Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA

Photo of Sandra Shahrokh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra Shahrokh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
As a Level 1 certified Internal Family Systems therapist I can support you in getting to know all of the parts of you that may be burdened by the effects of trauma.
Early childhood trauma can leave us feeling unsafe, disconnected, and anxious about how to thrive in our relationships and other areas of our life. You may feel constantly triggered in your relationships and struggle to manage anxious thoughts around people leaving you. You feel constantly overwhelmed by everyday life and the thought of “slowing down,” doesn’t ever seem possible. The truth is you are ready to feel secure, confident, and find relief. You are ready to understand how your early childhood experience impacts your present day. You’re ready to enjoy your relationships and manage overwhelm in a more effective way.
As a Level 1 certified Internal Family Systems therapist I can support you in getting to know all of the parts of you that may be burdened by the effects of trauma.
Early childhood trauma can leave us feeling unsafe, disconnected, and anxious about how to thrive in our relationships and other areas of our life. You may feel constantly triggered in your relationships and struggle to manage anxious thoughts around people leaving you. You feel constantly overwhelmed by everyday life and the thought of “slowing down,” doesn’t ever seem possible. The truth is you are ready to feel secure, confident, and find relief. You are ready to understand how your early childhood experience impacts your present day. You’re ready to enjoy your relationships and manage overwhelm in a more effective way.
(747) 269-1571 View (747) 269-1571
Photo of Elena Gharibian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elena Gharibian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I have utilized a variety of therapeutic perspectives, including IFS, Psychodynamic, CBT, and Solution-Focused.
As someone who’s been through my own healing journey, I have a profound appreciation for the therapeutic process and the changes people are capable of making in their lives. I know the healing power of having a trusted guide and supportive person. I understand the transformation that takes place from being truly heard and seen by a compassionate other. As a therapist, I endeavor to provide these things to my clients. I offer a safe space where you can express your worst fears and deepest hopes, without fear of judgment or criticism. Together, we will work to find relief from your suffering and develop the capacity for genuine joy.
I have utilized a variety of therapeutic perspectives, including IFS, Psychodynamic, CBT, and Solution-Focused.
As someone who’s been through my own healing journey, I have a profound appreciation for the therapeutic process and the changes people are capable of making in their lives. I know the healing power of having a trusted guide and supportive person. I understand the transformation that takes place from being truly heard and seen by a compassionate other. As a therapist, I endeavor to provide these things to my clients. I offer a safe space where you can express your worst fears and deepest hopes, without fear of judgment or criticism. Together, we will work to find relief from your suffering and develop the capacity for genuine joy.
(310) 361-3977 View (310) 361-3977
Photo of Pamela Singer, PsyD, Psychologist
Pamela Singer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Trained in internal family systems, CBT, DBT, somatic therapies, nutrition, & the promising field of psychedelic assisted therapy, I offer these & other tools to help you be present, master your nervous system, & return to yourself.
While there are many reasons people seek therapy, one thought is central: something has to change. You may be a goal-oriented individual who has always been able to work through problems on your own, but now something feels different. You feel stuck, and the things that used to help no longer do. Change is not easy, but it is possible. As a clinical psychologist, I work collaboratively with you to build the insight, tools, and confidence to develop new patterns & behaviors. We will work to identify the source of your pain and empower you to resolve it using evidenced-based treatments in a supportive, action-oriented environment.
Trained in internal family systems, CBT, DBT, somatic therapies, nutrition, & the promising field of psychedelic assisted therapy, I offer these & other tools to help you be present, master your nervous system, & return to yourself.
While there are many reasons people seek therapy, one thought is central: something has to change. You may be a goal-oriented individual who has always been able to work through problems on your own, but now something feels different. You feel stuck, and the things that used to help no longer do. Change is not easy, but it is possible. As a clinical psychologist, I work collaboratively with you to build the insight, tools, and confidence to develop new patterns & behaviors. We will work to identify the source of your pain and empower you to resolve it using evidenced-based treatments in a supportive, action-oriented environment.
(650) 489-0916 View (650) 489-0916
Photo of Erika Carter, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erika Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I integrate techniques from CBT, Gestalt, Family Systems, Art Therapy, Solution-focused, and other therapeutic approaches to provide you with the tools you need to grow, persevere, and thrive.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
I integrate techniques from CBT, Gestalt, Family Systems, Art Therapy, Solution-focused, and other therapeutic approaches to provide you with the tools you need to grow, persevere, and thrive.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
(424) 381-0277 View (424) 381-0277
Photo of Juls Michele Hoover, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Juls Michele Hoover
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
My approach to the therapeutic journey is through an integrative lens, which includes using techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Depth Psychology, and Internal Family Systems.
