Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Stoughton, WI

Mike Vienneau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stoughton, WI 53589
I have extensive experience working with a wide variety of populations and issues, including people with trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges. My philosophy of counseling is client-centered, based on respect for the individual and a belief in each person’s intrinsic value. I approach each session with a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and focus on personal strengths, skills, and goals that aid in the recovery and empowerment of my clients. My goal is to help clients work through life’s challenges and to find and achieve their full potential. I look forward to working with you.
I have extensive experience working with a wide variety of populations and issues, including people with trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges. My philosophy of counseling is client-centered, based on respect for the individual and a belief in each person’s intrinsic value. I approach each session with a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and focus on personal strengths, skills, and goals that aid in the recovery and empowerment of my clients. My goal is to help clients work through life’s challenges and to find and achieve their full potential. I look forward to working with you.
(608) 384-3949 View (608) 384-3949
Photo of Kristi Blaney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Blaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stoughton, WI 53589
LOVE! It is one of those words that either makes you giddy with joy or a little squirmy in your chair. Love is one of the things we long for most in our lives. Whether you struggle with romantic love, family love, agape love or even self-love, I would like to help. I provide therapy options in both Madison and Janesville to help make sure you have an option that is close to home. I aim to provide a warm space to help you feel at ease while you work through the toughest areas of your life.
LOVE! It is one of those words that either makes you giddy with joy or a little squirmy in your chair. Love is one of the things we long for most in our lives. Whether you struggle with romantic love, family love, agape love or even self-love, I would like to help. I provide therapy options in both Madison and Janesville to help make sure you have an option that is close to home. I aim to provide a warm space to help you feel at ease while you work through the toughest areas of your life.
(608) 390-3439 View (608) 390-3439

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ann Jamison, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Jamison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53575
I use a variety of approaches including narrative therapy, IFS, positive psychology, and brainspotting therapy.
Maybe you’ve hit a major bump in the road of life and need support. Maybe you’re ready to explore aspects of your identity, or simply want to shift into a more vibrant, joyful way of living. While people come to therapy for many different reasons, it should always be a supportive and nonjudgmental space to be heard and to reconnect with our innate strengths. The choice to care for ourselves, to seek help, allows us to find the resilience we didn't even realize was there. It is my honor to assist my clients as they heal and grow.
I use a variety of approaches including narrative therapy, IFS, positive psychology, and brainspotting therapy.
Maybe you’ve hit a major bump in the road of life and need support. Maybe you’re ready to explore aspects of your identity, or simply want to shift into a more vibrant, joyful way of living. While people come to therapy for many different reasons, it should always be a supportive and nonjudgmental space to be heard and to reconnect with our innate strengths. The choice to care for ourselves, to seek help, allows us to find the resilience we didn't even realize was there. It is my honor to assist my clients as they heal and grow.
(608) 585-8549 View (608) 585-8549
Photo of Renee Saltzman, LPC, RDT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renee Saltzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RDT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53716  (Online Only)
Is your substance use is getting out of hand? Do you feel like you can’t control your anxiety, worry, or fears? Or, are you tired of just existing and feeling like there’s no hope? Maybe you have experienced a traumatic event, are struggling to adjust to a life change, or have been using substances to cope. What if I told you there was hope, and there is another way to live? I have the tools to help you engage with your life, and the people in your life, in a more meaningful, authentic, and peace-filled manner.
Is your substance use is getting out of hand? Do you feel like you can’t control your anxiety, worry, or fears? Or, are you tired of just existing and feeling like there’s no hope? Maybe you have experienced a traumatic event, are struggling to adjust to a life change, or have been using substances to cope. What if I told you there was hope, and there is another way to live? I have the tools to help you engage with your life, and the people in your life, in a more meaningful, authentic, and peace-filled manner.
(608) 573-8096 View (608) 573-8096
Photo of Karla Angel, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Karla Angel
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53575
I work with people who want to build confidence - in themselves, their relationships, and their paths forward. Whether we're working on managing life's daily stressors, processing difficult experiences, or building self-confidence, I work with my individual clients to better understand their inner worlds so that they can create lasting change.
I work with people who want to build confidence - in themselves, their relationships, and their paths forward. Whether we're working on managing life's daily stressors, processing difficult experiences, or building self-confidence, I work with my individual clients to better understand their inner worlds so that they can create lasting change.
