Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Delray Beach, FL

Photo of Lexi Kuntz, RCSWI
Lexi Kuntz
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33444  (Online Only)
My therapeutic techniques include CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Grief Therapy, Attachment-Based, Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Family Systems, Mindfulness & Confidence-Building.
Are you in need of a non-judgmental and safe environment to express and process your feelings, emotions, and thoughts? Do you feel uncertain of the next steps to take to improve your overall well-being? If you answered yes to either of the questions, then you’ve come to the right place! My name is Lexi Kuntz, and I strive to help people improve their quality of life. Together, we identify the barriers that are getting in the way and learn effective coping skills to help foster a meaningful life. With a passion for supporting others, I help guide individuals in identifying their own strengths and values to reach their goals.
My therapeutic techniques include CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Grief Therapy, Attachment-Based, Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Family Systems, Mindfulness & Confidence-Building.
Are you in need of a non-judgmental and safe environment to express and process your feelings, emotions, and thoughts? Do you feel uncertain of the next steps to take to improve your overall well-being? If you answered yes to either of the questions, then you’ve come to the right place! My name is Lexi Kuntz, and I strive to help people improve their quality of life. Together, we identify the barriers that are getting in the way and learn effective coping skills to help foster a meaningful life. With a passion for supporting others, I help guide individuals in identifying their own strengths and values to reach their goals.
(561) 621-4021 View (561) 621-4021
Photo of Kristen Byrne, MA, MCAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Kristen Byrne
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MCAP
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33483
I incorporate elements of somatic, internal family systems, and cognition to support men and women to build loving and caring relationships with themselves and others.
I have two decades of experience working with individuals and families who are committed to creating more for themselves. After working extensively in the field of addiction and mental health as a family coach and Master level addiction counselor I see one need that ultimately fulfills the "wanting of more" for self. When addressing the barriers like trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, authentic connection is what's at the root and allows us to feel fulfilled. All of the exterior things are available too yet it's connection that creates the value in our lives.
I incorporate elements of somatic, internal family systems, and cognition to support men and women to build loving and caring relationships with themselves and others.
I have two decades of experience working with individuals and families who are committed to creating more for themselves. After working extensively in the field of addiction and mental health as a family coach and Master level addiction counselor I see one need that ultimately fulfills the "wanting of more" for self. When addressing the barriers like trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, authentic connection is what's at the root and allows us to feel fulfilled. All of the exterior things are available too yet it's connection that creates the value in our lives.
(561) 556-6973 View (561) 556-6973
Photo of Carly Washor - Seventh Hour Healing Solutions, LLC, LCSW, CIMHP, MCAP, ICADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seventh Hour Healing Solutions, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP, MCAP, ICADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33483
My therapeutic style is evidence based; combining EMDR, Somatic practices, Buddhist Psychology, movement, NARM, Jungian analysis, and IFS (Internal Family Systems) to build a foundational path to promote desired changes.
Whether you are encountering uncertainty, life transitions, bereavement, a breakup/divorce, changes in health, trauma symptoms, thought, emotional, and/or behavioral matters; there is a way through. Together, we will explore your life's challenges thoroughly and thoughtfully. Engagement with clients is founded on a relationship of integrity, respect, unconditional regard, & empathic presence, which I see as key components to establishing and maintaining a robust therapeutic dynamic.
My therapeutic style is evidence based; combining EMDR, Somatic practices, Buddhist Psychology, movement, NARM, Jungian analysis, and IFS (Internal Family Systems) to build a foundational path to promote desired changes.
Whether you are encountering uncertainty, life transitions, bereavement, a breakup/divorce, changes in health, trauma symptoms, thought, emotional, and/or behavioral matters; there is a way through. Together, we will explore your life's challenges thoroughly and thoughtfully. Engagement with clients is founded on a relationship of integrity, respect, unconditional regard, & empathic presence, which I see as key components to establishing and maintaining a robust therapeutic dynamic.
(754) 240-3672 View (754) 240-3672
Photo of Claudia Rodrigues, LMHC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Claudia Rodrigues
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33444
My approach combines the principles of IFS with other evidence-based modalities, such as EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, to support clients in their healing journey.
