Photo of Blue Skies Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Blue Skies Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
We are passionate about the work we do: treating trauma with EMDR and IFS and helping you navigate through your world by learning attachment, communication, and relationship skills.
Jayne started Blue Skies Counseling with the goal of helping women heal who have experienced relationship trauma. Now, as four empathic, LGBTQIA+-allied feminist therapists, our expanded goal is to help you recognize and actively dismantle felt oppression and inequity on an individual basis, including supporting people who are questioning their faith, sexuality, and gender identity. We offer a client-centered, solution-focused approach through multicultural, humanistic, existential, and relational theories in a safe, warm environment. We also use EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), SE, and other modalities to help our clients heal.
We are passionate about the work we do: treating trauma with EMDR and IFS and helping you navigate through your world by learning attachment, communication, and relationship skills.
Jayne started Blue Skies Counseling with the goal of helping women heal who have experienced relationship trauma. Now, as four empathic, LGBTQIA+-allied feminist therapists, our expanded goal is to help you recognize and actively dismantle felt oppression and inequity on an individual basis, including supporting people who are questioning their faith, sexuality, and gender identity. We offer a client-centered, solution-focused approach through multicultural, humanistic, existential, and relational theories in a safe, warm environment. We also use EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), SE, and other modalities to help our clients heal.
(385) 324-6238 View (385) 324-6238
Photo of Caroline Alyce Kellough, Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Caroline Alyce Kellough
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Waitlist for new clients
My work is influenced by many trauma-informed practices including attachment theory, object relations, EMDR (trained), family systems, and internal family systems.
I work with young adults, families, and couples helping them to shed light on themselves and the systems of which they are a part. I have worked predominately with clients experiencing symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, addictive disorders, and personality disorders. I have a background in wilderness therapy and experiential treatment and love to introduce creative, alternative modes of expression to my clients, including yoga movement, narrative, and outdoor based therapies (walk and talk). By the end of our first session, most of my clients feel relieved and hopeful for their next steps.
My work is influenced by many trauma-informed practices including attachment theory, object relations, EMDR (trained), family systems, and internal family systems.
I work with young adults, families, and couples helping them to shed light on themselves and the systems of which they are a part. I have worked predominately with clients experiencing symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, addictive disorders, and personality disorders. I have a background in wilderness therapy and experiential treatment and love to introduce creative, alternative modes of expression to my clients, including yoga movement, narrative, and outdoor based therapies (walk and talk). By the end of our first session, most of my clients feel relieved and hopeful for their next steps.
(435) 562-9024 View (435) 562-9024
Photo of Stephanie Epstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Stephanie Epstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84124  (Online Only)
As she tailors treatment to each individual client, she is inspired by therapeutic practices which include Internal Family Systems (IFS), inner child work, Mindful Self-Compassion, Wheel of Consent, Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST), Somatic Experiencing and art therapy.
Stephanie is always client centered and rooted in evidence-based practices. She has received extensive training in various modalities address diagnoses of complex trauma/PTSD, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, addiction issues, and dissociative disorders. She believes the decision to enter therapy is courageous, and the path of self-discovery and fulfillment is one of the most profound journeys on which we embark. This path requires that each person be witnessed, seen, and held in a compassionate and supportive space.
As she tailors treatment to each individual client, she is inspired by therapeutic practices which include Internal Family Systems (IFS), inner child work, Mindful Self-Compassion, Wheel of Consent, Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST), Somatic Experiencing and art therapy.
Stephanie is always client centered and rooted in evidence-based practices. She has received extensive training in various modalities address diagnoses of complex trauma/PTSD, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, addiction issues, and dissociative disorders. She believes the decision to enter therapy is courageous, and the path of self-discovery and fulfillment is one of the most profound journeys on which we embark. This path requires that each person be witnessed, seen, and held in a compassionate and supportive space.
(385) 526-4369 View (385) 526-4369
Photo of Lynette Randall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Lynette Randall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
My approach is deeply influenced by models such as Inner Child Work, IFS and EMDR.
