Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Caledonia, MI

Photo of Bridget Nash, LPC, Counselor
Bridget Nash
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316
Waitlist for new clients
Through a combination of trauma-informed techniques and approaches including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, I help people reconnect with their whole selves, find the root cause of their issues, identify their strengths, and begin to heal.
Life can be stressful and scary, but you don't have to do it alone! Issues like anxiety, depression, relationship stress, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, unhealthy family dynamics, and trauma can keep many of us stuck in a rut, and navigating those challenges can be complicated. I'd like to help you simplify things by offering a safe place to explore your inner world, learn practical coping skills, and build a better connection with your loved ones. I am excited to work with you on your journey toward growth and healing!
Through a combination of trauma-informed techniques and approaches including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, I help people reconnect with their whole selves, find the root cause of their issues, identify their strengths, and begin to heal.
Life can be stressful and scary, but you don't have to do it alone! Issues like anxiety, depression, relationship stress, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, unhealthy family dynamics, and trauma can keep many of us stuck in a rut, and navigating those challenges can be complicated. I'd like to help you simplify things by offering a safe place to explore your inner world, learn practical coping skills, and build a better connection with your loved ones. I am excited to work with you on your journey toward growth and healing!
(616) 504-2035 View (616) 504-2035
Photo of Dawn M. Conroy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn M. Conroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Caledonia, MI 49316  (Online Only)
I truly believe we can have a better life! My passion is helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, and other difficult situations find understanding, solutions, and relief. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience in counseling and consulting, I love to help people find the strength to grow and change, and specialize in helping people navigate and heal from antagonistic/narcissistic relationships.
I truly believe we can have a better life! My passion is helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, and other difficult situations find understanding, solutions, and relief. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience in counseling and consulting, I love to help people find the strength to grow and change, and specialize in helping people navigate and heal from antagonistic/narcissistic relationships.
(269) 301-1208 View (269) 301-1208
Photo of Adam Luke Nash, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam Luke Nash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316
Hello, are you struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, past family hurt or trauma? Are you an adult trying to figure out what your future looks like? If you are I would love the chance to work with you to reach your fullest potential. Author Richard Rohr stated in his book Falling Upward “When you get your, ‘who am I?' question right, all or your, ‘what should I do?’ questions tend to take care of themselves” and I believe that it is incredibly important to start to answer that question and begin to move forward into a healthier life.
Hello, are you struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, past family hurt or trauma? Are you an adult trying to figure out what your future looks like? If you are I would love the chance to work with you to reach your fullest potential. Author Richard Rohr stated in his book Falling Upward “When you get your, ‘who am I?' question right, all or your, ‘what should I do?’ questions tend to take care of themselves” and I believe that it is incredibly important to start to answer that question and begin to move forward into a healthier life.
(616) 676-7081 View (616) 676-7081
Photo of Kimberly Sue Lichon-Tufer, MSW, LCSW, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Sue Lichon-Tufer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SSW
Verified Verified
Caledonia, MI 49316
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
(616) 201-3474 View (616) 201-3474
Photo of Michelle M Muenzenmeyer - Michelle Muenzenmeyer, MA, LLP, CMHC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Michelle Muenzenmeyer
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316
Do you find yourself setting the same goals without achieving them? In the pain and suffering, there is opportunity for growth and change. You've taken a step forward by looking into treatment, congratulations! I offer a trusting and compassionate approach to allow my clients to feel vulnerable with their struggles. I have worked with clients who have suffered with depression, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, life stage changes, obesity, binge eating and more. At the end of treatment, some clients report feeling more resilient with painful emotions which leads to healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life.
Do you find yourself setting the same goals without achieving them? In the pain and suffering, there is opportunity for growth and change. You've taken a step forward by looking into treatment, congratulations! I offer a trusting and compassionate approach to allow my clients to feel vulnerable with their struggles. I have worked with clients who have suffered with depression, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, life stage changes, obesity, binge eating and more. At the end of treatment, some clients report feeling more resilient with painful emotions which leads to healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life.
(616) 788-2795 View (616) 788-2795
Photo of Debi Anson, LCSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debi Anson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316  (Online Only)
ONLINE THERAPY CLIENTS In Michigan, Florida, Georgia,Ohio, New Hampshire and Colorado. The Journey to Your Internal Compass Starts with One Step. We cannot control what happens to us, but we can control how we respond. It takes courage to seek help for personal struggles. Therapy is like having a compass. For travelers, the compass provides a sense of safety as they know they can rely on it to always point them in the right direction. With a compass—any compass—we can always pause for a moment in time and take stock of where we are so that we can continue to grow and change.