I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. I believe that each person possesses an internal system composed of different parts, each with its own unique thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Through the gentle exploration of these parts, clients can begin to understand their inner dynamics and develop a compassionate relationship with themselves. I guide clients in identifying and healing wounded parts while fostering a connection with their core Self, which is inherently wise, compassionate, and resilient.
My approach combines the principles of IFS with other evidence-based modalities, such as EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic techniques, to support clients in their healing journey.
I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. I believe that each person possesses an internal system composed of different parts, each with its own unique thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Through the gentle exploration of these parts, clients can begin to understand their inner dynamics and develop a compassionate relationship with themselves. I guide clients in identifying and healing wounded parts while fostering a connection with their core Self, which is inherently wise, compassionate, and resilient.
(561) 660-9080 View (561) 660-9080
Photo of Dustin Ross Kebre, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dustin Ross Kebre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33445
Together we will find the direct cause of what is holding you back using researched backed techniques like EMDR, Family Systems Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), & Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Frustrated of being told to "relax", "calm down", "you are too sensitive", "grow up" & "get over it already, or "you worry to much"? People tell you this as if you do not want to relax, stop overthinking, overreact and worry! If you could, you would! Being told this from friends and loved ones does not help. In fact, it can cause you to feel much worse! You probably have tried to stop on your own, but your mind continues to fill up with thoughts that cause you to become stressed and you struggle to turn your brain off! You are not alone! I get it and can absolutely relate! This why I am so dedicated in helping people find relief!
Together we will find the direct cause of what is holding you back using researched backed techniques like EMDR, Family Systems Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), & Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Frustrated of being told to "relax", "calm down", "you are too sensitive", "grow up" & "get over it already, or "you worry to much"? People tell you this as if you do not want to relax, stop overthinking, overreact and worry! If you could, you would! Being told this from friends and loved ones does not help. In fact, it can cause you to feel much worse! You probably have tried to stop on your own, but your mind continues to fill up with thoughts that cause you to become stressed and you struggle to turn your brain off! You are not alone! I get it and can absolutely relate! This why I am so dedicated in helping people find relief!
(561) 475-2699 View (561) 475-2699
Photo of Barbara Bennett, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Bennett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33444
I am trained in the following therapy Models: Internal Family Systems (IFS), Body-Centered Gestalt Therapy, EMDR and the Intuitive Healers Training Program.
Life often feels harder than it needs to. We have so many balls in the air, and constant juggling often leads to anxiety, self-doubt, and anger. It can be hard to be a good parent and spouse, to meet the expectations of friends colleagues and family, all while trying to meet our own needs. No wonder we find ourselves lost, unfulfilled and disconnected. If it seems like you don't know which way to turn, you've come to the right place.
I am trained in the following therapy Models: Internal Family Systems (IFS), Body-Centered Gestalt Therapy, EMDR and the Intuitive Healers Training Program.
Life often feels harder than it needs to. We have so many balls in the air, and constant juggling often leads to anxiety, self-doubt, and anger. It can be hard to be a good parent and spouse, to meet the expectations of friends colleagues and family, all while trying to meet our own needs. No wonder we find ourselves lost, unfulfilled and disconnected. If it seems like you don't know which way to turn, you've come to the right place.
(646) 845-0488 View (646) 845-0488
Photo of Gara Steinfeld - Gara Steinfeld, Real Healing Counseling, MA, LMHC, CSAT, LPC, CMAT, Counselor
Gara Steinfeld, Real Healing Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSAT, LPC, CMAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33444
I have also participated in trauma trainings with Bessel Van Der Kolk and Richard Schwartz (of IFS).
I help people heal their unhealed trauma so they can live a peaceful, healthy and fulfilling life with meaningful relationships. I specialize in CPTSD (complex trauma), codependency, intimacy issues, love and sex addiction and disordered eating. I love working with people who want to learn how to heal their childhood trauma and function healthily in romantic relationships. My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and compassionate. You will feel heard, seen, accepted for who you are, and safe enough to do the deep work necessary to heal.
