Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Aspen, CO
![Photo of Melissa George, PhD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18821c86-2190-48f1-a568-99a090c2e321/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa George
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspen, CO 81611
I specialize in working with professionals (individuals/couples) seeking better self understanding, balance, and connection using attachment models, IFS and Jungian inquiry in CO, VT, DE.
With more than 20 years of university research, teaching and practical experience helping individuals, couples, and families around relationship issues, self worth, and anxiety, I bring a breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding to supporting clients. I specialize in couples relationships, attachment, and self exploration. I blend the scientific with the spiritual, the analytical with the emotional, and support clients in gaining more clarity, equanimity, meaning and connection in their lives. If you’re ready for a change, to dig deeper, and to create a new life from within, I may be the right therapist for you.
I specialize in working with professionals (individuals/couples) seeking better self understanding, balance, and connection using attachment models, IFS and Jungian inquiry in CO, VT, DE.
With more than 20 years of university research, teaching and practical experience helping individuals, couples, and families around relationship issues, self worth, and anxiety, I bring a breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding to supporting clients. I specialize in couples relationships, attachment, and self exploration. I blend the scientific with the spiritual, the analytical with the emotional, and support clients in gaining more clarity, equanimity, meaning and connection in their lives. If you’re ready for a change, to dig deeper, and to create a new life from within, I may be the right therapist for you.
![Photo of Lonnie Mack Duncan, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2d378b9-8ce3-42c7-a05b-04b7a47bdca4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with addictions, trauma, and healing family systems.
Your life story is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. You have faced and conquered numerous intricate challenges and traumas throughout your journey. These experiences have shaped you into a survivor who is determined to thrive and help others in their healing journeys. You have a multifaceted identity, which is a testament to your commitment to personal growth!
I specialize in working with addictions, trauma, and healing family systems.
Your life story is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. You have faced and conquered numerous intricate challenges and traumas throughout your journey. These experiences have shaped you into a survivor who is determined to thrive and help others in their healing journeys. You have a multifaceted identity, which is a testament to your commitment to personal growth!
![Photo of Carly Pollack, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a122bc1-cd57-478a-9a43-52eb985f1624/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carly Pollack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspen, CO 81611 (Online Only)
Our sessions use a tailored blend of EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, somatic, and psychedelic therapy (when appropriate).
Are you struggling with self-confidence? Do you second-guess and shrink yourself in relationships? Find yourself upset "for no reason" often? You’re a hard worker, you use your logic, but still question your worth, feeling disconnected and powerless. Maybe you’re struggling with grief and loss, or coping with the chaos of a past or recent trauma. It’s all overwhelming, and you’re ready for things to get better. You’re ready to find the clarity you know is there. I want to help you get there.
Our sessions use a tailored blend of EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, somatic, and psychedelic therapy (when appropriate).
Are you struggling with self-confidence? Do you second-guess and shrink yourself in relationships? Find yourself upset "for no reason" often? You’re a hard worker, you use your logic, but still question your worth, feeling disconnected and powerless. Maybe you’re struggling with grief and loss, or coping with the chaos of a past or recent trauma. It’s all overwhelming, and you’re ready for things to get better. You’re ready to find the clarity you know is there. I want to help you get there.
![Photo of Sarah O'Keefe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efa29730-dc4b-432f-8d0b-35b10c322a91/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a systemic & feminist approach, as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), IFS (Internal Family Systems; Level 2 trained), and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (somatic therapy) to help clients heal in a way that fits for them.
My passion and expertise is in helping clients overcome sexual trauma, body shame, & anxiety, and being critical of oppressive systems that got them there, while helping them build a compassionate relationship to themselves and their body along the way. People often experience a discomfort in their relationship to their body after trauma, as well as the experience their body has navigating the world. My work includes a trauma-informed, feminist, weight inclusive, queer affirming, & social justice-informed approach to help you build a compassionate relationship to all parts of you.
I use a systemic & feminist approach, as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), IFS (Internal Family Systems; Level 2 trained), and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (somatic therapy) to help clients heal in a way that fits for them.
