Photo of Sylvester Liggins - Guided Grace Family & Youth Services, LPC, L
Guided Grace Family & Youth Services
LPC, L
Verified Verified
Saginaw, MI 48602
Guided Grace Family and Youth Services takes an altruistic approach to therapy. We realize that the world has evolved and therapeutic services cannot stay the same. We provide individual and family therapy by offering multiple services. Our newly renovated space allows us provide an “out of the box” approach to your journey to total wellness by offering groups such as; anger management, Grief, LGBTQ, Batterers Intervention, Sensory and much more. We offer on and off site Licensed therapists, pharmacy services, and an onsite Psychiatric Services. With added programs, we provide a wraparound approach to therapeutic services.
Guided Grace Family and Youth Services takes an altruistic approach to therapy. We realize that the world has evolved and therapeutic services cannot stay the same. We provide individual and family therapy by offering multiple services. Our newly renovated space allows us provide an “out of the box” approach to your journey to total wellness by offering groups such as; anger management, Grief, LGBTQ, Batterers Intervention, Sensory and much more. We offer on and off site Licensed therapists, pharmacy services, and an onsite Psychiatric Services. With added programs, we provide a wraparound approach to therapeutic services.
(989) 244-1263 View (989) 244-1263
Photo of Cherie Coopersmith, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cherie Coopersmith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saginaw, MI 48602
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone deserves a place in which they can feel safe, un-judged, and respected. I am a neurodiversity affirming licensed clinical therapist offering counseling services to children, adolescents, and young adults. My specialty areas include helping clients who experience anxiety, depression, school issues, behavioral challenges, phobias, communication, and adjustment difficulties. Complementing my focus on clients with mental health challenges, as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I am educated and trained to work with individuals with physical, developmental, emotional, and intellectual disabilities.
Everyone deserves a place in which they can feel safe, un-judged, and respected. I am a neurodiversity affirming licensed clinical therapist offering counseling services to children, adolescents, and young adults. My specialty areas include helping clients who experience anxiety, depression, school issues, behavioral challenges, phobias, communication, and adjustment difficulties. Complementing my focus on clients with mental health challenges, as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I am educated and trained to work with individuals with physical, developmental, emotional, and intellectual disabilities.
(989) 625-8718 View (989) 625-8718
Photo of Gloria Waugh, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gloria Waugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Saginaw, MI 48604
Gloria Waugh is a Licensed Professional Counselor who received her undergraduate degree in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University and her Master of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. She began her career working as an outpatient clinician treating children, teens, adults and families with diverse diagnosis including severe and persistent mental illnesses, mood disorders, bi-polar, schizophrenia, depression, anger, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorders, chronic pain, PMDD, personality disorders and co-occurring disorders.
Gloria Waugh is a Licensed Professional Counselor who received her undergraduate degree in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University and her Master of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. She began her career working as an outpatient clinician treating children, teens, adults and families with diverse diagnosis including severe and persistent mental illnesses, mood disorders, bi-polar, schizophrenia, depression, anger, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorders, chronic pain, PMDD, personality disorders and co-occurring disorders.
(989) 303-3879 View (989) 303-3879
Photo of Vernell Webb Jr, MSW, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vernell Webb Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saginaw, MI 48605
Many people have a fear of therapy or feel like it is not for them. Treatment is a tool and resource that can help you navigate tough spots in your life. I also use telehealth to meet with clients who prefer not to be seen in the office during these difficult times. I am a master's Level Clinical Social Worker specializing in the following individuals/conditions: Trauma, Survivors, Couples, Anxiety, Depression, People Living with HIV, Chronic Disease, Panic Attacks, Personality Disorders, and LGBTQ+.
Many people have a fear of therapy or feel like it is not for them. Treatment is a tool and resource that can help you navigate tough spots in your life. I also use telehealth to meet with clients who prefer not to be seen in the office during these difficult times. I am a master's Level Clinical Social Worker specializing in the following individuals/conditions: Trauma, Survivors, Couples, Anxiety, Depression, People Living with HIV, Chronic Disease, Panic Attacks, Personality Disorders, and LGBTQ+.
(810) 255-8247 View (810) 255-8247

Online Therapists

Photo of Lina Bazzi, MA, LLPC
Lina Bazzi
MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48124
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 Darcie Burdick, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darcie Burdick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Jackson, MI 49203
EMDR, DBT, and IFS are all evidenced-based therapeutic interventions.
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I certainly understand the first steps in the therapeutic journey can be daunting and debilitating. I am proud of you for taking the initiative with your search! I implement a strengths-based approach through numerous therapeutic interventions to address presenting concerns while creating a safe and comfortable environment. I am a trained clinician in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed, and a Certified School Social Worker (SSW).
