Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Portland, ME
![Photo of Paul D Montgomery, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8231ebcc-9ee2-40b0-afb6-da3f33b1dc4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Using internal family systems, Buddhist psychology and narrative therapy, we will help these parts heal from and put down the burdens they carry.
Sometimes the state of our world can feel so scary and heartbreaking that we feel immobilized. Much of our potential is blocked by feeling overwhelmed by the day to day challenge of struggling to advocate for ourselves in our communities, the world, even in our own thoughts and beliefs! It is easy to feel anxious, alone and simultaneously at war with ourselves. I emphasize serving individuals that experience marginalized identities and see myself as your co-conspirator. I work with issues of identity and non-normative experiences, in the context of gender, sexuality as well as queer experience beyond that framework
Using internal family systems, Buddhist psychology and narrative therapy, we will help these parts heal from and put down the burdens they carry.
Sometimes the state of our world can feel so scary and heartbreaking that we feel immobilized. Much of our potential is blocked by feeling overwhelmed by the day to day challenge of struggling to advocate for ourselves in our communities, the world, even in our own thoughts and beliefs! It is easy to feel anxious, alone and simultaneously at war with ourselves. I emphasize serving individuals that experience marginalized identities and see myself as your co-conspirator. I work with issues of identity and non-normative experiences, in the context of gender, sexuality as well as queer experience beyond that framework
![Photo of Katherine J Stein, MA, LCPC, LADC, CCS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d287c74-e9a1-468a-8077-5eb4ed319fbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine J Stein
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize treatment methods such as Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy, as well as many others to create an eclectic approach specific to each person.
We often come to therapy because we are lost in the woods of our lives. Sometimes the woods are dark and scary, sometimes they are just confusing. Somehow, we have gone off the path, thinking we knew the way, and have come to realize we are not where we had hoped to be. Perhaps we never had a clear path to begin with. I see my role as a guide and companion on your journey from where you are to where you would like to be—I’ll hold a map and flashlight and walk alongside you as you discover where you have been, how you came to be where you are, and the direction you’d like to go.
I utilize treatment methods such as Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy, as well as many others to create an eclectic approach specific to each person.
We often come to therapy because we are lost in the woods of our lives. Sometimes the woods are dark and scary, sometimes they are just confusing. Somehow, we have gone off the path, thinking we knew the way, and have come to realize we are not where we had hoped to be. Perhaps we never had a clear path to begin with. I see my role as a guide and companion on your journey from where you are to where you would like to be—I’ll hold a map and flashlight and walk alongside you as you discover where you have been, how you came to be where you are, and the direction you’d like to go.
![Photo of Heidi Wells, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ed142e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in DBT, mindfulness, IFS, inner child work, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapy.
Are you struggling with narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma or issues related to divorce? These are my specialty. My style incorporates several techniques. I’m influenced by positive psychology, body-based therapy, and relational therapies. Focusing on self-love is crucial for all issues! My goal is to assure that you feel supported and that you have tools to help you between our sessions. There are skills that you can incorporate into your daily life to help with all this. Let’s do that together!
I am trained in DBT, mindfulness, IFS, inner child work, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapy.
Are you struggling with narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma or issues related to divorce? These are my specialty. My style incorporates several techniques. I’m influenced by positive psychology, body-based therapy, and relational therapies. Focusing on self-love is crucial for all issues! My goal is to assure that you feel supported and that you have tools to help you between our sessions. There are skills that you can incorporate into your daily life to help with all this. Let’s do that together!
![Photo of Jack Obery, LCPC-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac87c96a-6ffb-426e-b495-9dfa7cd0742c/1/320x400.jpeg)
In session, I utilize emotion-focused therapy, parts work and a multiplicity narrative via Internal Family Systems, Mind-Body therapy in the Hakomi tradition, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am dedicated to helping the members of our community navigate the stress, anxiety, depression, anger, and guilt that many of us feel as we move through these complex and chaotic times. My approach to therapy is eclectic and varied, but always aligns with modalities that prioritize compassion, acceptance, exploration without judgment, and presence.
In session, I utilize emotion-focused therapy, parts work and a multiplicity narrative via Internal Family Systems, Mind-Body therapy in the Hakomi tradition, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am dedicated to helping the members of our community navigate the stress, anxiety, depression, anger, and guilt that many of us feel as we move through these complex and chaotic times. My approach to therapy is eclectic and varied, but always aligns with modalities that prioritize compassion, acceptance, exploration without judgment, and presence.
