Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Comstock Park, MI

Photo of Alayna Boomgaard, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alayna Boomgaard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Comstock Park, MI 49321
My treatment approach is trauma-informed and incorporates aspects of Emotion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, attachment theory, and Internal Family Systems.
I specialize in helping individuals rise above traumatic experiences. Additionally, I am passionate about supporting people with overcoming self-harm and suicidality. I also have experience with, and am passionate about, helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, emotional dysregulation, and identity-related concerns.
My treatment approach is trauma-informed and incorporates aspects of Emotion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, attachment theory, and Internal Family Systems.
I specialize in helping individuals rise above traumatic experiences. Additionally, I am passionate about supporting people with overcoming self-harm and suicidality. I also have experience with, and am passionate about, helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, emotional dysregulation, and identity-related concerns.
(616) 504-2359 View (616) 504-2359
Photo of Steven Ward, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Comstock Park, MI 49321
My name is Steven Ward and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a therapist for over 10 years and an intermittent therapy participant for 30 years. I believe in therapy and its ability to help others become their best selves. I have known since the first time therapy made a significant difference in my life, that I wanted to devote my life, time, and energy to serving and helping others by becoming a therapist. I received an undergraduate degree from Spring Arbor in Management and Organizational Development and utilized this to work my way through my Masters in Counseling, also from Spring Arbor University.
My name is Steven Ward and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a therapist for over 10 years and an intermittent therapy participant for 30 years. I believe in therapy and its ability to help others become their best selves. I have known since the first time therapy made a significant difference in my life, that I wanted to devote my life, time, and energy to serving and helping others by becoming a therapist. I received an undergraduate degree from Spring Arbor in Management and Organizational Development and utilized this to work my way through my Masters in Counseling, also from Spring Arbor University.
(616) 585-0848 View (616) 585-0848
Photo of Steven Adam Ward, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Adam Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Comstock Park, MI 49321
Chances are, experienced this before. The feeling that things can't change, at least not for the better. The anxiety that is interrupting your sleep or work stress that follows you home and has you sniping at your loved ones instead of enjoying your time with them. Whatever it is that you're experiencing that has you wondering, "can therapy actually help me?", you've probably been through something like it before. I have too. As a clinician with over 10 years of experience helping others, and over 20 years of experience on the client side of the table, I can answer that question with a definitive "Yes!".
Chances are, experienced this before. The feeling that things can't change, at least not for the better. The anxiety that is interrupting your sleep or work stress that follows you home and has you sniping at your loved ones instead of enjoying your time with them. Whatever it is that you're experiencing that has you wondering, "can therapy actually help me?", you've probably been through something like it before. I have too. As a clinician with over 10 years of experience helping others, and over 20 years of experience on the client side of the table, I can answer that question with a definitive "Yes!".
(616) 730-8296 x2003 View (616) 730-8296 x2003
Photo of Benjamin A Taylor, MDiv, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Benjamin A Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LLPC
Verified Verified
Comstock Park, MI 49321
Waitlist for new clients
My role as a therapist is to help you recognize your needs and wants, and to offer you support during the process of healing and growth. My therapeutic philosophy is a strength-based approach that is based on my belief that you are the expert of your life. We will work together to discover the best way for you to find answers to your problems.
My role as a therapist is to help you recognize your needs and wants, and to offer you support during the process of healing and growth. My therapeutic philosophy is a strength-based approach that is based on my belief that you are the expert of your life. We will work together to discover the best way for you to find answers to your problems.
(616) 201-3585 View (616) 201-3585

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Faith Elie - Somatic Psychotherapy Michigan—Faith Elie, LPC, MA, MA, SEP, NARM, IFS-L3, Counselor
Somatic Psychotherapy Michigan—Faith Elie
Counselor, LPC, MA, MA, SEP, NARM, IFS-L3
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
IFS (Internal Family Systems) level 3.
The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are -Joseph Campbell. Together, we can really hone in on what it is you are wanting for yourself and finding a path forward, that best suites you. Often, the work is getting back in touch with your Self in a deeper way—like re-calibrating your inner compass. My understanding of counseling comes from holistic, somatic and trauma-informed approaches that incorporate mind, body, and soul such as Jungian, IFS and transpersonal. Sex therapy is also a very important part of the work I do. Check out my website blog to learn more details about how I work
IFS (Internal Family Systems) level 3.
