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

Photo of Rachel Freedland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Freedland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, MI 48237
I am a level 2 trained IFS therapist who sees her role as helping her clients find and actualize their own desires and direction in life.
Is your life spiraling out of control? Anxiety, lack of sleep, irritation, failure in relationships, history of trauma continuing to affect you. Does it seem that too much is not working out as planned? You have had enough; you want to own the direction of your life and address the issues keeping you off track,
I am a level 2 trained IFS therapist who sees her role as helping her clients find and actualize their own desires and direction in life.
Is your life spiraling out of control? Anxiety, lack of sleep, irritation, failure in relationships, history of trauma continuing to affect you. Does it seem that too much is not working out as planned? You have had enough; you want to own the direction of your life and address the issues keeping you off track,
(947) 333-4321 View (947) 333-4321
Photo of Katy Levinson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Levinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, MI 48237
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is working with clients with Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Developmental disabilities, trauma, challenges in adolescence and young adulthood, transitions, school-based concerns, and parenting and family systems challenges.
Therapy is a deeply personal journey that requires a therapist who is able to adapt, presume competence, and be willing to learn and grow alongside their clients. I utilize neurodivergent-affirming, strengths-based practices to meet folks where they are, develop awareness and self-knowledge, and empower movement toward personal goals. Utilizing psycho-education, experiential methods, play, visual supports, CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed practices, I am looking to support clients aged 10-100 who are looking to make positive changes in their lives.
My specialty is working with clients with Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Developmental disabilities, trauma, challenges in adolescence and young adulthood, transitions, school-based concerns, and parenting and family systems challenges.
Therapy is a deeply personal journey that requires a therapist who is able to adapt, presume competence, and be willing to learn and grow alongside their clients. I utilize neurodivergent-affirming, strengths-based practices to meet folks where they are, develop awareness and self-knowledge, and empower movement toward personal goals. Utilizing psycho-education, experiential methods, play, visual supports, CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed practices, I am looking to support clients aged 10-100 who are looking to make positive changes in their lives.
(248) 206-3545 View (248) 206-3545
Photo of Katie Bonar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Bonar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, MI 48237  (Online Only)
At the end of our sessions, I will have helped you gain self-awareness and understanding of your emotions and thought patterns. I will help you develop practical coping strategies for managing depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. We will work to help you build stronger relationships by improving communication skills and setting boundaries. My goal is for you to a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore difficult feelings and work towards personal growth and healing. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
At the end of our sessions, I will have helped you gain self-awareness and understanding of your emotions and thought patterns. I will help you develop practical coping strategies for managing depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. We will work to help you build stronger relationships by improving communication skills and setting boundaries. My goal is for you to a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore difficult feelings and work towards personal growth and healing. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
(248) 653-5402 View (248) 653-5402
Photo of Thomas Grubba, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thomas Grubba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oak Park, MI 48237  (Online Only)
Deciding to seek therapy can seem overwhelming and yet could be the most important decision you make for yourself and your loved ones. Facing our fears and recognizing we need help facing life’s challenges is the first step in healing our wounded self or our dysfunctional family interactions. I see this desire to change or get to the root of our difficulties as a sign of mental health, not as weakness or “being broken.” I believe that everyone is doing the best that they can with the tools they have and change happens when we realize our ways of being in the world are no longer working for us.
Deciding to seek therapy can seem overwhelming and yet could be the most important decision you make for yourself and your loved ones. Facing our fears and recognizing we need help facing life’s challenges is the first step in healing our wounded self or our dysfunctional family interactions. I see this desire to change or get to the root of our difficulties as a sign of mental health, not as weakness or “being broken.” I believe that everyone is doing the best that they can with the tools they have and change happens when we realize our ways of being in the world are no longer working for us.