It's okay to not feel like yourself. It's okay to not know what the next step is in your healing journey. What you are feeling is real and it is possible to feel better! I work with adults, specializing in trauma, sex therapy, postpartum experiences and life transitions. I am passionate about LGBTQIA+ individuals receiving queer-affirming therapy that empowers and facilitates self compassion and acceptance.
My approach is deeply influenced by models such as Inner Child Work, IFS and EMDR.
It's okay to not feel like yourself. It's okay to not know what the next step is in your healing journey. What you are feeling is real and it is possible to feel better! I work with adults, specializing in trauma, sex therapy, postpartum experiences and life transitions. I am passionate about LGBTQIA+ individuals receiving queer-affirming therapy that empowers and facilitates self compassion and acceptance.
(801) 996-7462 View (801) 996-7462
Photo of Stacy Lund, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Stacy Lund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CYT
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
I am a certified EMDR clinician and have completed courses in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Exposure and Response therapy (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), HRT for Trichotillomania, (Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), and Othmer Method Neurofeedback.
I believe in a collaborative approach to build the path to healing as well as a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. My practice as a clinician is centered around helping individuals process traumatic experiences so they can heal and live a more present and focused existence. I have extensive knowledge of end-of-life issues including chronic pain, unresolved trauma, personal spirituality, , as well as the grieving process.
I am a certified EMDR clinician and have completed courses in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Exposure and Response therapy (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), HRT for Trichotillomania, (Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), and Othmer Method Neurofeedback.
I believe in a collaborative approach to build the path to healing as well as a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. My practice as a clinician is centered around helping individuals process traumatic experiences so they can heal and live a more present and focused existence. I have extensive knowledge of end-of-life issues including chronic pain, unresolved trauma, personal spirituality, , as well as the grieving process.
(385) 346-2684 View (385) 346-2684
Photo of Lacey A Bagley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Lacey A Bagley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Hi! I am a bisexual, cisgender woman and love to CELEBRATE my queer community! My goal as a therapist is to help clients find healing from within to become empowered to make changes in their external world. My approach includes an element of play and/or art, to help clients have new emotional experiences through the therapeutic approaches of Internal Family Systems and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Hi! I am a bisexual, cisgender woman and love to CELEBRATE my queer community! My goal as a therapist is to help clients find healing from within to become empowered to make changes in their external world. My approach includes an element of play and/or art, to help clients have new emotional experiences through the therapeutic approaches of Internal Family Systems and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
(801) 477-5785 View (801) 477-5785
Photo of Erin McGuire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Erin McGuire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84106  (Online Only)
I utilize several modalities, including CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, and IFS, and sex therapy but the individualized, respectful, and safe therapeutic relationship is the most important stage of therapy.
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, learning their stories, and helping guide them towards their own goals. I think that anyone can benefit from therapy, and I especially enjoy working with people who have identified a different future for themselves, one with less pain or anxiety or that heavy depression, less trauma shadowing them, less pressure to look a certain way, believe a certain way, love a certain way, or be a certain way. I love working with clients to find a door, something to open towards change and growth and their own version of peace, whatever that might mean to them.
I utilize several modalities, including CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, and IFS, and sex therapy but the individualized, respectful, and safe therapeutic relationship is the most important stage of therapy.
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, learning their stories, and helping guide them towards their own goals. I think that anyone can benefit from therapy, and I especially enjoy working with people who have identified a different future for themselves, one with less pain or anxiety or that heavy depression, less trauma shadowing them, less pressure to look a certain way, believe a certain way, love a certain way, or be a certain way. I love working with clients to find a door, something to open towards change and growth and their own version of peace, whatever that might mean to them.
(801) 893-7724 View (801) 893-7724
Photo of Renae Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Renae Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Waitlist for new clients
Before moving to Idaho, I worked as a therapist New York City and am IFS informed and trained in Sex Therapy, Couples Therapy, EMDR, Attachment Focused therapy, CBT, Ketamine/Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, and many more.
If you are reading this right now, you are probably feeling alone or in crisis -- and searching for relief. My work as a therapist is to provide you with a safe, judgement-free environment where you can openly discuss the areas of distress in your life where you want change. I offer a holistic, mindful approach to my practice and am trained in several evidence-based modalities shown to be effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety, sexual and intimacy issues, integration and trauma. Whether you've been struggling for years or are in the midst of recent issues now, hope is available and change is possible.