The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are -Joseph Campbell. Together, we can really hone in on what it is you are wanting for yourself and finding a path forward, that best suites you. Often, the work is getting back in touch with your Self in a deeper way—like re-calibrating your inner compass. My understanding of counseling comes from holistic, somatic and trauma-informed approaches that incorporate mind, body, and soul such as Jungian, IFS and transpersonal. Sex therapy is also a very important part of the work I do. Check out my website blog to learn more details about how I work
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Photo of Mary LaFramboise, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary LaFramboise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, MI 49341
My approach to therapy includes evidence-based practices such as EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, Love and Logic, Trauma-Informed Parenting, Gottman Method and Internal Family Systems.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a comfortable environment, thoughtful guidance, and a safe space for you to explore the things that you feel are getting in the way. Traumas, childhood experiences, and life in general can contribute to many difficulties that show up in our lives. I will assist you in defining what you hope to improve and work on through the therapy journey.
My approach to therapy includes evidence-based practices such as EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, Love and Logic, Trauma-Informed Parenting, Gottman Method and Internal Family Systems.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a comfortable environment, thoughtful guidance, and a safe space for you to explore the things that you feel are getting in the way. Traumas, childhood experiences, and life in general can contribute to many difficulties that show up in our lives. I will assist you in defining what you hope to improve and work on through the therapy journey.
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Photo of Brent Alan Parzuchowski, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brent Alan Parzuchowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
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 Breanne Roberts, LMSW, CBIS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breanne Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CBIS
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
NEW Patient email: captivebeliefs@gmail.com with availability, needs, and insurance plan. I believe that everyone deserves the support they need to release emotions and regain control. My specialities include anxiety, depression, and relationships. I have over 10 years of experience assessing mood, personalities, and family systems. My approach guides clients in managing areas of need such as life changes, emotional regulation, and family/social stressors. While I maintain the utmost professionalism in my practice, I offer a compassionate and approachable style.
NEW Patient email: captivebeliefs@gmail.com with availability, needs, and insurance plan. I believe that everyone deserves the support they need to release emotions and regain control. My specialities include anxiety, depression, and relationships. I have over 10 years of experience assessing mood, personalities, and family systems. My approach guides clients in managing areas of need such as life changes, emotional regulation, and family/social stressors. While I maintain the utmost professionalism in my practice, I offer a compassionate and approachable style.
(231) 432-5526 View (231) 432-5526
Photo of Jason R Thompson, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason R Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Through IFS therapy, I can help you understand and heal the different parts of yourself that may be in conflict or causing distress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by conflicting emotions or stuck in patterns you can’t break? I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, a powerful approach to help you connect with and heal all parts of yourself. Whether it’s anxiety, trauma, or relationship struggles, IFS provides a safe space to explore your inner world and bring harmony to the parts that feel out of sync. Together, we can help you find clarity, self-compassion, and the peace you’re seeking on your healing journey.
Through IFS therapy, I can help you understand and heal the different parts of yourself that may be in conflict or causing distress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by conflicting emotions or stuck in patterns you can’t break? I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, a powerful approach to help you connect with and heal all parts of yourself. Whether it’s anxiety, trauma, or relationship struggles, IFS provides a safe space to explore your inner world and bring harmony to the parts that feel out of sync. Together, we can help you find clarity, self-compassion, and the peace you’re seeking on your healing journey.
(248) 306-8612 View (248) 306-8612
Photo of Riley Kortman, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Riley Kortman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, MI 49341
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, motivational interviewing, person centered therapy, and mindfulness to treat a wide array of mental health concerns.
My ideal clients are young adults navigating family and relationship changes, college students, and adolescents. I currently see people aged 6-30. I treat a variety of concerns including, trauma, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, etc. I am excited to share that I have immediate openings for new clients!
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, motivational interviewing, person centered therapy, and mindfulness to treat a wide array of mental health concerns.
My ideal clients are young adults navigating family and relationship changes, college students, and adolescents. I currently see people aged 6-30. I treat a variety of concerns including, trauma, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, etc. I am excited to share that I have immediate openings for new clients!