I have also participated in trauma trainings with Bessel Van Der Kolk and Richard Schwartz (of IFS).
I help people heal their unhealed trauma so they can live a peaceful, healthy and fulfilling life with meaningful relationships. I specialize in CPTSD (complex trauma), codependency, intimacy issues, love and sex addiction and disordered eating. I love working with people who want to learn how to heal their childhood trauma and function healthily in romantic relationships. My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and compassionate. You will feel heard, seen, accepted for who you are, and safe enough to do the deep work necessary to heal.
(561) 418-6734 View (561) 418-6734
Photo of Adam Colling, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC, Counselor
Adam Colling
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33446
I'm a licensed Counseling Psychologist with over 15 years of experience. I've worked in churches, mental health agencies, addiction treatment centers, group practices and my own private practice. I am further certified in EMDR trauma therapy and am currently working towards certification in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Over the years, I believe working with you in healing the root shame that has negatively impacted your view of yourself or others can completely transform your life.
I'm a licensed Counseling Psychologist with over 15 years of experience. I've worked in churches, mental health agencies, addiction treatment centers, group practices and my own private practice. I am further certified in EMDR trauma therapy and am currently working towards certification in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Over the years, I believe working with you in healing the root shame that has negatively impacted your view of yourself or others can completely transform your life.
(561) 375-5184 View (561) 375-5184
Photo of Bruce N Eimer, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Bruce N Eimer
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33446
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Florida and New Jersey. I provide therapy online and in-person for trauma, anxiety, phobias, depression, grief and chronic pain. I use clinical hypnosis as a tool to accelerate and deepen the work. I use Brief Cognitive Hypnosis to help people change dysfunctional habits such as smoking, overeating, problem drinking, problem gambling, poorly controlled anger, and behavioral disabilities associated with chronic pain. I'm trained in Clinical Hypnosis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Florida and New Jersey. I provide therapy online and in-person for trauma, anxiety, phobias, depression, grief and chronic pain. I use clinical hypnosis as a tool to accelerate and deepen the work. I use Brief Cognitive Hypnosis to help people change dysfunctional habits such as smoking, overeating, problem drinking, problem gambling, poorly controlled anger, and behavioral disabilities associated with chronic pain. I'm trained in Clinical Hypnosis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
(561) 377-1039 View (561) 377-1039
Photo of Susan Arnowitz, PhD, Psychologist
Susan Arnowitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33446
Through an integrative and evidence-based approach, I draw from various therapeutic models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Training (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Hi! I am Susan Arnowitz, a licensed Clinical Psychologist and mindfulness meditation educator with over 20+ years of experience. Currently licensed in NY and FL, I see clients in-person and offer telehealth in PSYPACT participating states. My practice is focused on individualized treatment for adolescents and adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma and loss; struggling with life transitions, career concerns, or relationship issues; or wanting help with a problematic behavior or just feeling stuck. My goal is to help clients create meaningful, lasting change in a thoughtful, warm, and compassionate environment.
Through an integrative and evidence-based approach, I draw from various therapeutic models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Training (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Hi! I am Susan Arnowitz, a licensed Clinical Psychologist and mindfulness meditation educator with over 20+ years of experience. Currently licensed in NY and FL, I see clients in-person and offer telehealth in PSYPACT participating states. My practice is focused on individualized treatment for adolescents and adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma and loss; struggling with life transitions, career concerns, or relationship issues; or wanting help with a problematic behavior or just feeling stuck. My goal is to help clients create meaningful, lasting change in a thoughtful, warm, and compassionate environment.
(516) 548-1913 View (516) 548-1913
Photo of Pam Meyerson, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Meyerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33445
You present yourself as having things all figured out when deep down inside you are feeling lost and vulnerable. You are scared because you have lived this way for so long and have never experienced more than temporary relief from it. Perhaps you have not been able to share how you really feel with friends or loved ones. Deep down inside you are exhausted and are ready to feel differently. You are ready to be vulnerable and live life differently with hope and passion. (I am licensed to practice in Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida and Washington State.)