Before moving to Idaho, I worked as a therapist New York City and am IFS informed and trained in Sex Therapy, Couples Therapy, EMDR, Attachment Focused therapy, CBT, Ketamine/Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, and many more.
If you are reading this right now, you are probably feeling alone or in crisis -- and searching for relief. My work as a therapist is to provide you with a safe, judgement-free environment where you can openly discuss the areas of distress in your life where you want change. I offer a holistic, mindful approach to my practice and am trained in several evidence-based modalities shown to be effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety, sexual and intimacy issues, integration and trauma. Whether you've been struggling for years or are in the midst of recent issues now, hope is available and change is possible.
(208) 291-1652 View (208) 291-1652
Photo of Erin Monson, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Salt Lake City, UT
Erin Monson
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT, Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84124  (Online Only)
You might be convinced there is something is wrong with you. Your relationship is struggling once again. You keep finding yourself in these patterns with partners, families, and friendships and you think to yourself, “is this how it’s really supposed to be”? I can assure you - we can heal these patterns that are keeping you stuck.
You might be convinced there is something is wrong with you. Your relationship is struggling once again. You keep finding yourself in these patterns with partners, families, and friendships and you think to yourself, “is this how it’s really supposed to be”? I can assure you - we can heal these patterns that are keeping you stuck.
(385) 503-2710 View (385) 503-2710
Photo of Athena Metos, Marriage & Family Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Athena Metos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Waitlist for new clients
Life is a journey and along the way there are often circumstances that create great pain and trauma that often redirect us down the wrong path.If we try to ignore the pain it only gets worse & the cycle of dysfunction begins! I have learned that we all need help navigating though life's trials, and yet it takes a lot of inner strength to even ask! As a therapist my goal is to allow you to reach your greatest potential during this journey and gain the right tools to navigate through anything that comes in your path!
Life is a journey and along the way there are often circumstances that create great pain and trauma that often redirect us down the wrong path.If we try to ignore the pain it only gets worse & the cycle of dysfunction begins! I have learned that we all need help navigating though life's trials, and yet it takes a lot of inner strength to even ask! As a therapist my goal is to allow you to reach your greatest potential during this journey and gain the right tools to navigate through anything that comes in your path!
(801) 800-8860 View (801) 800-8860
Photo of Jessica Jensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Jessica Jensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
A good therapeutic relationship holds a high level of confidence, allowing people to share all sides of themselves; their hopes and fears, wants and needs, dreams and doubts, their strengths and vulnerabilities. Good therapy provides awareness and new perspectives, helping people to place less focus on where they are and more importance on the direction they are moving. My passion as a therapist, is to provide a space for individuals, couples and families to learn, heal and grow on their unique journeys towards transformation and personal freedom.
A good therapeutic relationship holds a high level of confidence, allowing people to share all sides of themselves; their hopes and fears, wants and needs, dreams and doubts, their strengths and vulnerabilities. Good therapy provides awareness and new perspectives, helping people to place less focus on where they are and more importance on the direction they are moving. My passion as a therapist, is to provide a space for individuals, couples and families to learn, heal and grow on their unique journeys towards transformation and personal freedom.
(801) 666-2976 View (801) 666-2976
Photo of London Meister, Licensed Social Worker in Salt Lake City, UT
London Meister
Licensed Social Worker, CSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
Investing time to tell someone your story can be daunting. Let's make this comfortable - come as you are. I want to help you dismantle the harsh narratives we often take on, sometimes without even realizing it. The stories we tell ourselves shape our behaviors, relationships, physical health & entire reality. Along with Narrative Therapy, our work will include multiple evidence-based modalities— all proven to relieve symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and increase self-esteem. I love working with both individuals & couples. I tell my clients all of the time, we heal in the context of healthy relationships. Let’s cultivate yours.
