Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Wilmette, IL

Joan Ferdinand-Keleher
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
My general private practice includes several specialties: EMDR ; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; Internal Family Systems; Imago relationship perspective.
I am an Illinois Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in private practice with offices in Evanston and Chicago offering psychotherapy services to adult individuals, couples, and families.
My general private practice includes several specialties: EMDR ; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; Internal Family Systems; Imago relationship perspective.
I am an Illinois Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in private practice with offices in Evanston and Chicago offering psychotherapy services to adult individuals, couples, and families.
(224) 408-5126 View (224) 408-5126
Photo of Annie Cacchione, LCPC
Annie Cacchione
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I am a Level 1 Certified IFS Practitioner and enjoy helping clients access their authentic self as they navigate through life’s challenges.
I specialize in working with clients throughout the lifespan. I primarily work with individuals who are struggling with parenting challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and women’s issues. Since having children, I have been drawn to helping women through the joys and challenges of parenthood and received a specialization in Perinatal Mental Health through Postpartum Support International. I am also an IFS (Internal Family Systems) Level One Certified therapists and work closely with clients to help them make decisions that align with their unique values and connect with their sense of true self.
I am a Level 1 Certified IFS Practitioner and enjoy helping clients access their authentic self as they navigate through life’s challenges.
I specialize in working with clients throughout the lifespan. I primarily work with individuals who are struggling with parenting challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and women’s issues. Since having children, I have been drawn to helping women through the joys and challenges of parenthood and received a specialization in Perinatal Mental Health through Postpartum Support International. I am also an IFS (Internal Family Systems) Level One Certified therapists and work closely with clients to help them make decisions that align with their unique values and connect with their sense of true self.
(224) 208-1210 View (224) 208-1210
Photo of Annie Felice, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Annie Felice
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), certified IFS therapist (level 3 trained), and certified IFS clinical consultant who provides individual and couples therapy and consultation. I understand that it takes a lot of courage to begin the process of therapy, so I work to create a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I appreciate the uniqueness of each client's experience and strive to meet each client where they are at. I collaborate with them to create a treatment approach that is flexible, effective, and aligned with their goals for change and healing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), certified IFS therapist (level 3 trained), and certified IFS clinical consultant who provides individual and couples therapy and consultation. I understand that it takes a lot of courage to begin the process of therapy, so I work to create a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I appreciate the uniqueness of each client's experience and strive to meet each client where they are at. I collaborate with them to create a treatment approach that is flexible, effective, and aligned with their goals for change and healing.
(224) 344-2466 View (224) 344-2466
Photo of Curt Kearney, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Curt Kearney
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
This work can be a great partnership with IFS therapy.
I mostly work in an Internal Family Systems (IFS), relational way. To me that means working in therapy towards having good enough internal harmony. Life is hard and life is amazing. Because life can be hard, we often have to get into intense, protective relationships with ourselves. Then parts of us can be pushed into the shadows. So we can wind up feeling "out of whack" and living our daily lives can be harder. Therapy can help us work with our multifaceted psychology so that we then have greater internal friendship and harmony. That can then translate into our relationships, our work, and our lives in the world.
This work can be a great partnership with IFS therapy.
I mostly work in an Internal Family Systems (IFS), relational way. To me that means working in therapy towards having good enough internal harmony. Life is hard and life is amazing. Because life can be hard, we often have to get into intense, protective relationships with ourselves. Then parts of us can be pushed into the shadows. So we can wind up feeling "out of whack" and living our daily lives can be harder. Therapy can help us work with our multifaceted psychology so that we then have greater internal friendship and harmony. That can then translate into our relationships, our work, and our lives in the world.
(224) 328-2254 View (224) 328-2254
Photo of Renee Surgi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Surgi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I have some shocking news: being a human is hard. Which is why I enjoy helping people navigate various life transitions, overcome challenging relationship dynamics (romantic, familial, platonic, professional, etc.), and heal from trauma. My approach is strengths-based and I often incorporate psychodynamic, Jungian, and Family Systems Theory with CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and consciousness-based interventions. Therapy with me is collaborative, holistic, and eclectic. I pride myself in creating a safe, judgment-free space for people to return to their most authentic selves, ultimately leading to a more meaningful experience of life.
I have some shocking news: being a human is hard. Which is why I enjoy helping people navigate various life transitions, overcome challenging relationship dynamics (romantic, familial, platonic, professional, etc.), and heal from trauma. My approach is strengths-based and I often incorporate psychodynamic, Jungian, and Family Systems Theory with CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and consciousness-based interventions. Therapy with me is collaborative, holistic, and eclectic. I pride myself in creating a safe, judgment-free space for people to return to their most authentic selves, ultimately leading to a more meaningful experience of life.
