Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Michael Anderson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Waitlist for new clients
If you come to therapy knowing what you want, I can support you with a personalized variety of clinical approaches, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness.
Even when we feel lost, there is always a path to a more hopeful future. As your therapist, I can help you find your way forward: Toward your goals, toward self-understanding, and toward peace and satisfaction. I’ve worked with people from many walks of life successfully and focus on helping those who find their lives unmanageable or fundamentally unfulfilling, especially when it involves difficult childhoods or traumatic experiences. I make space in our sessions to give genuine human support, from philosophical soul searching to practical goal setting, with a balance of humility, humor, and psychological insights.
If you come to therapy knowing what you want, I can support you with a personalized variety of clinical approaches, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness.
Even when we feel lost, there is always a path to a more hopeful future. As your therapist, I can help you find your way forward: Toward your goals, toward self-understanding, and toward peace and satisfaction. I’ve worked with people from many walks of life successfully and focus on helping those who find their lives unmanageable or fundamentally unfulfilling, especially when it involves difficult childhoods or traumatic experiences. I make space in our sessions to give genuine human support, from philosophical soul searching to practical goal setting, with a balance of humility, humor, and psychological insights.
(412) 405-6089 View (412) 405-6089
Photo of Charles Warren, MS, NCC, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charles Warren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a trauma informed lens and a non-judgmental framework in therapy that can include mindfulness, internal family systems ( IFS), compassion focused, and feminist based theories focused on empowerment.
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
I use a trauma informed lens and a non-judgmental framework in therapy that can include mindfulness, internal family systems ( IFS), compassion focused, and feminist based theories focused on empowerment.
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
(412) 998-7334 View (412) 998-7334
Photo of Amanda Talak, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Talak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Online Only
In addition to EMDR and IFS, I am also formally trained in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Grounded in trauma-informed care, guided by compassion, and rooted in authenticity - I believe healing happens when you truly feel seen and supported. I utilize IFS and EMDR in my therapeutic practice. Both modalities, either separate or paired together, can be incredibly beneficial for many challenges including, but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, feeling stagnant in life, attachment/interpersonal issues, and unhelpful thoughts and behavior patterns that keep you feeling stuck.
In addition to EMDR and IFS, I am also formally trained in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Grounded in trauma-informed care, guided by compassion, and rooted in authenticity - I believe healing happens when you truly feel seen and supported. I utilize IFS and EMDR in my therapeutic practice. Both modalities, either separate or paired together, can be incredibly beneficial for many challenges including, but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, feeling stagnant in life, attachment/interpersonal issues, and unhelpful thoughts and behavior patterns that keep you feeling stuck.
(412) 912-1668 View (412) 912-1668
Photo of Rustin Paradise, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rustin Paradise
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in different types of trauma treatment and utilize Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and EMDR.
When you think about how far you have come from your past, you are amazed. The steps that you have taken to get to where you are today did not seem possible three years ago. Even though your situation has completely changed and life is incredible, it still doesn’t feel that way. You feel guilty about what has been left behind. Extreme emotions come up from smells, sights, or statements, and you can’t control it. Nightmares cause you fear when you think about sleeping. You are sick of living this way and want to find some sort of peace but don’t know how or where to start.
I have extensive training in different types of trauma treatment and utilize Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and EMDR.
When you think about how far you have come from your past, you are amazed. The steps that you have taken to get to where you are today did not seem possible three years ago. Even though your situation has completely changed and life is incredible, it still doesn’t feel that way. You feel guilty about what has been left behind. Extreme emotions come up from smells, sights, or statements, and you can’t control it. Nightmares cause you fear when you think about sleeping. You are sick of living this way and want to find some sort of peace but don’t know how or where to start.
View
Photo of Alyssa Anderson, MA, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
We live in a world that breeds anxiety and overwhelm, and sometimes just keeping up can feel like drowning! Whether you’re dealing with relationship issues, substance use, adjusting to motherhood, life transitions, the trap of comparison, anxiety, depression… whatever it is, you are not alone. I’ve spent years exploring and applying the concepts of Bowen Family Systems Theory to my own life, and I know first hand the benefits that this journey can bring. It is an honor to be able to offer the same benefits to others!
