Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Lafayette, CO

Photo of Joseph S Klein, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph S Klein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026
I am a trained “Internal Family Systems” Therapist. I work with clients to discover more compassionate ways of thinking about themselves and to stop blaming themselves or others. Awareness, compassion for self and other, and support are the keys to facilitate these changes. Learn to be more Proactive rather then Reactive.
I am a trained “Internal Family Systems” Therapist. I work with clients to discover more compassionate ways of thinking about themselves and to stop blaming themselves or others. Awareness, compassion for self and other, and support are the keys to facilitate these changes. Learn to be more Proactive rather then Reactive.
(303) 875-1824 View (303) 875-1824
David Hixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026  (Online Only)
As such, David has adopted an integrated approach to counseling, offering motivational interviewing, internal family systems therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and existential therapeutic styles that allows the client to lead the session while addressing the areas of discrepancies that prevent one from living a life-giving, congruent lifestyle.
David R. Hixon is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado who has been practicing since 2018. He has a B.S. from Colorado State University and an M.A. from Colorado Christian University. David’s treatment philosophy is simple, find the ways in which our lives are being lived incongruently with who we are and how we perceive the world, and then begin to realign them.
As such, David has adopted an integrated approach to counseling, offering motivational interviewing, internal family systems therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and existential therapeutic styles that allows the client to lead the session while addressing the areas of discrepancies that prevent one from living a life-giving, congruent lifestyle.
David R. Hixon is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado who has been practicing since 2018. He has a B.S. from Colorado State University and an M.A. from Colorado Christian University. David’s treatment philosophy is simple, find the ways in which our lives are being lived incongruently with who we are and how we perceive the world, and then begin to realign them.
(720) 807-3676 View (720) 807-3676
Photo of Maggie Olsen, MA, LPCC
Maggie Olsen
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
My therapeutic framework weaves together various modalities including CBT/DBT, trauma-informed therapy, IFS, ACT, EFT, Synergetic Play, & expressive/eco-therapies, and is rooted deeply in a humanistic orientation.
Navigating the complexities, challenges, and transitions of life is a dance, one that sometimes flows and sometimes falls out of step. My belief is that it is one of our greatest acts of service to self and others to understand what drives and motivates our behaviors, and how we can develop a more holistic sense of peace and belonging-within ourselves and as a part of the larger whole. If you are struggling with big emotions, challenging behavioral patterns, or generally feeling "out of step" with life or community, know there is help, and I'm here to support you on a path to healing and thriving.
My therapeutic framework weaves together various modalities including CBT/DBT, trauma-informed therapy, IFS, ACT, EFT, Synergetic Play, & expressive/eco-therapies, and is rooted deeply in a humanistic orientation.
Navigating the complexities, challenges, and transitions of life is a dance, one that sometimes flows and sometimes falls out of step. My belief is that it is one of our greatest acts of service to self and others to understand what drives and motivates our behaviors, and how we can develop a more holistic sense of peace and belonging-within ourselves and as a part of the larger whole. If you are struggling with big emotions, challenging behavioral patterns, or generally feeling "out of step" with life or community, know there is help, and I'm here to support you on a path to healing and thriving.
(970) 676-6578 View (970) 676-6578
Photo of Krystel Mairs, MA, NLC, Registered Psychotherapist
Krystel Mairs
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, NLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
I employ mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and parts work, as well as art therapy, emphasizing strengths to assist clients in exploring their values and finding genuine self compassion.
Hi! It is my goal to provide a safe and compassionate space for individuals seeking personal growth and emotional support. If you're navigating relationship issues, struggling with low self-esteem, battling anxiety or perfectionism, dealing with grief and loss, or simply going through life transitions, it is my goal to help you find inner balance and harmony. I believe in a holistic approach that values the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul. Clients are the experts of their own experiences, and I trust in their innate healing process.
I employ mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and parts work, as well as art therapy, emphasizing strengths to assist clients in exploring their values and finding genuine self compassion.
Hi! It is my goal to provide a safe and compassionate space for individuals seeking personal growth and emotional support. If you're navigating relationship issues, struggling with low self-esteem, battling anxiety or perfectionism, dealing with grief and loss, or simply going through life transitions, it is my goal to help you find inner balance and harmony. I believe in a holistic approach that values the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul. Clients are the experts of their own experiences, and I trust in their innate healing process.
