Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Roanoke City County, VA
For over 31 years, Strategic Therapy Associates has been helping adults, children, and indivuduals. We take pride in empowering individuals to focus on their strengths to make positive change to live happier, healthier lives. We work with individuals of all ages and treat many things: anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, neglect, anger, stress, parenting, domestic violence, marital problems, divorce, substance use, and many other symptoms.
For over 31 years, Strategic Therapy Associates has been helping adults, children, and indivuduals. We take pride in empowering individuals to focus on their strengths to make positive change to live happier, healthier lives. We work with individuals of all ages and treat many things: anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, neglect, anger, stress, parenting, domestic violence, marital problems, divorce, substance use, and many other symptoms.
My approach is both directive and accepting. I am a client-centered therapist. I can help solve problems that can take years to resolve on their own by teaching new skills and giving homework to practice in between sessions. At the same time I allow clients to dictate the goals, pace, and intensity of their counseling sessions. I don't fix people. I look for what is going right and help you or your relationship do more of it.
My approach is both directive and accepting. I am a client-centered therapist. I can help solve problems that can take years to resolve on their own by teaching new skills and giving homework to practice in between sessions. At the same time I allow clients to dictate the goals, pace, and intensity of their counseling sessions. I don't fix people. I look for what is going right and help you or your relationship do more of it.
I often use IFS and EMDR, a powerful combination that gently processes trauma while building compassion for protective parts.
Early morning appointments available ... I work with clients who are carrying the weight of unresolved childhood experiences, people who grew up in chaotic, unpredictable, or emotionally unsafe homes and are now feeling the long-term impact. Many are adult children of alcoholic or emotionally unavailable parents, or individuals who have survived abuse, neglect, or chronic invalidation. They often come to me because they’re tired of feeling stuck in old patterns: people‑pleasing, shutting down, over-functioning, or feeling triggered in relationships.
I often use IFS and EMDR, a powerful combination that gently processes trauma while building compassion for protective parts.
Early morning appointments available ... I work with clients who are carrying the weight of unresolved childhood experiences, people who grew up in chaotic, unpredictable, or emotionally unsafe homes and are now feeling the long-term impact. Many are adult children of alcoholic or emotionally unavailable parents, or individuals who have survived abuse, neglect, or chronic invalidation. They often come to me because they’re tired of feeling stuck in old patterns: people‑pleasing, shutting down, over-functioning, or feeling triggered in relationships.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting you to overcome barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting you to overcome barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
My approach incorporates somatic work and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help you explore and integrate all parts of yourself.
My passion is rooted in using the therapeutic relationship to foster an environment that supports self-actualization. Many of us wonder how we can grow, deepen our sense of self-worth, and take steps toward emotional health, purpose, and fulfillment. Therapy offers a space to gain insight into our mental health and uncover underlying patterns that may contribute to self-disrupting behaviors. I believe each person possesses an inner toolkit to overcome daily challenges; my role is to help you identify and equip the tools you need to access your strengths.
My approach incorporates somatic work and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help you explore and integrate all parts of yourself.
My passion is rooted in using the therapeutic relationship to foster an environment that supports self-actualization. Many of us wonder how we can grow, deepen our sense of self-worth, and take steps toward emotional health, purpose, and fulfillment. Therapy offers a space to gain insight into our mental health and uncover underlying patterns that may contribute to self-disrupting behaviors. I believe each person possesses an inner toolkit to overcome daily challenges; my role is to help you identify and equip the tools you need to access your strengths.
I believe that every human being deserves a safe, calm space to reflect and be supported on their personal journey toward healing and growth. My intention is to assist and encourage you on that path, providing genuine warmth, respect, and empathy every step of the way. I am passionate about collaborating with clients on therapeutic goals such as coping with trauma and anxiety, addressing relationship challenges, life stressors, and difficult transitions, and pursuing greater self-compassion and self-acceptance.