(248) 781-2761 View (248) 781-2761
Photo of Latasha Webster, LMSW, CTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Latasha Webster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, MI 48237
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, unfulfilled? Not enjoying your life in the way that you would like to? Do you set excessive standards for yourself and struggle emotionally when you don't reach them? Do you measure your worth in terms of what you can produce or accomplish? Is it hard to get motivated to go to work? Does it feel like your relationships with others are not fulfilling? Do your childhood wounds impact you emotionally as an adult and you want to heal? Do you struggle with your confidence and self-worth? Many times, these challenges show up as anxiety, overwhelming sadness, depression, and lack of motivation.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, unfulfilled? Not enjoying your life in the way that you would like to? Do you set excessive standards for yourself and struggle emotionally when you don't reach them? Do you measure your worth in terms of what you can produce or accomplish? Is it hard to get motivated to go to work? Does it feel like your relationships with others are not fulfilling? Do your childhood wounds impact you emotionally as an adult and you want to heal? Do you struggle with your confidence and self-worth? Many times, these challenges show up as anxiety, overwhelming sadness, depression, and lack of motivation.
(313) 486-5869 View (313) 486-5869
Photo of Deborah A Williams, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Deborah A Williams
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Oak Park, MI 48237
Hello, I am Deborah. I am a Limited License Professional Counselor practicing as a therapist and life coach. My educational background in counseling gives me an unique and effective approach to helping in facilitating change in clients experiencing mental health and behavioral issues. As a counselor I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives. I have a masters level education in mental health counseling from Central Michigan University and I am a professional member of the American Counseling Association.
Hello, I am Deborah. I am a Limited License Professional Counselor practicing as a therapist and life coach. My educational background in counseling gives me an unique and effective approach to helping in facilitating change in clients experiencing mental health and behavioral issues. As a counselor I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives. I have a masters level education in mental health counseling from Central Michigan University and I am a professional member of the American Counseling Association.
(947) 333-8010 View (947) 333-8010
Photo of Ahuva Smilowitz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ahuva Smilowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, MI 48237
Feeling overly stressed? Feeling on edge and wish you had a way to calm yourself? Wish to gain a sense of inner harmony and empowerment to handle daily living from a place of equanimity? Join me as we journey towards Self-discovery, and inner strengths. Discover how you can heal from deep pains of past experiences, and then thrive in relational connection with yourself and others.
Feeling overly stressed? Feeling on edge and wish you had a way to calm yourself? Wish to gain a sense of inner harmony and empowerment to handle daily living from a place of equanimity? Join me as we journey towards Self-discovery, and inner strengths. Discover how you can heal from deep pains of past experiences, and then thrive in relational connection with yourself and others.
(248) 985-9667 View (248) 985-9667
Photo of Taylor Loretta Grantham, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Taylor Loretta Grantham
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, MI 48237  (Online Only)
I work with clients who may experience the following; struggle to take time to process how events have impacted them, need assistance with adjusting to a change in routine, struggle to understand their own self worth or identity, struggle with low self esteem/image, struggle with healthy relationships due to a lack of boundaries or poor communication skills, or are struggling with understanding and having a harmonious relationship with their spouse or family member.
I work with clients who may experience the following; struggle to take time to process how events have impacted them, need assistance with adjusting to a change in routine, struggle to understand their own self worth or identity, struggle with low self esteem/image, struggle with healthy relationships due to a lack of boundaries or poor communication skills, or are struggling with understanding and having a harmonious relationship with their spouse or family member.
(313) 474-9830 View (313) 474-9830

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Antoinette Crocilla - Wise Mind PLLC, Psychologist
Wise Mind PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48068
We work with all kinds of concerns you may be struggling with: PTSD and trauma, anxiety, depression, justice-involvement, sexual behavior problems, substance use, spirituality, sexuality or gender concerns, intimate relationships, relational traumas, psychological assessments (ADHD; Substance Use; Psych Evals), neurodivergence, queer and kinky clients, life transitions, inner child work, shadow work, grief, and more. We offer a variety of wellness services too: Tarot/Oracle Reading. Hypnotherapy, Sound Healing, and more! We use various modalities to assist in your healing: DBT, CBT, EMDR, IFS, psychodynamic, and more!
