Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Byron Center, MI

Photo of Robert G Brown, MA, LPC, EMDR, Certifi, MDiv, Counselor
Robert G Brown
Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, Certifi, MDiv
Verified Verified
Byron Center, MI 49315
***In-Person Appointments*** The most expensive kind of therapy is the kind that doesn't work. Maybe it feels scary to wonder if real healing can happen. I'm a Certified EMDR Therapist and I combine EMDR with IFS therapy to create an effective method that has worked for permanent healing time and again. Instead of feeling bad about certain parts of ourselves, I encourage people to instead get curious and compassionate toward these "parts of themselves" that are trying to keep them safe and help them by making them anxious, angry, or even depressed.(Sounds strange, right?) We slow things down and get to know you, one part at a time.
***In-Person Appointments*** The most expensive kind of therapy is the kind that doesn't work. Maybe it feels scary to wonder if real healing can happen. I'm a Certified EMDR Therapist and I combine EMDR with IFS therapy to create an effective method that has worked for permanent healing time and again. Instead of feeling bad about certain parts of ourselves, I encourage people to instead get curious and compassionate toward these "parts of themselves" that are trying to keep them safe and help them by making them anxious, angry, or even depressed.(Sounds strange, right?) We slow things down and get to know you, one part at a time.
(616) 219-8515 View (616) 219-8515
Photo of Nate Apel, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nate Apel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Byron Center, MI 49315
I'm equally comfortable, confident and experienced in working with children, youth, adults and couples in the context of healthy family systems.
Hi, I’m Nate Apel, LLPC, a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm currently accepting new clients, so, for the time being anyway, there's no waiting to get in to see me. I specialize in working with children, youth, adults, families, and couples, and I look forward to helping you, and those in your care, achieve a greater sense of calm and wellbeing. I completed my Master’s in Counseling, and my Bachelors in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University, and I bring 15 years of clinical and life experience working with youth, families and adults in schools, churches, and private practice.
I'm equally comfortable, confident and experienced in working with children, youth, adults and couples in the context of healthy family systems.
Hi, I’m Nate Apel, LLPC, a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm currently accepting new clients, so, for the time being anyway, there's no waiting to get in to see me. I specialize in working with children, youth, adults, families, and couples, and I look forward to helping you, and those in your care, achieve a greater sense of calm and wellbeing. I completed my Master’s in Counseling, and my Bachelors in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University, and I bring 15 years of clinical and life experience working with youth, families and adults in schools, churches, and private practice.
(616) 504-6212 View (616) 504-6212
Photo of Stacey Vandenberg, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey Vandenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
I am a psychologist with over 25 years of experience helping others to navigate life's journey. I offer a judgment-free environment to overcome life's challenges and provide a haven for self-discovery. Through this process, my clients have recognized their ability to heal and gain a greater insight into self-empowerment. I specialize in overcoming trauma, parts therapy ( IFS), relationships, anxiety, depression, and more with individuals/couples in coordination with their PCP when needed. I have found that how we perceive ourselves is our reality, and, together, we can expand that perspective.
I am a psychologist with over 25 years of experience helping others to navigate life's journey. I offer a judgment-free environment to overcome life's challenges and provide a haven for self-discovery. Through this process, my clients have recognized their ability to heal and gain a greater insight into self-empowerment. I specialize in overcoming trauma, parts therapy ( IFS), relationships, anxiety, depression, and more with individuals/couples in coordination with their PCP when needed. I have found that how we perceive ourselves is our reality, and, together, we can expand that perspective.
(231) 307-8491 View (231) 307-8491
Photo of Audrey L Hilliker, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Audrey L Hilliker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
While I am not currently accepting therapy clients, I am accepting clients that are interested in Energy and Ascension work. I work with clients that have already developed their emotional intelligence and know that they are in charge of leading themselves, and that I am present to guide them to continue increasing their frequency. I assist clients with embodiment and regulating the nervous system, clearing out trauma blocks/old stories that no longer fit, and helping them to hold more wealth in their business/entrepreneurship.
While I am not currently accepting therapy clients, I am accepting clients that are interested in Energy and Ascension work. I work with clients that have already developed their emotional intelligence and know that they are in charge of leading themselves, and that I am present to guide them to continue increasing their frequency. I assist clients with embodiment and regulating the nervous system, clearing out trauma blocks/old stories that no longer fit, and helping them to hold more wealth in their business/entrepreneurship.