You present yourself as having things all figured out when deep down inside you are feeling lost and vulnerable. You are scared because you have lived this way for so long and have never experienced more than temporary relief from it. Perhaps you have not been able to share how you really feel with friends or loved ones. Deep down inside you are exhausted and are ready to feel differently. You are ready to be vulnerable and live life differently with hope and passion. (I am licensed to practice in Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida and Washington State.)
(561) 816-3122 View (561) 816-3122
Photo of Molly Groo, MSW, CTP
Molly Groo
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33483
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with addiction, mood disorders, trauma, relational issues, and personality disorders. The clients I typically work with suffer from underlying issues that manifest as self-sabotage, depression and anxiety, conflict with friends and family, toxic relationships, and compulsive behaviors. I believe that healing happens in safe relationships and enjoy working to develop that with my clients.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with addiction, mood disorders, trauma, relational issues, and personality disorders. The clients I typically work with suffer from underlying issues that manifest as self-sabotage, depression and anxiety, conflict with friends and family, toxic relationships, and compulsive behaviors. I believe that healing happens in safe relationships and enjoy working to develop that with my clients.
(561) 782-3341 View (561) 782-3341
Photo of Nikki Davis, PsyD, JD, Psychologist
Nikki Davis
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33483
Waitlist for new clients
I have learned in my years in practice that creating a safe space of listening and compassion for someone who is struggling is so incredibly powerful. Over the years I have worked with individuals facing depression, anxiety, addiction, the effects of trauma, and work or relationship challenges, all from a client-centered and collaborative approach. I believe we already have everything we need to live a life filled with contentment and satisfaction, we just need to rediscover the answers already within us. It is my ultimate goal to help my clients see themselves in this same positive and compassionate light.
I have learned in my years in practice that creating a safe space of listening and compassion for someone who is struggling is so incredibly powerful. Over the years I have worked with individuals facing depression, anxiety, addiction, the effects of trauma, and work or relationship challenges, all from a client-centered and collaborative approach. I believe we already have everything we need to live a life filled with contentment and satisfaction, we just need to rediscover the answers already within us. It is my ultimate goal to help my clients see themselves in this same positive and compassionate light.
(561) 708-5841 View (561) 708-5841
Photo of Dr. Claudia Herrera, PhD, LMFT, CFLE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Claudia Herrera
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CFLE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33482
Everybody needs support in difficult times and finding professional help is the best option to process problems in a safe and private environment where you feel validated and valued. I am here to support you and guide you through your journey. I am a bilingual (English-Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida and California, with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors, families, and groups dealing with problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress. I am a systemic, relational, and strength-based therapist who focus on your positive characteristics, resources, and skills.
Everybody needs support in difficult times and finding professional help is the best option to process problems in a safe and private environment where you feel validated and valued. I am here to support you and guide you through your journey. I am a bilingual (English-Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida and California, with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors, families, and groups dealing with problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress. I am a systemic, relational, and strength-based therapist who focus on your positive characteristics, resources, and skills.
(561) 431-9876 View (561) 431-9876
Photo of Rebecca Nelson, MA, LMHC-QS, Counselor
Rebecca Nelson
Counselor, MA, LMHC-QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33445
Rebecca is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (licensed in FL, NY, NJ, TX, and SC) with experience working in inpatient hospital, acute emergency room, residential, high-end treatment center, and outpatient clinical settings. Rebecca believes that everyone deserves a life filled with purpose, joy, and peace. Rebecca enjoys helping clients engage in self-exploration so they can shift focus from struggle to creating a life filled with meaning.
Rebecca is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (licensed in FL, NY, NJ, TX, and SC) with experience working in inpatient hospital, acute emergency room, residential, high-end treatment center, and outpatient clinical settings. Rebecca believes that everyone deserves a life filled with purpose, joy, and peace. Rebecca enjoys helping clients engage in self-exploration so they can shift focus from struggle to creating a life filled with meaning.