(608) 650-6025 View (608) 650-6025
Photo of Samantha Juve, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Juve
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm Samantha! I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in treating eating disorders. I have experience working in residential eating disorder treatment and outpatient mental health treatment. When I am not in the office I enjoy spending time with my family, therapy dog and my horses.
Hello! I'm Samantha! I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in treating eating disorders. I have experience working in residential eating disorder treatment and outpatient mental health treatment. When I am not in the office I enjoy spending time with my family, therapy dog and my horses.
(608) 960-3534 View (608) 960-3534
Photo of Caitlin Clarke, PhD, Psychologist
Caitlin Clarke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McFarland, WI 53558
Have you done all of the "right" things, but something still feels wrong? I help people plagued by perfectionism and self-doubt connect with their personal values and goals - not the expectations of others - to create a life of purpose and meaning. Together, we will incorporate modern mindfulness-based psychology with ancient spiritual and healing practices including yoga, meditation, and shamanic and energy healing, to help you feel vibrant, alive, and free to make choices that really work for you - mind, body, and soul.
Have you done all of the "right" things, but something still feels wrong? I help people plagued by perfectionism and self-doubt connect with their personal values and goals - not the expectations of others - to create a life of purpose and meaning. Together, we will incorporate modern mindfulness-based psychology with ancient spiritual and healing practices including yoga, meditation, and shamanic and energy healing, to help you feel vibrant, alive, and free to make choices that really work for you - mind, body, and soul.
(877) 716-7080 View (877) 716-7080

Online Therapists

Photo of Kimberly A Greenwald - Renewal & Healing Behavioral Health, MS, LPC, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renewal & Healing Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
I am certified in EMDR and Internal Family systems.
Renewal & Healing is a space where you can find safety through vulnerability and connection. I honor your individuality and tailor services to be as unique as you are. My practice is not just about overcoming challenges, but about embracing growth and finding a harmonious balance in both personal and professional life. I integrate techniques from a variety of evidence-based practices, including the transformative power of EMDR.
I am certified in EMDR and Internal Family systems.
Renewal & Healing is a space where you can find safety through vulnerability and connection. I honor your individuality and tailor services to be as unique as you are. My practice is not just about overcoming challenges, but about embracing growth and finding a harmonious balance in both personal and professional life. I integrate techniques from a variety of evidence-based practices, including the transformative power of EMDR.
(262) 599-6367 View (262) 599-6367
Photo of Sara Jettawi, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Jettawi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53719  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and integrate both IFS and the AIP model throughout sessions to support your growth and healing.
I believe you. I believe in your ability to overcome life's challenges, no matter how small, complex, or unbelievable they may be. It would be an honor for me to be a part of your journey. My approach is rooted in open-mindedness, acceptance, and attachment. I bring patience and kindness to every session, understanding the importance of creating a safe space for exploration and healing. I value the mind-body connection and incorporate somatic experiencing techniques to facilitate healing.
I am trained in EMDR and integrate both IFS and the AIP model throughout sessions to support your growth and healing.
I believe you. I believe in your ability to overcome life's challenges, no matter how small, complex, or unbelievable they may be. It would be an honor for me to be a part of your journey. My approach is rooted in open-mindedness, acceptance, and attachment. I bring patience and kindness to every session, understanding the importance of creating a safe space for exploration and healing. I value the mind-body connection and incorporate somatic experiencing techniques to facilitate healing.
(608) 766-8231 View (608) 766-8231
Photo of Kimberly Genger Lee, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Genger Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226  (Online Only)
As the state's only certified Christian Sex Therapist, I bring an important perspective to people struggling with sexual issues no matter where you live in WI. As a Marriage and Family therapist I can also help clients heal and deal with issues that are effecting the marriage or intimacy - whether communication or sexual desire. For individuals suffering from Sexual Trauma and Sex Addictions I have found the use of the highly experiential model, Internal Family Systems - to be extremely helpful and deeply impactful for healing.
As the state's only certified Christian Sex Therapist, I bring an important perspective to people struggling with sexual issues no matter where you live in WI. As a Marriage and Family therapist I can also help clients heal and deal with issues that are effecting the marriage or intimacy - whether communication or sexual desire. For individuals suffering from Sexual Trauma and Sex Addictions I have found the use of the highly experiential model, Internal Family Systems - to be extremely helpful and deeply impactful for healing.