(616) 426-6829 View (616) 426-6829
Photo of Margaret Kos, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Kos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Byron Center, MI 49315
Therapy? It is difficult to make the decision to enter into therapy but even more important to find a therapist in which you feel comfortable. Understanding these feelings of others have allowed me to be in practice for over fifteen years. Making the first step to call can be a difficult process and I pride myself in empathizing with this difficulty. I have made it part of my practice serving children, adolescents, and adults to take the time to relate to each individual on an individual basis and attempt to make each client to feel comfortable making this difficult step.
Therapy? It is difficult to make the decision to enter into therapy but even more important to find a therapist in which you feel comfortable. Understanding these feelings of others have allowed me to be in practice for over fifteen years. Making the first step to call can be a difficult process and I pride myself in empathizing with this difficulty. I have made it part of my practice serving children, adolescents, and adults to take the time to relate to each individual on an individual basis and attempt to make each client to feel comfortable making this difficult step.
(616) 432-2601 View (616) 432-2601
Photo of Jennifer Brink, MA, LLP , Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jennifer Brink
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
My goal when a client comes in is for them to feel like they are safe to share anything. Most people have experienced hardships that can be difficult to talk about, but is often necessary to heal. There are so many heavy aspects of life that we can carry and get stuck in a holding pattern, never putting it all down. I take a holistic approach to identifying problem areas, understanding how the mind and body are connected in storing trauma, emotions, patterns of familial influence, and figuring out how to break out of cycles that limit people from living a fulfilling life. I also utilize equine assisted therapy for real-time input.
My goal when a client comes in is for them to feel like they are safe to share anything. Most people have experienced hardships that can be difficult to talk about, but is often necessary to heal. There are so many heavy aspects of life that we can carry and get stuck in a holding pattern, never putting it all down. I take a holistic approach to identifying problem areas, understanding how the mind and body are connected in storing trauma, emotions, patterns of familial influence, and figuring out how to break out of cycles that limit people from living a fulfilling life. I also utilize equine assisted therapy for real-time input.
(616) 737-0509 View (616) 737-0509
Photo of Betrayal Trauma Infidelity Rebuild Trust Kelly Kays, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Betrayal Trauma Infidelity Rebuild Trust Kelly Kays
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315  (Online Only)
Do you feel the rug has been pulled out from under you? Have you lost your sense of safety, security, and stability? I am so sorry that you have to be here but also so grateful that you have the courage to show up for yourself. It may not feel like it yet, but hope and healing are possible. Along with unpacking your story, I will help you become more attuned to your body, which can be an ally in helping you heal. Through this holistic approach, you will begin to feel empowered. I offer a safe, empathetic, and nurturing environment, where you will learn to trust yourself again.
Do you feel the rug has been pulled out from under you? Have you lost your sense of safety, security, and stability? I am so sorry that you have to be here but also so grateful that you have the courage to show up for yourself. It may not feel like it yet, but hope and healing are possible. Along with unpacking your story, I will help you become more attuned to your body, which can be an ally in helping you heal. Through this holistic approach, you will begin to feel empowered. I offer a safe, empathetic, and nurturing environment, where you will learn to trust yourself again.
(248) 422-0483 View (248) 422-0483
Photo of Jacquelyn Weaver, LMSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquelyn Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
As a therapist specializing in women’s health, I am dedicated to supporting women through the challenges of anxiety, depression, life transitions, and pre/postpartum. I understand the unique pressures and emotional experiences women face and provide a compassionate, safe space to explore these feelings. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, managing the weight of depression, going through many relationship/life changes, or navigating motherhood; I am here to help you find balance, healing, and strength.
As a therapist specializing in women’s health, I am dedicated to supporting women through the challenges of anxiety, depression, life transitions, and pre/postpartum. I understand the unique pressures and emotional experiences women face and provide a compassionate, safe space to explore these feelings. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, managing the weight of depression, going through many relationship/life changes, or navigating motherhood; I am here to help you find balance, healing, and strength.