Your voice is valid and you deserve to be heard. Life unfolds whether we feel in control or not. It is helpful to have a place to explore, discover, vent, and release the anchors that might be weighing us down and making life just a bit too difficult. Therapy is a way to soften the "shoulds", identify strengths, and face our shadows.
My approach to the therapeutic journey is through an integrative lens, which includes using techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Depth Psychology, and Internal Family Systems.
Your voice is valid and you deserve to be heard. Life unfolds whether we feel in control or not. It is helpful to have a place to explore, discover, vent, and release the anchors that might be weighing us down and making life just a bit too difficult. Therapy is a way to soften the "shoulds", identify strengths, and face our shadows.
(323) 332-6951 View (323) 332-6951
Photo of Talia Mann, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Talia Mann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist is challenging and taking the first step can be really scary. While I believe the mind and body are built to heal themselves, sometimes recovery is hard to navigate on your own. I utilize a variety of treatment models including Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.) I specialize in eating disorders, grief, and loss, anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma-related issues. I primarily work with adolescents, couples, and adults. I'm a weight-inclusive, Health At Every Size, and an Intuitive Eating-aligned clinician.
Finding the right therapist is challenging and taking the first step can be really scary. While I believe the mind and body are built to heal themselves, sometimes recovery is hard to navigate on your own. I utilize a variety of treatment models including Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.) I specialize in eating disorders, grief, and loss, anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma-related issues. I primarily work with adolescents, couples, and adults. I'm a weight-inclusive, Health At Every Size, and an Intuitive Eating-aligned clinician.
(323) 940-5441 View (323) 940-5441
Photo of Anna McNerney, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna McNerney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
In addition, I value integrating components of CBT, compassion-focused, and IFS into my practice.
I find therapy is most effective when clients come with a sense of curiosity and willingness to make change. I have observed the power of curiosity and willingness be a catalyst in working with clients struggling with unprocessed or history of trauma, family dysfunction, relationship problems, emotional distress, mood disorders, substance use, depression, anxiety, or life satisfaction. I am hopeful to assist clients access curiosity and willingness in efforts to create meaningful changes that allow us to live more at ease with ourselves and move through life with a greater understanding.
In addition, I value integrating components of CBT, compassion-focused, and IFS into my practice.
I find therapy is most effective when clients come with a sense of curiosity and willingness to make change. I have observed the power of curiosity and willingness be a catalyst in working with clients struggling with unprocessed or history of trauma, family dysfunction, relationship problems, emotional distress, mood disorders, substance use, depression, anxiety, or life satisfaction. I am hopeful to assist clients access curiosity and willingness in efforts to create meaningful changes that allow us to live more at ease with ourselves and move through life with a greater understanding.
(615) 930-3391 View (615) 930-3391
Photo of Stephanie Drotman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Drotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Relationship / Attachment issues, and Addictive / Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Relationship / Attachment issues, and Addictive / Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
(424) 334-2290 View (424) 334-2290
Photo of Lynne Bidwell, LMFT, LPCC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynne Bidwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, TRM, and IFS, mind-body approaches to healing trauma.
My passion for my work comes from helping you with your current problems and longstanding patterns in a caring, nonjudgmental, and insightful way. The joint learning, collaboration, and even humor on this journey inspires me, as we work as a team. I am an engaged, interactive, and respectful therapist, whether I am with individuals, couples, or groups. And coming from a multicultural family background, I celebrate all types of diversity and various points of view. My areas of specialty include trauma and PTSD; relationship issues and couples; creative clients; career transitions; and family members of the mentally ill.
I am trained in EMDR, TRM, and IFS, mind-body approaches to healing trauma.
My passion for my work comes from helping you with your current problems and longstanding patterns in a caring, nonjudgmental, and insightful way. The joint learning, collaboration, and even humor on this journey inspires me, as we work as a team. I am an engaged, interactive, and respectful therapist, whether I am with individuals, couples, or groups. And coming from a multicultural family background, I celebrate all types of diversity and various points of view. My areas of specialty include trauma and PTSD; relationship issues and couples; creative clients; career transitions; and family members of the mentally ill.
(323) 302-4798 View (323) 302-4798
Photo of Evelyn Gloria Ball, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Evelyn Gloria Ball
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
When you are experiencing heightened stress, anxiety, grief, self-judgment, loneliness, or a sense of hopelessness, it's hard to know where to turn. These are symptoms that develop when internal parts are left unknown or are misunderstood. You are not alone. It is natural to feel confused, insecure, and overwhelmed when you can't see your way out. Help is available, and you have taken the first step. I am professionally trained in Internal Family Systems, Level 2. I can help you build an internal relationship that heals from within.