(720) 706-1806 View (720) 706-1806
Photo of Jenn Matheson, PhD, LMFT, Supervi, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenn Matheson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, Supervi
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use Internal Family Systems, attachment-based theories like EFT, family therapy theories, and a trauma focus to help clients get unstuck.
Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you functioning poorly in your daily life due to lingering self-doubt, sadness, and a loss of meaning? Do you want to get back to the way your life once was, or be even better than before? I will work with you to identify the causes of your struggles and ensure you are moving in the right direction for YOU! If you are ready to put in the work to make progress in addressing your stuck patterns, let's get to work! I am highly skilled, seasoned, and empathic. Over 25 years of experience, my clients feel cared for, valued, and respected. My techniques are evidence-based and effective.
I use Internal Family Systems, attachment-based theories like EFT, family therapy theories, and a trauma focus to help clients get unstuck.
Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you functioning poorly in your daily life due to lingering self-doubt, sadness, and a loss of meaning? Do you want to get back to the way your life once was, or be even better than before? I will work with you to identify the causes of your struggles and ensure you are moving in the right direction for YOU! If you are ready to put in the work to make progress in addressing your stuck patterns, let's get to work! I am highly skilled, seasoned, and empathic. Over 25 years of experience, my clients feel cared for, valued, and respected. My techniques are evidence-based and effective.
(720) 818-7897 View (720) 818-7897
Photo of Annemarie Prairie, MA, LPC, LAC, CRNC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annemarie Prairie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, CRNC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
I use an Internal Family Systems approach that has been proven to show lasting results.
You come home from work and can't unwind - the stress of your day is keeping your thoughts churning and your anxiety up. You’re regularly on edge and binge-watching Netflix & drinking wine is not really working. It’s hard for you to enjoy your kids and partner because the anxious thoughts overrun you. It’s difficult to say no to co-workers and friends because you don’t want to let anyone down, but you’re exhausted. The to-do list keeps getting longer and there’s no real time for you – the life you thought you’d be living seems just out of your grasp.
I use an Internal Family Systems approach that has been proven to show lasting results.
You come home from work and can't unwind - the stress of your day is keeping your thoughts churning and your anxiety up. You’re regularly on edge and binge-watching Netflix & drinking wine is not really working. It’s hard for you to enjoy your kids and partner because the anxious thoughts overrun you. It’s difficult to say no to co-workers and friends because you don’t want to let anyone down, but you’re exhausted. The to-do list keeps getting longer and there’s no real time for you – the life you thought you’d be living seems just out of your grasp.
(303) 586-3561 View (303) 586-3561
Photo of Christy Lochary - Louisville Family Center, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Louisville Family Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026
Our holistic approach integrates play, DBT, Internal Family Systems, art, nature-based activities, and mindfulness-oriented therapy, fostering an emotionally secure environment for those seeking mental health care.
Louisville Family Center offers therapy to children, teens, individuals, couples and families. We embrace a compassionate, heart-centered approach to therapy. We engage with our clients on their unique journeys, employing evidence-based practices that blend empathetic listening with strategic interventions
Our holistic approach integrates play, DBT, Internal Family Systems, art, nature-based activities, and mindfulness-oriented therapy, fostering an emotionally secure environment for those seeking mental health care.
Louisville Family Center offers therapy to children, teens, individuals, couples and families. We embrace a compassionate, heart-centered approach to therapy. We engage with our clients on their unique journeys, employing evidence-based practices that blend empathetic listening with strategic interventions
(720) 807-8954 View (720) 807-8954
Photo of Crystal Forget, CSW099, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Forget
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW099
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Crystal Forget. I am a licensed clinical social worker and licensed addiction counselor. I use targeted evidence-based approaches to best suit my client's needs. From a compassionate and trauma-informed foundation, I will utilize interventions from CBT, DBT, IFS, EFT, Gottman Method, and others. Before private practice, I worked with clients experiencing psychosis, severe personality disorders, addiction, and homelessness, so I am comfortable treating a wide range of issues.
Hi, my name is Crystal Forget. I am a licensed clinical social worker and licensed addiction counselor. I use targeted evidence-based approaches to best suit my client's needs. From a compassionate and trauma-informed foundation, I will utilize interventions from CBT, DBT, IFS, EFT, Gottman Method, and others. Before private practice, I worked with clients experiencing psychosis, severe personality disorders, addiction, and homelessness, so I am comfortable treating a wide range of issues.