(847) 654-9787 View (847) 654-9787
Photo of Maranda Easton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maranda Easton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
My approach is influenced by relational, psychodynamic, and Internal Family Systems approaches.
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. You might feel stuck in patterns that are stopping you from fully engaging in the life you want to live. I work with you to process what may be contributing to your pain and to recognize your many strengths within. Together, we will create a space to be curious about, and welcome, all parts of yourself so that you can nurture more fulfilling relationships with yourself and others. We each deserve to be seen for all that we are by someone who cares.
My approach is influenced by relational, psychodynamic, and Internal Family Systems approaches.
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. You might feel stuck in patterns that are stopping you from fully engaging in the life you want to live. I work with you to process what may be contributing to your pain and to recognize your many strengths within. Together, we will create a space to be curious about, and welcome, all parts of yourself so that you can nurture more fulfilling relationships with yourself and others. We each deserve to be seen for all that we are by someone who cares.
(847) 320-0933 View (847) 320-0933
Photo of Daniel Serpa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Serpa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
My clinical training offers integrated and flexible approaches to treatment, utilizing a trauma-informed perspective when appropriate, and incorporating components of Family Systems, Relational, CBT, Expressive and Mindfulness approaches.
Life is complicated and seldom straightforward. We are often left facing challenges that are surprising and difficult to navigate. It may be a new role, a disappointment at work, a problem in a relationship, or some lasting echoes from the past that still show up, that causes us to feel anxious, angry, sad, confused and “stuck”. We try our best to manage by using coping strategies that turn out to be more problematic than helpful. We are then left thinking, what happened? Will I ever feel like my old self? Why can't I just get over this? If you are anxious, struggling to focus, overwhelmed by work or family, I am trained to help
My clinical training offers integrated and flexible approaches to treatment, utilizing a trauma-informed perspective when appropriate, and incorporating components of Family Systems, Relational, CBT, Expressive and Mindfulness approaches.
Life is complicated and seldom straightforward. We are often left facing challenges that are surprising and difficult to navigate. It may be a new role, a disappointment at work, a problem in a relationship, or some lasting echoes from the past that still show up, that causes us to feel anxious, angry, sad, confused and “stuck”. We try our best to manage by using coping strategies that turn out to be more problematic than helpful. We are then left thinking, what happened? Will I ever feel like my old self? Why can't I just get over this? If you are anxious, struggling to focus, overwhelmed by work or family, I am trained to help
(224) 204-0870 View (224) 204-0870
Photo of Brianna Robles, LCPC, CRC
Brianna Robles
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
I work with clients through a trauma-informed lens and harm reduction model, with a particular focus on Internal Family Systems and Somatic Embodiment.
It makes sense if you’re questioning how your experiences, circumstances, and upbringing have impacted you and how you see yourself. You might be dealing with a variety of issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, identity exploration, or body image concerns. You may be searching for a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely and feel understood. You’re hoping to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and patterns so you can cultivate a more authentic and empowered way of living.
I work with clients through a trauma-informed lens and harm reduction model, with a particular focus on Internal Family Systems and Somatic Embodiment.
It makes sense if you’re questioning how your experiences, circumstances, and upbringing have impacted you and how you see yourself. You might be dealing with a variety of issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, identity exploration, or body image concerns. You may be searching for a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely and feel understood. You’re hoping to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and patterns so you can cultivate a more authentic and empowered way of living.
(773) 309-6362 View (773) 309-6362
Photo of Andrew Ross, LCPC, CCTP, Counselor
Andrew Ross
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I draw on cutting edge interventions including EMDR, CBT, IFS, and EFT as well as attuned, empathic conversation to help people regulate their emotional state, learn new skills, develop effective strategies, and resolve old blockages.
Would you like a step by step plan to break free from depression, anxiety, or post traumatic stress? I've consolidated over a decade of clinical experience and study of evidence based models into a 3 phase plan that is trauma informed and strengths based to help adults of all ages to: 1. Stabilize, 2. Resolve the root causes of symptoms, and 3. Expand healthy control over their lives. I've laid out this plan for free on my website for anyone to use. Within this framework I integrate various therapeutic models to help clients achieve their goals. I am also equipped to weave faith and spirituality into the work if clients wish.
I draw on cutting edge interventions including EMDR, CBT, IFS, and EFT as well as attuned, empathic conversation to help people regulate their emotional state, learn new skills, develop effective strategies, and resolve old blockages.
