Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Dearborn Heights, MI

Photo of Lina Bazzi, MA, LLPC
Lina Bazzi
MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Dearborn Heights, MI 48127
I also specialize in marriage and family systems, working with couples and complex family relationships.
Asking for help can be challenging. Let me help you release the grip of suffering and rediscover your wisdom, truth, and joy. Sometimes we can be loath to give up old patterns and learned behaviors that we lean on regardless of the distress they can cause. In today’s perplex world, it can be easy to lose sight of our reality. We often end up ignoring or minimizing our issues rather than taking the time to process and speak about them. Whether it be a transitional time in your life, trauma, depression, anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self, the most important thing you can do is seek support.
I also specialize in marriage and family systems, working with couples and complex family relationships.
Asking for help can be challenging. Let me help you release the grip of suffering and rediscover your wisdom, truth, and joy. Sometimes we can be loath to give up old patterns and learned behaviors that we lean on regardless of the distress they can cause. In today’s perplex world, it can be easy to lose sight of our reality. We often end up ignoring or minimizing our issues rather than taking the time to process and speak about them. Whether it be a transitional time in your life, trauma, depression, anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self, the most important thing you can do is seek support.
(313) 217-4242 View (313) 217-4242
Photo of Cynthia Finnegan - Motor City Center for Hope , LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Motor City Center for Hope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dearborn Heights, MI 48125
In the context of mental health, an ideal client is someone who actively engages in the therapeutic process, is open to self-reflection, and is committed to making positive changes in their life. However, It's important to note that everyone is unique, and the ideal client can vary based on the specific therapeutic approach, the individual therapist's style, and the client's specific needs and goals. Our focus is on matching clients with the right therapist to maximize the effectiveness of treatment. It ensures that clients receive personalized and tailored support that aligns with their needs and preferences.
In the context of mental health, an ideal client is someone who actively engages in the therapeutic process, is open to self-reflection, and is committed to making positive changes in their life. However, It's important to note that everyone is unique, and the ideal client can vary based on the specific therapeutic approach, the individual therapist's style, and the client's specific needs and goals. Our focus is on matching clients with the right therapist to maximize the effectiveness of treatment. It ensures that clients receive personalized and tailored support that aligns with their needs and preferences.
(313) 694-3886 View (313) 694-3886
Photo of Uzma Anwar, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Uzma Anwar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dearborn Heights, MI 48127  (Online Only)
As a child of immigrants, I understand the duality of living in a culture that is so very different from one’s own. These experiences help to shape my work with my clients, and I am able to provide various different lenses from which to consider common problems. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, familial problems, phase of life problems, or are looking to gain more insight into who you are, therapy can prove to be a useful tool to move towards healing.
As a child of immigrants, I understand the duality of living in a culture that is so very different from one’s own. These experiences help to shape my work with my clients, and I am able to provide various different lenses from which to consider common problems. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, familial problems, phase of life problems, or are looking to gain more insight into who you are, therapy can prove to be a useful tool to move towards healing.
(734) 219-0972 View (734) 219-0972
Photo of Layal Abadi, PhD, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Layal Abadi
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD, LLP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dearborn Heights, MI 48127  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship distress, or unable to make the changes in your life that you want? Psychotherapy can be a safe and compassionate place where you could get help in working through your distress. Making the decision to begin therapy is both difficult and courageous. I offer individual and couples psychotherapy for anyone seeking insight, change, and relief in their lives. I strive to promote healing, offering a safe and nurturing environment that fosters self-compassion, collaboration, self-understanding, and an appreciation of the diverse and resilient individuals that we are.
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship distress, or unable to make the changes in your life that you want? Psychotherapy can be a safe and compassionate place where you could get help in working through your distress. Making the decision to begin therapy is both difficult and courageous. I offer individual and couples psychotherapy for anyone seeking insight, change, and relief in their lives. I strive to promote healing, offering a safe and nurturing environment that fosters self-compassion, collaboration, self-understanding, and an appreciation of the diverse and resilient individuals that we are.
(734) 294-0978 View (734) 294-0978
Photo of Jessica Gardiner, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jessica Gardiner
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn Heights, MI 48125  (Online Only)
Everyone deserves this chance to better themselves and relieve the burden that mental health issues can bring to our daily lives. There are many reasons people seek therapy. There could be feelings of nervousness or sadness, or an urge to finally get what's bothering you off your chest. No matter what it is, therapy brings out the best in you, and may surprise you. I've interacted with many clients who come in for one problem, and then discover hidden pieces of themselves.