(414) 404-3293 View (414) 404-3293
Photo of Dani Koehler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dani Koehler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
In that pursuit I utilize many different approaches to therapy, including CBT, DBT, Internal Family systems, and Emotionally Focused therapy.
My approach to therapy is collaborative: you are the expert in your life, I am the expert in mental wellness, and together we can forge a path forward into a life that is peaceful and meaningful for you. I am passionate about breaking intergenerational trauma and helping people build peaceful families. Families can look like everything from one adult and their beloved yet temperamental Iguana, Harold, to a couple with ten children and six in-laws living in one home. Don't worry if right now your family feels like a total mess. Remember: even a dumpster fire can provide a cleansing flame.
In that pursuit I utilize many different approaches to therapy, including CBT, DBT, Internal Family systems, and Emotionally Focused therapy.
My approach to therapy is collaborative: you are the expert in your life, I am the expert in mental wellness, and together we can forge a path forward into a life that is peaceful and meaningful for you. I am passionate about breaking intergenerational trauma and helping people build peaceful families. Families can look like everything from one adult and their beloved yet temperamental Iguana, Harold, to a couple with ten children and six in-laws living in one home. Don't worry if right now your family feels like a total mess. Remember: even a dumpster fire can provide a cleansing flame.
(414) 626-2834 View (414) 626-2834
Photo of Becky Wilson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Becky Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Janesville, WI 53546
My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassionate exploration and attunement and is inspired by elements of Emotion-Focused therapy, parts and inner-child work, Internal Family Systems, and attachment theory.
Limited evening availability beginning in November. Immediate morning and afternoon availability. Anxious, stuck, lost, empty, sad? You are not alone if any of these words resonate with you. Many of us learned to disconnect from the hurting or lonely parts of ourselves which can look like negative self-talk, overwhelm, unpredictable emotions, and relationship frustrations. I work with individuals who want to unlearn limiting beliefs, process past experiences, and reconnect with themselves, and folks exploring autism and identity. If you've ever been curious about how your past shapes your present, you're in the right place.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassionate exploration and attunement and is inspired by elements of Emotion-Focused therapy, parts and inner-child work, Internal Family Systems, and attachment theory.
Limited evening availability beginning in November. Immediate morning and afternoon availability. Anxious, stuck, lost, empty, sad? You are not alone if any of these words resonate with you. Many of us learned to disconnect from the hurting or lonely parts of ourselves which can look like negative self-talk, overwhelm, unpredictable emotions, and relationship frustrations. I work with individuals who want to unlearn limiting beliefs, process past experiences, and reconnect with themselves, and folks exploring autism and identity. If you've ever been curious about how your past shapes your present, you're in the right place.
(608) 583-9037 View (608) 583-9037
Photo of Renee D Murphy-Hughes - Our Journey Through Life, MA, LPC, WI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Our Journey Through Life
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, WI
Verified Verified
Kenosha, WI 53144  (Online Only)
I am a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist (evidence based) but also offer Solution-Focused Therapy, Family Systems, and am trained in Humanistic/Existential Therapy.
I believe that we all have our own unique journey in life.The client is the driver of their journey & sets the goals. I'm the vehicle to help you get there. Clients that do best are ones that are serious about committing to the therapeutic process. Activate participation is of major importance! To recover from your pain or reach your goals, you must go through the pain to get over the pain! I specilize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Grief & Loss, ADHD, effective communication skills, conflict resolution & relationship skills for individuals, couples/families. I also work with family survivors of suicide - SOS.
I am a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist (evidence based) but also offer Solution-Focused Therapy, Family Systems, and am trained in Humanistic/Existential Therapy.
I believe that we all have our own unique journey in life.The client is the driver of their journey & sets the goals. I'm the vehicle to help you get there. Clients that do best are ones that are serious about committing to the therapeutic process. Activate participation is of major importance! To recover from your pain or reach your goals, you must go through the pain to get over the pain! I specilize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Grief & Loss, ADHD, effective communication skills, conflict resolution & relationship skills for individuals, couples/families. I also work with family survivors of suicide - SOS.
(262) 400-2499 View (262) 400-2499
Photo of Samina Grimes, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samina Grimes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions like solution-focused, CBT, trauma-informed, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and IFS therapy.