![Photo of Sara Holmes, MS, LCPC-C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8401e415-af59-4242-bb87-c2d99cd0e0f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Concepts and theories I use are: childhood conditioning, "inner child" therapy, IFS informed "parts work", Jungian "shadow work", boundaries skills, attachment style, developmental trauma, codependency, and intergenerational trauma.
Let's get to the heart of it. You want the pain to stop. You keep finding yourself in a place of despair, repeating the same patterns over and over again. You don't know how it happened and you don't realize you're doing it until it's too late...again. Together we can explore your patterns, struggles, and strengths in order to lead you to a new path of self-determined fulfillment. We will gently but assuredly do deep work together, not put a band-aid "coping skill" over your issues. Clearly you're not trying to be in pain! You're not consciously making this happen.
Concepts and theories I use are: childhood conditioning, "inner child" therapy, IFS informed "parts work", Jungian "shadow work", boundaries skills, attachment style, developmental trauma, codependency, and intergenerational trauma.
Let's get to the heart of it. You want the pain to stop. You keep finding yourself in a place of despair, repeating the same patterns over and over again. You don't know how it happened and you don't realize you're doing it until it's too late...again. Together we can explore your patterns, struggles, and strengths in order to lead you to a new path of self-determined fulfillment. We will gently but assuredly do deep work together, not put a band-aid "coping skill" over your issues. Clearly you're not trying to be in pain! You're not consciously making this happen.
![Photo of Michael Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18af65d1-0487-4fc8-83dd-72d16f973d67/1/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic approach is warm, supportive, and engaging, integrating ACT, ERP, and Parts Work ( IFS).
As human beings, we instinctively seek meaning and purpose, yet we also resist the difficult experiences that could move us toward them. These difficult experiences may start out in the world, but often live within us in the form of repeating thoughts, feelings, sensations, memories, and beliefs - parts of ourselves that may need to be more fully experienced, acknowledged, and examined. When approaching these experiences with a compassionate and curious awareness, we can begin to discern what's truly authentic for us and create more ease, meaning, creativity, and possibility for the future.
My therapeutic approach is warm, supportive, and engaging, integrating ACT, ERP, and Parts Work ( IFS).
As human beings, we instinctively seek meaning and purpose, yet we also resist the difficult experiences that could move us toward them. These difficult experiences may start out in the world, but often live within us in the form of repeating thoughts, feelings, sensations, memories, and beliefs - parts of ourselves that may need to be more fully experienced, acknowledged, and examined. When approaching these experiences with a compassionate and curious awareness, we can begin to discern what's truly authentic for us and create more ease, meaning, creativity, and possibility for the future.
![Photo of John Thibodeau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce09ed31-9552-456b-b872-00d579725479/1/320x400.jpeg)
My counseling philosophy is based on Person Centered Counseling, and also draws upon Narrative, IFS, CBT, Psychodynamic and Reminiscence therapies.
I meet people where they are on their path in life, and provide a safe space with emotional and intellectual support grounded in these principles: Genuineness / No judgment and unconditional acceptance, regardless of what is shared / Active, deep listening with empathy, understanding and compassion / Experienced, skilled support with practical feedback and insights / Assistance in exploring, identifying and working towards meaningful personal goals / Helping people address current and/or past life challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, stress, anger, and trauma.
My counseling philosophy is based on Person Centered Counseling, and also draws upon Narrative, IFS, CBT, Psychodynamic and Reminiscence therapies.
I meet people where they are on their path in life, and provide a safe space with emotional and intellectual support grounded in these principles: Genuineness / No judgment and unconditional acceptance, regardless of what is shared / Active, deep listening with empathy, understanding and compassion / Experienced, skilled support with practical feedback and insights / Assistance in exploring, identifying and working towards meaningful personal goals / Helping people address current and/or past life challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, stress, anger, and trauma.
![Photo of Mollie Volinsky - Juniper Therapeutic Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/231d1505-eb65-499c-b10e-1ede8b419471/1/320x400.jpeg)
Juniper Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Many of our clients come to us feeling stuck in their healing. They’ve been to many therapists, read many self-help books, and feel like they have plateaued. Our mission at Juniper Therapeutic Services is to help clients in Maine, Massachusetts, and New York finally breakthrough this plateau and heal. We use a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAP), Internal Family Systems (IFS) Transpersonal Therapy and Trauma-Informed talk therapy.
Many of our clients come to us feeling stuck in their healing. They’ve been to many therapists, read many self-help books, and feel like they have plateaued. Our mission at Juniper Therapeutic Services is to help clients in Maine, Massachusetts, and New York finally breakthrough this plateau and heal. We use a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAP), Internal Family Systems (IFS) Transpersonal Therapy and Trauma-Informed talk therapy.