(720) 706-5427 View (720) 706-5427
Photo of Sam Taylor, MA, LPCC
Sam Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026
Informed by the principles of Synergetic Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Transpersonal Counseling.
Hi There! When it comes to therapy, I’m all about blending different approaches to create a space that feels just right for healing and growth. I work to support both children and caregivers on navigating the complexities of childhood. My mission is to make sure every child feels heard, understood, and supported on their journey through life.
Informed by the principles of Synergetic Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Transpersonal Counseling.
Hi There! When it comes to therapy, I’m all about blending different approaches to create a space that feels just right for healing and growth. I work to support both children and caregivers on navigating the complexities of childhood. My mission is to make sure every child feels heard, understood, and supported on their journey through life.
(720) 513-4943 View (720) 513-4943
Photo of Mira Lutz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mira Lutz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026  (Online Only)
I am Mira Lutz, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Using a direct approach, I help clients identify areas of challenge, barriers to change, and individual strengths to achieve positive changes in each client's life for the individual/family. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I incorporate the values of each client to best tailor treatment. I incorporate emotion-focused, strategic, experiential therapies, IFS and CBT. I focus on clients' unique strengths and work with each one to help them discover the highest level of mental health and wellness they can achieve.
I am Mira Lutz, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Using a direct approach, I help clients identify areas of challenge, barriers to change, and individual strengths to achieve positive changes in each client's life for the individual/family. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I incorporate the values of each client to best tailor treatment. I incorporate emotion-focused, strategic, experiential therapies, IFS and CBT. I focus on clients' unique strengths and work with each one to help them discover the highest level of mental health and wellness they can achieve.
(720) 500-9673 View (720) 500-9673
Photo of Charlotte Conn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlotte Conn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026  (Online Only)
I am skilled with IFS, DBT, CBT and Trauma Focus modalities.
Hi, I'm Charlie Conn I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am dedicated to supporting and guiding the process of healing and growth. I understand how our internal lens/stories impact how we function and how we relate to the world. I approach each of my clients with the belief that everyone has a wealth of resources from which they can access healing and growth. I am respectful of this journey, and I strive to make meaningful connections to support this process.
I am skilled with IFS, DBT, CBT and Trauma Focus modalities.
Hi, I'm Charlie Conn I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am dedicated to supporting and guiding the process of healing and growth. I understand how our internal lens/stories impact how we function and how we relate to the world. I approach each of my clients with the belief that everyone has a wealth of resources from which they can access healing and growth. I am respectful of this journey, and I strive to make meaningful connections to support this process.
(970) 499-8429 View (970) 499-8429
Photo of Sarah Lucas, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Lucas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
I use the following therapeutic techniques: mindfulness-based psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, IFS, and ACT.
Welcome - I'm here to support you! In our sessions together, you'll be able to openly express your feelings, discover your strengths, and relate to your struggles in a whole new way. My style is warm, empowering, and practical. I want you to be able to walk out of each session feeling heard, supported, and equipped to handle the challenges life throws at you. I am a perinatal mental health specialist (PMH-C) and am passionate about working with individuals with prenatal and postpartum anxiety and prenatal and postpartum depression. I also enjoy helping clients who are encountering fertility challenges.
I use the following therapeutic techniques: mindfulness-based psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, IFS, and ACT.
Welcome - I'm here to support you! In our sessions together, you'll be able to openly express your feelings, discover your strengths, and relate to your struggles in a whole new way. My style is warm, empowering, and practical. I want you to be able to walk out of each session feeling heard, supported, and equipped to handle the challenges life throws at you. I am a perinatal mental health specialist (PMH-C) and am passionate about working with individuals with prenatal and postpartum anxiety and prenatal and postpartum depression. I also enjoy helping clients who are encountering fertility challenges.
(720) 770-2069 View (720) 770-2069
Photo of Michele Hart, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026
I bring a trauma-informed approach which incorporates Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Transpersonal psychology and Somatic Experiencing.