(517) 468-6642 View (517) 468-6642
Photo of Daniel Ryan Zomerlei - Alliance Counseling Group and Prescribing, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alliance Counseling Group and Prescribing
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
Are you looking for BOTH high quality counseling AND mental health prescribing all-in-one? Alliance Counseling Group is the place for you! We have a team of friendly and highly skilled therapists who can meet your mental, emotional, relational, and behavioral health needs. We also have a mental health prescriber who can talk with you to understand if the addition of medication is the right fit for you. Our team of therapists and prescribers will work closely in collaboration to best manage your treatment, giving you the support you need to have the best chance of achieving your mental health goals.
Are you looking for BOTH high quality counseling AND mental health prescribing all-in-one? Alliance Counseling Group is the place for you! We have a team of friendly and highly skilled therapists who can meet your mental, emotional, relational, and behavioral health needs. We also have a mental health prescriber who can talk with you to understand if the addition of medication is the right fit for you. Our team of therapists and prescribers will work closely in collaboration to best manage your treatment, giving you the support you need to have the best chance of achieving your mental health goals.
(616) 918-3110 View (616) 918-3110
Photo of Erika Crenshaw, LMSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Crenshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
Waitlist for new clients
Safety. Trust. Control. Esteem. Connection. These are the five basic, human needs that get disrupted by trauma and stress. And not getting these needs met in our lives and relationships makes life a lot more work. I want to help you make space for yourself to identify your needs. I bring a trauma-informed and trauma-focused lens and we will work together to help you build connections with yourself and others.
Safety. Trust. Control. Esteem. Connection. These are the five basic, human needs that get disrupted by trauma and stress. And not getting these needs met in our lives and relationships makes life a lot more work. I want to help you make space for yourself to identify your needs. I bring a trauma-informed and trauma-focused lens and we will work together to help you build connections with yourself and others.
(616) 207-2266 View (616) 207-2266
Photo of Dennis Langland, MA LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dennis Langland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC
Verified Verified
Byron Center, MI 49315
Not accepting new clients
I use a person-centered and compassionate approach in offering the following trauma focused techniques and treatment modalities/focus: EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT, Internal Family Systems (Parts Work), Attachment Theory, Existential, Sand Tray, Family/Play Therapy, and Christian counseling.
I possess 20 years as a licensed professional counselor working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and older adults. I offer individual, couples and family counseling. Areas of clinical experience cover Trauma/PTSD, mood disorders (Depression/Bipolar), ADHD, anxiety disorders, grief and loss issues, substance abuse and addiction, healing from physical, mental, emotional, sexual abuse and infidelity, chronic illness, stress/anger management, men's and women's issues, faith/spiritual and existential issues, relational/marital issues, issues around divorce, adoption, school, behavioral issues, and blended family issues.
I use a person-centered and compassionate approach in offering the following trauma focused techniques and treatment modalities/focus: EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT, Internal Family Systems (Parts Work), Attachment Theory, Existential, Sand Tray, Family/Play Therapy, and Christian counseling.
I possess 20 years as a licensed professional counselor working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and older adults. I offer individual, couples and family counseling. Areas of clinical experience cover Trauma/PTSD, mood disorders (Depression/Bipolar), ADHD, anxiety disorders, grief and loss issues, substance abuse and addiction, healing from physical, mental, emotional, sexual abuse and infidelity, chronic illness, stress/anger management, men's and women's issues, faith/spiritual and existential issues, relational/marital issues, issues around divorce, adoption, school, behavioral issues, and blended family issues.
(616) 537-6861 View (616) 537-6861
Photo of Anne Jansen, RN, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Anne Jansen
Counselor, RN, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
Not accepting new clients
Are you looking for healing, beauty, hope, and freedom from the things that keep you stuck? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with thoughts or emotions and you feel out of control? Are your relationships impacted by your past? Do you find yourself repeating behaviors or patterns that you wish you could just stop? Does your faith feel dull and your relationship with God feel distant? Does the trauma of the past impact your life today? If your answer is "yes" to any of these questions, I can help. I am also excited to offer the Confessional Community model of group therapy!
Are you looking for healing, beauty, hope, and freedom from the things that keep you stuck? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with thoughts or emotions and you feel out of control? Are your relationships impacted by your past? Do you find yourself repeating behaviors or patterns that you wish you could just stop? Does your faith feel dull and your relationship with God feel distant? Does the trauma of the past impact your life today? If your answer is "yes" to any of these questions, I can help. I am also excited to offer the Confessional Community model of group therapy!