Everyone deserves this chance to better themselves and relieve the burden that mental health issues can bring to our daily lives. There are many reasons people seek therapy. There could be feelings of nervousness or sadness, or an urge to finally get what's bothering you off your chest. No matter what it is, therapy brings out the best in you, and may surprise you. I've interacted with many clients who come in for one problem, and then discover hidden pieces of themselves.
(734) 849-3971 View (734) 849-3971
Photo of Sura Shlebah, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sura Shlebah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn Heights, MI 48127
Not accepting new clients
I have a deep calling to help others. My practice is rooted in the fact that I am sitting with humans who live in, carry around, and see the world in a trauma-informed way; meaning their very presence is resilient. I strive to create a safe space to foster healing and growth.
I have a deep calling to help others. My practice is rooted in the fact that I am sitting with humans who live in, carry around, and see the world in a trauma-informed way; meaning their very presence is resilient. I strive to create a safe space to foster healing and growth.
(313) 631-4898 View (313) 631-4898
Photo of Shadi Restum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shadi Restum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dearborn Heights, MI 48127
Not accepting new clients
As a dedicated life coach, I am passionate about helping my clients unlock their full potential and achieve their personal and professional goals. With a proven track record of success, I have guided individuals through transformative journeys, empowering them to overcome obstacles, gain clarity, and create meaningful change in their lives. My approach is tailored to each client, offering support, accountability, and strategies that drive results. I am committed to fostering growth, self-awareness, and resilience in every person I work with, ensuring that they not only meet their goals but exceed them with confidence and purpose.
As a dedicated life coach, I am passionate about helping my clients unlock their full potential and achieve their personal and professional goals. With a proven track record of success, I have guided individuals through transformative journeys, empowering them to overcome obstacles, gain clarity, and create meaningful change in their lives. My approach is tailored to each client, offering support, accountability, and strategies that drive results. I am committed to fostering growth, self-awareness, and resilience in every person I work with, ensuring that they not only meet their goals but exceed them with confidence and purpose.
(313) 217-9103 View (313) 217-9103

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cristina DeFiore, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristina DeFiore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MI 48170
Hi, I'm glad you're here! It is a sacred privilege to be a therapist, to sit with people during the most challenging moments of their lives. I’m looking forward to collaborating together, as you navigate healing and growth. My goal as a clinician is to cultivate a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where you feel comfortable to express yourself authentically. Together, we can use an integrative approach toward healing through mindfulness, expressive art, and other evidenced based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Hi, I'm glad you're here! It is a sacred privilege to be a therapist, to sit with people during the most challenging moments of their lives. I’m looking forward to collaborating together, as you navigate healing and growth. My goal as a clinician is to cultivate a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where you feel comfortable to express yourself authentically. Together, we can use an integrative approach toward healing through mindfulness, expressive art, and other evidenced based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
(734) 215-9299 View (734) 215-9299
Photo of Jessica Lakkis, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jessica Lakkis
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
Livonia, MI 48152
In my therapy room, YOU guide the direction for our sessions. You’ll have a safe and judgment-free space to open up about things you wouldn’t discuss with even your closest friends. Common topics of exploration include life history, attachments, survival mechanisms, biology, and intergenerational trauma. We will also discuss daily stressors and develop coping skills. I use an integrative approach mostly using the following modalities to guide sessions: psychodynamic, IFS, attachment theory, cognitive behavioral, biological and mindfulness. I received a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Wayne State University.
In my therapy room, YOU guide the direction for our sessions. You’ll have a safe and judgment-free space to open up about things you wouldn’t discuss with even your closest friends. Common topics of exploration include life history, attachments, survival mechanisms, biology, and intergenerational trauma. We will also discuss daily stressors and develop coping skills. I use an integrative approach mostly using the following modalities to guide sessions: psychodynamic, IFS, attachment theory, cognitive behavioral, biological and mindfulness. I received a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Wayne State University.
(313) 992-1351 View (313) 992-1351
Photo of Hannah Kubitz, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Kubitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48126
My areas of focus include but are not limited to: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, PTSD, Coping Skills, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Family Systems, and Play Therapy.