We work with all kinds of concerns you may be struggling with: PTSD and trauma, anxiety, depression, justice-involvement, sexual behavior problems, substance use, spirituality, sexuality or gender concerns, intimate relationships, relational traumas, psychological assessments (ADHD; Substance Use; Psych Evals), neurodivergence, queer and kinky clients, life transitions, inner child work, shadow work, grief, and more. We offer a variety of wellness services too: Tarot/Oracle Reading. Hypnotherapy, Sound Healing, and more! We use various modalities to assist in your healing: DBT, CBT, EMDR, IFS, psychodynamic, and more!
(248) 963-6548 View (248) 963-6548
Photo of Lindy Doyle, LLMSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindy Doyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntington Woods, MI 48070
Waitlist for new clients
Using holistic methods like grounding techniques, mindfulness, IFS & EMDR, we'll build coping skills that resonate with you and nurture both your mind and body, guiding you toward growth and healing.
Therapy with me is like a cozy chat with a friend, full of warmth, humor, and empathy. As a queer therapist, I offer a unique understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences and create a space where your identity is valued. I’m here not only to support you through challenges like trauma, anxiety, and relationship struggles but also to give you that extra nudge toward growth. With me, you’ll find both a safe haven and an encouraging push to tackle your goals. Whether you’re here to explore your past or embrace your future, I’m here to celebrate every step of your journey toward healing.
Using holistic methods like grounding techniques, mindfulness, IFS & EMDR, we'll build coping skills that resonate with you and nurture both your mind and body, guiding you toward growth and healing.
Therapy with me is like a cozy chat with a friend, full of warmth, humor, and empathy. As a queer therapist, I offer a unique understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences and create a space where your identity is valued. I’m here not only to support you through challenges like trauma, anxiety, and relationship struggles but also to give you that extra nudge toward growth. With me, you’ll find both a safe haven and an encouraging push to tackle your goals. Whether you’re here to explore your past or embrace your future, I’m here to celebrate every step of your journey toward healing.
(248) 617-2203 View (248) 617-2203
Photo of Anne Marie Hancock, MS, LLP, LLMFT, CAADC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Anne Marie Hancock
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP, LLMFT, CAADC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48073  (Online Only)
My experience includes providing person centered and supportive individual psychotherapy, psycho-education, and psychosocial skills development to adults, of diverse backgrounds using a variety of approaches including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Life is about transition and transformation, from the time we enter the world, and with every transition comes increased exposure to greater life stressors. These stressors may result in sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression, PTSD, impaired relationships, anger or addiction. Through therapy, we will explore the origin of those symptoms, identify positive coping techniques, establish healthy boundaries and implement change, allowing for personal growth and improved self-efficacy. Hope and healing begins today, with just one phone call.
My experience includes providing person centered and supportive individual psychotherapy, psycho-education, and psychosocial skills development to adults, of diverse backgrounds using a variety of approaches including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Life is about transition and transformation, from the time we enter the world, and with every transition comes increased exposure to greater life stressors. These stressors may result in sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression, PTSD, impaired relationships, anger or addiction. Through therapy, we will explore the origin of those symptoms, identify positive coping techniques, establish healthy boundaries and implement change, allowing for personal growth and improved self-efficacy. Hope and healing begins today, with just one phone call.
(248) 439-0383 View (248) 439-0383
Photo of Jasper H Wurster, MA, MAAT, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasper H Wurster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MAAT, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, or not like "yourself"? I'm here to help you find peace of mind, freedom, & personal relief to take charge of your life. I'm an Integrative Internal Family Systems counselor & Adlerian art therapist, with 12+ years of experience, who excels in addressing mood shifts, anxiety, work-life balance, grief, & trauma. I listen with an insightful, patient disposition and an engaging, compassionate heart when we talk about your values, identities, and challenges. Together, we approach obstacles to discover new solutions & apply intuitive skill sets, gaining newfound confidence, authenticity, & wholeness.
Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, or not like "yourself"? I'm here to help you find peace of mind, freedom, & personal relief to take charge of your life. I'm an Integrative Internal Family Systems counselor & Adlerian art therapist, with 12+ years of experience, who excels in addressing mood shifts, anxiety, work-life balance, grief, & trauma. I listen with an insightful, patient disposition and an engaging, compassionate heart when we talk about your values, identities, and challenges. Together, we approach obstacles to discover new solutions & apply intuitive skill sets, gaining newfound confidence, authenticity, & wholeness.
(331) 214-5354 View (331) 214-5354
Photo of Rizzo Nichols, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rizzo Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
My philosophy is evidence-based and person-centered. Each person's story is dynamic and one-of-a-kind; it only makes sense that your healing journey follows suit. In my work, I integrate elements of somatic experiencing, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), eco-psychology, and parts work ( IFS) to facilitate clients’ inner wisdom and healing. I enjoying working with individuals and couples who are seeking to deepen their relationship with Self. I specialize in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiversity, attachment-based work, and sexual therapy + sexual education. ​
My philosophy is evidence-based and person-centered. Each person's story is dynamic and one-of-a-kind; it only makes sense that your healing journey follows suit. In my work, I integrate elements of somatic experiencing, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), eco-psychology, and parts work ( IFS) to facilitate clients’ inner wisdom and healing. I enjoying working with individuals and couples who are seeking to deepen their relationship with Self. I specialize in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiversity, attachment-based work, and sexual therapy + sexual education. ​
(947) 210-7477 View (947) 210-7477
Photo of Justin Kennard, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Kennard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
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 Caitlin Reid, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Caitlin Reid
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220
I use tools from different modalities depending on the patient needs; IFS, Response and Exposure, CPT, DBT, CBT, ACT, Narrative, Behavioral, and Somatic.
I have limited availability. I see patients in the office Mondays and Tuesday with 2 total spots open. I see patients virtually on Wednesdays and Thursdays with 2 total spots open. I work with individuals who are 16 years or older who have experienced traumatic events and are feeling stuck. I have extensive training and experience working with those who suffer with PTSD/CPTSD, OCD and other anxiety/depressive related disorders. I use an integrative humanistic approach to therapy. Meaning I view my patients as a whole, not just what has/hasn't happened to them or as just their diagnosis.
I use tools from different modalities depending on the patient needs; IFS, Response and Exposure, CPT, DBT, CBT, ACT, Narrative, Behavioral, and Somatic.
I have limited availability. I see patients in the office Mondays and Tuesday with 2 total spots open. I see patients virtually on Wednesdays and Thursdays with 2 total spots open. I work with individuals who are 16 years or older who have experienced traumatic events and are feeling stuck. I have extensive training and experience working with those who suffer with PTSD/CPTSD, OCD and other anxiety/depressive related disorders. I use an integrative humanistic approach to therapy. Meaning I view my patients as a whole, not just what has/hasn't happened to them or as just their diagnosis.
(248) 368-0429 View (248) 368-0429
Photo of Avi Kohn, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Avi Kohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
I am primarily a Humanistic Therapist, and I also use Internal Family Systems Therapy among other modalities.
Not getting enough out of life? Having a hard time seeing beyond the troubles? Are you stuck in some bad patterns? As lonely as it seems, you are not the only one...Everyone has struggles...And some people have the courage to face them as well. Therapy has helped a lot of people.
I am primarily a Humanistic Therapist, and I also use Internal Family Systems Therapy among other modalities.
Not getting enough out of life? Having a hard time seeing beyond the troubles? Are you stuck in some bad patterns? As lonely as it seems, you are not the only one...Everyone has struggles...And some people have the courage to face them as well. Therapy has helped a lot of people.
