heal and process the things that are holding you back from living the life you want. I specialize in complex trauma, attachment and relational issues, depression, and anxiety. I have experience working with individuals and couples as well as children and families of all backgrounds.
Using elements of DBT, IFS, and somatic therapies, I tailor our sessions to your needs.
Therapy is like getting a PhD in yourself, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of you. “Why is it so hard for me to say no?” “How do I manage my emotions?” “Will I ever feel better?” “Does everyone overthink or is it just me?” This is the space to heal and process the things that are holding you back from living the life you want. I specialize in complex trauma, attachment and relational issues, depression, and anxiety. I have experience working with individuals and couples as well as children and families of all backgrounds.
(718) 550-0478 View (718) 550-0478
Photo of Melanie Cooke, MA, EdM, LMHC, Counselor
Melanie Cooke
Counselor, MA, EdM, LMHC
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11109
I practice trauma-informed Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Gestalt therapies, as well as body based mindfulness because our emotions, fears, and wounds are as much in our bodies as they are in our minds.
I work with young to middle-aged adults who feel anxiety, overwhelm, & shame (sometimes like an 'imposter') in their lives, as well as with those who want to feel more securely attached in dating and relationships . I help you better understand your emotions, practice boundary setting, balance acceptance and control, and work through conflict in order to have more fulfilling relationships. In addition to therapy, I also offer financial coaching to individuals/couples who feel overwhelmed by money stress and want to feel more secure in your financial wellbeing by exploring the emotional & psychological aspects of money.
I practice trauma-informed Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Gestalt therapies, as well as body based mindfulness because our emotions, fears, and wounds are as much in our bodies as they are in our minds.
I work with young to middle-aged adults who feel anxiety, overwhelm, & shame (sometimes like an 'imposter') in their lives, as well as with those who want to feel more securely attached in dating and relationships . I help you better understand your emotions, practice boundary setting, balance acceptance and control, and work through conflict in order to have more fulfilling relationships. In addition to therapy, I also offer financial coaching to individuals/couples who feel overwhelmed by money stress and want to feel more secure in your financial wellbeing by exploring the emotional & psychological aspects of money.
(347) 573-9118 View (347) 573-9118
Photo of Dr. Kalli Feldman (Women's Issues- Maternal Mental Health), PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Kalli Feldman (Women's Issues- Maternal Mental Health)
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based interventions such as DBT, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, internal family systems, and relational therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I am passionate about helping women and parents learn how to meet their genuine needs, care for themselves, and build a life that feels authentic and joyful. The majority of my practice focuses on breaking distressing cycles and patterns where one learned to disconnect from their own needs and emotions often to prioritize the needs of others. Are you struggling in relationships, self-critical, unsure of next steps in building the life you want, are you a parent and feeling triggered and overwhelmed? Are you and your partner stuck in cycles of arguing and feeling disconnected?
I utilize evidence-based interventions such as DBT, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, internal family systems, and relational therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I am passionate about helping women and parents learn how to meet their genuine needs, care for themselves, and build a life that feels authentic and joyful. The majority of my practice focuses on breaking distressing cycles and patterns where one learned to disconnect from their own needs and emotions often to prioritize the needs of others. Are you struggling in relationships, self-critical, unsure of next steps in building the life you want, are you a parent and feeling triggered and overwhelmed? Are you and your partner stuck in cycles of arguing and feeling disconnected?
(929) 732-7432 View (929) 732-7432
Photo of Nghi Phan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nghi Phan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Thus, I primarily use IFS & Brainspotting, two mind-body methods effective for trauma.
If you struggle with inner conflict or feel disconnected, inadequate or lost, there may be deeper roots to address. Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, feeling pressure to conform to outer expectations and neglect your own truth, all could stem from past trauma. Complex trauma, familial or systemic, can lead to internalized guilt, shame or self-abandonment. You may feel confused, resentful, tense, hopeless or shut down. Yet, you are not doomed to stay stuck in this difficult loop. Healing is possible and can illuminate a path to more self-acceptance, authenticity, and better relationships with others and especially yourself.
Thus, I primarily use IFS & Brainspotting, two mind-body methods effective for trauma.
If you struggle with inner conflict or feel disconnected, inadequate or lost, there may be deeper roots to address. Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, feeling pressure to conform to outer expectations and neglect your own truth, all could stem from past trauma. Complex trauma, familial or systemic, can lead to internalized guilt, shame or self-abandonment. You may feel confused, resentful, tense, hopeless or shut down. Yet, you are not doomed to stay stuck in this difficult loop. Healing is possible and can illuminate a path to more self-acceptance, authenticity, and better relationships with others and especially yourself.
(607) 400-8526 View (607) 400-8526
Photo of Morgan (Ana) Daffron, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Morgan (Ana) Daffron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NY 11385
Using methods like Internal Family Systems (a therapeutic approach focusing on inner conflicts) and Somatic Experiencing (a mind-body approach addressing trauma), we collaboratively navigate and process your experiences to build resilience and foster personal growth.
Specializing in supporting women who have faced trauma stemming from domestic violence, separation/divorce, childhood neglect/abuse, and workplace mistreatment, I recognize the profound impact these experiences can have on one's sense of identity and direction. Whether you've lost yourself in these experiences or are discovering yourself anew, my focus is on helping you find meaning in your journey and guiding you toward a positive future. If you're seeking to build confidence in decision-making, establish boundaries, and cultivate a loving relationship with yourself, I'm here to collaborate on your path to healing.
Using methods like Internal Family Systems (a therapeutic approach focusing on inner conflicts) and Somatic Experiencing (a mind-body approach addressing trauma), we collaboratively navigate and process your experiences to build resilience and foster personal growth.
Specializing in supporting women who have faced trauma stemming from domestic violence, separation/divorce, childhood neglect/abuse, and workplace mistreatment, I recognize the profound impact these experiences can have on one's sense of identity and direction. Whether you've lost yourself in these experiences or are discovering yourself anew, my focus is on helping you find meaning in your journey and guiding you toward a positive future. If you're seeking to build confidence in decision-making, establish boundaries, and cultivate a loving relationship with yourself, I'm here to collaborate on your path to healing.
(516) 928-6455 View (516) 928-6455
Photo of Himani Patel, LMSW
Himani Patel
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
I use a client-driven approach when working with clients. I will ask guiding questions to assist clients to learn more about themselves, strive to have clients to self-identify root causes of certain patterns and behaviors that they are experiencing, and provide encouragement to clients to strengthen their self-esteem and confidence. I use Internal Family Systems, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Coaching, and Family Dynamics Therapy systems.
I use a client-driven approach when working with clients. I will ask guiding questions to assist clients to learn more about themselves, strive to have clients to self-identify root causes of certain patterns and behaviors that they are experiencing, and provide encouragement to clients to strengthen their self-esteem and confidence. I use Internal Family Systems, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Coaching, and Family Dynamics Therapy systems.
(347) 380-7037 View (347) 380-7037

See more therapy options for Woodside

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.