![Photo of Stephanie Worth, LMSW-cc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cde84619-223c-46ec-8b5b-e7574d5faeda/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Worth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
My client-centered, trauma-informed approach is rooted in Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and other evidence-based creative, mindful, and somatic approaches.
Hi, I’m Steph (she/her). My counseling approach is grounded in the belief that we all have the inner wisdom to heal, change, and grow through life’s challenges, and sometimes that requires help. I am passionate about working with clients to acknowledge the circumstances that lead them to seek care, collaborating to build new and stronger relationships with themselves, and exploring how those relationships hold the power to achieve their dreams and goals.
My client-centered, trauma-informed approach is rooted in Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and other evidence-based creative, mindful, and somatic approaches.
Hi, I’m Steph (she/her). My counseling approach is grounded in the belief that we all have the inner wisdom to heal, change, and grow through life’s challenges, and sometimes that requires help. I am passionate about working with clients to acknowledge the circumstances that lead them to seek care, collaborating to build new and stronger relationships with themselves, and exploring how those relationships hold the power to achieve their dreams and goals.
![Photo of Leslie Connolly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4911aafc-a067-4060-b7fe-990e7cd761e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have developed an integrated approach to treatment which is individualized and may include; Mindfulness, EMDR, IFS/Ego state work, Polyvagal theory, Neuroscience, DBT, Body Oriented Psychotherapy, Expressive Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindful & Intuitive Eating, HAES.
Welcome! I'm licensed in ME & NY. I believe the work is to find our way back to what is already whole. My mission is to help you reshape your neural landscape and support a life of meaning and resilience. Additionally, my approach can be directive & challenge you to be courageous & confront yourself in order to unburden & heal. This can be intense work as we together invite the best version of yourself to step up & evolve, by befriending your nervous system and creating more effective patterns/beliefs & internal resources. I truly enjoy this work & bringing humor & levity to my sessions with individuals, families, couples & groups.
I have developed an integrated approach to treatment which is individualized and may include; Mindfulness, EMDR, IFS/Ego state work, Polyvagal theory, Neuroscience, DBT, Body Oriented Psychotherapy, Expressive Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindful & Intuitive Eating, HAES.
Welcome! I'm licensed in ME & NY. I believe the work is to find our way back to what is already whole. My mission is to help you reshape your neural landscape and support a life of meaning and resilience. Additionally, my approach can be directive & challenge you to be courageous & confront yourself in order to unburden & heal. This can be intense work as we together invite the best version of yourself to step up & evolve, by befriending your nervous system and creating more effective patterns/beliefs & internal resources. I truly enjoy this work & bringing humor & levity to my sessions with individuals, families, couples & groups.
![Photo of Kristen Stake, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e0100c2-65ed-4c16-aea6-74ff8315cb28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a form of therapy that helps you heal by embracing your different inner parts, including parts that overwork, criticize, stress, shut down, or feel hurt or lost.
I use Internal Family Systems or "parts work" and somatic experiential approaches to help you develop curiosity towards your problems, reduce inner criticism, foster awareness of your body/mind/spirit, and build a warm relationship with yourself. I will take the time to get to know you, your specific challenges, and hopes.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a form of therapy that helps you heal by embracing your different inner parts, including parts that overwork, criticize, stress, shut down, or feel hurt or lost.
I use Internal Family Systems or "parts work" and somatic experiential approaches to help you develop curiosity towards your problems, reduce inner criticism, foster awareness of your body/mind/spirit, and build a warm relationship with yourself. I will take the time to get to know you, your specific challenges, and hopes.
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![Photo of V Elizabeth Taxter, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c15fbb5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide various modalities of treatment including: psychodynamic psychotherapy, family systems work, play therapy; parent-child therapy; parent & co-parent counseling, marital and divorce counseling.
I am a seasoned clinician who has worked with adults, couples and families for over 30 years. Increased awareness leads to increased options. Often the work of therapy is about making or repairing connections--interpersonal, internal or perhaps even spiritual. I provide individual adult psychodynamic psychotherapy; couples counseling: marital, pre and post divorce. I use a multi modal approach often including assessment and treatment from a family systems perspective and a psychodynamic perspective. I reserve a portion of my practice to provide a safe and intriguing space for children to express themselves and to be understood by adults. Facilitated parent-child sessions often help.
I provide various modalities of treatment including: psychodynamic psychotherapy, family systems work, play therapy; parent-child therapy; parent & co-parent counseling, marital and divorce counseling.