(248) 985-8965 View (248) 985-8965
Photo of Angie Ramsey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Ramsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48076
Do you feel disempowered by experiences in your past? I can help you reclaim your life after difficult life events and trauma. I utilize holistic evidence-based tools including EMDR, Brainspotting, and IFS/parts work to help you heal and create sustaining change in your life. In our sessions, you can expect to understand how your experiences have shaped you, how your thoughts and feelings impact you, and ways to improve your life.
Do you feel disempowered by experiences in your past? I can help you reclaim your life after difficult life events and trauma. I utilize holistic evidence-based tools including EMDR, Brainspotting, and IFS/parts work to help you heal and create sustaining change in your life. In our sessions, you can expect to understand how your experiences have shaped you, how your thoughts and feelings impact you, and ways to improve your life.
(248) 956-1194 View (248) 956-1194
Photo of Dana Howley, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dana Howley
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220
Other areas: Inner Child support, parts work/ IFS, PTSD, LGBTQIA, Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Spirituality, Mindful Embodiment, Codependency, and Transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a humanistic approach, which means that I deeply value the possibility and uniqueness of every individual. I am passionate about dismantling systemic oppression and white-body supremacy. I believe that healing begins with unconditional positive regard, and so I invite clients to share their unique experience(s), in an environment of openness without judgment and without criticism. From this place, I believe each person can begin to make personal shifts toward discovering and becoming their most authentic self.
Other areas: Inner Child support, parts work/ IFS, PTSD, LGBTQIA, Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Spirituality, Mindful Embodiment, Codependency, and Transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a humanistic approach, which means that I deeply value the possibility and uniqueness of every individual. I am passionate about dismantling systemic oppression and white-body supremacy. I believe that healing begins with unconditional positive regard, and so I invite clients to share their unique experience(s), in an environment of openness without judgment and without criticism. From this place, I believe each person can begin to make personal shifts toward discovering and becoming their most authentic self.
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Photo of Janel Wetzel, LMSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janel Wetzel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I provide a person-centered, trauma-focused approach when working with adults through a multitude of different therapeutic interventions such as EMDR therapy, Attachment Theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
You're ready to take on the past and start the healing journey. You're ready to find the root cause for your current anxiety and depression symptoms. You're ready to improve your overall quality of life. I specialize in trauma survivors of childhood abuse, sexual abuse, and incest. Additionally, with adults who are interested in processing childhood experiences, as well as current stressors.
I provide a person-centered, trauma-focused approach when working with adults through a multitude of different therapeutic interventions such as EMDR therapy, Attachment Theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
You're ready to take on the past and start the healing journey. You're ready to find the root cause for your current anxiety and depression symptoms. You're ready to improve your overall quality of life. I specialize in trauma survivors of childhood abuse, sexual abuse, and incest. Additionally, with adults who are interested in processing childhood experiences, as well as current stressors.
(517) 225-1848 View (517) 225-1848
Photo of Kristi Paguio - Kristi Paguio Consulting, PLLC, LMSW, LCSW, CDCES, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristi Paguio Consulting, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, CDCES
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
She uses a dynamic clinical approach including IFS, CBT, mindfulness, CPT, intuitive eating, as well as emotion-focused therapy to help her clients.
Life is often stressful and living with chronic illness only makes life more challenging. Having a therapist who also understands the mental and emotional side of chronic illness can be really helpful. I also have years of experience understanding trauma and incorporate a dynamic approach into my work.
She uses a dynamic clinical approach including IFS, CBT, mindfulness, CPT, intuitive eating, as well as emotion-focused therapy to help her clients.
Life is often stressful and living with chronic illness only makes life more challenging. Having a therapist who also understands the mental and emotional side of chronic illness can be really helpful. I also have years of experience understanding trauma and incorporate a dynamic approach into my work.
(616) 557-7911 View (616) 557-7911

See more therapy options for Oak 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.