EMDR, DBT, and IFS are all evidenced-based therapeutic interventions.
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I certainly understand the first steps in the therapeutic journey can be daunting and debilitating. I am proud of you for taking the initiative with your search! I implement a strengths-based approach through numerous therapeutic interventions to address presenting concerns while creating a safe and comfortable environment. I am a trained clinician in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed, and a Certified School Social Worker (SSW).
(517) 903-2926 View (517) 903-2926
Photo of Chelsea O'Day-Navis, MA, LPC, Counselor
Chelsea O'Day-Navis
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525  (Online Only)
I draw from evidence-based techniques like Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention.
Are you in search of an online queer and trans-affirming OCD specialist? Do you yearn to reclaim your sense of agency, presence, and joy? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed by your sensitive nervous system, entangled in a whirlwind of spinning thoughts and relentless compulsions. I'm grateful you're here because it doesn't have to be this way. I support adults who are ready to look inward and not just manage, but transform their relationship with themselves, their thoughts, feelings and struggles. Whether it's anxiety, OCD, or challenges related to your identity, I am a therapist and fellow human who deeply gets it.
I draw from evidence-based techniques like Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention.
Are you in search of an online queer and trans-affirming OCD specialist? Do you yearn to reclaim your sense of agency, presence, and joy? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed by your sensitive nervous system, entangled in a whirlwind of spinning thoughts and relentless compulsions. I'm grateful you're here because it doesn't have to be this way. I support adults who are ready to look inward and not just manage, but transform their relationship with themselves, their thoughts, feelings and struggles. Whether it's anxiety, OCD, or challenges related to your identity, I am a therapist and fellow human who deeply gets it.
(616) 229-2660 View (616) 229-2660
Photo of Onna Solomon, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Onna Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I use a collaborative and empathetic approach with clients, drawing on internal family systems, cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic models.
I am dedicated to helping individuals and families find meaning and joy in relationships. I treat a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, major life transitions, and parenting issues. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and belief systems.
I use a collaborative and empathetic approach with clients, drawing on internal family systems, cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic models.
I am dedicated to helping individuals and families find meaning and joy in relationships. I treat a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, major life transitions, and parenting issues. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and belief systems.
(734) 219-6977 View (734) 219-6977
Photo of Hasti Raveau, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Hasti Raveau
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Raveau works with a wide range of ages and utilizes a combination of approaches, such as IFS, ACT, executive function coaching, exposure therapy, inner child healing, family systemic therapy, mindfulness based interventions, emotion focused couples therapy, play therapy, and parent coaching to support the needs of her clients.
Dr. Raveau is a clinical psychologist and founder of Mala Child & Family Institute. She is an expert in treating ADHD/neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety/OCD/perfectionism, parenting/co-parenting issues, racial minorities, and family level challenges. She helps clients end intergenerational cycles of trauma, form authentic relationships, embrace their neurodiversity and cultural background, and build authentic lives filled with a sense of abundance and inner peace. Dr. Raveau embraces working with individuals and families who identify with a range of ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
Raveau works with a wide range of ages and utilizes a combination of approaches, such as IFS, ACT, executive function coaching, exposure therapy, inner child healing, family systemic therapy, mindfulness based interventions, emotion focused couples therapy, play therapy, and parent coaching to support the needs of her clients.
Dr. Raveau is a clinical psychologist and founder of Mala Child & Family Institute. She is an expert in treating ADHD/neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety/OCD/perfectionism, parenting/co-parenting issues, racial minorities, and family level challenges. She helps clients end intergenerational cycles of trauma, form authentic relationships, embrace their neurodiversity and cultural background, and build authentic lives filled with a sense of abundance and inner peace. Dr. Raveau embraces working with individuals and families who identify with a range of ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
(734) 245-2279 View (734) 245-2279
Photo of Katy Levinson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Levinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is working with clients with Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Developmental disabilities, maternal mental health, trauma, challenges in adolescence and young adulthood, transitions, school-based concerns, and family systems.
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, maternal mental health, trauma, challenges in adolescence and young adulthood, transitions, school-based concerns, and family systems.
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 Antonio Siciliano, LMSW-C
Antonio Siciliano
Masters Social Worker, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
Waitlist for new clients
To do this, I use EMDR, SSP, IFS, DBT, CBT, and other therapy modalities as needed.