My passion and expertise is in helping clients overcome sexual trauma, body shame, & anxiety, and being critical of oppressive systems that got them there, while helping them build a compassionate relationship to themselves and their body along the way. People often experience a discomfort in their relationship to their body after trauma, as well as the experience their body has navigating the world. My work includes a trauma-informed, feminist, weight inclusive, queer affirming, & social justice-informed approach to help you build a compassionate relationship to all parts of you.
![Photo of Laura McKeon, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb06fb17-3348-4261-8fbd-66bfe20fabb6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura McKeon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Aspen, CO 81611 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a telehealth therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, and relationship issues. In our work together, we will use neuro-informed and evidence-based approaches to help you gain freedom from the past and live with more confidence and peace in the present. Some of the treatment modalities I apply include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), IFS (Internal Family Systems), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy).
Hello! I am a telehealth therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, and relationship issues. In our work together, we will use neuro-informed and evidence-based approaches to help you gain freedom from the past and live with more confidence and peace in the present. Some of the treatment modalities I apply include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), IFS (Internal Family Systems), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy).
![Photo of Katherine L Meier, LMFT CA, LPC CO, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2abab9eb-794e-4901-ac12-d4d2ccb94c61/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine L Meier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT CA, LPC CO, MA
Verified Verified
Aspen, CO 81611
Just because you feel you can carry your trauma and pain alone, doesn't mean you have to. I gently and somatically help my clients understand patterns of behaviors and beliefs, which have kept them locked in lives and relationships they do not find satisfying or fulfilling. EMDR attachment focused therapy is my primary approach to working with clients. Many people want to change their patterns, but can't move beyond them to healthier ways of being in their lives, their relationships, and in their bodies. I work with clients to find their strengths, resources, and insights as we explore both their present lives and past experiences.
Just because you feel you can carry your trauma and pain alone, doesn't mean you have to. I gently and somatically help my clients understand patterns of behaviors and beliefs, which have kept them locked in lives and relationships they do not find satisfying or fulfilling. EMDR attachment focused therapy is my primary approach to working with clients. Many people want to change their patterns, but can't move beyond them to healthier ways of being in their lives, their relationships, and in their bodies. I work with clients to find their strengths, resources, and insights as we explore both their present lives and past experiences.
![Photo of Lindsay O’Shea, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b50d84a9-1be9-4ff9-9794-a68ca8d0ded6/1/320x400.jpeg)
WELCOME! Many of my clients are looking to heal from past painful experiences whether it be family, friendships or romantic relationships - I work to help you improve self-esteem, build resiliency, manage anxiety/ADHD symptoms teens & adults in their 20's, 30's, & 40’s. It be really tough to get a handle on these things on your own. Don't worry, I can help. I also offer therapy and Neuropsychological Assessments for learning disabilities, intelligence assessments, attention, and mood/emotions in kids & teens.
WELCOME! Many of my clients are looking to heal from past painful experiences whether it be family, friendships or romantic relationships - I work to help you improve self-esteem, build resiliency, manage anxiety/ADHD symptoms teens & adults in their 20's, 30's, & 40’s. It be really tough to get a handle on these things on your own. Don't worry, I can help. I also offer therapy and Neuropsychological Assessments for learning disabilities, intelligence assessments, attention, and mood/emotions in kids & teens.
![Photo of Dr. Krista Swanson - Dr. Krista Swanson, NeuroSphere Health, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50248aae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
There’s no greater freedom than living from your true self, a self authentically and lovingly connected to others, a self passionately evolving to its potential. It’s how we are built. Living the kind of balance many of us aspire to while realizing our dreams demands the extraordinary. If the neurological edge of an integrated mind is what you've been seeking, I bring 14 years of doctoral + post-doctoral level training + 33 years of neuroscience-driven professional experience + a life well lived to streamlining your path. Our unparalleled network of PT, OT + Neuropsych experts coordinate to take you beyond what you thought possible.
There’s no greater freedom than living from your true self, a self authentically and lovingly connected to others, a self passionately evolving to its potential. It’s how we are built. Living the kind of balance many of us aspire to while realizing our dreams demands the extraordinary. If the neurological edge of an integrated mind is what you've been seeking, I bring 14 years of doctoral + post-doctoral level training + 33 years of neuroscience-driven professional experience + a life well lived to streamlining your path. Our unparalleled network of PT, OT + Neuropsych experts coordinate to take you beyond what you thought possible.
