Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in McAlester, OK

Photo of Yvonne Lewis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MS, LPC, BSP
Yvonne Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MS, LPC, BSP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily use Brainspotting to treat clients and Internal Family Systems.
No wait for Cigna and Aetna insurance! Do you want to get well? Healing is hard work, but it's so worth it! I'm the therapist you come to when you need to go deep, without being judged. Expect tears. I welcome them. That's part of the healing process. That lump in your throat could be unprocessed trauma! In 2020, I became a Certified Brainspotting Therapist, specializing in treating trauma and getting to the root issue. I work with adults and other therapists who need to process their own trauma. Private entrance available. Church hurt? I'm a Christian and can help you navigate your journey to heal. 21 and up.
I primarily use Brainspotting to treat clients and Internal Family Systems.
No wait for Cigna and Aetna insurance! Do you want to get well? Healing is hard work, but it's so worth it! I'm the therapist you come to when you need to go deep, without being judged. Expect tears. I welcome them. That's part of the healing process. That lump in your throat could be unprocessed trauma! In 2020, I became a Certified Brainspotting Therapist, specializing in treating trauma and getting to the root issue. I work with adults and other therapists who need to process their own trauma. Private entrance available. Church hurt? I'm a Christian and can help you navigate your journey to heal. 21 and up.
(539) 233-4585 View (539) 233-4585

Online Therapists

Photo of Robert Raymond, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Robert Raymond
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tulsa, OK 74137
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I'm Bobby Raymond, LPC, and I strive to make therapy feel engaging, not like a chore. I work with adults and adolescents facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, and relationship challenges. Together, we'll develop coping strategies, build self-awareness, and manage symptoms, with the ultimate goal of empowering you to solve problems and foster personal growth. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to support client growth.
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I'm Bobby Raymond, LPC, and I strive to make therapy feel engaging, not like a chore. I work with adults and adolescents facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, and relationship challenges. Together, we'll develop coping strategies, build self-awareness, and manage symptoms, with the ultimate goal of empowering you to solve problems and foster personal growth. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to support client growth.
(918) 262-8132 View (918) 262-8132
Photo of Melanie Elaine Logan - Therapist for Women! Burnout/Boundaries/Self-Care, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Therapist for Women! Burnout/Boundaries/Self-Care
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74135
Are you a woman approaching or in mid-life? Have you lost touch with yourself? Are you tired of people-pleasing? Do you find yourself carrying the burden of everyone else's needs, leaving little time or space for your own? Maybe you're wondering where "you" went in the midst of it all—feeling anxiety and resentment. I help middle-aged professional women who are juggling too many responsibilities and feeling stretched too thin avoid shutting down and losing themselves, and instead reconnect with what truly matters.
Are you a woman approaching or in mid-life? Have you lost touch with yourself? Are you tired of people-pleasing? Do you find yourself carrying the burden of everyone else's needs, leaving little time or space for your own? Maybe you're wondering where "you" went in the midst of it all—feeling anxiety and resentment. I help middle-aged professional women who are juggling too many responsibilities and feeling stretched too thin avoid shutting down and losing themselves, and instead reconnect with what truly matters.
(918) 417-6097 View (918) 417-6097
Photo of Suzanna Storm, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Suzanna Storm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Tulsa, OK 74137
Maybe you're a chronic people-pleaser, an overwhelmed new mother, a burned-out professional, or an anxious college kid. You might be wrestling with a previous trauma that continues to show up in inconvenient ways; causing you to repeat patterns or behaviors you promised yourself you never would. Whether your struggles lie rooted in the past or the uncertainty of your future, therapy can help. That's where I come in! With a decade of clinical experience, a non-judgmental presence, and a supportive 'hype woman' approach, it is my privilege to partner with you on your journey to healing and wholeness.
Maybe you're a chronic people-pleaser, an overwhelmed new mother, a burned-out professional, or an anxious college kid. You might be wrestling with a previous trauma that continues to show up in inconvenient ways; causing you to repeat patterns or behaviors you promised yourself you never would. Whether your struggles lie rooted in the past or the uncertainty of your future, therapy can help. That's where I come in! With a decade of clinical experience, a non-judgmental presence, and a supportive 'hype woman' approach, it is my privilege to partner with you on your journey to healing and wholeness.