When you are experiencing heightened stress, anxiety, grief, self-judgment, loneliness, or a sense of hopelessness, it's hard to know where to turn. These are symptoms that develop when internal parts are left unknown or are misunderstood. You are not alone. It is natural to feel confused, insecure, and overwhelmed when you can't see your way out. Help is available, and you have taken the first step. I am professionally trained in Internal Family Systems, Level 2. I can help you build an internal relationship that heals from within.
(818) 423-4377 View (818) 423-4377
Photo of Lynn Krown, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynn Krown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401  (Online Only)
I integrate cutting edge wisdom of Gurus in Couples Counseling (EFT therapy, Esther Perel, Gottman, Esther Perel, Terry Real, IFS, Terry Real.
I specialize in couples, relationships and life transitions of all kinds. I'm mature. Been there myself and can light the way. I have a deep therapeutic toolkit tailored to your unique situation. I don't live in an ivory tower of psychoanalytic theory and am told I'm easy to talk to and compassionate. I believe in personal growth and walk the talk. I returned to grad school at age 60 to follow my lifelong dream to be a therapist and provide a welcoming environment where you as an individual or a couple can experience self-determination. I enjoy working with people of all ages, ethnicities and sexual orientations.
I integrate cutting edge wisdom of Gurus in Couples Counseling (EFT therapy, Esther Perel, Gottman, Esther Perel, Terry Real, IFS, Terry Real.
I specialize in couples, relationships and life transitions of all kinds. I'm mature. Been there myself and can light the way. I have a deep therapeutic toolkit tailored to your unique situation. I don't live in an ivory tower of psychoanalytic theory and am told I'm easy to talk to and compassionate. I believe in personal growth and walk the talk. I returned to grad school at age 60 to follow my lifelong dream to be a therapist and provide a welcoming environment where you as an individual or a couple can experience self-determination. I enjoy working with people of all ages, ethnicities and sexual orientations.
(818) 593-0130 View (818) 593-0130
Photo of Jules A Kessler, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jules A Kessler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401
I am informed in CBT, DBT and Internal Family Systems and often incorporate those as well.
The buddhist philosophy "turn poison into medicine" has always resonated with me. My favorite part of my work is witnessing a client's transformation, seeing them take painful experiences that they have lived through and honor their strength and resilience. I wholeheartedly believe when someone is suffering, they are disconnected from their core selves. There is something that is preventing them from feeling the safety or freedom to be authentic. It is my goal as a therapist to help clients discover what the barrier to that connection is. The disconnect from self can show up as depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.
I am informed in CBT, DBT and Internal Family Systems and often incorporate those as well.
The buddhist philosophy "turn poison into medicine" has always resonated with me. My favorite part of my work is witnessing a client's transformation, seeing them take painful experiences that they have lived through and honor their strength and resilience. I wholeheartedly believe when someone is suffering, they are disconnected from their core selves. There is something that is preventing them from feeling the safety or freedom to be authentic. It is my goal as a therapist to help clients discover what the barrier to that connection is. The disconnect from self can show up as depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.
(818) 578-4789 View (818) 578-4789
Photo of Samuel Fraser, PhD, MDiv, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samuel Fraser
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MDiv, MFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
I have training in several different trauma models, including EMDR, Brainspotting and IFS.
I am a faith-based counselor that integrates life issues for spiritual formation into greater levels of intimacy with the Lord. I have both pastoral and psychological training and 30+ years of experience to provide options for transformation. I do most of my therapy by Zoom
I have training in several different trauma models, including EMDR, Brainspotting and IFS.
I am a faith-based counselor that integrates life issues for spiritual formation into greater levels of intimacy with the Lord. I have both pastoral and psychological training and 30+ years of experience to provide options for transformation. I do most of my therapy by Zoom
(626) 784-6092 View (626) 784-6092
Photo of Lindsay Burke, MS, LMFT, BI, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsay Burke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, BI
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Hi! I’m Lindsay and I’m the founder of LIFT Therapy, a licensed therapist, coach, a martial artist, wife, and parent. I help individuals with their most intimate relationships- with partners, family members and close friends. I also support those in tricky dynamics with narcissistic, exploitive and manipulative personalities. In my experience working with deeply traumatized and emotionally disturbed adults and children, I found my passion for addressing generational trauma by helping adults heal early childhood trauma and by teaching a new generation of parents how to raise children using an attachment-based lens.
Hi! I’m Lindsay and I’m the founder of LIFT Therapy, a licensed therapist, coach, a martial artist, wife, and parent. I help individuals with their most intimate relationships- with partners, family members and close friends. I also support those in tricky dynamics with narcissistic, exploitive and manipulative personalities. In my experience working with deeply traumatized and emotionally disturbed adults and children, I found my passion for addressing generational trauma by helping adults heal early childhood trauma and by teaching a new generation of parents how to raise children using an attachment-based lens.
