Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Crystal, MN
![Photo of Zota Korti, MS, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59fcb058-53b5-4ff3-944c-2dca6b4748dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients at this Time. My life experiences have given me the gift of being Inter-Sectional. I know that a person has many parts of their life, that makes up the individual. Everyone has a story to tell. I work to empower my clients to see themselves as Whole beings with gifts to give the world. I specialize and hold certifications in the following: Trauma Informed care and healing, Self-esteem building, Anxiety Treatment, Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative Exposure and Internal Family Systems Therapies. I operate from a social-justice perspective, and purposely create spaces for BIPOC people to do their healing work.
Accepting New Clients at this Time. My life experiences have given me the gift of being Inter-Sectional. I know that a person has many parts of their life, that makes up the individual. Everyone has a story to tell. I work to empower my clients to see themselves as Whole beings with gifts to give the world. I specialize and hold certifications in the following: Trauma Informed care and healing, Self-esteem building, Anxiety Treatment, Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative Exposure and Internal Family Systems Therapies. I operate from a social-justice perspective, and purposely create spaces for BIPOC people to do their healing work.
![Photo of Shauna Fenske, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93b8a122-c9e4-414f-8153-4b4e93982dbc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our relationships make or break our human experience. Whether you're seeking support as an individual, couple, or family, I am here to help you understand, strengthen, and heal both yourself and your relationships. My approach is compassionate yet direct, fostering an environment where vulnerability and accountability pave the way for healing, change, and growth. I specialize in working with individuals and couples in recovery from addiction, focusing on the transformative processes of forgiveness and building a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Our relationships make or break our human experience. Whether you're seeking support as an individual, couple, or family, I am here to help you understand, strengthen, and heal both yourself and your relationships. My approach is compassionate yet direct, fostering an environment where vulnerability and accountability pave the way for healing, change, and growth. I specialize in working with individuals and couples in recovery from addiction, focusing on the transformative processes of forgiveness and building a healthier, more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Amber Fogel, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1401b636-5bd3-4e41-bf05-65e7a74ea339/2/320x400.jpeg)
First off, congratulations on taking the first step to pursue therapy! Therapy can be a confusing and scary process, but you have already taken the first step by seeing which therapists are out there. Therapy should be a place where you can show up as your whole authentic self without fear of being judged. In our work together, I will tailor my approach to fit your needs, timing, and readiness. I believe in creating a space to honor your journey and experiences. Each person is unique, and the therapy they receive must be too.
First off, congratulations on taking the first step to pursue therapy! Therapy can be a confusing and scary process, but you have already taken the first step by seeing which therapists are out there. Therapy should be a place where you can show up as your whole authentic self without fear of being judged. In our work together, I will tailor my approach to fit your needs, timing, and readiness. I believe in creating a space to honor your journey and experiences. Each person is unique, and the therapy they receive must be too.
![Photo of Laurie A. Moser, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a90f734-9896-44e9-ba4a-d18c3415c7f3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie A. Moser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Crystal, MN 55427
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in trauma and dealing small trauma to extreme trauma and everything in between. I work with LGBTQ+ clients who are depressed, anxious, traumatized, dealing with bullying, dealing with people who don't understand. I work with transgender individuals who are in any stage of their life. I work with parents. I am a supervisor who works with therapists who are pre-license and need to have supervision. I work with LAMFT's and LPCC's. I can do individual supervision, dyads and groups. I also work with pre-marital couples who want to do the "Prepare/Enrich" program.
I specialize in trauma and dealing small trauma to extreme trauma and everything in between. I work with LGBTQ+ clients who are depressed, anxious, traumatized, dealing with bullying, dealing with people who don't understand. I work with transgender individuals who are in any stage of their life. I work with parents. I am a supervisor who works with therapists who are pre-license and need to have supervision. I work with LAMFT's and LPCC's. I can do individual supervision, dyads and groups. I also work with pre-marital couples who want to do the "Prepare/Enrich" program.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Tessa Gittleman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3bd534f-fedf-41b3-a4e6-43483dc7b196/1/320x400.png)
Tessa Gittleman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Golden Valley, MN 55422
Waitlist for new clients
I borrow from Motivational Interviewing, Somatic-Experiential, ACT, and IFS.
Finding the optimal therapeutic fit is a bit like going on a blind date... you hope for the best and prepare for the worst. People who think I'm a fit are often high-achieving individuals with an acute awareness of the issue, feel they have tried "everything" to fix it, and are giving therapy “one last chance.” I successfully get clients “unstuck” by challenging them in unconventional, collaborative ways. I intentionally push people 20% past where they are comfortable (because that’s where the growth happens!) and practice pivoting to ensure you have the skills to navigate, manage, and address the discomfort long-term.