![Photo of Adriann Kelly Aspen Holistic Therapy, MA, LPCC, EMDR, CHHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89813bec-f7a9-4d33-a805-ed907d9ae3d1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Adriann Kelly Aspen Holistic Therapy
Counselor, MA, LPCC, EMDR, CHHC
Verified Verified
Aspen, CO 81611
As a Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Holistic Health Coach based in Aspen, Colorado, I follow a holistic and integrative mind-body approach to your mental health founded in the latest research in relational neuroscience, modern attachment and nutritional psychology to help clients identify and overcome their emotional and physical blocks to psychological wellbeing and vibrant health. My clients tend to be high achieving, high functioning individuals who also struggle with anxiety, relationships, self-doubt, depression, chronic health conditions and past hurts that are getting in the way of experiencing truly satisfying lives.
As a Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Holistic Health Coach based in Aspen, Colorado, I follow a holistic and integrative mind-body approach to your mental health founded in the latest research in relational neuroscience, modern attachment and nutritional psychology to help clients identify and overcome their emotional and physical blocks to psychological wellbeing and vibrant health. My clients tend to be high achieving, high functioning individuals who also struggle with anxiety, relationships, self-doubt, depression, chronic health conditions and past hurts that are getting in the way of experiencing truly satisfying lives.
![Photo of Mary Cate Hauenstein, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69f3dcd1-a7cb-4970-b582-4890ae13eaad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Cate Hauenstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aspen, CO 81611
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Since I can remember, I’ve been exhilarated by overcoming fears and living with more and more courage and authenticity. This process is profoundly rewarding and brings unexpected joy and richness to life. I've also come to realize that fear can be understood as trauma, and that it is possible to overcome trauma. As I continue my lifelong journey of overcoming fears and evolving professionally, I have the privilege of helping others find their way as a somatic psychotherapist, yoga and meditation teacher, and coach. www.thehiddentherapist.com
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Since I can remember, I’ve been exhilarated by overcoming fears and living with more and more courage and authenticity. This process is profoundly rewarding and brings unexpected joy and richness to life. I've also come to realize that fear can be understood as trauma, and that it is possible to overcome trauma. As I continue my lifelong journey of overcoming fears and evolving professionally, I have the privilege of helping others find their way as a somatic psychotherapist, yoga and meditation teacher, and coach. www.thehiddentherapist.com
![Photo of Gary Schreiner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae166869-5de9-401f-9884-1e12d83c3736/2/320x400.jpeg)
Relationships can be either invigorating or debilitating. We can create either type of relationship based on how we deal with our partner. Our feelings of depression and anxiety usually are associated with relationships in our life, whether our partner or family members and how we are raised. Looking at the causes of the unpleasant feelings are the first step in healing. The process then becomes finding solutions to the stuck patterns we find ourselves in. People do not exist externally from society but in conjunction with society.
Relationships can be either invigorating or debilitating. We can create either type of relationship based on how we deal with our partner. Our feelings of depression and anxiety usually are associated with relationships in our life, whether our partner or family members and how we are raised. Looking at the causes of the unpleasant feelings are the first step in healing. The process then becomes finding solutions to the stuck patterns we find ourselves in. People do not exist externally from society but in conjunction with society.
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![Photo of Sophia Green, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d055d8d-2268-4a13-8bf6-579d4ff08a8a/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clients seek deeper self-awareness, growth and long lasting healing. Perhaps you have reached a point where you struggle with old thought patterns or habits, and you desire genuine change. You are looking for someone who can assist you in helping yourself, with the goal of becoming self-empowered and renewed long term.
My clients seek deeper self-awareness, growth and long lasting healing. Perhaps you have reached a point where you struggle with old thought patterns or habits, and you desire genuine change. You are looking for someone who can assist you in helping yourself, with the goal of becoming self-empowered and renewed long term.