(323) 870-9342 View (323) 870-9342
Photo of Erin Nicole McGinnis - East West Holistic Psychotherapy, LMFT, RYT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
East West Holistic Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Have you experienced trauma from a relationship with a narcissistic partner or family member? Are you struggling to have healthy relationships and establish boundaries after narcissistic abuse? Do you find it challenging to have healthy self-esteem and self-compassion after experiencing gaslighting and coercive control? Narcissistic abuse recovery is a complex and sensitive journey that requires specialized support from someone who has experience and expertise. My approach encompasses a deep understanding of the psychological trauma inflicted by narcissists and prioritizes empowering clients to reclaim their inner strength.
Have you experienced trauma from a relationship with a narcissistic partner or family member? Are you struggling to have healthy relationships and establish boundaries after narcissistic abuse? Do you find it challenging to have healthy self-esteem and self-compassion after experiencing gaslighting and coercive control? Narcissistic abuse recovery is a complex and sensitive journey that requires specialized support from someone who has experience and expertise. My approach encompasses a deep understanding of the psychological trauma inflicted by narcissists and prioritizes empowering clients to reclaim their inner strength.
(747) 232-5209 View (747) 232-5209
Photo of Holly Pearlman, LCPC, LPCC, Counselor
Holly Pearlman
Counselor, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from traumatic and stressful experiences, including adults abused as children, family relationships, narcissistic abuse, hoarding disorder, and family estrangement. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes in your life so you can move forward. Stress, anxiety, and traumatic experiences are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful situations. I am a trauma therapist specializing in family relationships that involve conflict, abuse, and a cycle of dysfunction.
I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from traumatic and stressful experiences, including adults abused as children, family relationships, narcissistic abuse, hoarding disorder, and family estrangement. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes in your life so you can move forward. Stress, anxiety, and traumatic experiences are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful situations. I am a trauma therapist specializing in family relationships that involve conflict, abuse, and a cycle of dysfunction.
(818) 650-3372 View (818) 650-3372
Photo of Brittany Bueno, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brittany Bueno
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I currently practice at Hope Integrative Psychiatry in Sherman Oaks and specialize in addiction and trauma informed care. I provide a multimodal approach utilizing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and Psychedelic Integration with clients. I received training for this work with Polaris Insight Center and Peace Over Violence, working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.
I currently practice at Hope Integrative Psychiatry in Sherman Oaks and specialize in addiction and trauma informed care. I provide a multimodal approach utilizing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and Psychedelic Integration with clients. I received training for this work with Polaris Insight Center and Peace Over Violence, working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.
(747) 281-3877 View (747) 281-3877
Photo of Dawn McNairy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn McNairy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
As a therapist, I understand that working through emotions as an individual or in a relationship can be difficult. My job is to guide and support my clients and allow them to discover, excavate & process their feelings. Self awarness is an incredible skill that I enjoy helping clients develop as they engage in the most important relationship - the one they have with themselves.
As a therapist, I understand that working through emotions as an individual or in a relationship can be difficult. My job is to guide and support my clients and allow them to discover, excavate & process their feelings. Self awarness is an incredible skill that I enjoy helping clients develop as they engage in the most important relationship - the one they have with themselves.
(818) 463-2586 View (818) 463-2586
Photo of Tania Forero, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tania Forero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you haven’t been able to reach your highest potential? Are you seeking to strengthen your confidence and better cope with everyday stressors? Allow me to be a part of your journey toward experiencing true happiness, freedom and gratitude. I will assist you in getting rid of self-limiting beliefs and creating the life you've been envisioning for yourself.
Do you feel like you haven’t been able to reach your highest potential? Are you seeking to strengthen your confidence and better cope with everyday stressors? Allow me to be a part of your journey toward experiencing true happiness, freedom and gratitude. I will assist you in getting rid of self-limiting beliefs and creating the life you've been envisioning for yourself.
(747) 294-4058 View (747) 294-4058
Photo of Fereshteh Yazdanfar, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Fereshteh Yazdanfar
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I am a compassionate advocate for holistic well-being and personal growth. I am distinguished by the knowledge and experience that comes from my background as an M.D., Psychiatrist in Iran. With a deep-seated belief in the power of self-awareness, resilience, and authentic connection, I approach work with warmth, empathy, and unwavering support. My approach is distinguished by its holistic perspective, which considers the complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors in shaping mental health and well-being.
I am a compassionate advocate for holistic well-being and personal growth. I am distinguished by the knowledge and experience that comes from my background as an M.D., Psychiatrist in Iran. With a deep-seated belief in the power of self-awareness, resilience, and authentic connection, I approach work with warmth, empathy, and unwavering support. My approach is distinguished by its holistic perspective, which considers the complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors in shaping mental health and well-being.
(747) 269-1647 View (747) 269-1647
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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.