(561) 933-9749 View (561) 933-9749
Photo of Dani Sullivan, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dani Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33446  (Online Only)
I work alongside adults healing from complex trauma, chronic stress & pain. I specialize in working with queer, trans, neurodivergent, disabled clients, and others with marginalized identities. My clients cultivate self-alignment & embodied emotional wellness through our work. Through trauma-informed therapy, I guide individuals, couples, & groups toward greater self-compassion by holding space for folks to explore their truths & express their authentic voice. If you are looking to clarify your intentions, tend to your needs, & cultivate positive change in your life, take this as your sign to reach out. Let’s heal in connection!
I work alongside adults healing from complex trauma, chronic stress & pain. I specialize in working with queer, trans, neurodivergent, disabled clients, and others with marginalized identities. My clients cultivate self-alignment & embodied emotional wellness through our work. Through trauma-informed therapy, I guide individuals, couples, & groups toward greater self-compassion by holding space for folks to explore their truths & express their authentic voice. If you are looking to clarify your intentions, tend to your needs, & cultivate positive change in your life, take this as your sign to reach out. Let’s heal in connection!
(561) 763-1346 View (561) 763-1346
Photo of Sheva Ganz, LMHC, Counselor
Sheva Ganz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33483
Are you recently divorced and find yourself asking- now what?? Divorce can be a very challenging and painful process, but also presents an opportunity to take an in depth look at your life, your choices, and your desires. Take advantage of this life transition by getting to know yourself better so that you can stop repeating negative and destructive patterns and learn how build and maintain positive relationships with yourself, your children and your ex!
Are you recently divorced and find yourself asking- now what?? Divorce can be a very challenging and painful process, but also presents an opportunity to take an in depth look at your life, your choices, and your desires. Take advantage of this life transition by getting to know yourself better so that you can stop repeating negative and destructive patterns and learn how build and maintain positive relationships with yourself, your children and your ex!
(561) 300-6826 View (561) 300-6826
Photo of Greg Horn - Greg Horn, PhD, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Greg Horn, PhD, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33445
Whether its relationship issues, identity and career concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma or grief, I can help you to face these challenges directly and to deepen your understanding of yourself. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore how you have been impacted by your experience, to begin transformational change, and to engage in your life in a more authentic and meaningful way.
Whether its relationship issues, identity and career concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma or grief, I can help you to face these challenges directly and to deepen your understanding of yourself. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore how you have been impacted by your experience, to begin transformational change, and to engage in your life in a more authentic and meaningful way.
(561) 559-5540 View (561) 559-5540
Photo of Tricia Youngs, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Tricia Youngs
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Delray Beach, FL 33483
WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU MATTERS. I help people navigate difficult chapters in life. My advanced training is in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, love addiction, narcissistic abuse, codependence and relationship issues. What makes working with me different than other therapist, you might ask? Together we work through the root cause of your problem rather than just symptom management. I use a combination of evidenced based techniques, to heal the underlying issues that cause your distress. Then everything starts to fall into place, the chaos in life reduces, you feel more comfortable and can accomplish your goals and have joy.
WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU MATTERS. I help people navigate difficult chapters in life. My advanced training is in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, love addiction, narcissistic abuse, codependence and relationship issues. What makes working with me different than other therapist, you might ask? Together we work through the root cause of your problem rather than just symptom management. I use a combination of evidenced based techniques, to heal the underlying issues that cause your distress. Then everything starts to fall into place, the chaos in life reduces, you feel more comfortable and can accomplish your goals and have joy.
(561) 300-6470 View (561) 300-6470
Photo of Gerda Anna Muyen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gerda Anna Muyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33484
Are you in the middle of a transition such as divorce, relationship challenges? Do you want to feel better about your self or your relationship with your partner? Do you feel stuck or confused about where to go from here? I can guide you to have a better understanding about yourself by teaching you skills and tapping into your own inner wisdom so you can create more fulfilling life.
Are you in the middle of a transition such as divorce, relationship challenges? Do you want to feel better about your self or your relationship with your partner? Do you feel stuck or confused about where to go from here? I can guide you to have a better understanding about yourself by teaching you skills and tapping into your own inner wisdom so you can create more fulfilling life.
(561) 257-5834 View (561) 257-5834
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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.