(616) 219-8151 View (616) 219-8151

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brent Alan Parzuchowski, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brent Alan Parzuchowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grandville, MI 49418
I utilize skills based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Didadactal Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and Internal Family Systems Therapy as well as other client centered methodologies to empower people.
I enjoy working with adolescents, and the individual family members around them. I am dedicated to helping families navigate complex dynamics, developing goals to achieve harmony, and a consistent level of functioning and overall wellness .
I utilize skills based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Didadactal Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and Internal Family Systems Therapy as well as other client centered methodologies to empower people.
I enjoy working with adolescents, and the individual family members around them. I am dedicated to helping families navigate complex dynamics, developing goals to achieve harmony, and a consistent level of functioning and overall wellness .
(616) 439-9649 View (616) 439-9649
Photo of April Mendyka - EMPWR Transformative Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor
EMPWR Transformative Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
EMPWR's mission is to redefine therapy; we believe in getting to the root of issues for long-term relief instead of teaching coping skills for long-term maintenance by using EMDR and IFS.
Others consider you a successful woman, but you feel like you’re a mess. The idea of being vulnerable is paralyzing and voicing your needs is a terrifying concept. You’re consumed with guilt and shame. You fear hurting people’s feelings and tend to take care of those around you, even though you might not want to. Your relationships are struggling. You crave a deeper connection but don’t know how to get there. You’re overwhelmed, exhausted, and resentful trying to keep everyone happy. You’re trying your hardest to put on a good face for others, but you feel like things are falling apart. You're ready for real, lasting change.
EMPWR's mission is to redefine therapy; we believe in getting to the root of issues for long-term relief instead of teaching coping skills for long-term maintenance by using EMDR and IFS.
Others consider you a successful woman, but you feel like you’re a mess. The idea of being vulnerable is paralyzing and voicing your needs is a terrifying concept. You’re consumed with guilt and shame. You fear hurting people’s feelings and tend to take care of those around you, even though you might not want to. Your relationships are struggling. You crave a deeper connection but don’t know how to get there. You’re overwhelmed, exhausted, and resentful trying to keep everyone happy. You’re trying your hardest to put on a good face for others, but you feel like things are falling apart. You're ready for real, lasting change.
(616) 779-7173 View (616) 779-7173
Photo of Joanne Vanderveen - Joanne Vanderveen Counseling, PLLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Vanderveen Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grandville, MI 49418  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialties in both Marriage and Family Therapy and School Social Work as well as advanced training in Couple Communication, the Gottman Method, PREPARE/ENRICH, and I am IFS-informed.
Do you feel anxious, sad, or stressed out from trying to navigate life on your own? Do you feel misunderstood, disconnected from loved ones, or stuck in patterns you feel powerless to change? Are you questioning aspects of your identity, striving to find a purpose, or deconstructing from beliefs which cause you internal conflict? If so, you have come to the right place. I believe that no question is inappropriate to ask, no issue is too challenging to face, and everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. My goal is to create a safe space where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment or shame.
I have specialties in both Marriage and Family Therapy and School Social Work as well as advanced training in Couple Communication, the Gottman Method, PREPARE/ENRICH, and I am IFS-informed.
Do you feel anxious, sad, or stressed out from trying to navigate life on your own? Do you feel misunderstood, disconnected from loved ones, or stuck in patterns you feel powerless to change? Are you questioning aspects of your identity, striving to find a purpose, or deconstructing from beliefs which cause you internal conflict? If so, you have come to the right place. I believe that no question is inappropriate to ask, no issue is too challenging to face, and everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. My goal is to create a safe space where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment or shame.
(616) 404-3987 View (616) 404-3987
Photo of Natalie DeVries, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie DeVries
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
I enjoy working with people of various backgrounds, especially adults and teens in the LGBTQ+ community and individuals with a history of trauma. Using a mix of evidence-based interventions like EMDR, Internal Family Systems, along with a somatic, multicultural and feminist lens, I aim to provide a safe, supportive environment where you can explore all the parts of yourself. I believe the key to progress in therapy is curiosity and a commitment to change, and my goal as your therapist is to walk alongside you as you discover your own personal power!