(918) 233-3262 View (918) 233-3262
Photo of Jason L Williams - Jason L Williams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jason L Williams, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Tulsa, OK 74145
Building on the foundation of Depth Psychology, I draw upon well established, evidence -based practices such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Somatic Experiencing, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method.
With today's constant demands and pressures streaming in from every direction, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, enraged, and/or addicted--basically, symptomatic. Navigating life today can be terrifying. I specialize in helping co-create more effective, enjoyable ways of engaging life and dwelling deeply in one's unique existence. I accompany individuals, couples and families as a professional, experienced and effective guide through these difficult times. With the proper attention, cultivation and realization the difficult times can become the nutrient rich soil for growth and meaning.
Building on the foundation of Depth Psychology, I draw upon well established, evidence -based practices such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Somatic Experiencing, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method.
With today's constant demands and pressures streaming in from every direction, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, enraged, and/or addicted--basically, symptomatic. Navigating life today can be terrifying. I specialize in helping co-create more effective, enjoyable ways of engaging life and dwelling deeply in one's unique existence. I accompany individuals, couples and families as a professional, experienced and effective guide through these difficult times. With the proper attention, cultivation and realization the difficult times can become the nutrient rich soil for growth and meaning.
(539) 444-5182 View (539) 444-5182
Photo of Sally L Patton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Sally L Patton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
As a licensed therapist for over 20 years I have extensive experience in the areas of trauma, depression/anxiety, relationship issues (couples/marriage/family) and have worked with diverse populations & settings (including faith-based and military). Through teletherapy we can both avoid the inconvenience, time & cost of commuting & I find I am able to meet most client's scheduling needs, including offering weekend sessions.
As a licensed therapist for over 20 years I have extensive experience in the areas of trauma, depression/anxiety, relationship issues (couples/marriage/family) and have worked with diverse populations & settings (including faith-based and military). Through teletherapy we can both avoid the inconvenience, time & cost of commuting & I find I am able to meet most client's scheduling needs, including offering weekend sessions.
(918) 601-4462 View (918) 601-4462
Photo of Kristen B Hamm, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Kristen B Hamm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Prague, OK 74864
You are holding it all together on the outside but inside, it feels overwhelming. If you are ready for things to actually change and not just talk about them you are in the right place. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, stress, depression, self-confidence, life transitions and relationship challenges while trying to keep up with everything life demands. My approach is practical, supportive and focused on real progress. We will identify patterns that are keeping you stuck, build tools that work in your daily life and create meaningful forward movement. I offer a balance of compassion and directness.
You are holding it all together on the outside but inside, it feels overwhelming. If you are ready for things to actually change and not just talk about them you are in the right place. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, stress, depression, self-confidence, life transitions and relationship challenges while trying to keep up with everything life demands. My approach is practical, supportive and focused on real progress. We will identify patterns that are keeping you stuck, build tools that work in your daily life and create meaningful forward movement. I offer a balance of compassion and directness.
(405) 987-4288 View (405) 987-4288
Photo of Carl Funderburk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, u/s
Carl Funderburk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, u/s
Tulsa, OK 74136
Internal Family Systems ( IFS) views the mind as a system of "parts" that carry emotions and roles, often shaped by trauma.
I help individuals, couples, and co-parents facing ongoing conflict, communication breakdowns, and major life transitions. Many feel stuck in repeated arguments, high-conflict co-parenting, or relationships that seem to be getting worse instead of better. I help identify the patterns driving these interactions and provide practical tools to improve emotional regulation, communication, and decision-making so clients can move toward more stable, workable relationships.
Internal Family Systems ( IFS) views the mind as a system of "parts" that carry emotions and roles, often shaped by trauma.
I help individuals, couples, and co-parents facing ongoing conflict, communication breakdowns, and major life transitions. Many feel stuck in repeated arguments, high-conflict co-parenting, or relationships that seem to be getting worse instead of better. I help identify the patterns driving these interactions and provide practical tools to improve emotional regulation, communication, and decision-making so clients can move toward more stable, workable relationships.
(918) 265-1182 View (918) 265-1182
Photo of Dr. Kelly A James, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, EMDR, ECP1, BCP2, BCP3
Dr. Kelly A James
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, EMDR, ECP1, BCP2, BCP3
8 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I use IFS Parts Therapy and EMDR that can heal the memories, reduce, and eliminate the negative issues in life.