Would you like a step by step plan to break free from depression, anxiety, or post traumatic stress? I've consolidated over a decade of clinical experience and study of evidence based models into a 3 phase plan that is trauma informed and strengths based to help adults of all ages to: 1. Stabilize, 2. Resolve the root causes of symptoms, and 3. Expand healthy control over their lives. I've laid out this plan for free on my website for anyone to use. Within this framework I integrate various therapeutic models to help clients achieve their goals. I am also equipped to weave faith and spirituality into the work if clients wish.
(847) 999-7118 View (847) 999-7118
Photo of Joseph D Cusumano - Joseph D. Cusumano, Ph.D., PhD, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Joseph D. Cusumano, Ph.D.
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
New internest in IFS therapy.
At this stage in my career, ideal clients would be those interested in working with me via the videotherapy platform outside of insurance. I have decided to transition to teletherapy for a variety of reasons, and I have found that it is a highly effective way to work with clients. It gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of when we can meet...days, evenings. $80 for a 45 minute session. My goal is to provide highly affordable, high quality mental health therapy to those I work with. I have a youthful and energetic personality. I am highly interactive during sessions.
New internest in IFS therapy.
At this stage in my career, ideal clients would be those interested in working with me via the videotherapy platform outside of insurance. I have decided to transition to teletherapy for a variety of reasons, and I have found that it is a highly effective way to work with clients. It gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of when we can meet...days, evenings. $80 for a 45 minute session. My goal is to provide highly affordable, high quality mental health therapy to those I work with. I have a youthful and energetic personality. I am highly interactive during sessions.
(217) 335-4675 View (217) 335-4675
Photo of Tricia Louise Nolan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tricia Louise Nolan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
Tricia uses a holistic approach to healing and has extensive training in many different modalities including Reiki, IET (Integrative Energy Therapy), Yoga/Meditation, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and mindfulness training. In using the Contextual Change Model, she incorporates these various modalities depending on the needs of the client. She approaches the therapeutic relationship in a collaborative way, focusing on the client’s strengths, helping the client to deepen agency and self-awareness, emphasizing compassion and empathy throughout treatment. Tricia is currently teaching yoga/meditation at her home in Wilmette.
Tricia uses a holistic approach to healing and has extensive training in many different modalities including Reiki, IET (Integrative Energy Therapy), Yoga/Meditation, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and mindfulness training. In using the Contextual Change Model, she incorporates these various modalities depending on the needs of the client. She approaches the therapeutic relationship in a collaborative way, focusing on the client’s strengths, helping the client to deepen agency and self-awareness, emphasizing compassion and empathy throughout treatment. Tricia is currently teaching yoga/meditation at her home in Wilmette.
(224) 808-4973 View (224) 808-4973
Photo of John K. Schlesinger, PsyD, Psychologist
John K. Schlesinger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I provide psychological therapy which focuses on the way that people think and behave. My practice specializes in working with children/adolescents and college/post-college adults who have problems adapting to their current life circumstances. Each person brings into treatment all their experiences, both joyous and problematic, which provides a base for the development of individualized goals and objectives.
I provide psychological therapy which focuses on the way that people think and behave. My practice specializes in working with children/adolescents and college/post-college adults who have problems adapting to their current life circumstances. Each person brings into treatment all their experiences, both joyous and problematic, which provides a base for the development of individualized goals and objectives.
(773) 786-9764 View (773) 786-9764
Photo of Ginger K. Ridings, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ginger K. Ridings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I am certified in Imago Relationship Therapy and I have completed all levels of training from the Gottman Institute. In addition I trained with The Family Institute. I offer a one hour free lecture entitled the The Art and Science of Relationships. I am available to churches, synagogues, community centers, attorneys and physicians to offer this free lecture to their parishioners, attendees, clients or patients. In addition I am available to give a couple's workshop on The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work and would consider any requests on topics that are deemed of interest.
I am certified in Imago Relationship Therapy and I have completed all levels of training from the Gottman Institute. In addition I trained with The Family Institute. I offer a one hour free lecture entitled the The Art and Science of Relationships. I am available to churches, synagogues, community centers, attorneys and physicians to offer this free lecture to their parishioners, attendees, clients or patients. In addition I am available to give a couple's workshop on The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work and would consider any requests on topics that are deemed of interest.
(224) 231-6261 View (224) 231-6261
Photo of Ellie Schwartzman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Schwartzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
(312) 734-1593 View (312) 734-1593
Photo of Tracy Muklewicz - Insight Therapeutics, Inc., MS, Ed, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Insight Therapeutics, Inc.