I am a seasoned clinician who has worked with adults, couples and families for over 30 years. Increased awareness leads to increased options. Often the work of therapy is about making or repairing connections--interpersonal, internal or perhaps even spiritual. I provide individual adult psychodynamic psychotherapy; couples counseling: marital, pre and post divorce. I use a multi modal approach often including assessment and treatment from a family systems perspective and a psychodynamic perspective. I reserve a portion of my practice to provide a safe and intriguing space for children to express themselves and to be understood by adults. Facilitated parent-child sessions often help.
![Photo of Caroline Ginsberg, LMSW-cc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1046757-7b2e-4ea3-bae6-abac6721e3a1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Ginsberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from trauma-informed, client-centered approaches including Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Narrative.
Therapy offers us a space to show up for the parts of ourselves that have been hurting. The parts that, for whatever the reason, have felt neglected, abandoned, scared, or are in need of attention and care. I work to create a supportive and warm therapeutic relationship where we can cultivate greater awareness, presence, and tenderness to our inner experiences allowing for more skillful navigation of challenging emotions, situations, and stuck patterns.
I draw from trauma-informed, client-centered approaches including Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Narrative.
Therapy offers us a space to show up for the parts of ourselves that have been hurting. The parts that, for whatever the reason, have felt neglected, abandoned, scared, or are in need of attention and care. I work to create a supportive and warm therapeutic relationship where we can cultivate greater awareness, presence, and tenderness to our inner experiences allowing for more skillful navigation of challenging emotions, situations, and stuck patterns.
![Photo of Olivia Testa, LCSW, RYT 200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e20e27e-0933-4265-acf1-301d65b67126/1/320x400.png)
Olivia Testa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT 200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04102
If you are hoping to feel more peace within yourself, you're in the right place. I support folks in feeling more resourced, grounded and connected through a body-based approach that is centered in Internal Family Systems therapy. IFS allows us to work with our internal world instead of against, and creates space to nurture the parts of us that truly need it. My approach honors the whole you, you are encouraged to show up as you are, and will be met with compassion. I include nervous system support to foster embodiment, growth and integration.
If you are hoping to feel more peace within yourself, you're in the right place. I support folks in feeling more resourced, grounded and connected through a body-based approach that is centered in Internal Family Systems therapy. IFS allows us to work with our internal world instead of against, and creates space to nurture the parts of us that truly need it. My approach honors the whole you, you are encouraged to show up as you are, and will be met with compassion. I include nervous system support to foster embodiment, growth and integration.
![Photo of Meg Beliveau, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2a76138-dd9b-4c78-bc07-e328d5733de0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meg Beliveau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
I have in-depth training in the following models: Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Poly-Vagal Informed Therapy, Heart Math Focused Trauma Therapy, Yoga therapy, Nutrition Science, Trauma Treatment/Telehealth, and Interpersonal Neurobiology.
Life can present many unexpected challenges, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. These challenges impact our emotional wellbeing and our relationships. As your therapist, I will offer you the opportunity to reflect upon your life in a safe, respectful, and confidential environment. My area of expertise is Whole Mind-Body Psychotherapy which focuses on the interplay between physical health (body) and mental health (mind). We will identify how your life experiences are stored in your brain-body and influence your emotions, thinking, and behaviors. You will develop new pathways to promote a sense of well-being and inner strength.
I have in-depth training in the following models: Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Poly-Vagal Informed Therapy, Heart Math Focused Trauma Therapy, Yoga therapy, Nutrition Science, Trauma Treatment/Telehealth, and Interpersonal Neurobiology.
Life can present many unexpected challenges, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. These challenges impact our emotional wellbeing and our relationships. As your therapist, I will offer you the opportunity to reflect upon your life in a safe, respectful, and confidential environment. My area of expertise is Whole Mind-Body Psychotherapy which focuses on the interplay between physical health (body) and mental health (mind). We will identify how your life experiences are stored in your brain-body and influence your emotions, thinking, and behaviors. You will develop new pathways to promote a sense of well-being and inner strength.
![Photo of Chatham M. Dann, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72a387d8-ba14-42ec-a696-b9a38af198bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chatham M. Dann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Using a humanistic approach free of judgment, Chatham will collaborate with each person served to help them meet their personal and therapeutic goals. Chatham uses Internal Family Systems and other approaches to help individuals and families problem-solve their life's obstacles. Whether you experience anxiety, self-doubt, social isolation, hopelessness, addiction, suffered from a past traumatic event or you have other concerns, Chatham will partner with you on your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilled, and balanced life. Insurance accepted Telehealth only.
Using a humanistic approach free of judgment, Chatham will collaborate with each person served to help them meet their personal and therapeutic goals. Chatham uses Internal Family Systems and other approaches to help individuals and families problem-solve their life's obstacles. Whether you experience anxiety, self-doubt, social isolation, hopelessness, addiction, suffered from a past traumatic event or you have other concerns, Chatham will partner with you on your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilled, and balanced life. Insurance accepted Telehealth only.