Hello, my name is Hannah Kubitz, and I am a passionate strengths-based, client-led trauma therapist. I graduated with my BSW and MSW from Wayne State University. I have experience providing trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy (TF-CBT) to children, teens, and adults, as well as crisis counseling, court advocacy, and family therapy with children. I have worked with children and families in group settings both virtually and in person. I also have experience working with victims of sex trafficking and child abuse. As a client-led therapist, I believe in meeting the client where they are at in their mental health journey.
My areas of focus include but are not limited to: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, PTSD, Coping Skills, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Family Systems, and Play Therapy.
Hello, my name is Hannah Kubitz, and I am a passionate strengths-based, client-led trauma therapist. I graduated with my BSW and MSW from Wayne State University. I have experience providing trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy (TF-CBT) to children, teens, and adults, as well as crisis counseling, court advocacy, and family therapy with children. I have worked with children and families in group settings both virtually and in person. I also have experience working with victims of sex trafficking and child abuse. As a client-led therapist, I believe in meeting the client where they are at in their mental health journey.
(313) 488-5523 View (313) 488-5523
Photo of Rachel Miller, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MI 48170
Waitlist for new clients
Listed here are a few specific therapy frameworks I utilize: EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), CBT, DBT, EFIT.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, validation, and a deep understanding of the ways in which trauma can impact every aspect of a person’s life. I am passionate about helping individuals heal and thrive after experiencing trauma, particularly related to intimate partner violence, sexual assault, stalking, relationship issues, childhood sexual abuse, family issues, and work-related trauma associated with first responder job duties. I work with my clients to process through experiences, identify strengths, and develop strategies for coping and healing.
Listed here are a few specific therapy frameworks I utilize: EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), CBT, DBT, EFIT.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, validation, and a deep understanding of the ways in which trauma can impact every aspect of a person’s life. I am passionate about helping individuals heal and thrive after experiencing trauma, particularly related to intimate partner violence, sexual assault, stalking, relationship issues, childhood sexual abuse, family issues, and work-related trauma associated with first responder job duties. I work with my clients to process through experiences, identify strengths, and develop strategies for coping and healing.
(734) 849-4405 View (734) 849-4405
Photo of Ke Liu, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ke Liu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180
I integrate mindfulness into contemporary trauma treatment frameworks like IFS, EMDR, and polyvagal to help clients with "unfinished business" in the past, developmental trauma or chronic PTSD.
Talk therapy serves a valuable purpose by aiding your brain in processing challenging emotions during specific moments in your life and enabling introspection regarding associated thoughts. However, what if you find yourself trapped in the depressive, anxious, angry, or shameful mental state for so long that you have nothing new to explore? What if, despite recounting your traumatic experiences numerous times, your low energy, sadness, avoidance, anger, or impulsivity still persists? And what if the somatic reactions triggered by certain events are so intense and rapid that you are unable to employ sound judgment?
I integrate mindfulness into contemporary trauma treatment frameworks like IFS, EMDR, and polyvagal to help clients with "unfinished business" in the past, developmental trauma or chronic PTSD.
Talk therapy serves a valuable purpose by aiding your brain in processing challenging emotions during specific moments in your life and enabling introspection regarding associated thoughts. However, what if you find yourself trapped in the depressive, anxious, angry, or shameful mental state for so long that you have nothing new to explore? What if, despite recounting your traumatic experiences numerous times, your low energy, sadness, avoidance, anger, or impulsivity still persists? And what if the somatic reactions triggered by certain events are so intense and rapid that you are unable to employ sound judgment?
(734) 336-7265 View (734) 336-7265
Photo of Anna Skinner, LMSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Skinner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48210  (Online Only)
I am trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and I am drawn towards the principles of Internal Family Systems.
My style of therapy is rooted in building upon clients’ existing strengths, harnessing their inherent resilience, and supporting their natural evolution towards healing. I intend to cultivate a spirit of curiosity in sessions, inviting clients to experience a sense of safety and experiment with new strategies for managing emotions and developing healthy relationships. I work with individual clients of all ages on a broad range of concerns/objectives - trauma, grief, life transitions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more.
I am trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and I am drawn towards the principles of Internal Family Systems.