ONLINE THERAPY CLIENTS In Michigan, Florida, Georgia,Ohio, New Hampshire and Colorado. The Journey to Your Internal Compass Starts with One Step. We cannot control what happens to us, but we can control how we respond. It takes courage to seek help for personal struggles. Therapy is like having a compass. For travelers, the compass provides a sense of safety as they know they can rely on it to always point them in the right direction. With a compass—any compass—we can always pause for a moment in time and take stock of where we are so that we can continue to grow and change.
(616) 580-1488 View (616) 580-1488
Photo of Anne Jansen, RN, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Jansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316
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 Christina Ann LaBond, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Ann LaBond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Christina. I'm Certified in Neuropsychotherapy, an LCSW in NC, an LMSW in MI, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and IFS & EMDR informed. Does liberation from past barriers, realization of your true potential and finding meaning/purpose in your life feel authentic in your individual growth? If so, I’d like to walk with you. Let’s explore your individuality, beauty, and unique strengths to improve your self-image, and repair your interpersonal relationships through healthy attachment and behavioral patterns to facilitate neuroplasticity. I'm passionate about working with individuals somewhere on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
Hi! I’m Christina. I'm Certified in Neuropsychotherapy, an LCSW in NC, an LMSW in MI, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and IFS & EMDR informed. Does liberation from past barriers, realization of your true potential and finding meaning/purpose in your life feel authentic in your individual growth? If so, I’d like to walk with you. Let’s explore your individuality, beauty, and unique strengths to improve your self-image, and repair your interpersonal relationships through healthy attachment and behavioral patterns to facilitate neuroplasticity. I'm passionate about working with individuals somewhere on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
(248) 846-1705 View (248) 846-1705
Photo of Stacey Vandenberg, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey Vandenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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 John R Curphey, MDiv, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John R Curphey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I make use of Somatic Experiencing Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Many folks have painful memories of their childhood. That story needs to be heard and redeemed. There is also the conflict in the present, which may be relational , situational or self-endused. Regulation in the nervous system is an important base line to bring on board. Emotions are valuable, but they cannot rule. Faith is needed. Generational trauma is a very real thing, and many folks experience the trauma of war or abuse which is passed down through parents and grandparents. That can be unlocked through healing imagination. The future story needs to be imaginatively explored as well.
I make use of Somatic Experiencing Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Many folks have painful memories of their childhood. That story needs to be heard and redeemed. There is also the conflict in the present, which may be relational , situational or self-endused. Regulation in the nervous system is an important base line to bring on board. Emotions are valuable, but they cannot rule. Faith is needed. Generational trauma is a very real thing, and many folks experience the trauma of war or abuse which is passed down through parents and grandparents. That can be unlocked through healing imagination. The future story needs to be imaginatively explored as well.
(616) 208-4814 View (616) 208-4814
Photo of Marie Dershem, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie Dershem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
My primary modality is Internal Family Systems.
"Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you've been avoiding your whole life." I love this quote by Shannon L Alder. It takes such courage to reach out to someone, to recognize that you desire growth and healing. Know that when you reach out to me, you will be met with compassion, support, and a safe place to look inside yourself. We can face shame, sadness, fear, anger, trauma, eating issues, body image struggles, and other issues... and together, we will build on your strength, resilience, and deep capacity for healing. Together, we will find hope and healing.
My primary modality is Internal Family Systems.
"Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you've been avoiding your whole life." I love this quote by Shannon L Alder. It takes such courage to reach out to someone, to recognize that you desire growth and healing. Know that when you reach out to me, you will be met with compassion, support, and a safe place to look inside yourself. We can face shame, sadness, fear, anger, trauma, eating issues, body image struggles, and other issues... and together, we will build on your strength, resilience, and deep capacity for healing. Together, we will find hope and healing.
(616) 201-1447 View (616) 201-1447
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 Tristen Davis, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tristen Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Daytime appointments available! I'm dedicated to helping individuals of all ages navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, anger, shame, guilt, and self-esteem issues. With specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS), I provide personalized, evidence-based support to help you understand your emotions and build healthier relationships with yourself and others.
Daytime appointments available! I'm dedicated to helping individuals of all ages navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, anger, shame, guilt, and self-esteem issues. With specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems ( IFS), I provide personalized, evidence-based support to help you understand your emotions and build healthier relationships with yourself and others.