I have had a number of requests for more appointment availability, so I am opening appointment availability on Tuesday afternoon. Will open more after that. Thanks Are you: Feeling almost like yourself—but not quite? Living carefully instead of freely? Carrying beliefs that quietly limit your confidence, peace, or joy? Wondering whether the stories you tell yourself are actually true? Want to stop revisiting the past? It may be time for a faster approach. I offer weekly hourly sessions and EMDR intensive sessions (2–4 hours) designed to help you process the past—so you can start living fully in the present.
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I use IFS Parts Therapy and EMDR that can heal the memories, reduce, and eliminate the negative issues in life.
I have had a number of requests for more appointment availability, so I am opening appointment availability on Tuesday afternoon. Will open more after that. Thanks Are you: Feeling almost like yourself—but not quite? Living carefully instead of freely? Carrying beliefs that quietly limit your confidence, peace, or joy? Wondering whether the stories you tell yourself are actually true? Want to stop revisiting the past? It may be time for a faster approach. I offer weekly hourly sessions and EMDR intensive sessions (2–4 hours) designed to help you process the past—so you can start living fully in the present.
(918) 268-7640 View (918) 268-7640
Photo of Carolyn Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Hello, I'm Carolyn. Life can be incredibly challenging, especially when you're dealing with depression, anxiety, or other forms of mental distress. Welcome to a nurturing space dedicated to your journey of healing and well-being. As a therapist, I specialize in guiding individuals through the complexities of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, eating disorders, and trauma. With a client-centered and solution-focused approach, we'll collaboratively explore your unique experiences, fostering resilience and positive change. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Oklahoma and Virginia.
Hello, I'm Carolyn. Life can be incredibly challenging, especially when you're dealing with depression, anxiety, or other forms of mental distress. Welcome to a nurturing space dedicated to your journey of healing and well-being. As a therapist, I specialize in guiding individuals through the complexities of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, eating disorders, and trauma. With a client-centered and solution-focused approach, we'll collaboratively explore your unique experiences, fostering resilience and positive change. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Oklahoma and Virginia.
(918) 276-7580 View (918) 276-7580
Photo of Chelsea Threadgill, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Chelsea Threadgill
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Tulsa, OK 74105
Life comes with many challenges and changes that can be difficult to navigate, and sometimes it can feel as though you are lacking the support you need. My goal as a therapist is to first and foremost provide a safe environment so that clients can feel comfortable exploring and working through all of the difficulties that they face, in addition to having a space to celebrate their victories. I take a humanistic approach to counseling while also using other treatments which align with the needs of my clients.
Life comes with many challenges and changes that can be difficult to navigate, and sometimes it can feel as though you are lacking the support you need. My goal as a therapist is to first and foremost provide a safe environment so that clients can feel comfortable exploring and working through all of the difficulties that they face, in addition to having a space to celebrate their victories. I take a humanistic approach to counseling while also using other treatments which align with the needs of my clients.
(918) 303-7523 View (918) 303-7523
Photo of Rachelle Hardin-Moniz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Rachelle Hardin-Moniz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Norman, OK 73072
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, my name is Rachelle Hardin-Moniz. I am committed to assisting my clients in engaging in a therapeutic relationship based on engagement, openness, and removal of their symptoms and pain. I strive to facilitate growth and improved quality of life. I have been practicing for over 30 years. I am treating a variety of clientele. Their ages are from 18 to as old as you think you are(No age limit). Both males and females. The common thread is childhood trauma and its effects.
Hi, my name is Rachelle Hardin-Moniz. I am committed to assisting my clients in engaging in a therapeutic relationship based on engagement, openness, and removal of their symptoms and pain. I strive to facilitate growth and improved quality of life. I have been practicing for over 30 years. I am treating a variety of clientele. Their ages are from 18 to as old as you think you are(No age limit). Both males and females. The common thread is childhood trauma and its effects.