I believe that every human being deserves a safe, calm space to reflect and be supported on their personal journey toward healing and growth. My intention is to assist and encourage you on that path, providing genuine warmth, respect, and empathy every step of the way. I am passionate about collaborating with clients on therapeutic goals such as coping with trauma and anxiety, addressing relationship challenges, life stressors, and difficult transitions, and pursuing greater self-compassion and self-acceptance.
It can be difficult to make that first step. The fact that you are reading this shows your understanding that self care is a top priority. We are living through challenging times which has brought attention to different feelings and emotions. Therapy is a journey and a useful tool to guide you through your most challenging times. My goal is for you to feel safe and be able to have someone help you identify and achieve your therapeutic goals.
It can be difficult to make that first step. The fact that you are reading this shows your understanding that self care is a top priority. We are living through challenging times which has brought attention to different feelings and emotions. Therapy is a journey and a useful tool to guide you through your most challenging times. My goal is for you to feel safe and be able to have someone help you identify and achieve your therapeutic goals.
I utilize modalities including IFS and EMDR to address trauma-related symptoms.
Do you wish you could understand why you behave or respond in certain ways? Are you running into the same issues with your loved ones over and over again? Do you feel like your own worst enemy and struggle to like yourself? If so, it can be a huge relief to have someone guide you during this difficult time. I am a therapist who is passionate about working with individuals who want to learn more about themselves and improve their daily lives, their relationships, and their relationship to self. I feel honored when working with adults who wish to heal issues of trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
I utilize modalities including IFS and EMDR to address trauma-related symptoms.
Do you wish you could understand why you behave or respond in certain ways? Are you running into the same issues with your loved ones over and over again? Do you feel like your own worst enemy and struggle to like yourself? If so, it can be a huge relief to have someone guide you during this difficult time. I am a therapist who is passionate about working with individuals who want to learn more about themselves and improve their daily lives, their relationships, and their relationship to self. I feel honored when working with adults who wish to heal issues of trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship issues.
Have you almost gotten used to feeling stuck, trapped or lost?
Maybe life hasn't turned out the way you once hoped it might. Relationships can go sour or fade away. In the dark moments we can feel terribly alone, misunderstood or broken. The trials of living can simply run us ragged. You're not alone if you sometimes lie awake wondering how you got to wherever you are in life.
Have you almost gotten used to feeling stuck, trapped or lost?
Maybe life hasn't turned out the way you once hoped it might. Relationships can go sour or fade away. In the dark moments we can feel terribly alone, misunderstood or broken. The trials of living can simply run us ragged. You're not alone if you sometimes lie awake wondering how you got to wherever you are in life.
I weave this alongside Internal Family Systems, and Person-Centered care, often incorporating elements of Experiential therapies to tailor our work directly to your unique path
I recognize the unique challenges that individuals face, especially those dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, body image and self esteem issues. My therapeutic approach is centered on fostering resilience, and facilitating growth in a safe, judgment-free environment.
I weave this alongside Internal Family Systems, and Person-Centered care, often incorporating elements of Experiential therapies to tailor our work directly to your unique path
I recognize the unique challenges that individuals face, especially those dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, body image and self esteem issues. My therapeutic approach is centered on fostering resilience, and facilitating growth in a safe, judgment-free environment.
I provide individual counseling services for adolescents 16 and older and adults who are experiencing chaos, pain, confusion, or who feel something is absent in their life. I work with you to increase your own self-awareness and utilize your strengths to create the positive growth you desire. I provide support, honesty, compassion, and encouragement as you go through your journey of growth and healing.
I provide individual counseling services for adolescents 16 and older and adults who are experiencing chaos, pain, confusion, or who feel something is absent in their life. I work with you to increase your own self-awareness and utilize your strengths to create the positive growth you desire. I provide support, honesty, compassion, and encouragement as you go through your journey of growth and healing.
Our therapists are trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Brainspotting, and the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM)—modalities that help process trauma, shift patterns, and restore resilience.