Investing time to tell someone your story can be daunting. Let's make this comfortable - come as you are. I want to help you dismantle the harsh narratives we often take on, sometimes without even realizing it. The stories we tell ourselves shape our behaviors, relationships, physical health & entire reality. Along with Narrative Therapy, our work will include multiple evidence-based modalities— all proven to relieve symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and increase self-esteem. I love working with both individuals & couples. I tell my clients all of the time, we heal in the context of healthy relationships. Let’s cultivate yours.
(385) 332-8254 View (385) 332-8254
Photo of Rebecca Hoffman, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Salt Lake City, UT
Rebecca Hoffman
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, CFLE-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Hope is a powerful tool. Research has shown that progress and healing can be made when someone has it. Adversity, challenges, trauma, abuse, betrayal, abandonment, long-term illness, couple and family conflict, divorce, single-parenting, blending families, and grief can cause anyone to struggle. I have experienced these things and chose to further my education to know how to pay it forward to others seeking relief. Even the most extreme circumstances can be neutralized through therapy.
Hope is a powerful tool. Research has shown that progress and healing can be made when someone has it. Adversity, challenges, trauma, abuse, betrayal, abandonment, long-term illness, couple and family conflict, divorce, single-parenting, blending families, and grief can cause anyone to struggle. I have experienced these things and chose to further my education to know how to pay it forward to others seeking relief. Even the most extreme circumstances can be neutralized through therapy.
(385) 438-7295 View (385) 438-7295
Photo of Nicco Allen, Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Nicco Allen
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84106  (Online Only)
Throughout my life, I have searched for the kindness and understanding of others. I have lived through hardship and trauma, which have shaped me into the individual I have become. I know the value of suffering and the importance of being seen, heard, and understood by others, even a stranger. To be human is to long for meaning and worth. At times it seems impossible to find it within ourselves without the outreached hand of others who see beyond our appearance and behavior. My passion is people and the amazing ability of the mind, body, and soul. My desire is to help others discover and thrive in their own health and happiness.
Throughout my life, I have searched for the kindness and understanding of others. I have lived through hardship and trauma, which have shaped me into the individual I have become. I know the value of suffering and the importance of being seen, heard, and understood by others, even a stranger. To be human is to long for meaning and worth. At times it seems impossible to find it within ourselves without the outreached hand of others who see beyond our appearance and behavior. My passion is people and the amazing ability of the mind, body, and soul. My desire is to help others discover and thrive in their own health and happiness.
(385) 270-8841 View (385) 270-8841
Photo of Jenny N Jarvis, Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Jenny N Jarvis
Counselor, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
I get it. Life happens. I’ve had those experiences myself. It can be hard to know what to do when your relationships are struggling or when you need help. It’s uniquely difficult when you’re worried about your teenager & looking for support. But here you are, taking this monumental step toward improvement. I tend to use a strengths-based approach in my work, helping my clients embrace their best self and enhance their life through the “Three C’s”: Connection, Creation & Contribution. Laying a foundation that allows for the development of the Three C’s leads to living a life of purpose, meaning & “pyong” - peace & confidence in life.
I get it. Life happens. I’ve had those experiences myself. It can be hard to know what to do when your relationships are struggling or when you need help. It’s uniquely difficult when you’re worried about your teenager & looking for support. But here you are, taking this monumental step toward improvement. I tend to use a strengths-based approach in my work, helping my clients embrace their best self and enhance their life through the “Three C’s”: Connection, Creation & Contribution. Laying a foundation that allows for the development of the Three C’s leads to living a life of purpose, meaning & “pyong” - peace & confidence in life.
(801) 405-3088 View (801) 405-3088
Photo of Haley Choice-Tapia, Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Haley Choice-Tapia
Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Waitlist for new clients
I strive to create brave, affirming spaces free of shame for clients to design authentic lives and learn tools that deepen connections in relationships. I work from several evidence-based & trauma-informed therapy models and take a non-pathological approach. Together, we will look for experiences that have created patterns & explore how you have learned to connect with others. We will utilize somatic work, such as EMDR & Expressive Art, to learn how your body responds to life experiences & create more awareness of your subconscious. And we will apply mindfulness & coping skills to practice self-compassion, acceptance, & empowerment.