I enjoy working with people of various backgrounds, especially adults and teens in the LGBTQ+ community and individuals with a history of trauma. Using a mix of evidence-based interventions like EMDR, Internal Family Systems, along with a somatic, multicultural and feminist lens, I aim to provide a safe, supportive environment where you can explore all the parts of yourself. I believe the key to progress in therapy is curiosity and a commitment to change, and my goal as your therapist is to walk alongside you as you discover your own personal power!
(616) 236-6443 x11 View (616) 236-6443 x11
Photo of Melanie Hogeterp, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Hogeterp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kentwood, MI 49512
Melanie Hogeterp LMSW is a clinical social worker serving adults who are in distress. Her mission is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for her clients to get to know themselves, disarm defenses, practice new skills, increase emotional literacy, and build competencies. She works with her clients to process traumas and reduce distress and with parents to add to their toolbox of parenting skills. Melanie's approach to treatment is based in attachment theory and she employs a variety of practice techniques as they apply to the needs of her clients including: IFS, CBT, and EMDR.
Melanie Hogeterp LMSW is a clinical social worker serving adults who are in distress. Her mission is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for her clients to get to know themselves, disarm defenses, practice new skills, increase emotional literacy, and build competencies. She works with her clients to process traumas and reduce distress and with parents to add to their toolbox of parenting skills. Melanie's approach to treatment is based in attachment theory and she employs a variety of practice techniques as they apply to the needs of her clients including: IFS, CBT, and EMDR.
(616) 548-6617 View (616) 548-6617
Photo of Chelsea Spencer, LMSW
Chelsea Spencer
Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49507  (Online Only)
My approach is informed by attachment theory, internal family systems, somatic theories, anti-racism, queer theories, anti-ablism and LGBTQIA+ affirmative practice.
Hi, I’m Chelsea! Reaching out for support requires immense courage, and I'm here to accompany you on your path towards enhanced mental health and well-being. I work with individuals that feel stuck, insecure and overwhelmed. I can help you develop more compassion, connectedness, and understanding within your relationship to yourself and others so that you can experience a deeper sense of safety, security and fulfillment.
My approach is informed by attachment theory, internal family systems, somatic theories, anti-racism, queer theories, anti-ablism and LGBTQIA+ affirmative practice.
Hi, I’m Chelsea! Reaching out for support requires immense courage, and I'm here to accompany you on your path towards enhanced mental health and well-being. I work with individuals that feel stuck, insecure and overwhelmed. I can help you develop more compassion, connectedness, and understanding within your relationship to yourself and others so that you can experience a deeper sense of safety, security and fulfillment.
(734) 838-4916 View (734) 838-4916
Photo of Sarah Rodriguez, MA, LPC, CAADC, Counselor
Sarah Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grandville, MI 49418
Waitlist for new clients
I believe therapy is most effective when there is an authentic connection within a non-judgmental environment. Through a collaborative understanding, my hope is to provide a safe space for clients to grow and enhance heir overall well-being while creating an individualized therapeutic experience. To provide this kind of therapy, I adopt a holistic approach and rely on empathy as a guiding principle. I incorporate elements of mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
I believe therapy is most effective when there is an authentic connection within a non-judgmental environment. Through a collaborative understanding, my hope is to provide a safe space for clients to grow and enhance heir overall well-being while creating an individualized therapeutic experience. To provide this kind of therapy, I adopt a holistic approach and rely on empathy as a guiding principle. I incorporate elements of mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
View
Photo of Carolyn Priebe, LLPC, Counselor
Carolyn Priebe
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Kentwood, MI 49508
Hi, thanks for stopping by! I value a person-centered approach that is tailored to your unique needs. I am invested in cultivating a warm and gentle environment for you to feel comfortable bringing your full self to sessions. I incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) alongside other evidence-based practices. I specialize in working with adults (18-30 years of age).
Hi, thanks for stopping by! I value a person-centered approach that is tailored to your unique needs. I am invested in cultivating a warm and gentle environment for you to feel comfortable bringing your full self to sessions. I incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) alongside other evidence-based practices. I specialize in working with adults (18-30 years of age).
(616) 545-8697 View (616) 545-8697

See more therapy options for Byron Center

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.