![Photo of Carole Orem, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5358c235-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
With specialized training in EMDR and IFS I can help you resolve both "t" and "T" traumas - situational and attachment-based traumas.
Trauma can leave us feeling adrift. Unhappy and unsure of who we are. Emotions may be blunted or they may swing. This unhealthy way of being in the world negatively impacts our relationships, jobs, and friendships. To create a life that works for us we need to heal from our trauma; to nurture and strengthen a place within where we can make healthy choices. We can grow to honor who we are at our core and live from there.
With specialized training in EMDR and IFS I can help you resolve both "t" and "T" traumas - situational and attachment-based traumas.
Trauma can leave us feeling adrift. Unhappy and unsure of who we are. Emotions may be blunted or they may swing. This unhealthy way of being in the world negatively impacts our relationships, jobs, and friendships. To create a life that works for us we need to heal from our trauma; to nurture and strengthen a place within where we can make healthy choices. We can grow to honor who we are at our core and live from there.
![Photo of Troi Boulanger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6a9368-130d-4d7d-a38e-9f3d2e0f024b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Incorporating different forms of energy psychotherapy, guided imagery, mindfulness, tapping, IFS and CBT skills can ignite the healing process and help you make deep, lasting change.
Welcome. Life can present challenges that we need help navigating and this can be especially true when we experience trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, disconnection from ourselves, our purpose, our loved ones or a general stuckness. My work is to help you identify what needs attention and healing so you can change unhelpful patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that hold you back. I believe this process can lead you to clearer, more loving understanding of yourself that allows you to shift in profound, sometime surprising ways. I'd be honored to guide you in this, so if it feels right please reach out and let's connect.
Incorporating different forms of energy psychotherapy, guided imagery, mindfulness, tapping, IFS and CBT skills can ignite the healing process and help you make deep, lasting change.
Welcome. Life can present challenges that we need help navigating and this can be especially true when we experience trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, disconnection from ourselves, our purpose, our loved ones or a general stuckness. My work is to help you identify what needs attention and healing so you can change unhelpful patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that hold you back. I believe this process can lead you to clearer, more loving understanding of yourself that allows you to shift in profound, sometime surprising ways. I'd be honored to guide you in this, so if it feels right please reach out and let's connect.
![Photo of Kelly Quinn - Kelly Quinn LLC, MA, IFS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b38f7e08-08ef-4df4-ba23-e73ba232aa6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
As both a practitioner and a client, I've found IFS to be the only model that really works because it recognizes that the answers are within you, the client.
I bring curiosity, calm and compassion to a session. It is my goal to help you toward your goals, creating understanding, spaciousness and self acceptance along the way. I find we resist (and feel stuck) for a reason, and that if we can hear that reason and make space for it, pressures ease and we can move forward again with greater ease and internal connection.
As both a practitioner and a client, I've found IFS to be the only model that really works because it recognizes that the answers are within you, the client.
I bring curiosity, calm and compassion to a session. It is my goal to help you toward your goals, creating understanding, spaciousness and self acceptance along the way. I find we resist (and feel stuck) for a reason, and that if we can hear that reason and make space for it, pressures ease and we can move forward again with greater ease and internal connection.
![Photo of Lyn Suggs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4719a966-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
We all carry burdens, large and small from our past, and I find Internal Family Systems a very helpful means of getting to the heart of most problems.
In my practice I work with adults dealing with a variety of issues, including relationship issues, self esteem, depression, anxiety, loss/grief, work issues, trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, family issues, issues with food/weight, addictions, and anger. We all face life and interpersonal challenges at times, and it can be very helpful to meet with someone who has comfort in dealing with a variety of life stressors. I welcome ALL who want to improve the quality of their life and/or relationships and are open to sharing their story.
We all carry burdens, large and small from our past, and I find Internal Family Systems a very helpful means of getting to the heart of most problems.
In my practice I work with adults dealing with a variety of issues, including relationship issues, self esteem, depression, anxiety, loss/grief, work issues, trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, family issues, issues with food/weight, addictions, and anger. We all face life and interpersonal challenges at times, and it can be very helpful to meet with someone who has comfort in dealing with a variety of life stressors. I welcome ALL who want to improve the quality of their life and/or relationships and are open to sharing their story.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists Searches for Portland
- Biddeford
- Cape Elizabeth
- Falmouth
- Freeport
- Gorham
- Gray
- Saco
- Scarborough
- South Portland
- Westbrook
- Windham
- Yarmouth
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.