(405) 591-8695 View (405) 591-8695
Photo of Olivia Reel Tomlinson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Olivia Reel Tomlinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here. I believe that telling your story is powerful. Life brings struggles—trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, difficult relationships, major transitions, or simply the challenge of finding our place. When these experiences begin to define us, they can take away our sense of joy and direction. We may feel stuck, unsure of who we want to be or how to move forward. These moments are part of the human experience—whether we face them as individuals, in relationships, within families, or in our communities. Often, the first step is developing awareness and allowing ourselves to truly sit with how we feel.
Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here. I believe that telling your story is powerful. Life brings struggles—trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, difficult relationships, major transitions, or simply the challenge of finding our place. When these experiences begin to define us, they can take away our sense of joy and direction. We may feel stuck, unsure of who we want to be or how to move forward. These moments are part of the human experience—whether we face them as individuals, in relationships, within families, or in our communities. Often, the first step is developing awareness and allowing ourselves to truly sit with how we feel.
(405) 267-7998 View (405) 267-7998
Photo of Shantel Farrow, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Shantel Farrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Midwest City, OK 73110
My approach draws from Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR, and Trauma-Focused CBT to help you process pain, restore your sense of self, and create healthier boundaries.
I am a licensed therapist who shows up first as a human being, real, raw, and deeply committed to healing. I bring not only credentials but lived experience of divorce, betrayal, trauma, single motherhood, grief, spiritual warfare, and restoration. I specialize in helping people rebuild from the inside out, especially those facing high-conflict relationships, attachment wounds, identity crises, and emotional fatigue. Many of my clients are professionals, caregivers, or survivors of emotionally unavailable relationships. You don’t have to be perfect to be powerful.
My approach draws from Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR, and Trauma-Focused CBT to help you process pain, restore your sense of self, and create healthier boundaries.
I am a licensed therapist who shows up first as a human being, real, raw, and deeply committed to healing. I bring not only credentials but lived experience of divorce, betrayal, trauma, single motherhood, grief, spiritual warfare, and restoration. I specialize in helping people rebuild from the inside out, especially those facing high-conflict relationships, attachment wounds, identity crises, and emotional fatigue. Many of my clients are professionals, caregivers, or survivors of emotionally unavailable relationships. You don’t have to be perfect to be powerful.
(580) 219-5362 View (580) 219-5362
Photo of Ashlee Cochran, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Ashlee Cochran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Online Only
Have you experienced trauma? Struggling with relationship issues? Or is your mind running a rat race of anxiety? Therapy can help. Through meaningful conversations, we can walk through hard times toward healing. Along the way, I will offer accessible skills to cope that will allow you to feel improvement early in the therapeutic process. You can come to therapy exactly as you are and be met with acceptance and compassion. No need to filter. Understanding each client is different, my therapeutic approach will meet you where you are, specific to your needs. I utilize evidence-based, trauma-informed, and holistic approaches.
Have you experienced trauma? Struggling with relationship issues? Or is your mind running a rat race of anxiety? Therapy can help. Through meaningful conversations, we can walk through hard times toward healing. Along the way, I will offer accessible skills to cope that will allow you to feel improvement early in the therapeutic process. You can come to therapy exactly as you are and be met with acceptance and compassion. No need to filter. Understanding each client is different, my therapeutic approach will meet you where you are, specific to your needs. I utilize evidence-based, trauma-informed, and holistic approaches.
(918) 203-6386 View (918) 203-6386
Photo of Dr. Chad V Johnson, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Chad V Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74135
I’m Chad Johnson—a licensed psychologist, psychotherapist, and educator. My work is grounded in deep presence, careful listening, and collaborative exploration. I do not see therapy as “fixing” people, but as making space to understand one’s life, struggles, and possibilities more clearly. Many people come to therapy carrying questions about meaning, identity, relationships, and direction. Together, we explore these questions with curiosity and honesty. Rather than imposing formulas or quick answers, I aim to meet you where you are and to take your experience seriously.
I’m Chad Johnson—a licensed psychologist, psychotherapist, and educator. My work is grounded in deep presence, careful listening, and collaborative exploration. I do not see therapy as “fixing” people, but as making space to understand one’s life, struggles, and possibilities more clearly. Many people come to therapy carrying questions about meaning, identity, relationships, and direction. Together, we explore these questions with curiosity and honesty. Rather than imposing formulas or quick answers, I aim to meet you where you are and to take your experience seriously.