We live in a world that breeds anxiety and overwhelm, and sometimes just keeping up can feel like drowning! Whether you’re dealing with relationship issues, substance use, adjusting to motherhood, life transitions, the trap of comparison, anxiety, depression… whatever it is, you are not alone. I’ve spent years exploring and applying the concepts of Bowen Family Systems Theory to my own life, and I know first hand the benefits that this journey can bring. It is an honor to be able to offer the same benefits to others!
(412) 785-3298 View (412) 785-3298
Photo of Courtney Orlowski, MS, LAPC
Courtney Orlowski
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
I am formally trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy & Internal Family Systems, which means faster, more lasting healing.
Are you struggling in a relationship and finding yourself stuck in a negative cycle with someone you love? Do you find that all your good intentions lead you further from connection? The closest relationship is where the biggest hurts happen because this person means so much to us. Often we are stuck in a cycle where there is no good move. We fight for our connection, and things blow up. We tuck away our pain, and we feel further apart. This feels like so much pressure, and often a hopeless place to be.
I am formally trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy & Internal Family Systems, which means faster, more lasting healing.
Are you struggling in a relationship and finding yourself stuck in a negative cycle with someone you love? Do you find that all your good intentions lead you further from connection? The closest relationship is where the biggest hurts happen because this person means so much to us. Often we are stuck in a cycle where there is no good move. We fight for our connection, and things blow up. We tuck away our pain, and we feel further apart. This feels like so much pressure, and often a hopeless place to be.
(412) 206-9275 View (412) 206-9275
Photo of Tara Morse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach combines EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other proven therapeutic modalities to address trauma, emotional challenges, and personal growth.
I truly believe that people have the capacity to change, grow, and achieve their full potential within the context of a supportive environment. This belief drives my work as a therapist. I am dedicated to guiding individuals through their healing journeys by integrating a range of evidence-based practices.
My approach combines EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other proven therapeutic modalities to address trauma, emotional challenges, and personal growth.
I truly believe that people have the capacity to change, grow, and achieve their full potential within the context of a supportive environment. This belief drives my work as a therapist. I am dedicated to guiding individuals through their healing journeys by integrating a range of evidence-based practices.
(412) 515-3931 View (412) 515-3931
Photo of Janeanna Galli - JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling , LPCMH, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Online Only
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
(484) 334-4170 View (484) 334-4170
Photo of Brittany Shaffer, MSW , LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Shaffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I frequently utilize concepts from Attachment Theory, Phase-Oriented Trauma Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced childhood trauma, domestic/intimate partner violence or relationship challenges, chronic pain/illness, and substance use issues. I also appreciate the beautiful tangents, metaphors, and insights from my work with neurodiverse clients. Much of my work focused on helping clients examine how trauma has shaped their lives, decisions, & current circumstances and find ways to heal. Finding meaning and insight from the connections and patterns we can see in the past and present is key to informing the work we can do together to pursue a more intentional and satisfying future.
I frequently utilize concepts from Attachment Theory, Phase-Oriented Trauma Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced childhood trauma, domestic/intimate partner violence or relationship challenges, chronic pain/illness, and substance use issues. I also appreciate the beautiful tangents, metaphors, and insights from my work with neurodiverse clients. Much of my work focused on helping clients examine how trauma has shaped their lives, decisions, & current circumstances and find ways to heal. Finding meaning and insight from the connections and patterns we can see in the past and present is key to informing the work we can do together to pursue a more intentional and satisfying future.
(412) 732-7626 View (412) 732-7626
Photo of Martha D'Abruzzo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martha D'Abruzzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Throughout our lives, we navigate cultural, familial, religious, educational, work and other communities that challenge us individually to live freely and authentically. Your unique experiences mean you can take many different pathways to reach the same goal. I have a background in a range of approaches including family systems therapy, somatic therapy, yoga nidra, EMDR, cognitive, interpersonal, mindfulness-based, meditation and movement therapy. Collaboratively we can explore your goals and make a plan to restore your inner balance.