(616) 326-3670 View (616) 326-3670
Photo of Hailey Yatros, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hailey Yatros
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Through a combination of emotionally focused therapy and Internal Family systems, we will do our best to get to the root cause of your conflict and explore the power that lies within your internal world, having the potential of changing your life.
Are you searching for relief, hope, clarity, or a sense of direction? Finding the right therapist with whom you feel comfortable and connect with can be nerve-racking. Will they understand me? Are we the best fit? Is therapy worth my time? These are valid questions! My goal is to make this experience as smooth as possible for you. Whether you are looking for couple, individual, or family therapy, going at your own rhythm, pace, and comfort will guide us when working together. Bring your pain, struggle, anxiety, and stress, we will explore it together.
Through a combination of emotionally focused therapy and Internal Family systems, we will do our best to get to the root cause of your conflict and explore the power that lies within your internal world, having the potential of changing your life.
Are you searching for relief, hope, clarity, or a sense of direction? Finding the right therapist with whom you feel comfortable and connect with can be nerve-racking. Will they understand me? Are we the best fit? Is therapy worth my time? These are valid questions! My goal is to make this experience as smooth as possible for you. Whether you are looking for couple, individual, or family therapy, going at your own rhythm, pace, and comfort will guide us when working together. Bring your pain, struggle, anxiety, and stress, we will explore it together.
(616) 947-3302 View (616) 947-3302
Photo of Stephanie Myers, IFS L1, LMSW, CAADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, IFS L1, LMSW, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49544  (Online Only)
My primary therapeutic approach and model is Internal Family Systems, and I pair this with EMDR around trauma.
Life and relationships are overwhelming, and you deserve joy! You already have everything needed to feel better. Together we will discover parts of you – some you may know and others that seem safer to hide - and their role in your beautifully unique inner world.
My primary therapeutic approach and model is Internal Family Systems, and I pair this with EMDR around trauma.
Life and relationships are overwhelming, and you deserve joy! You already have everything needed to feel better. Together we will discover parts of you – some you may know and others that seem safer to hide - and their role in your beautifully unique inner world.
(616) 229-4711 View (616) 229-4711
Photo of Tami Hubbard - Holistic Mental Health- Tami Hubbard MA LPC, MA LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holistic Mental Health- Tami Hubbard MA LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49505  (Online Only)
Have you tried mainstream mental health and it hasn't worked? Has talk therapy not assisted you in discovering what is at the root of any dis-ease you are experiencing?We will work together to assist you at getting better at feeling. We will address any deep rooted traumatic feeling states with EMDR to instantly assist in integrating them so you can interact with your day to day with more clarity. We will also use parts work (internal family systems) to find what parts of you are needing attention.
Have you tried mainstream mental health and it hasn't worked? Has talk therapy not assisted you in discovering what is at the root of any dis-ease you are experiencing?We will work together to assist you at getting better at feeling. We will address any deep rooted traumatic feeling states with EMDR to instantly assist in integrating them so you can interact with your day to day with more clarity. We will also use parts work (internal family systems) to find what parts of you are needing attention.
(616) 383-2915 View (616) 383-2915
Photo of Megan Renee Bentley, RN, BSN, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Renee Bentley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, BSN, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49502  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach integrates various modalities, including IFS/Parts work, ACT, and CBT, all tailored to address the unique needs of each client.
Greetings! Facing life's complexities? I’m here for you. As a Registered Nurse with a decade of experience, I specialize in nuanced support for trauma, relationships, family issues, anxiety, and depression. In relationships, we’ll explore the parts of yourself that influence communication, trust, and past experiences, guiding you toward healthier connections. For family issues, we’ll identify communication barriers and generational patterns affecting your well-being. This process helps us nurture the different parts within your family system, fostering deeper understanding and healing.
My therapeutic approach integrates various modalities, including IFS/Parts work, ACT, and CBT, all tailored to address the unique needs of each client.
Greetings! Facing life's complexities? I’m here for you. As a Registered Nurse with a decade of experience, I specialize in nuanced support for trauma, relationships, family issues, anxiety, and depression. In relationships, we’ll explore the parts of yourself that influence communication, trust, and past experiences, guiding you toward healthier connections. For family issues, we’ll identify communication barriers and generational patterns affecting your well-being. This process helps us nurture the different parts within your family system, fostering deeper understanding and healing.