New to therapy? Or maybe you’ve been at it a while but aren’t seeing the progress you hoped for? At Big Oak Wellness, we blend science-backed therapy with mind-body healing in one space. We guide clients through life transitions like new parenthood, relationship shifts, or resurfacing childhood wounds. Our trauma-informed approach helps you reconnect with your body, your Self, and your inner resilience. We have three therapists available, with flexible evening and weekend appointments. We also offer free 15-minute virtual consultations, so you can see if we’re the right fit—because the right therapist makes all the difference.
Our therapists are trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Brainspotting, and the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM)—modalities that help process trauma, shift patterns, and restore resilience.
New to therapy? Or maybe you’ve been at it a while but aren’t seeing the progress you hoped for? At Big Oak Wellness, we blend science-backed therapy with mind-body healing in one space. We guide clients through life transitions like new parenthood, relationship shifts, or resurfacing childhood wounds. Our trauma-informed approach helps you reconnect with your body, your Self, and your inner resilience. We have three therapists available, with flexible evening and weekend appointments. We also offer free 15-minute virtual consultations, so you can see if we’re the right fit—because the right therapist makes all the difference.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns, Person-Centered Therapy to create a supportive, non-judgmental space, and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to explore and heal inner conflicts.
I provide evening (and afternoon) appointments for people struggling with anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, trauma, depression, and dissociation. I specialize in supporting women, teens, LGBTQ+ clients, and neurodivergent adults in a trauma-informed, affirming space.
My approach is practical, holistic, and grounded in a strong therapeutic relationship. We'll work together at a pace that feels safe, supportive, and empowering.
I do offer couples/family therapy specifically to LGBTQ+ and "poly" couples and families.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns, Person-Centered Therapy to create a supportive, non-judgmental space, and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to explore and heal inner conflicts.
I provide evening (and afternoon) appointments for people struggling with anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, trauma, depression, and dissociation. I specialize in supporting women, teens, LGBTQ+ clients, and neurodivergent adults in a trauma-informed, affirming space.
My approach is practical, holistic, and grounded in a strong therapeutic relationship. We'll work together at a pace that feels safe, supportive, and empowering.
I do offer couples/family therapy specifically to LGBTQ+ and "poly" couples and families.
I blend this with Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help you understand different parts of yourself.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in repeating patterns, or struggling to feel comfortable in your own skin, you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're managing persistent anxiety, going through a major life transition, or working through self-esteem and body image challenges, I offer a compassionate, grounded space where real relief is possible.
I blend this with Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help you understand different parts of yourself.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in repeating patterns, or struggling to feel comfortable in your own skin, you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're managing persistent anxiety, going through a major life transition, or working through self-esteem and body image challenges, I offer a compassionate, grounded space where real relief is possible.
Licensed in Virginia and hold certifications in ACT, CBT, MET, IFS, and EFT.
I am a co-conspirator with my clients, confronting the dilemmas of being human with openness, compassion, and curiosity. This inner journey is oddly counter-intuitive. The things I do (or parts of me do) to avoid or control how I feel seem to make it worse. Let's see if we can find a way to hold space for all of it, and learn the lessons the universe keeps sending our way? (Nondualist, ICE Out, Protect Trans Kids)
Licensed in Virginia and hold certifications in ACT, CBT, MET, IFS, and EFT.
I am a co-conspirator with my clients, confronting the dilemmas of being human with openness, compassion, and curiosity. This inner journey is oddly counter-intuitive. The things I do (or parts of me do) to avoid or control how I feel seem to make it worse. Let's see if we can find a way to hold space for all of it, and learn the lessons the universe keeps sending our way? (Nondualist, ICE Out, Protect Trans Kids)
I use EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, and the Comprehensive Resource Model — approaches that work at a level deeper than insight.
I work with people who are tired of talking about it. They've done the work. They know their patterns, they can trace them back, and something is still stuck.