Welcome! I’m Samina Grimes, a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience. Since 2010, I’ve helped clients navigate life’s transitions and mental health challenges, bringing compassion and personal understanding, especially around neurodiversity, anxiety, and depression. Rooted in a recovery-oriented, hope-filled approach, I believe in each person’s potential to heal and align with their true self. I am dedicated to my private practice, where I work part-time—nights and weekends—carrying a client load of 10-20 clients. I live in Western Wisconsin with my wife, family, and our two dogs.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions like solution-focused, CBT, trauma-informed, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and IFS therapy.
Welcome! I’m Samina Grimes, a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience. Since 2010, I’ve helped clients navigate life’s transitions and mental health challenges, bringing compassion and personal understanding, especially around neurodiversity, anxiety, and depression. Rooted in a recovery-oriented, hope-filled approach, I believe in each person’s potential to heal and align with their true self. I am dedicated to my private practice, where I work part-time—nights and weekends—carrying a client load of 10-20 clients. I live in Western Wisconsin with my wife, family, and our two dogs.
(959) 210-6800 View (959) 210-6800
Photo of Autumn Horn, LPC-IT, ATR-P, Counselor
Autumn Horn
Counselor, LPC-IT, ATR-P
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedarburg, WI 53012
I utilize a range of modalities, from art therapy techniques and directives, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems theory ( IFS), existentialism, and psychodynamic approaches.
I am an art therapist and licensed professional counselor who invites clients on a journey of self-exploration through artmaking and talk therapy. I am passionate about building self-concept, strengths, and coping skills in a safe, comfortable space where clients can feel creative and expressive. In art therapy, I value process over product, you may hear me say “trust the process”! Which means you don’t need to be an artist or “good” at art to participate, but rather explore yourself through art to uncover unconscious thought, create meaning and purpose, engage in conversations of process, strengths, and resilience.
I utilize a range of modalities, from art therapy techniques and directives, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems theory ( IFS), existentialism, and psychodynamic approaches.
I am an art therapist and licensed professional counselor who invites clients on a journey of self-exploration through artmaking and talk therapy. I am passionate about building self-concept, strengths, and coping skills in a safe, comfortable space where clients can feel creative and expressive. In art therapy, I value process over product, you may hear me say “trust the process”! Which means you don’t need to be an artist or “good” at art to participate, but rather explore yourself through art to uncover unconscious thought, create meaning and purpose, engage in conversations of process, strengths, and resilience.
(262) 587-6966 View (262) 587-6966
Photo of Anastasia Coppola, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anastasia Coppola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704
I use Internal Family Systems to develop inner trust, connection and self-compassion.
Nov. availability Tues & Thurs. My approach centers on the mind-body connection. My goal is to facilitate deep healing with psychosomatic therapy. Through interpersonal and systemic traumas, unmet needs throughout life, and generally overwhelming situations, disconnection and an inability to cope can arise. Using approaches, like IFS and Brainspotting, we will work together to process emotions and distress and increase your ability to be present in your life. Through an attuned presence and your mindful awareness in therapy, you can engage in healing and connection to yourself and the world around you.
I use Internal Family Systems to develop inner trust, connection and self-compassion.
Nov. availability Tues & Thurs. My approach centers on the mind-body connection. My goal is to facilitate deep healing with psychosomatic therapy. Through interpersonal and systemic traumas, unmet needs throughout life, and generally overwhelming situations, disconnection and an inability to cope can arise. Using approaches, like IFS and Brainspotting, we will work together to process emotions and distress and increase your ability to be present in your life. Through an attuned presence and your mindful awareness in therapy, you can engage in healing and connection to yourself and the world around you.
(608) 535-6532 View (608) 535-6532
Photo of Ann Veilleux, MSSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Veilleux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705  (Online Only)
Specialties: Internal Family Systems, Gestalt Therapy, EMD, Psychodynamic Individual Therapy and Couples Therapy.
I have over 40 years of experience doing psychotherapy. I have become particularly skilled at seeing what is happening with individuals, and between couples, and I share that so that you can understand what you are dealing with. We work collaboratively and creatively; I check to be sure my directions and suggestions are meaningful to you. I make sure that you are learning something significant about yourself in every session. You deserve the respect and support you need to go into uncharted territory. I care about my clients and my clients know it; that is the inspiration that keeps my work exciting to me.