(616) 522-8593 View (616) 522-8593
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 Kaitlin Mulvihill, LLMSW, MT-BC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlin Mulvihill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Do you wish you had a deeper understanding of yourself? Are you looking to feel more confident and self-assured? In a world where our pain often goes unheard, finding a space to share our stories and experiences can be challenging. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can navigate life’s complexities and find your way forward. My approach emphasizes empathy and warmth and I believe that healing and growth happen when people feel heard and valued within a safe and supportive environment. I utilize evidence-based therapies including EMDR, IFS, CBT, and music therapy to help you meet your goals.
Do you wish you had a deeper understanding of yourself? Are you looking to feel more confident and self-assured? In a world where our pain often goes unheard, finding a space to share our stories and experiences can be challenging. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can navigate life’s complexities and find your way forward. My approach emphasizes empathy and warmth and I believe that healing and growth happen when people feel heard and valued within a safe and supportive environment. I utilize evidence-based therapies including EMDR, IFS, CBT, and music therapy to help you meet your goals.
(616) 236-6703 View (616) 236-6703
Photo of Melanie Hogeterp, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Hogeterp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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 Susan Jongekryg Lmsw Csat, LMSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Jongekryg Lmsw Csat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
EMDR-trained, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), IFS-informed.
Are you having trouble coping with your emotions due to a traumatic experience in your life? Many suffer from childhood sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, or sexual addiction. You are not alone! I collaborate with people seeking to transform past suffering into meaning and purpose in their lives. I believe passionately that to live a fulfilled life, one must continue to grow and adapt. I feel a profound sense of gratitude to be able to help others on their path to emotional healing.
EMDR-trained, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), IFS-informed.
Are you having trouble coping with your emotions due to a traumatic experience in your life? Many suffer from childhood sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, or sexual addiction. You are not alone! I collaborate with people seeking to transform past suffering into meaning and purpose in their lives. I believe passionately that to live a fulfilled life, one must continue to grow and adapt. I feel a profound sense of gratitude to be able to help others on their path to emotional healing.
(616) 678-2083 View (616) 678-2083
Photo of Julie Schalk, LLPC, Counselor
Julie Schalk
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Waitlist for new clients
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR trained), Play Therapy, and some Internal Family Systems ( IFS) are my most commonly used therapy types with clients.
I am passionate about counseling pre-teens (age 10 and up), adolescents, young adults, and adults. I especially enjoy helping others untangle and heal from past trauma as well as helping individuals with ADHD develop an understanding for their way of operating and skills around that, viewing it in a positive light. I enjoy using Sand Tray, Play Therapy, and EMDR with clients of all ages.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR trained), Play Therapy, and some Internal Family Systems ( IFS) are my most commonly used therapy types with clients.
I am passionate about counseling pre-teens (age 10 and up), adolescents, young adults, and adults. I especially enjoy helping others untangle and heal from past trauma as well as helping individuals with ADHD develop an understanding for their way of operating and skills around that, viewing it in a positive light. I enjoy using Sand Tray, Play Therapy, and EMDR with clients of all ages.
(616) 236-4242 x168 View (616) 236-4242 x168
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 Carli Watson, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carli Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Waitlist for new clients
As a somatic & IFS informed therapist, I teach practical skills to help you face & release trapped stress & emotions from your body, so you can begin to love all parts of yourself.
I believe the ability to heal already exists in you, waiting to be uncovered from beneath past protective patterns that no longer serve you. Maybe you're successful & functioning on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Your mind overthinks & your body is tense. From past trauma or current stress, part of you feels broken, not enough, unworthy, or unlovable. You already know this shame, but aren't aware of other parts of you. Those that know how to rest, relax, self-care, balance emotions, & love yourself. You hope you can befriend your own mind, body, & spirit as allies instead of enemies.
As a somatic & IFS informed therapist, I teach practical skills to help you face & release trapped stress & emotions from your body, so you can begin to love all parts of yourself.
I believe the ability to heal already exists in you, waiting to be uncovered from beneath past protective patterns that no longer serve you. Maybe you're successful & functioning on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Your mind overthinks & your body is tense. From past trauma or current stress, part of you feels broken, not enough, unworthy, or unlovable. You already know this shame, but aren't aware of other parts of you. Those that know how to rest, relax, self-care, balance emotions, & love yourself. You hope you can befriend your own mind, body, & spirit as allies instead of enemies.
(616) 537-2992 View (616) 537-2992

See more therapy options for Caledonia

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.