Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Lyons, CO

Photo of Tahnee Swanton, MA, LPCC, Coach
Tahnee Swanton
Professional Counselor Associate , MA, LPCC, Coach
Verified Verified
Lyons, CO 80540  (Online Only)
I am passionate about blending mindful and embodiment practices with transpersonal, existential, developmental, neuroscience, internal family systems approaches in my client-centered work.
Do you want to consciously create your life and live the truth of who you are? Do you value expansion, creativity, connection, integrity, authenticity and humor? I invite you to join me in a uniquely experiential counseling process that is structured to empower you in consciously creating the life you want. I integrate a deep curiosity about spirituality, how we find meaning, and how this translates into a life well-lived. My 50+ years of life has provided me with growth and healing opportunities ranging from joyfully inspiring to excruciatingly painful that fuels my deep compassion for the wide range of human experience.
I am passionate about blending mindful and embodiment practices with transpersonal, existential, developmental, neuroscience, internal family systems approaches in my client-centered work.
Do you want to consciously create your life and live the truth of who you are? Do you value expansion, creativity, connection, integrity, authenticity and humor? I invite you to join me in a uniquely experiential counseling process that is structured to empower you in consciously creating the life you want. I integrate a deep curiosity about spirituality, how we find meaning, and how this translates into a life well-lived. My 50+ years of life has provided me with growth and healing opportunities ranging from joyfully inspiring to excruciatingly painful that fuels my deep compassion for the wide range of human experience.
(503) 386-9951 View (503) 386-9951
Photo of Claire Phillips - Square Peg Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claire Phillips - Square Peg Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lyons, CO 80540
I draw on my experiences in parts work, contemplative, somatic, Internal Family Systems, energy psychology, mindfulness, the visual arts, & as a mother to support & collaborate on your unique journey to recovery, integration, healing, celebration, & joy.
Would you like to set clear boundaries? Change persistent patterns that arise in relationships? Ease your heart’s longing to belong? Engage transitions thoughtfully and with empowerment? Embrace a greater sense of connection & well-being? Be more kindhearted with yourself & loved ones? Support your child living a more joyful life? These aspirations are natural, indicating a courageous readiness to reach a fuller potential and greater well-being. Adults express themselves through stories; children through play. Words & play activate the nervous & neural systems allowing access to emotions, thoughts, & sensations.
I draw on my experiences in parts work, contemplative, somatic, Internal Family Systems, energy psychology, mindfulness, the visual arts, & as a mother to support & collaborate on your unique journey to recovery, integration, healing, celebration, & joy.
Would you like to set clear boundaries? Change persistent patterns that arise in relationships? Ease your heart’s longing to belong? Engage transitions thoughtfully and with empowerment? Embrace a greater sense of connection & well-being? Be more kindhearted with yourself & loved ones? Support your child living a more joyful life? These aspirations are natural, indicating a courageous readiness to reach a fuller potential and greater well-being. Adults express themselves through stories; children through play. Words & play activate the nervous & neural systems allowing access to emotions, thoughts, & sensations.
(720) 548-2596 View (720) 548-2596
Photo of Diana Maya Senzig, MA, LPCC, MIN, Counselor
Diana Maya Senzig
Counselor, MA, LPCC, MIN
Verified Verified
Lyons, CO 80540
A different type of therapy, for the body, mind, and soul. Have you tried therapy before, only to find "just talking about things" doesn't seem to shift the anxiety, loneliness, pain, and relationship challenges you are trying to heal? Maybe you are tired of your routine – using the same strategies day after day to curb the feelings that lie just beneath the surface. Ignoring these signals can lead to a chronic disconnection from our body and mind as we grow older. When trauma and stress compound the issue, we may lose intimacy with our own feelings, wants, and desires.
A different type of therapy, for the body, mind, and soul. Have you tried therapy before, only to find "just talking about things" doesn't seem to shift the anxiety, loneliness, pain, and relationship challenges you are trying to heal? Maybe you are tired of your routine – using the same strategies day after day to curb the feelings that lie just beneath the surface. Ignoring these signals can lead to a chronic disconnection from our body and mind as we grow older. When trauma and stress compound the issue, we may lose intimacy with our own feelings, wants, and desires.