Throughout our lives, we navigate cultural, familial, religious, educational, work and other communities that challenge us individually to live freely and authentically. Your unique experiences mean you can take many different pathways to reach the same goal. I have a background in a range of approaches including family systems therapy, somatic therapy, yoga nidra, EMDR, cognitive, interpersonal, mindfulness-based, meditation and movement therapy. Collaboratively we can explore your goals and make a plan to restore your inner balance.
(412) 906-9837 View (412) 906-9837
Photo of Mac Sammon, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mac Sammon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Difficult emotions may bring you to therapy, but they can also serve as pathways to hope, curiosity, insight, and self-compassion. Turning towards these emotions can offer opportunities to heal and move forward with greater ease. As a therapist, I have the privilege of working with school-age children, adults, couples, and families facing challenges in relationships, struggles at work or school, feelings of overwhelm or stagnation, low self-worth, or difficulty finding joy in life. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Treatment, and Anxiety Treatment, and I am trained in CBT, ACT, IFS, and ADHD Treatment.
Difficult emotions may bring you to therapy, but they can also serve as pathways to hope, curiosity, insight, and self-compassion. Turning towards these emotions can offer opportunities to heal and move forward with greater ease. As a therapist, I have the privilege of working with school-age children, adults, couples, and families facing challenges in relationships, struggles at work or school, feelings of overwhelm or stagnation, low self-worth, or difficulty finding joy in life. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Treatment, and Anxiety Treatment, and I am trained in CBT, ACT, IFS, and ADHD Treatment.
(412) 816-8503 View (412) 816-8503
Photo of Kayla Harris, LAPC, MS, NCC
Kayla Harris
Associate Professional Counselor, LAPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I primarily incorporate CBT, solution-focused, interpersonal approaches, psychodynamic, family systems, and mindfulness.
Skills to manage their mental health are among the greatest gifts we can offer our children. I specialize in teaching children and adolescents evidence-based strategies to communicate well, think positively, make friends, manage emotions, feel confident, and more. I collaborate with parents, making sure you feel informed and empowered. We will work together to create goals for therapy, to help your child be their best, and to bring more peace into your home. I believe in the resilience that exists within all of us and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. I would love to work with your family.
I primarily incorporate CBT, solution-focused, interpersonal approaches, psychodynamic, family systems, and mindfulness.
Skills to manage their mental health are among the greatest gifts we can offer our children. I specialize in teaching children and adolescents evidence-based strategies to communicate well, think positively, make friends, manage emotions, feel confident, and more. I collaborate with parents, making sure you feel informed and empowered. We will work together to create goals for therapy, to help your child be their best, and to bring more peace into your home. I believe in the resilience that exists within all of us and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. I would love to work with your family.
(412) 838-3769 View (412) 838-3769
Photo of Braden Bernard, MA, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Braden Bernard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I integrate psychodynamic theory, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and mindfulness.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the complexities of past wounds and heal from the lasting impact of dysfunctional relationships. I recognize how deep-rooted emotional patterns can influence our interactions with others, shaping our sense of self and connection. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their inner worlds, uncover the origins of their pain, and work towards authentic healing and growth.
I integrate psychodynamic theory, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and mindfulness.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the complexities of past wounds and heal from the lasting impact of dysfunctional relationships. I recognize how deep-rooted emotional patterns can influence our interactions with others, shaping our sense of self and connection. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their inner worlds, uncover the origins of their pain, and work towards authentic healing and growth.
(412) 345-1457 View (412) 345-1457
Photo of Debra Flint - Quiet Retreat Therapy, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quiet Retreat Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
D student who practices Gestalt and IFS.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
D student who practices Gestalt and IFS.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
(724) 573-8992 View (724) 573-8992
Photo of David Gresko, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Gresko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
My treatment methods include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, Guided Visualization, Life Coaching, Faith Based counseling and Motivational Interviewing.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
My treatment methods include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, Guided Visualization, Life Coaching, Faith Based counseling and Motivational Interviewing.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
(412) 385-6997 View (412) 385-6997
Photo of Michael Quirk, LPC, MT-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Quirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
In addition to EMDR, I also offer Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy, which is a powerful method for working with the different parts of yourself.