My guess is you are here because you or your child have recently discovered something about yourselves that has made life challenging. Maybe you just got a diagnosis from another provider and you don't know what to do with it. Maybe you're looking for a diagnosis that won't be delivered in a stigmatizing manner. For this reason, I'm very happy you are here! Taking that first step to learn more about yourself is challenging. I'm glad you are able to take this next step in your mental health journey!
To do this, I use EMDR, SSP, IFS, DBT, CBT, and other therapy modalities as needed.
My guess is you are here because you or your child have recently discovered something about yourselves that has made life challenging. Maybe you just got a diagnosis from another provider and you don't know what to do with it. Maybe you're looking for a diagnosis that won't be delivered in a stigmatizing manner. For this reason, I'm very happy you are here! Taking that first step to learn more about yourself is challenging. I'm glad you are able to take this next step in your mental health journey!
(517) 200-3612 View (517) 200-3612
Photo of Toccara Bailey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toccara Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warren, MI 48092  (Online Only)
Toccara Bailey is an established LCSW. Throughout her career she has been fortunate to work with people of all ages from many different walks of life. Her philosophy is that people deserve to enjoy their lives no matter what their circumstances are. She assists individuals, couples and families in determining what their best life looks like and works with them to create goals and take action to live it. She earned her B.A. in Family Community Services with a specialization in Child and Youth Development from Michigan State University (Go Green!) and her MSW from Wayne State University with a focus on Family Systems.
Toccara Bailey is an established LCSW. Throughout her career she has been fortunate to work with people of all ages from many different walks of life. Her philosophy is that people deserve to enjoy their lives no matter what their circumstances are. She assists individuals, couples and families in determining what their best life looks like and works with them to create goals and take action to live it. She earned her B.A. in Family Community Services with a specialization in Child and Youth Development from Michigan State University (Go Green!) and her MSW from Wayne State University with a focus on Family Systems.
(586) 788-0616 View (586) 788-0616
Photo of Sara F Stein Phd, PhD, LMSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara F Stein Phd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I use Internal Family Systems (parts work), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Stabilization, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as primary therapeutic modalities, while also incorporating many others.
I focus on the treatment of trauma using a mind-body and mindfulness framework and work from the understanding that our life experiences are stored in the body. It’s important to pay attention not only to our thoughts and emotions, but also to the clues our body gives us. My goal is to help clients create their own sense of safety, enhance relationship to self, and to move towards a space of presence and increased well-being. I also offer consultation to clinicians hoping to deepen their understanding of parts work using a trauma-informed perspective.
I use Internal Family Systems (parts work), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Stabilization, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as primary therapeutic modalities, while also incorporating many others.
I focus on the treatment of trauma using a mind-body and mindfulness framework and work from the understanding that our life experiences are stored in the body. It’s important to pay attention not only to our thoughts and emotions, but also to the clues our body gives us. My goal is to help clients create their own sense of safety, enhance relationship to self, and to move towards a space of presence and increased well-being. I also offer consultation to clinicians hoping to deepen their understanding of parts work using a trauma-informed perspective.
(734) 436-3356 View (734) 436-3356
Photo of Nicole Cotton Takla, LMSW-C, C-DBT, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Cotton Takla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, C-DBT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375
Nicole uses an integrative approach to therapy, blending styles in a way that accommodates the unique needs of each individual. She is a certified Child and Adolescent Anxiety Treatment Professional and also certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and enjoys encorporating its modalities into therapy when appropriate (mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness). Nicole has a deep understanding of school issues, special education, behavior analysis and interventions, self-concept, parent-coaching, girl-issues, ADHD, ASD and improving overall social, emotional and behavioral functioning.
Nicole uses an integrative approach to therapy, blending styles in a way that accommodates the unique needs of each individual. She is a certified Child and Adolescent Anxiety Treatment Professional and also certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and enjoys encorporating its modalities into therapy when appropriate (mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness). Nicole has a deep understanding of school issues, special education, behavior analysis and interventions, self-concept, parent-coaching, girl-issues, ADHD, ASD and improving overall social, emotional and behavioral functioning.
(248) 985-8271 View (248) 985-8271
Photo of Bridie Mae Johnson, LMSW , MFT, LCSW, LAC, ICADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridie Mae Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , MFT, LCSW, LAC, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
Hello I am the Indigenous therapist for you. I am a licensed clinical/macro social worker with 20 years experience in the field of adult youth and family services. I specialize in generalized anxiety, major depression, PTSD, trauma, sexualtiy and/or gender exploration. Regardless of your cultural needs and expectations I will offer you the support and safe space needed for seeking treatment. For clinicians in the field working on full clinical lisencure. I also am a Supervisor for LMSW licensure both Group and Individial hours needed and offer a study group for the exam exclusively twice a month on Sundays.