Counselor, MS, Ed, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I utilize a combination of somatically-focused, cognitive, and psychodynamic approaches to assist you in understanding your concerns. I'd love to help you address current changes you'd like to make, but also address underlying concerns so that current struggles are less likely to resurface. I specialize in tailoring treatments in developmentally attuned ways. With adults I assist clients in understanding how their life journeys have led them to their present concerns, and work on uncovering and undoing patterns you may find less effective.
I utilize a combination of somatically-focused, cognitive, and psychodynamic approaches to assist you in understanding your concerns. I'd love to help you address current changes you'd like to make, but also address underlying concerns so that current struggles are less likely to resurface. I specialize in tailoring treatments in developmentally attuned ways. With adults I assist clients in understanding how their life journeys have led them to their present concerns, and work on uncovering and undoing patterns you may find less effective.
(847) 800-9347 View (847) 800-9347
Photo of Mary l Best, LCPC, Counselor
Mary l Best
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
My clinical work emphasizes the whole person by integrating the neurobiological, psychological, physical, social and spiritual aspects of life. My practice focuses on helping clients achieve a more centered, balanced life by giving them the tools needed to grow within life's challenges. I work with adults struggling with everyday life difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, unresolved issues from the past, trauma, loss and grief; couples who are working to improve their relationship skills in areas of communication, anger management, trust and intimacy; families challenged by the transitions, losses and letting goes unique to each family's life cycle.
My clinical work emphasizes the whole person by integrating the neurobiological, psychological, physical, social and spiritual aspects of life. My practice focuses on helping clients achieve a more centered, balanced life by giving them the tools needed to grow within life's challenges. I work with adults struggling with everyday life difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, unresolved issues from the past, trauma, loss and grief; couples who are working to improve their relationship skills in areas of communication, anger management, trust and intimacy; families challenged by the transitions, losses and letting goes unique to each family's life cycle.
(847) 892-1373 View (847) 892-1373
Photo of Barbara Whitney, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Whitney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I am a caring and experienced therapist who enjoys helping couples and individuals resolve ongoing problems in intimate relationships. Do you want a better relationship? Would you like to move beyond the losses you've suffered to find peace and contentment? Do you want more meaning in your life? Chances are you need to understand yourself better, to listen to your own inner wisdom, to take responsibility for your life by facing reality. To learn to care for yourself, accept every part of yourself, and think clearly without distortions. I can help you develop courage, integrity, and a stronger sense of self.
I am a caring and experienced therapist who enjoys helping couples and individuals resolve ongoing problems in intimate relationships. Do you want a better relationship? Would you like to move beyond the losses you've suffered to find peace and contentment? Do you want more meaning in your life? Chances are you need to understand yourself better, to listen to your own inner wisdom, to take responsibility for your life by facing reality. To learn to care for yourself, accept every part of yourself, and think clearly without distortions. I can help you develop courage, integrity, and a stronger sense of self.
(847) 461-3830 View (847) 461-3830
Photo of Meg Coyne Sex And Relationship Therapist, LCSW, she/her, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Coyne Sex And Relationship Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, she/her
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
As a relationship and sex therapist, I'm interested in creating a positive and welcoming space for processing your feelings and issues. Our work together is to enhance your resilience, support your healing process and increase self acceptance. The therapeutic journey is a shared process. Our collaboration will target interventions to meet your needs.
As a relationship and sex therapist, I'm interested in creating a positive and welcoming space for processing your feelings and issues. Our work together is to enhance your resilience, support your healing process and increase self acceptance. The therapeutic journey is a shared process. Our collaboration will target interventions to meet your needs.
(312) 945-0845 View (312) 945-0845
Photo of Sally McQuillen, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally McQuillen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
I love working with individuals seeking relief from mood symptoms, to help them overcome challenges, grow in their personal and professional relationships and lead more fulfilling lives. I specialize in both ongoing support for recovery from addiction and support for for those recovering from the impact of a loved one’s addiction. I am also a certified grief educator helping clients heal and find peace around trauma and loss,
I love working with individuals seeking relief from mood symptoms, to help them overcome challenges, grow in their personal and professional relationships and lead more fulfilling lives. I specialize in both ongoing support for recovery from addiction and support for for those recovering from the impact of a loved one’s addiction. I am also a certified grief educator helping clients heal and find peace around trauma and loss,
(224) 505-4880 View (224) 505-4880
Photo of Amy Steinhauer - Evanston Relational Psychotherapy, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evanston Relational Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
We help individuals and couples heal relationships, trauma, sexuality...
We help individuals and couples heal relationships, trauma, sexuality...
(224) 232-5873 View (224) 232-5873
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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.