That's usually when people find me. I'm Emily, a therapist, yoga teacher, and owner of Big Oak Wellness in Roanoke, Virginia. Most of what keeps us stuck isn't in our heads, it's in the body. Nervous system responses we developed long before we had the words for what was happening to us. Understanding it doesn't undo it. We have to actually feel it to move it.
I use EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, and the Comprehensive Resource Model — approaches that work at a level deeper than insight.
I work with people who are tired of talking about it. They've done the work. They know their patterns, they can trace them back, and something is still stuck.
That's usually when people find me. I'm Emily, a therapist, yoga teacher, and owner of Big Oak Wellness in Roanoke, Virginia. Most of what keeps us stuck isn't in our heads, it's in the body. Nervous system responses we developed long before we had the words for what was happening to us. Understanding it doesn't undo it. We have to actually feel it to move it.
It's great news that you're here! My name is Jes Conway and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience working with individuals and couples in a wide range of settings. Whether you are seeking to address a specific problem/situation or you are interested in taking a general personal inventory, you're acknowledging that you would like things to be different. What we often don't realize is that change requires taking action, and that in itself is a skill to learn and practice. I am excited to meet you and to see how I might be of service.
It's great news that you're here! My name is Jes Conway and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience working with individuals and couples in a wide range of settings. Whether you are seeking to address a specific problem/situation or you are interested in taking a general personal inventory, you're acknowledging that you would like things to be different. What we often don't realize is that change requires taking action, and that in itself is a skill to learn and practice. I am excited to meet you and to see how I might be of service.
I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, DBT, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Healing happens in the mind, body, and soul. As a holistic therapist, I will help you on all three levels. I am also a trauma-informed clinician who will honor your experiences. I want to help you feel safe and comfortable exploring your internal systems so that you can access guidance within. Together, we will work on regulating your nervous system.
I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, DBT, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Healing happens in the mind, body, and soul. As a holistic therapist, I will help you on all three levels. I am also a trauma-informed clinician who will honor your experiences. I want to help you feel safe and comfortable exploring your internal systems so that you can access guidance within. Together, we will work on regulating your nervous system.
I enjoy integrating creative practices like Internal Family Systems, tarot, narrative therapy, somatic work, and expressive arts.
I believe that people and communities have the power to heal. Therapy can be an important part of that process. As your therapist, I will invite you to radically imagine a world in which you feel the most safe and free. From that imagination, we will develop a roadmap towards your vision based on where you are at this exact moment.
I enjoy integrating creative practices like Internal Family Systems, tarot, narrative therapy, somatic work, and expressive arts.
I believe that people and communities have the power to heal. Therapy can be an important part of that process. As your therapist, I will invite you to radically imagine a world in which you feel the most safe and free. From that imagination, we will develop a roadmap towards your vision based on where you are at this exact moment.
My work integrates cutting-edge models such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR tools, Polyvagal Theory, etc to bring together the science and soul of healing.
I am a Christian counselor/coach and I am passionate about helping men experience freedom from compulsive behaviors and, as a result, a deeper connection with God, themselves, and others. I specialize in helping men struggling with addictive and compulsive behaviors like pornography, sex, drugs, alcohol, food, work, video games, relationships, etc.
After more than 20 years of experience, I have found that true lasting healing does not happen in isolation. Weekly recovery groups provide the accountability, honesty, and brotherhood required for lasting transformation. That is why I now fully focus on the power of group work.
My work integrates cutting-edge models such as Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR tools, Polyvagal Theory, etc to bring together the science and soul of healing.
I am a Christian counselor/coach and I am passionate about helping men experience freedom from compulsive behaviors and, as a result, a deeper connection with God, themselves, and others. I specialize in helping men struggling with addictive and compulsive behaviors like pornography, sex, drugs, alcohol, food, work, video games, relationships, etc.
After more than 20 years of experience, I have found that true lasting healing does not happen in isolation. Weekly recovery groups provide the accountability, honesty, and brotherhood required for lasting transformation. That is why I now fully focus on the power of group work.
See more therapy options for Roanoke City County
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.