I strive to create brave, affirming spaces free of shame for clients to design authentic lives and learn tools that deepen connections in relationships. I work from several evidence-based & trauma-informed therapy models and take a non-pathological approach. Together, we will look for experiences that have created patterns & explore how you have learned to connect with others. We will utilize somatic work, such as EMDR & Expressive Art, to learn how your body responds to life experiences & create more awareness of your subconscious. And we will apply mindfulness & coping skills to practice self-compassion, acceptance, & empowerment.
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Photo of Eva Firth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Eva Firth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84121  (Online Only)
I offer sex therapy, perinatal support, and couples therapy in Oregon & Utah. I love helping folks through sexual concerns like sexual anxiety, erectile issues, low desire, sexual shame, desire discrepancy in relationships, and sexual pain. I know how powerful sex positive support can be & I hope to create a space where you can discover your authentic sexual self and strengthen your relationship(s). I am also passionate about working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma through pregnancy or postpartum. I know this time in life can be so overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief.
I offer sex therapy, perinatal support, and couples therapy in Oregon & Utah. I love helping folks through sexual concerns like sexual anxiety, erectile issues, low desire, sexual shame, desire discrepancy in relationships, and sexual pain. I know how powerful sex positive support can be & I hope to create a space where you can discover your authentic sexual self and strengthen your relationship(s). I am also passionate about working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma through pregnancy or postpartum. I know this time in life can be so overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief.
(971) 293-2697 View (971) 293-2697
Photo of Erin Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Erin Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84104  (Online Only)
Easily schedule now by visiting erinhugheslcsw.clientsecure.me. I am a licensed Therapist with a background in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University in Oregon and Utah. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a pretty good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult right now, and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment.
Easily schedule now by visiting erinhugheslcsw.clientsecure.me. I am a licensed Therapist with a background in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University in Oregon and Utah. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a pretty good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult right now, and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment.
(458) 243-4522 View (458) 243-4522
Photo of Dr. Lisa L Gold, Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Dr. Lisa L Gold
Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Psychedelic medicine is revolutionizing psychotherapy. Transformation is now possible more quickly and easily than ever before. Reset and reconnect with yourself and your partner. Create the love and life you desire! I offer preparation, facilitation, and integration of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and concierge retreats for individuals and couples.. Join me in Hawaii, Utah, Arizona, or Colorado for the ultimate corrective experience of the 6 foundational ketamine sessions, as well as maintenance sessions. Heal, create, and strengthen your emotional, sexual, and spiritual connection.
Psychedelic medicine is revolutionizing psychotherapy. Transformation is now possible more quickly and easily than ever before. Reset and reconnect with yourself and your partner. Create the love and life you desire! I offer preparation, facilitation, and integration of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and concierge retreats for individuals and couples.. Join me in Hawaii, Utah, Arizona, or Colorado for the ultimate corrective experience of the 6 foundational ketamine sessions, as well as maintenance sessions. Heal, create, and strengthen your emotional, sexual, and spiritual connection.
(480) 201-1427 View (480) 201-1427
Photo of Tiffany Dawn Lemery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Tiffany Dawn Lemery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84118  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck or trapped in your feelings and emotions? Do you feel defined by your past, negative beliefs, challenging emotions, or life difficulties? Are you ready to start rewiring your brain so that you can break free from them? Let’s find the root cause of the issues. Together, we can process and heal so you can enjoy your life fully. We will start by discussing your goals, and together, we will embark upon this healing journey. I am licensed in Alaska, New Mexico, and Utah. Tiffany also provides supervision for licensure.
Do you feel stuck or trapped in your feelings and emotions? Do you feel defined by your past, negative beliefs, challenging emotions, or life difficulties? Are you ready to start rewiring your brain so that you can break free from them? Let’s find the root cause of the issues. Together, we can process and heal so you can enjoy your life fully. We will start by discussing your goals, and together, we will embark upon this healing journey. I am licensed in Alaska, New Mexico, and Utah. Tiffany also provides supervision for licensure.
(833) 780-1053 View (833) 780-1053

See more therapy options for Salt Lake City

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.