(720) 821-6346 View (720) 821-6346
Photo of Sarah Haggerty, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Haggerty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lyons, CO 80540  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! My ideal client seeks healing through the power of nature, they want to explore the depths of the psyche through myths, dreams, and ancient wisdom. They are willing to do the work to grow. They understand that challenges can be evolutionary catalysts. My ideal client seeks clarity, purpose, and a vision for the world. Their goal is to embark on a transformative journey, reconnecting with their roots and finding meaning in the ancient wisdom of nature. They know that the best results are possible by weaving together world's wisdom, cutting edge psychotherapy, and the healing powers of the wild earth.
Currently accepting new clients! My ideal client seeks healing through the power of nature, they want to explore the depths of the psyche through myths, dreams, and ancient wisdom. They are willing to do the work to grow. They understand that challenges can be evolutionary catalysts. My ideal client seeks clarity, purpose, and a vision for the world. Their goal is to embark on a transformative journey, reconnecting with their roots and finding meaning in the ancient wisdom of nature. They know that the best results are possible by weaving together world's wisdom, cutting edge psychotherapy, and the healing powers of the wild earth.
(720) 310-1187 View (720) 310-1187

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hannah Meinking - Attunement Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Attunement Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80503  (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 Laurie Underwood - Kidstuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C., LPC, LMFT, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kidstuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80503
Now offering TELEHEALTH. KIDSTUFF Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids and families navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. We help kids AND ADULTS overcome a variety of issues including family conflict, domestic violence, divorce, blended families, academic and social challenges, bullying, addiction (including gaming,) low self esteem, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and much more. Our LICENSED counselors have many years of experience providing evidence- based techniques including expressive therapies like art, music, play and trauma-informed yoga therapy. Also offering reunification therapy.
Now offering TELEHEALTH. KIDSTUFF Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids and families navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. We help kids AND ADULTS overcome a variety of issues including family conflict, domestic violence, divorce, blended families, academic and social challenges, bullying, addiction (including gaming,) low self esteem, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and much more. Our LICENSED counselors have many years of experience providing evidence- based techniques including expressive therapies like art, music, play and trauma-informed yoga therapy. Also offering reunification therapy.
(970) 422-1964 View (970) 422-1964
Photo of Alison McCabe - Horses Heal Therapy and Clinical Supervision (LPC), MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Horses Heal Therapy and Clinical Supervision (LPC)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80503
Relationships are what make life richer, kinder, and more fun. When those aren't working well, life can be really tough, either because we don't have the relationships we want, or those we have aren't working... Loneliness, people-pleasing, social anxiety, or fear of rejection... arguments, lack of connection, or constant conflict... all these can make relationships really, really hard. It all comes down to our relationship with... ourselves. When we know, love, and care for ourselves, our relationships start to change, from the inside out.
Relationships are what make life richer, kinder, and more fun. When those aren't working well, life can be really tough, either because we don't have the relationships we want, or those we have aren't working... Loneliness, people-pleasing, social anxiety, or fear of rejection... arguments, lack of connection, or constant conflict... all these can make relationships really, really hard. It all comes down to our relationship with... ourselves. When we know, love, and care for ourselves, our relationships start to change, from the inside out.
(720) 594-3953 View (720) 594-3953
Photo of Sara Zelda Schultz, LPC, MA, CPC, Counselor
Sara Zelda Schultz
Counselor, LPC, MA, CPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80503  (Online Only)
How long have you been struggling with the burden of feeling like you're not enough? Not small enough, not good enough, not strong enough, not simple enough… It can be exhausting and lonely to feel like you’re constantly falling short. Maybe you spend your days obsessing about food and body image, trying to power through your anxiety, or trying to push aside the burden of the past long enough for you to cope with your fears of the future. If any of this speaks to you, I want you to know that you’ve done such an amazing job getting yourself this far - but you don’t have to do it alone anymore.
How long have you been struggling with the burden of feeling like you're not enough? Not small enough, not good enough, not strong enough, not simple enough… It can be exhausting and lonely to feel like you’re constantly falling short. Maybe you spend your days obsessing about food and body image, trying to power through your anxiety, or trying to push aside the burden of the past long enough for you to cope with your fears of the future. If any of this speaks to you, I want you to know that you’ve done such an amazing job getting yourself this far - but you don’t have to do it alone anymore.