(269) 241-9913 View (269) 241-9913
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 Henry Muller, MA, LPC, Counselor
Henry Muller
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
I specialize in evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Being heard and validated are two of the most powerful avenues to feeling a sense of belonging and worth. Unfortunately, we run into situations in life that shut us down, tell us our life experience doesn't count, and we leave those situations feeling empty and uncertain about what we've done wrong. Through therapy, we learn to find ourselves through our values and we learn new skills to navigate the hills and valleys of life so that when those situations come up, we can come out of them stronger and more sure of ourselves. I look forward to walking that path alongside you while you discover how you can have a full life and thrive.
I specialize in evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Being heard and validated are two of the most powerful avenues to feeling a sense of belonging and worth. Unfortunately, we run into situations in life that shut us down, tell us our life experience doesn't count, and we leave those situations feeling empty and uncertain about what we've done wrong. Through therapy, we learn to find ourselves through our values and we learn new skills to navigate the hills and valleys of life so that when those situations come up, we can come out of them stronger and more sure of ourselves. I look forward to walking that path alongside you while you discover how you can have a full life and thrive.
(616) 947-5078 View (616) 947-5078
Photo of Nick Salisbury, LMSW-C, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nick Salisbury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Brainspotting Phase 2, IFS, EMDR, and DBT create a powerful toolkit.
Can you imagine the relief you will feel when you are no longer carrying the burdens you have held for so long? Being able to have a peaceful loving relationship with food and your body. Coping with stressors without alcohol or drugs. Not having daily panic attacks. I know it may feel impossible but I watch incredible people do this work every day. You can too! I am also available to write a letter to support gender affirming care, clinical supervision for LLMSW, and consultation through a liberation lens.
Brainspotting Phase 2, IFS, EMDR, and DBT create a powerful toolkit.
Can you imagine the relief you will feel when you are no longer carrying the burdens you have held for so long? Being able to have a peaceful loving relationship with food and your body. Coping with stressors without alcohol or drugs. Not having daily panic attacks. I know it may feel impossible but I watch incredible people do this work every day. You can too! I am also available to write a letter to support gender affirming care, clinical supervision for LLMSW, and consultation through a liberation lens.
(734) 339-2920 View (734) 339-2920
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 49503
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
Photo of Darion L Oberle, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darion L Oberle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
As a clinician, I know it is important to walk beside you in the journey of life and healing. My work with clients is through compassion, humor, gentle confrontation, and unconditional positive regard. Whether you have a specific issue or just don't quite feel like yourself reaching out to someone is a great first step. I work with adolescents and adults using psychoanalysis, internal family systems, and cognitive behavioral therapy to not only treat symptoms but also to understand yourself through your experiences.
As a clinician, I know it is important to walk beside you in the journey of life and healing. My work with clients is through compassion, humor, gentle confrontation, and unconditional positive regard. Whether you have a specific issue or just don't quite feel like yourself reaching out to someone is a great first step. I work with adolescents and adults using psychoanalysis, internal family systems, and cognitive behavioral therapy to not only treat symptoms but also to understand yourself through your experiences.
(906) 330-3439 View (906) 330-3439
Photo of Janelle Uganski, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janelle Uganski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
I integrate brainspotting, neurobiology, IFS, and mindfulness to enable clients to meet their internal experience with self-compassion, access their inner wisdom, and experience new levels of authenticity.
I am passionate about working with late teens, young adults, and adult women. I work with people who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, burnout, low self-worth, perfectionism, and body image. I specialize in treating college students, helping professionals, and those who are navigating stressful life transitions. Many of my clients starting out would describe themselves as “people pleasers” with overachieving tendencies who are ready to let go of these behaviors and are seeking balance in their lives.
I integrate brainspotting, neurobiology, IFS, and mindfulness to enable clients to meet their internal experience with self-compassion, access their inner wisdom, and experience new levels of authenticity.
I am passionate about working with late teens, young adults, and adult women. I work with people who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, burnout, low self-worth, perfectionism, and body image. I specialize in treating college students, helping professionals, and those who are navigating stressful life transitions. Many of my clients starting out would describe themselves as “people pleasers” with overachieving tendencies who are ready to let go of these behaviors and are seeking balance in their lives.
(231) 244-6544 View (231) 244-6544

See more therapy options for Comstock Park

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.