![Photo of Carol Grace, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c95a1b34-feba-4f36-9c33-7cbf86c4f804/1/320x400.jpeg)
Couple, individual, family guidance and loving support for relationship concerns of all kinds; trauma and distress that may be impacting your current situation. Uncover and turn off unconscious core beliefs that may be activating mental or emotional symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, illness, or general life dissatisfaction; unwanted patterns. Lifestyle, mind-body processes, conscious evolution for identity shifts, divorce, infidelity, co-dependency, recovery, family strife; anger, addictions, intimacy and self-esteem issues, grief and loss, life transitions, aging, death, empty nest - toward a fulfilling, thriving life.
Couple, individual, family guidance and loving support for relationship concerns of all kinds; trauma and distress that may be impacting your current situation. Uncover and turn off unconscious core beliefs that may be activating mental or emotional symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, illness, or general life dissatisfaction; unwanted patterns. Lifestyle, mind-body processes, conscious evolution for identity shifts, divorce, infidelity, co-dependency, recovery, family strife; anger, addictions, intimacy and self-esteem issues, grief and loss, life transitions, aging, death, empty nest - toward a fulfilling, thriving life.
![Photo of Amy M Vespa - Amy Vespa Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8b9d52e-7452-4d83-9e58-5c0c2be5c437/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Vespa Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Aspen, CO 81611
With 22 years of experience as a Clinical Mental Health therapist and dual master's degrees in Clinical Mental Health and Addictions, I have dedicated my career to addressing diverse facets of mental health. While my main specialty lies in trauma and addictions, my practice extends beyond these realms. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that the interventions I provide are supported by robust research. However, at the heart of my therapeutic philosophy is a focus on finding your essence of being human.
With 22 years of experience as a Clinical Mental Health therapist and dual master's degrees in Clinical Mental Health and Addictions, I have dedicated my career to addressing diverse facets of mental health. While my main specialty lies in trauma and addictions, my practice extends beyond these realms. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that the interventions I provide are supported by robust research. However, at the heart of my therapeutic philosophy is a focus on finding your essence of being human.
![Photo of Ruth Trowbridge, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc999c5-7d79-4b78-b31a-f9cecfbefe93/2/320x400.jpeg)
We humans are blessed with big brains, but overthinking causes suffering. Past experiences can overwhelm our system and drag us down; the unknowable future can be frightening too. Life can become very uncomfortable! Without effective coping skills, we risk developing self-sabotaging habits that address our discomfort only in the short term. Habits like avoiding situations, abusing drugs/alcohol/gaming/food/relationships prolong our discomfort! All ages struggle with discomfort and seek relief. You could spend a lifetime yearning for ease while change is within reach.
We humans are blessed with big brains, but overthinking causes suffering. Past experiences can overwhelm our system and drag us down; the unknowable future can be frightening too. Life can become very uncomfortable! Without effective coping skills, we risk developing self-sabotaging habits that address our discomfort only in the short term. Habits like avoiding situations, abusing drugs/alcohol/gaming/food/relationships prolong our discomfort! All ages struggle with discomfort and seek relief. You could spend a lifetime yearning for ease while change is within reach.
![Photo of April Brooks, MA, LPC , NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a5d0745-4221-4acc-b680-02ea2d5dc15b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat individuals experiencing symptoms of grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, life transitions, and relationships. I have experience working with individuals of all ages in both clinical and crisis settings. I believe personal growth and change happens when the counseling process is purposeful and intentional. I want to assist people in understanding their problems, defining goals, and developing realistic action plans. Together, we’ll identify the nature of the problems that you’re dealing with and find the solution best suited to your goals. It would be an honor to work with you.
I treat individuals experiencing symptoms of grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, life transitions, and relationships. I have experience working with individuals of all ages in both clinical and crisis settings. I believe personal growth and change happens when the counseling process is purposeful and intentional. I want to assist people in understanding their problems, defining goals, and developing realistic action plans. Together, we’ll identify the nature of the problems that you’re dealing with and find the solution best suited to your goals. It would be an honor to work with you.
![Photo of Kris Kirkbride, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3074a6c6-de45-4fdc-bad8-d191cb922556/2/320x400.jpeg)
On the outside, you look super successful, likely the poster child for how things “ought to be”. You went to a good school, have a rewarding career and maybe got married and had some amazing kids. You have done what you expected would make you FEEL accomplished, grateful, and happy. Except that you don’t. Lately, coloring inside the lines isn’t giving you the same ‘HIT’ it used to. Instead, you are wondering “Whose rules are these anyway and why do I need to keep following them?” The gap between what is expected and how you truly feel inside keeps growing wider. You're tired- and feeling alone, disillusioned, and conned.