I specialize in working with individuals who have suffered traumatic childhoods (sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, neglect, domestic violence) or traumatic experiences in adulthood and are in need of trauma-informed therapy. Symptoms include difficulty trusting others, feeling terminally alone, experiencing overwhelming emotions, a fear of abandonment or engulfment, experiencing flashbacks, feeling worried and anxious about bad things happening, struggling with body dysmorphia or disordered eating, engaging in self-harm, substance abuse issues, feelings of persistent hopelessness, suicidality, or feelings of unworthiness.
I bring a trauma-informed approach which incorporates Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Transpersonal psychology and Somatic Experiencing.
I specialize in working with individuals who have suffered traumatic childhoods (sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, neglect, domestic violence) or traumatic experiences in adulthood and are in need of trauma-informed therapy. Symptoms include difficulty trusting others, feeling terminally alone, experiencing overwhelming emotions, a fear of abandonment or engulfment, experiencing flashbacks, feeling worried and anxious about bad things happening, struggling with body dysmorphia or disordered eating, engaging in self-harm, substance abuse issues, feelings of persistent hopelessness, suicidality, or feelings of unworthiness.
(720) 915-2893 View (720) 915-2893
Photo of Yuko Lawrence, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yuko Lawrence
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
I specialize in treatments for trauma including Ketamine Assisted Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and Parts Work ( IFS).
Fundamentally I believe that all people are innately whole. At our core, we are all kind, compassionate, and connected. Perhaps you have moments when you feel this way, and for a moment it feels like you have come home to yourself. This is who you really are. But most of us have wounding we have acquired in our lives. And this wounding has become internalized and turned into beliefs about ourselves, beliefs like "I am not enough" and "I don't belong." These beliefs often feel 100% real. Sometimes it feels like a vortex, sucking us into a dark pit. But these beliefs are not true- and together we can help you find your way back home.
I specialize in treatments for trauma including Ketamine Assisted Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and Parts Work ( IFS).
Fundamentally I believe that all people are innately whole. At our core, we are all kind, compassionate, and connected. Perhaps you have moments when you feel this way, and for a moment it feels like you have come home to yourself. This is who you really are. But most of us have wounding we have acquired in our lives. And this wounding has become internalized and turned into beliefs about ourselves, beliefs like "I am not enough" and "I don't belong." These beliefs often feel 100% real. Sometimes it feels like a vortex, sucking us into a dark pit. But these beliefs are not true- and together we can help you find your way back home.
(833) 859-4153 View (833) 859-4153
Photo of Hannah Meinking - Attunement Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Attunement Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026  (Online Only)
A session includes an opening meditation followed by an IFS-led counseling session.
Attunement Counseling offers a unique blend of Mindfulness-based and Internal Family Systems (Parts work) informed mental health counseling. This integrative approach to mental health supports you in discovering a sustainable sense of wellness. Please visit www.AttunementCounseling.co to discover more and take the first step towards Living Your Best Life!
A session includes an opening meditation followed by an IFS-led counseling session.
Attunement Counseling offers a unique blend of Mindfulness-based and Internal Family Systems (Parts work) informed mental health counseling. This integrative approach to mental health supports you in discovering a sustainable sense of wellness. Please visit www.AttunementCounseling.co to discover more and take the first step towards Living Your Best Life!
(720) 703-9307 View (720) 703-9307
Photo of Amanda Smith, LPCC, LAC, Counselor
Amanda Smith
Counselor, LPCC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
Many people return to or start therapy with me after having a trauma flare-up. People struggling with addiction, relationships, parenting, life transitions, or supporting someone with an addiction find my therapy style most helpful. I specialize in working with adult children of alcoholics or dysfunctional families (ACAs). My presence is direct but warm. We will work well together if you have interest in Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, and neuroscience. I offer nature-based and psychedelic-assisted therapies. I believe in the capacity of every human to make change in their own life.
Many people return to or start therapy with me after having a trauma flare-up. People struggling with addiction, relationships, parenting, life transitions, or supporting someone with an addiction find my therapy style most helpful. I specialize in working with adult children of alcoholics or dysfunctional families (ACAs). My presence is direct but warm. We will work well together if you have interest in Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, and neuroscience. I offer nature-based and psychedelic-assisted therapies. I believe in the capacity of every human to make change in their own life.
(970) 410-3120 View (970) 410-3120
Photo of Jack Coffey, LCSW, MSSA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jack Coffey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
I also use EMDR, IFS, as well as mindfulness to help people build cognitive and emotional resources and process trauma.