I believe everyone is on a journey towards healing. Do you struggle with emotional pain, stuck patterns, or distressing memories that just won’t go away? I specialize in helping individuals—adults and children—heal and thrive through transformative approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy.
In addition to EMDR, I also offer Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy, which is a powerful method for working with the different parts of yourself.
I believe everyone is on a journey towards healing. Do you struggle with emotional pain, stuck patterns, or distressing memories that just won’t go away? I specialize in helping individuals—adults and children—heal and thrive through transformative approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) therapy.
(412) 895-2066 View (412) 895-2066
Photo of Susie J. Balcom, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susie J. Balcom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Online Only
I use IFS/parts work, Gestalt techniques, yoga, expressive arts, and somatic therapy.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
I use IFS/parts work, Gestalt techniques, yoga, expressive arts, and somatic therapy.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
(412) 520-3576 View (412) 520-3576
Photo of Casey Swartz - Casey Swartz, LPC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Swartz, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am trained in EMDR and incorporate Internal Family Systems ( IFS)/parts work.
Is something keeping you from being the partner, parent, friend or family member you want to be? When you're feeling sad or nervous or if you're struggling with a troubling memory it can be hard to be the person you always imagined you'd be at this time in your life. I want to help you hold the weight you're carrying and figure out what it is that's holding you back.
I am trained in EMDR and incorporate Internal Family Systems ( IFS)/parts work.
Is something keeping you from being the partner, parent, friend or family member you want to be? When you're feeling sad or nervous or if you're struggling with a troubling memory it can be hard to be the person you always imagined you'd be at this time in your life. I want to help you hold the weight you're carrying and figure out what it is that's holding you back.
(412) 275-4338 View (412) 275-4338
Photo of Cait Carpico, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cait Carpico
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
I use techniques from CBT, ACT, IFS, IPT, and Attachment Theory.
Getting older and slowly realizing that you're struggling, but keeping the ship afloat for everyone else. Talking with your family and dealing with the emotional hangover of realizing how messed up that comment was. Buying yourself into debt and realizing that all this stuff doesn't actually make you happy. Don't go through this alone, because you are not! Life is complicated, and growing up with family who are emotionally immature, suffer from addiction, trauma, or severe mental illness can be a lifelong journey of discovering yourself, healing, and learning to thrive.
I use techniques from CBT, ACT, IFS, IPT, and Attachment Theory.
Getting older and slowly realizing that you're struggling, but keeping the ship afloat for everyone else. Talking with your family and dealing with the emotional hangover of realizing how messed up that comment was. Buying yourself into debt and realizing that all this stuff doesn't actually make you happy. Don't go through this alone, because you are not! Life is complicated, and growing up with family who are emotionally immature, suffer from addiction, trauma, or severe mental illness can be a lifelong journey of discovering yourself, healing, and learning to thrive.
(412) 896-7994 View (412) 896-7994
Photo of Ben Hearn, PhD, NCC
Ben Hearn
PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
I provide Existential, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and Ketamine-Assisted therapies.
I do my best work with clients who are curious about themselves, have a good sense of humor, and are often at a significant transition point in their lives. Clients most often begin working with me around issues related to trauma, anxiety, or relational wounding and are seeking new ways to relate to themselves, others, and the world around them. My overarching goal in my work with clients is to help them move through the world with a greater degree of consciousness, courage, and compassion - whatever that may mean or look in their lives.
I provide Existential, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and Ketamine-Assisted therapies.
I do my best work with clients who are curious about themselves, have a good sense of humor, and are often at a significant transition point in their lives. Clients most often begin working with me around issues related to trauma, anxiety, or relational wounding and are seeking new ways to relate to themselves, others, and the world around them. My overarching goal in my work with clients is to help them move through the world with a greater degree of consciousness, courage, and compassion - whatever that may mean or look in their lives.
(412) 245-7104 View (412) 245-7104
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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.