(720) 712-3687 View (720) 712-3687
Photo of Deborah J Rutt - Deborah Rutt PhD, LCSW, PhD, LCSW, MSW, CDWF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Rutt PhD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW, CDWF
Verified Verified
Hygiene, CO 80533
Dr. Deborah Rutt Phd, LCSW, CDWF is a one-of-a kind psychotherapist steeped in both Western and Eastern traditions. She helps clients identify unique strengths, new perspectives, and practical tools for profound change for mental health, well-being, and to live authentically. With a doctorate in interpersonal communication and change, Deborah specializes in working with relationships of any kind. In addition to therapy, she is a facilitator of Brené Brown's work, and inspired by Joe Dispenza's change solutions. Her Intuitive Heart Sessions, utilize Heartmath and energy work along with her psychic / intuitive gifts.
Dr. Deborah Rutt Phd, LCSW, CDWF is a one-of-a kind psychotherapist steeped in both Western and Eastern traditions. She helps clients identify unique strengths, new perspectives, and practical tools for profound change for mental health, well-being, and to live authentically. With a doctorate in interpersonal communication and change, Deborah specializes in working with relationships of any kind. In addition to therapy, she is a facilitator of Brené Brown's work, and inspired by Joe Dispenza's change solutions. Her Intuitive Heart Sessions, utilize Heartmath and energy work along with her psychic / intuitive gifts.
(303) 974-4493 View (303) 974-4493
Photo of Sarah Holt, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Holt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80503
It often takes incredible courage to seek support when facing difficulties. Life can throw a lot at us that can leave us feeling discouraged, alone, and unsure of how to approach things. We will roll up our sleeves and do the hard work of therapy in order to process experiences, identify barriers and patterns, and explore strategies and resources for finding a way forward.
It often takes incredible courage to seek support when facing difficulties. Life can throw a lot at us that can leave us feeling discouraged, alone, and unsure of how to approach things. We will roll up our sleeves and do the hard work of therapy in order to process experiences, identify barriers and patterns, and explore strategies and resources for finding a way forward.
(720) 466-7433 View (720) 466-7433
Photo of Max Brandel - Brandel Counseling Psychotherapy Services, NLC
Brandel Counseling Psychotherapy Services
NLC
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80503
Through building real connection with your therapist, you can find real insight, real healing, and true growth. My specialty is relationships, couples, individuals looking for a better relationship with themselves, helping communities heal also. I have a background also working in prison with violent offenders, and those with serous criminal history. I think you'll find there's no issue I'm not equipped to deal with. Been practicing for 15 years, and I've helped all walks of people.
Through building real connection with your therapist, you can find real insight, real healing, and true growth. My specialty is relationships, couples, individuals looking for a better relationship with themselves, helping communities heal also. I have a background also working in prison with violent offenders, and those with serous criminal history. I think you'll find there's no issue I'm not equipped to deal with. Been practicing for 15 years, and I've helped all walks of people.
(720) 580-6341 View (720) 580-6341
Photo of Lance Allan Kair, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lance Allan Kair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80503
You are smart! Use it ! Rooted in a deeply empathic and present-oriented practice, I will help you to tap into your soulful intelligence to heal, to uncover and explore the aspects that are making things difficult for you, where you are missing your Self, how your thinking and emotions are in play, so you can become empowered, have agency, and get on with your life.I work with adults experiencing anxiety and depression, achievement stress and transitions that have impacted one's ability to navigate the world successfully. Science, philosophy, and spirituality come together for your success!
You are smart! Use it ! Rooted in a deeply empathic and present-oriented practice, I will help you to tap into your soulful intelligence to heal, to uncover and explore the aspects that are making things difficult for you, where you are missing your Self, how your thinking and emotions are in play, so you can become empowered, have agency, and get on with your life.I work with adults experiencing anxiety and depression, achievement stress and transitions that have impacted one's ability to navigate the world successfully. Science, philosophy, and spirituality come together for your success!