Welcome! Beginning therapy requires bravery, vulnerability, and strength. I commend you for taking this important step to help yourself heal. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and supportive environment to help teens, young adults, and adults live happier, more fulfilling lives. I specialize in helping people process and overcome anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma/PTSD, challenging relationships, life transitions, and other issues by developing increased inner-compassion, self-awareness, and healthy thought patterns.
I also use EMDR, IFS, as well as mindfulness to help people build cognitive and emotional resources and process trauma.
Welcome! Beginning therapy requires bravery, vulnerability, and strength. I commend you for taking this important step to help yourself heal. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and supportive environment to help teens, young adults, and adults live happier, more fulfilling lives. I specialize in helping people process and overcome anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma/PTSD, challenging relationships, life transitions, and other issues by developing increased inner-compassion, self-awareness, and healthy thought patterns.
(720) 358-8612 View (720) 358-8612
Photo of Rosa Dinelli, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rosa Dinelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026
I support individual growth via Internal Family Systems to provide attuned therapy so you can discover what you are longing for and gain tools to flourish.
Is your relationship overshadowed by disagreements? Has infidelity or betrayal breached your trust? Our couples therapy will offer a container to communicate, connect and bring compassion to yourself and your partner. From this space you will be able to reach out with openness, courage, and create possibility for real relational change. In individual therapy, I offer support in self discovery, unwinding harmful patterns, and processing trauma. Integrating all parts of your experience increases presence and availability for your family, work and relationships. I have special interest in supporting parents in the perinatal period.
I support individual growth via Internal Family Systems to provide attuned therapy so you can discover what you are longing for and gain tools to flourish.
Is your relationship overshadowed by disagreements? Has infidelity or betrayal breached your trust? Our couples therapy will offer a container to communicate, connect and bring compassion to yourself and your partner. From this space you will be able to reach out with openness, courage, and create possibility for real relational change. In individual therapy, I offer support in self discovery, unwinding harmful patterns, and processing trauma. Integrating all parts of your experience increases presence and availability for your family, work and relationships. I have special interest in supporting parents in the perinatal period.
(720) 664-6927 View (720) 664-6927
Photo of Lexie Deignan | Breathe Therapy And Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lexie Deignan | Breathe Therapy And Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CO 80026
I specialize in attachment-based, relational, IFS therapy and parent + infant/early childhood mental health.
Do you want to feel more connected to yourself and have healthier, authentic relationships? Would you like to live embodied and present amidst mental health experiences, life transitions, trauma and/or loss? Are you navigating family planning, the perinatal period or early childhood parenting and feeling curious about how to honor yourself and your child + family at the same time? You're not alone and you don't have to move through it all on your own. I believe in the power of healing through relationships and would love to talk with you and see if we may be a good fit to support you wherever you're finding yourself at this time.
I specialize in attachment-based, relational, IFS therapy and parent + infant/early childhood mental health.
Do you want to feel more connected to yourself and have healthier, authentic relationships? Would you like to live embodied and present amidst mental health experiences, life transitions, trauma and/or loss? Are you navigating family planning, the perinatal period or early childhood parenting and feeling curious about how to honor yourself and your child + family at the same time? You're not alone and you don't have to move through it all on your own. I believe in the power of healing through relationships and would love to talk with you and see if we may be a good fit to support you wherever you're finding yourself at this time.
(720) 307-5255 View (720) 307-5255
Photo of Sarah Conti, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Conti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CO 80026  (Online Only)
I have lived in a small town in the Rockies where I have practiced for over 30 years. I enjoy my work and like to help my clients learn to live the fullest life possible. I am very good with couples and also help divorcing couples go through the process with kindness and compassion. I have years of training and experience working with both victims and perpetrators of Intimate Partner Violence. I have worked with substance abusing individuals as well as addicts of pornography, sex and gambling.
I have lived in a small town in the Rockies where I have practiced for over 30 years. I enjoy my work and like to help my clients learn to live the fullest life possible. I am very good with couples and also help divorcing couples go through the process with kindness and compassion. I have years of training and experience working with both victims and perpetrators of Intimate Partner Violence. I have worked with substance abusing individuals as well as addicts of pornography, sex and gambling.
(720) 902-8911 View (720) 902-8911
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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.