Specialties: Internal Family Systems, Gestalt Therapy, EMD, Psychodynamic Individual Therapy and Couples Therapy.
I have over 40 years of experience doing psychotherapy. I have become particularly skilled at seeing what is happening with individuals, and between couples, and I share that so that you can understand what you are dealing with. We work collaboratively and creatively; I check to be sure my directions and suggestions are meaningful to you. I make sure that you are learning something significant about yourself in every session. You deserve the respect and support you need to go into uncharted territory. I care about my clients and my clients know it; that is the inspiration that keeps my work exciting to me.
(608) 406-2875 View (608) 406-2875
Photo of Sara Jettawi, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Jettawi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
Additionally, I utilize Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to support your growth and healing.
My name is Sara Jettawi and I am a psychotherapist working via telehealth with diverse clients throughout the state of Wisconsin. I bring patience and kindness to every session, understanding the importance of creating a safe space for exploration and healing. My approach is rooted in open-mindedness, acceptance, and attachment. I value the mind-body connection and incorporate somatic experiencing techniques to facilitate healing. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and integrate Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) throughout our sessions.
Additionally, I utilize Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to support your growth and healing.
My name is Sara Jettawi and I am a psychotherapist working via telehealth with diverse clients throughout the state of Wisconsin. I bring patience and kindness to every session, understanding the importance of creating a safe space for exploration and healing. My approach is rooted in open-mindedness, acceptance, and attachment. I value the mind-body connection and incorporate somatic experiencing techniques to facilitate healing. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and integrate Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) throughout our sessions.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Robin Marie Monson-Dupuis, LCSW , SAC , RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Marie Monson-Dupuis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , SAC , RYT
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53228
Utilize the models of Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy.
I work with those who suffer from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, and losses of all kinds. I specialize in working with law enforcement & their spouses/families. Clients want to move through their suffering toward some peace and find joy again in their lives. I help clients who are feeling disconnected from meaning in life find their purpose & discover the unique gifts they have to offer the world. Persons in life transitions are eager to explore this. Families/couples who are struggling with addiction, infidelity, or parenting difficulties are some of my favorite clients; we work together to instill harmony and tolerance.
Utilize the models of Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy.
I work with those who suffer from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, and losses of all kinds. I specialize in working with law enforcement & their spouses/families. Clients want to move through their suffering toward some peace and find joy again in their lives. I help clients who are feeling disconnected from meaning in life find their purpose & discover the unique gifts they have to offer the world. Persons in life transitions are eager to explore this. Families/couples who are struggling with addiction, infidelity, or parenting difficulties are some of my favorite clients; we work together to instill harmony and tolerance.
(414) 348-1336 View (414) 348-1336
Photo of Amy Marie Plum, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Marie Plum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Delafield, WI 53018
These include: sand tray, Internal Family Systems, Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Holographic Memory Resolution (HMR), guided relaxation and journeying on an infrared and bio-acoustic mat, and therapeutic art such as dioramas, mask making, and left handed self portrait drawing.
What drives my 25 year experience in the field of clinical psychology is a superpower that I believe belongs to everyone, sacred curiosity. In partnering with my client to develop this superpower we build the foundation for the following: healing past trauma, working through loss and transition, developing a consistent emotional regulation practice, harnessing creative energies in productive ways, building self-awareness without judgement, and fostering conflict resolution skills that bring harmony to social relationships. Clients who are drawn to my work seek creative embodied ways of healing and self-exploring.
These include: sand tray, Internal Family Systems, Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Holographic Memory Resolution (HMR), guided relaxation and journeying on an infrared and bio-acoustic mat, and therapeutic art such as dioramas, mask making, and left handed self portrait drawing.
What drives my 25 year experience in the field of clinical psychology is a superpower that I believe belongs to everyone, sacred curiosity. In partnering with my client to develop this superpower we build the foundation for the following: healing past trauma, working through loss and transition, developing a consistent emotional regulation practice, harnessing creative energies in productive ways, building self-awareness without judgement, and fostering conflict resolution skills that bring harmony to social relationships. Clients who are drawn to my work seek creative embodied ways of healing and self-exploring.
(262) 667-5371 View (262) 667-5371

See more therapy options for Stoughton

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.