(918) 818-2157 View (918) 818-2157
Photo of Caitlin Browning, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Caitlin Browning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74114
The primary treatment type I use is Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy, which is tailored to your unique needs.
You’re not lacking insight. You’re lacking a way forward. Most of the people I work with are self-aware. You can connect the dots. You know your anxiety, depression, or patterns are tied to your past. But knowing hasn’t changed how it feels. You might still feel overwhelmed, shut down, or like your emotions come out of nowhere. Like something in you is running the show and you can’t quite get a handle on it. That’s not random. That’s what happens when your system had to learn how to survive without enough safety, support, or understanding. And together, we slow things down and discover the pathway toward healing, not just surviving.
The primary treatment type I use is Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy, which is tailored to your unique needs.
You’re not lacking insight. You’re lacking a way forward. Most of the people I work with are self-aware. You can connect the dots. You know your anxiety, depression, or patterns are tied to your past. But knowing hasn’t changed how it feels. You might still feel overwhelmed, shut down, or like your emotions come out of nowhere. Like something in you is running the show and you can’t quite get a handle on it. That’s not random. That’s what happens when your system had to learn how to survive without enough safety, support, or understanding. And together, we slow things down and discover the pathway toward healing, not just surviving.
(918) 228-6346 View (918) 228-6346
Photo of Jaq Zuidema, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TIYT, ASD-CS, ADHD-CS, CPATP
Jaq Zuidema
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TIYT, ASD-CS, ADHD-CS, CPATP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Existential-Humanistic Theory.
Are you spending your day feeling burnt out, on the verge of a meltdown, or feeling like you are going to shut down? A social life is important to keep our cups full and spoons in our drawers. However, when you wake up still feeling tired from the day before, socializing is the last thing you want to do. Living in a mode of constantly feeling burnout does not allow you to be your best self. Understanding your daily needs is important so that you can live a happier and more fulfilled life.
I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Existential-Humanistic Theory.
Are you spending your day feeling burnt out, on the verge of a meltdown, or feeling like you are going to shut down? A social life is important to keep our cups full and spoons in our drawers. However, when you wake up still feeling tired from the day before, socializing is the last thing you want to do. Living in a mode of constantly feeling burnout does not allow you to be your best self. Understanding your daily needs is important so that you can live a happier and more fulfilled life.
(918) 303-7183 View (918) 303-7183
Photo of Elizabeth Page Brockwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elizabeth Page Brockwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74105
Are you in need of support through a life transition? Struggling with a relationship? Dealing with feelings of low self-worth? Everyone’s story matters and I want to hear yours. I've been in practice for 15+ years. My approach is interactive and collaborative. This means we will talk during our sessions to create a way to work towards and achieve your goals. I emphasize a strength-based approach to help people achieve personal growth. In our sessions I will help you identify what is working in your life and what you are hoping to change. We will work together to make that change happen.
Are you in need of support through a life transition? Struggling with a relationship? Dealing with feelings of low self-worth? Everyone’s story matters and I want to hear yours. I've been in practice for 15+ years. My approach is interactive and collaborative. This means we will talk during our sessions to create a way to work towards and achieve your goals. I emphasize a strength-based approach to help people achieve personal growth. In our sessions I will help you identify what is working in your life and what you are hoping to change. We will work together to make that change happen.
(918) 300-4814 View (918) 300-4814
Photo of Shalon M Stokes - Impact Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Impact Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Noble, OK 73068
I function from a strength based, solution-focused, systems perspective; while also working with a trauma sensitive treatment knowledge base. Life can be hard at times and we all need someone to listen to us along our journey in life. I provide individual, couples, family and group therapy to work toward finding health and wholeness within yourself and others. I desire to provide you a safe environment in which to explore the concerns you bring to counseling. I will assist you in identifying and exploring options open to you; ultimately, the responsibility for change is within you.
I function from a strength based, solution-focused, systems perspective; while also working with a trauma sensitive treatment knowledge base. Life can be hard at times and we all need someone to listen to us along our journey in life. I provide individual, couples, family and group therapy to work toward finding health and wholeness within yourself and others. I desire to provide you a safe environment in which to explore the concerns you bring to counseling. I will assist you in identifying and exploring options open to you; ultimately, the responsibility for change is within you.
(405) 428-4526 View (405) 428-4526

See more therapy options for McAlester

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.