(720) 664-4384 View (720) 664-4384
Photo of Necia Weimer, LPC, MFT, MFT-S
Necia Weimer
LPC, MFT, MFT-S
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80503  (Online Only)
I love helping couples, parents and families work through a variety of different issues. I work with clients struggling with relationship concerns, behavior problems, anxiety, depression, communication, and more. I enjoy working with those going through transitions and bring an engaging approach to ensuring clients feel supported. With a bachelor's in early childhood, I also enjoy helping clients explore their pasts and how those early years impact us now. I have a passion for helping parents or those becoming parents to increase their toolbox to better obtain healthy relationships.
I love helping couples, parents and families work through a variety of different issues. I work with clients struggling with relationship concerns, behavior problems, anxiety, depression, communication, and more. I enjoy working with those going through transitions and bring an engaging approach to ensuring clients feel supported. With a bachelor's in early childhood, I also enjoy helping clients explore their pasts and how those early years impact us now. I have a passion for helping parents or those becoming parents to increase their toolbox to better obtain healthy relationships.
(720) 282-0527 View (720) 282-0527
Photo of Igor Giusti Phd, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Igor Giusti Phd
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Longmont, CO 80503
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, spiritual crisis/development, and I coach people to help them realize their life goals, what they really want in life, work/career and relationships. I use specialized cognitive, client centered, and somatic approaches. For details please see www.newtranspersonalpsychotherapy.com
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, spiritual crisis/development, and I coach people to help them realize their life goals, what they really want in life, work/career and relationships. I use specialized cognitive, client centered, and somatic approaches. For details please see www.newtranspersonalpsychotherapy.com
(470) 330-8661 View (470) 330-8661
Photo of Erica K. Hubbard, LSW, BSP
Erica K. Hubbard
Unlicensed Psychotherapist, LSW, BSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80503
I am a master's level clinician who offers professional treatment of the family system. Within my private practice, sessions focus on individuals, adolescents, families, parenting, behavioral issues, addiction, & any issues causing strained relationships which negatively affect the home environment. I use a unique mixture of humor, directness, relatability, & acceptance to provide a safe environment with my clients. In a non-judgmental space, one’s inherent strength & mindfulness can submerge. Using a strengths-based approach, I help clients find tangible ways to obtain their individual versions of positive change.
I am a master's level clinician who offers professional treatment of the family system. Within my private practice, sessions focus on individuals, adolescents, families, parenting, behavioral issues, addiction, & any issues causing strained relationships which negatively affect the home environment. I use a unique mixture of humor, directness, relatability, & acceptance to provide a safe environment with my clients. In a non-judgmental space, one’s inherent strength & mindfulness can submerge. Using a strengths-based approach, I help clients find tangible ways to obtain their individual versions of positive change.
(970) 514-8989 View (970) 514-8989
Photo of Chelsea DeBernardis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea DeBernardis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80503
Your mind is often focused on what’s wrong or could go wrong. You feel exhausted and don’t know exactly why. You're a do-er who likes to take a proactive approach to problem-solving, yet struggles to tolerate when things are outside of your control. You can feel your jaw clenched, brow furrowed, or breath held as you read this. You've been through something hard or traumatic and you know that it isn't fully processed, but talking about it often leaves you feeling more depleted. If any of this resonates with you, know that these are universal, common human experiences. Somatic therapy can help you access a more fluid way forward.
Your mind is often focused on what’s wrong or could go wrong. You feel exhausted and don’t know exactly why. You're a do-er who likes to take a proactive approach to problem-solving, yet struggles to tolerate when things are outside of your control. You can feel your jaw clenched, brow furrowed, or breath held as you read this. You've been through something hard or traumatic and you know that it isn't fully processed, but talking about it often leaves you feeling more depleted. If any of this resonates with you, know that these are universal, common human experiences. Somatic therapy can help you access a more fluid way forward.
(720) 783-2739 View (720) 783-2739

Online Therapists

Photo of Krissy Thomas Smith, MA, LMFT-C, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Krissy Thomas Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-C, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80917
My approach to psychotherapy is tailored to fit your needs and approaches incorporate several major theories of counseling including: Emotion focused, Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioral, Narrative, Gottman, and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
As a South Asian immigrant woman in Colorado, I understand the intersection of cultural identity and everyday experiences and the impact on our lives. Your story is as unique as your background and you should have a safe and judgement free space to be yourself and process the experiences of your life. I understand the challenges of intergenerational trauma as well as the experiences of under-represented people groups and am committed to creating a compassionate and collaborative environment where you feel empowered to create healthy and positive change.