On the outside, you look super successful, likely the poster child for how things “ought to be”. You went to a good school, have a rewarding career and maybe got married and had some amazing kids. You have done what you expected would make you FEEL accomplished, grateful, and happy. Except that you don’t. Lately, coloring inside the lines isn’t giving you the same ‘HIT’ it used to. Instead, you are wondering “Whose rules are these anyway and why do I need to keep following them?” The gap between what is expected and how you truly feel inside keeps growing wider. You're tired- and feeling alone, disillusioned, and conned.
![Photo of Kaitlyn Johnson, LPC, CCTSI, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/176fe3be-409f-4aa8-9a74-d3ea512e5cef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kaitlyn Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspen, CO 81611 (Online Only)
I obtained by BS in Exercise Science a little over 9 years ago. After several internships in the field, the mind-body connection captivated me. Seeking to bridge the gap in my understanding of this intriguing connection, I obtained my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling and have been working in this incredible field ever since. I am trained in both Narrative Exposure Therapy and Inner Child Work for treating complex trauma and in Integrative Mental Health for treating people from a wholistic perspective.
I obtained by BS in Exercise Science a little over 9 years ago. After several internships in the field, the mind-body connection captivated me. Seeking to bridge the gap in my understanding of this intriguing connection, I obtained my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling and have been working in this incredible field ever since. I am trained in both Narrative Exposure Therapy and Inner Child Work for treating complex trauma and in Integrative Mental Health for treating people from a wholistic perspective.
![Photo of Abby Polly-Almanza, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59b59b4c-47ef-4c36-a4a2-d03aac876413/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abby Polly-Almanza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Aspen, CO 81611 (Online Only)
I am inspired by the healing power of relationships. I specialize in helping women feel more alive and empowered, as well as helping couples reconnect and thrive. Therapy works when you and I build trusting relationship that is a catalyst for change in other relationships. My clients describe me as calm and empathetic, with a sense of humor. When you meet with me, you and I will create a safe environment where you can explore your full self and heal without judgement. With individuals I use EMDR, parts work, and other modalities to help you rebuild. With couples I use EFT, Gottman, and PACT therapies to help you reconnect.
I am inspired by the healing power of relationships. I specialize in helping women feel more alive and empowered, as well as helping couples reconnect and thrive. Therapy works when you and I build trusting relationship that is a catalyst for change in other relationships. My clients describe me as calm and empathetic, with a sense of humor. When you meet with me, you and I will create a safe environment where you can explore your full self and heal without judgement. With individuals I use EMDR, parts work, and other modalities to help you rebuild. With couples I use EFT, Gottman, and PACT therapies to help you reconnect.
![Photo of Sheila Trabelsi, MEd, NCC, LPC, LAC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/493962b8-d3ab-46cb-bcf2-2fd771d361c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Trabelsi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspen, CO 81611
Are you looking for tools to help you manage and eliminate symptoms and feel more in control of your life; ready to get unstuck and back to being who you know yourself to be and reach your goals? Whether you’ve been working to gain clarity, decrease anxiety, address struggles with addiction, relationship challenges or trauma, better manage life transitions, or the day-to-day stress, we will work together to gain greater awareness and tools, and find the solutions towards more contentment and creating a fuller more vibrant life. Schedule a consult today to see if individual therapy or therapy intensives are right for you.
Are you looking for tools to help you manage and eliminate symptoms and feel more in control of your life; ready to get unstuck and back to being who you know yourself to be and reach your goals? Whether you’ve been working to gain clarity, decrease anxiety, address struggles with addiction, relationship challenges or trauma, better manage life transitions, or the day-to-day stress, we will work together to gain greater awareness and tools, and find the solutions towards more contentment and creating a fuller more vibrant life. Schedule a consult today to see if individual therapy or therapy intensives are right for you.
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Nearby Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists Searches for Aspen
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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.