My style of therapy is rooted in building upon clients’ existing strengths, harnessing their inherent resilience, and supporting their natural evolution towards healing. I intend to cultivate a spirit of curiosity in sessions, inviting clients to experience a sense of safety and experiment with new strategies for managing emotions and developing healthy relationships. I work with individual clients of all ages on a broad range of concerns/objectives - trauma, grief, life transitions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more.
(248) 422-2530 View (248) 422-2530
Photo of Allyn Richards, PhD , Psychologist
Allyn Richards
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MI 48170  (Online Only)
My work is informed by Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Intuitive Eating, and mind-body approaches.
Life gets messy, and you may feel as though you’ve lost parts of yourself along the way. While you may appear as though you have it “all together,” inside you are filled with anxiety, discontentment, and feelings that you’re not enough. You may feel restless and burnt out from the constant internal pressure to stay busy, please others, achieve, or change your body. You feel at constant war with your mind and your body, leaving you feeling disconnected from your needs, your relationships, and your life. You may sense that the ways in which you’ve tried to control these feelings isn't working, but you're not sure how to move forward.
My work is informed by Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Intuitive Eating, and mind-body approaches.
Life gets messy, and you may feel as though you’ve lost parts of yourself along the way. While you may appear as though you have it “all together,” inside you are filled with anxiety, discontentment, and feelings that you’re not enough. You may feel restless and burnt out from the constant internal pressure to stay busy, please others, achieve, or change your body. You feel at constant war with your mind and your body, leaving you feeling disconnected from your needs, your relationships, and your life. You may sense that the ways in which you’ve tried to control these feelings isn't working, but you're not sure how to move forward.
(989) 259-9362 View (989) 259-9362
Photo of Grace Rowe, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MI 48170
As a theory backed practitioner I utilize CBT, ACT, IFS, and MI collaboratively throughout my sessions depending on the presenting concern.
As a queer and neurodivergent practitioner I personally understand how nerve wracking it can be to start your therapeutic journey with an unknown provider. As a trauma informed therapist I am committed to having a client-centered and collaborative approach catered to your personal growth and healing. I am passionate about working with autistic, ADHD, and queer individuals with anxiety, depression, adjustment, PTSD, C-PTSD, as well as queer and gender identity issues. I work individuals to meet client determined goals, and hope to create a productive and safe place to heal and grow.
As a theory backed practitioner I utilize CBT, ACT, IFS, and MI collaboratively throughout my sessions depending on the presenting concern.
As a queer and neurodivergent practitioner I personally understand how nerve wracking it can be to start your therapeutic journey with an unknown provider. As a trauma informed therapist I am committed to having a client-centered and collaborative approach catered to your personal growth and healing. I am passionate about working with autistic, ADHD, and queer individuals with anxiety, depression, adjustment, PTSD, C-PTSD, as well as queer and gender identity issues. I work individuals to meet client determined goals, and hope to create a productive and safe place to heal and grow.
View
Photo of Justin Kennard, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Kennard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120
I utilize a variety of therapies and evidence based treatment approaches such as Internal Family Systems Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Care, and Mindfulness approaches.
I provide a welcoming, safe and non-judgmental space. I work with people who seek support for anxiety, depression, grief, loss, trauma, relationships, family issues, social challenges, identity, substance use, life balance, and life transitions/stressors. I support people with areas such as work, school, productivity, immigration, illness and self-care. I have experience working with, and welcome, people of different sexual orientations, gender identities, race, spirituality, and cultural backgrounds. I also have experience working with social workers and therapists.
I utilize a variety of therapies and evidence based treatment approaches such as Internal Family Systems Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Care, and Mindfulness approaches.
I provide a welcoming, safe and non-judgmental space. I work with people who seek support for anxiety, depression, grief, loss, trauma, relationships, family issues, social challenges, identity, substance use, life balance, and life transitions/stressors. I support people with areas such as work, school, productivity, immigration, illness and self-care. I have experience working with, and welcome, people of different sexual orientations, gender identities, race, spirituality, and cultural backgrounds. I also have experience working with social workers and therapists.
(347) 673-0225 View (347) 673-0225
Photo of Shannon Hopson, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Hopson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48124
My expertise in IFS (Internal Family Systems) enables me to assist clients in navigating difficult emotions, developing distress tolerance, and enhancing interpersonal effectiveness.
My ideal clients are individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, as well as their family members seeking support in coping with their loved ones' issues. They often aspire to alleviate distressing symptoms, improve their interpersonal relationships, and enhance their overall quality of life. Recognizing the interconnected nature of these concerns, my approach is tailored to address the needs of my clients and their families. With compassion and a deep understanding of the complexities of human experience, I guide my clients towards a path of resilience, and meaningful change.