My approach to psychotherapy is tailored to fit your needs and approaches incorporate several major theories of counseling including: Emotion focused, Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioral, Narrative, Gottman, and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
As a South Asian immigrant woman in Colorado, I understand the intersection of cultural identity and everyday experiences and the impact on our lives. Your story is as unique as your background and you should have a safe and judgement free space to be yourself and process the experiences of your life. I understand the challenges of intergenerational trauma as well as the experiences of under-represented people groups and am committed to creating a compassionate and collaborative environment where you feel empowered to create healthy and positive change.
(719) 298-3999 View (719) 298-3999
Photo of Erin Roberts, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Loveland, CO 80537
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate Internal Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness-based approaches, Somatic Experiencing, and Narrative Therapy into my counseling style.
My approach to counseling considers the holistic well-being of the client, is non-pathologizing, and rooted in a firm belief that healing is always possible. I work with adult clients who are looking for meaningful connection, healing, and growth through authentic reflection and inward exploration. I specialize in trauma recovery, disordered eating & body shame, grief & loss, and spirituality. Using a perspective that considers and honors the whole person, I practice therapy with the core components of empathy, genuineness, and acceptance. Please visit my website for more about my approach and specialties!
I incorporate Internal Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness-based approaches, Somatic Experiencing, and Narrative Therapy into my counseling style.
My approach to counseling considers the holistic well-being of the client, is non-pathologizing, and rooted in a firm belief that healing is always possible. I work with adult clients who are looking for meaningful connection, healing, and growth through authentic reflection and inward exploration. I specialize in trauma recovery, disordered eating & body shame, grief & loss, and spirituality. Using a perspective that considers and honors the whole person, I practice therapy with the core components of empathy, genuineness, and acceptance. Please visit my website for more about my approach and specialties!
(970) 579-7906 View (970) 579-7906
Photo of Rachel Marie Bollinger - Rachel Bollinger Counseling, LLC., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Bollinger Counseling, LLC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Broomfield, CO 80020
It is because I believe this that I create a personalized approach by integrating Art, Narrative, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and Attachment-Based interventions to fit each clients individual needs.
"We don't have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to."-Brene Brown. I whole heartedly believe that healing occurs when we invite others to step into our story and walk along side us in times of struggle, hurt, and unknown. Because of this, I consider it an honor and privilege to be able to join you in your search for healing and wholeness. Although I am equipped to work with individuals in any stage of life I am especially passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults struggling with anything from anxiety and depression to trauma and self discovery.
It is because I believe this that I create a personalized approach by integrating Art, Narrative, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and Attachment-Based interventions to fit each clients individual needs.
"We don't have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to."-Brene Brown. I whole heartedly believe that healing occurs when we invite others to step into our story and walk along side us in times of struggle, hurt, and unknown. Because of this, I consider it an honor and privilege to be able to join you in your search for healing and wholeness. Although I am equipped to work with individuals in any stage of life I am especially passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults struggling with anything from anxiety and depression to trauma and self discovery.
(720) 586-4154 View (720) 586-4154
Photo of Gwynaedd Howdyshell (Emdr Trained), MA, LPCC, Counselor
Gwynaedd Howdyshell (Emdr Trained)
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Somatic focused DBT, CBT, and IFS I strive to guide you towards self-awareness, emotional growth, and lasting positive change.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! My name is Gwynaedd ('Gwin-ed') Howdyshell, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) with a Master's degree in counselor education, specializing in clinical mental health counseling from Adams State University. My dedication to my clients' well-being, coupled with genuine empathy, provides a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. I wholeheartedly believe that every person's story is unique, which is why I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your individual needs.
Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Somatic focused DBT, CBT, and IFS I strive to guide you towards self-awareness, emotional growth, and lasting positive change.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! My name is Gwynaedd ('Gwin-ed') Howdyshell, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) with a Master's degree in counselor education, specializing in clinical mental health counseling from Adams State University. My dedication to my clients' well-being, coupled with genuine empathy, provides a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. I wholeheartedly believe that every person's story is unique, which is why I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your individual needs.
(720) 523-0145 View (720) 523-0145

See more therapy options for Lyons

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.