Hello I am the Indigenous therapist for you. I am a licensed clinical/macro social worker with 20 years experience in the field of adult youth and family services. I specialize in generalized anxiety, major depression, PTSD, trauma, sexualtiy and/or gender exploration. Regardless of your cultural needs and expectations I will offer you the support and safe space needed for seeking treatment. For clinicians in the field working on full clinical lisencure. I also am a Supervisor for LMSW licensure both Group and Individial hours needed and offer a study group for the exam exclusively twice a month on Sundays.
(313) 777-8236 View (313) 777-8236
Photo of Carrie Gleason, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Carrie Gleason
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48306
Today you are one step closer to a new you, in which you feel empowered to begin a positive path towards growth, and the establishment of meaning in your life. As a clinical psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you, in which you feel empowered to begin a positive path towards growth, and the establishment of meaning in your life. As a clinical psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
(248) 291-3885 View (248) 291-3885
Photo of Esther Dale, MA, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Esther Dale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Concerned about your child? It's challenging when you hear worries from teachers, doctors, or your own instincts. Remember, seeking help isn't a failure; avoiding it can lead to real problems down the road. In therapy, discover relief and understand that you're not alone. Let's navigate this journey together. The magic lies in empowering kids throughout the process, fostering a sense of strength rather than shame.
Concerned about your child? It's challenging when you hear worries from teachers, doctors, or your own instincts. Remember, seeking help isn't a failure; avoiding it can lead to real problems down the road. In therapy, discover relief and understand that you're not alone. Let's navigate this journey together. The magic lies in empowering kids throughout the process, fostering a sense of strength rather than shame.
(734) 472-2161 View (734) 472-2161
Photo of Jeanne Meyers, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanne Meyers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayland, MI 49348
Life's journey is an unpredictable adventure, full of seasons of splendor and seasons that shake us to our core. Some days, it feels as though we are wandering in a maze, grappling with battles that loom large on the horizon. As a clinician, my calling is to stand by your side, whether you're an individual, a child, or a family, offering solace and hope as you traverse the trials on your quest for healing.
Life's journey is an unpredictable adventure, full of seasons of splendor and seasons that shake us to our core. Some days, it feels as though we are wandering in a maze, grappling with battles that loom large on the horizon. As a clinician, my calling is to stand by your side, whether you're an individual, a child, or a family, offering solace and hope as you traverse the trials on your quest for healing.
(269) 397-8980 View (269) 397-8980
Photo of Mya Patrice Ndiaye - Open Door Living Association, INC, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Open Door Living Association, INC
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Eastpointe, MI 48021
As a PHD candidate in International Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis my goal is to expand mental and behavioral services in a cultural inclusive and relevant paradigm. Holding a BCBA certification (BCBA), a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology, and a BA in Counseling Psychology helps me empathize with individuals from various backgrounds. I have over 25 years of experience working with families in various facets including education, assisted living and community services. Particular specializations include but are not limited to ABA, developmental and cognitive impairment, diversity, cultural and international studies.
As a PHD candidate in International Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis my goal is to expand mental and behavioral services in a cultural inclusive and relevant paradigm. Holding a BCBA certification (BCBA), a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology, and a BA in Counseling Psychology helps me empathize with individuals from various backgrounds. I have over 25 years of experience working with families in various facets including education, assisted living and community services. Particular specializations include but are not limited to ABA, developmental and cognitive impairment, diversity, cultural and international studies.
(586) 838-2617 View (586) 838-2617
Photo of Jennifer Oles- Lmsw-C @ Great Lakes Psychology Group, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Oles- Lmsw-C @ Great Lakes Psychology Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084  (Online Only)
TELEHEALTH PROVIDER***Problems with your spouse, partner, child, family, friends or job? Feeling depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Finding a therapist who understands your needs can be very difficult but with my 38+ years experience with mental health and substance abuse treatment can help you live a more satisfying life. I have experience with all age clients with mental health, substance abuse, grief and loss, communication, impulse control, ADH-D, learning disabilities, autism, parenting, school staff and trauma issues.
TELEHEALTH PROVIDER***Problems with your spouse, partner, child, family, friends or job? Feeling depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Finding a therapist who understands your needs can be very difficult but with my 38+ years experience with mental health and substance abuse treatment can help you live a more satisfying life. I have experience with all age clients with mental health, substance abuse, grief and loss, communication, impulse control, ADH-D, learning disabilities, autism, parenting, school staff and trauma issues.
(586) 991-3430 View (586) 991-3430
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.