My expertise in IFS (Internal Family Systems) enables me to assist clients in navigating difficult emotions, developing distress tolerance, and enhancing interpersonal effectiveness.
My ideal clients are individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, as well as their family members seeking support in coping with their loved ones' issues. They often aspire to alleviate distressing symptoms, improve their interpersonal relationships, and enhance their overall quality of life. Recognizing the interconnected nature of these concerns, my approach is tailored to address the needs of my clients and their families. With compassion and a deep understanding of the complexities of human experience, I guide my clients towards a path of resilience, and meaningful change.
(734) 472-2945 View (734) 472-2945
Photo of Alexandra A M Jaworski, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra A M Jaworski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Not Verified Not Verified
4 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48150
I completed an Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy course through the EmbodyLab; I also integrate Internal Family Systems and Nonviolent Communication into my work.
I help highly-sensitive women heal trauma, navigate inner conflict, and find a deeper sense of connection with themselves and others in order to live more fulfilling lives. Using a somatically integrative approach to therapy, I guide clients towards self-compassion and out of shame cycles and old disempowering narratives. In sessions, I invite clients into experimental practices where we draw our attention to your embodied experience and explore your thoughts, images, movements, emotions and sensations as they arise. Always core to my work is: empathy, consent, attunement, presence, and curiosity.
I completed an Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy course through the EmbodyLab; I also integrate Internal Family Systems and Nonviolent Communication into my work.
I help highly-sensitive women heal trauma, navigate inner conflict, and find a deeper sense of connection with themselves and others in order to live more fulfilling lives. Using a somatically integrative approach to therapy, I guide clients towards self-compassion and out of shame cycles and old disempowering narratives. In sessions, I invite clients into experimental practices where we draw our attention to your embodied experience and explore your thoughts, images, movements, emotions and sensations as they arise. Always core to my work is: empathy, consent, attunement, presence, and curiosity.
(734) 215-9304 View (734) 215-9304
Photo of Maxwell R. Lucci, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maxwell R. Lucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48206
I have researched and embraced the therapeutic methods of CBT, Family Systems, and Mindfulness.
Hello, I'm Maxwell! I believe that mental health connects deeply to the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors we share with the world. This is why I hope to create a safe and brave space where you're given the opportunity to build a therapeutic alliance that is as unique as yourself. I hope to work side by side with you in order to explore life's challenges in a comfortable and accepting environment. The therapeutic alliance is the most important aspect of therapy to me and I will work to create a collaborative relationship with each and every client.
I have researched and embraced the therapeutic methods of CBT, Family Systems, and Mindfulness.
Hello, I'm Maxwell! I believe that mental health connects deeply to the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors we share with the world. This is why I hope to create a safe and brave space where you're given the opportunity to build a therapeutic alliance that is as unique as yourself. I hope to work side by side with you in order to explore life's challenges in a comfortable and accepting environment. The therapeutic alliance is the most important aspect of therapy to me and I will work to create a collaborative relationship with each and every client.
(947) 224-7730 View (947) 224-7730
Photo of Andrew Gladstone-Highland, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Gladstone-Highland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120
I use trauma-informed, Family Systems, and CBT approaches.
“Love takes off masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within,” James Baldwin once said. Do you want more connection in your life, to have a community of loved ones, however large or small? You are not alone. Each of us desires connection, and yet trauma and broken relationships between loved ones often get in the way - this brokenness can affect our closest relationships, and families suffer. Or, sometimes you may feel like you don’t really know or love yourself as well as you think you should. These questions, desires, and fears are part of the human experience, and part of my own life experience.
I use trauma-informed, Family Systems, and CBT approaches.
“Love takes off masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within,” James Baldwin once said. Do you want more connection in your life, to have a community of loved ones, however large or small? You are not alone. Each of us desires connection, and yet trauma and broken relationships between loved ones often get in the way - this brokenness can affect our closest relationships, and families suffer. Or, sometimes you may feel like you don’t really know or love yourself as well as you think you should. These questions, desires, and fears are part of the human experience, and part of my own life experience.
(313) 395-0221 View (313) 395-0221

See more therapy options for Dearborn Heights

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.