I borrow from Motivational Interviewing, Somatic-Experiential, ACT, and IFS.
Finding the optimal therapeutic fit is a bit like going on a blind date... you hope for the best and prepare for the worst. People who think I'm a fit are often high-achieving individuals with an acute awareness of the issue, feel they have tried "everything" to fix it, and are giving therapy “one last chance.” I successfully get clients “unstuck” by challenging them in unconventional, collaborative ways. I intentionally push people 20% past where they are comfortable (because that’s where the growth happens!) and practice pivoting to ensure you have the skills to navigate, manage, and address the discomfort long-term.
![Photo of Terri Flansburg, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ddae43-3e85-48ea-a363-392efa3dc16e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over a decade of experience as a Psychotherapist, helping clients recover from trauma, manage ADHD, anxious and depressive symptoms, deconstruct their faith systems, reduce destructive behavioral patterns, sort through charged memories, and deal with their complicated in-laws. I have an eclectic approach, and I specialize in utilizing EMDR, IFS, and CBT frameworks. I truly believe everything is connected, both internally and externally. Thus, it is imperative to account for the 'whole person' in order for therapy to be effective. I also think it's important to laugh once in a while.
I have over a decade of experience as a Psychotherapist, helping clients recover from trauma, manage ADHD, anxious and depressive symptoms, deconstruct their faith systems, reduce destructive behavioral patterns, sort through charged memories, and deal with their complicated in-laws. I have an eclectic approach, and I specialize in utilizing EMDR, IFS, and CBT frameworks. I truly believe everything is connected, both internally and externally. Thus, it is imperative to account for the 'whole person' in order for therapy to be effective. I also think it's important to laugh once in a while.
![Photo of Bonnett Ottelia Chandler, MA LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b2d5d1d-339a-48bf-8cb8-8f95fd72cfe0/1/320x400.png)
Bonnett Ottelia Chandler
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA LPCC
Verified Verified
Golden Valley, MN 55422 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you looking for an affirming and relatable therapist? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed in your day-to-day life? Is it difficult for you to move on from past or present pain? Perhaps you feel sadness, failure, anxiety, or a sense of despair. Do these feelings keep you from living the life you want? Disempowering thoughts and feelings of what happened and are currently going through may keep you stuck. You want to go forward but trauma has interfered. I can help you transform painful emotions into renewed wellbeing. How? You will gain a fresh perspective and learn strategies allowing you to discover your true and authentic self.
I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you looking for an affirming and relatable therapist? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed in your day-to-day life? Is it difficult for you to move on from past or present pain? Perhaps you feel sadness, failure, anxiety, or a sense of despair. Do these feelings keep you from living the life you want? Disempowering thoughts and feelings of what happened and are currently going through may keep you stuck. You want to go forward but trauma has interfered. I can help you transform painful emotions into renewed wellbeing. How? You will gain a fresh perspective and learn strategies allowing you to discover your true and authentic self.
![Photo of Julie Richter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9780b5d9-6e9e-480d-9ec4-524931fc90b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Family of origin work, family systems focus, relational living focus, and cultivating meaning and purpose to facilitate meeting your life goals and improve the quality of your daily living!.
Julie graduated from The Adler Graduate School of Minnesota and The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Special Education Teacher, and Parent and Adult Educator. Her specialties include working with families with young children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with daily functioning or are striving for a more balanced, holistic, and fulfilling lifestyle. Through the use of multiple approaches, including CBT, solution-focused, humanistic, Adlerian, nutrition, and fitness counseling, she facilitates relational living within a systems approach.
Family of origin work, family systems focus, relational living focus, and cultivating meaning and purpose to facilitate meeting your life goals and improve the quality of your daily living!.
Julie graduated from The Adler Graduate School of Minnesota and The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Special Education Teacher, and Parent and Adult Educator. Her specialties include working with families with young children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with daily functioning or are striving for a more balanced, holistic, and fulfilling lifestyle. Through the use of multiple approaches, including CBT, solution-focused, humanistic, Adlerian, nutrition, and fitness counseling, she facilitates relational living within a systems approach.
![Photo of Colleen Bethel, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c63be20-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Colleen Bethel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55412 (Online Only)
I am an EMDR certified clinician and consultant who is also trained in IFS and the Early Trauma Protocol.
I provide therapeutic treatment for adults struggling with a variety of concerns including: trauma and abuse, intense anxiety or depression, relationship struggles, persistent negative beliefs and unwanted intrusive thoughts, body sensations and emotions that are overwhelming and/or confusing. My clients often find that they get relief from the patterns and symptoms they've had for years and for which regular talk therapy has helped, but not sufficiently resolved. I use a whole brain, collaborative and respectful approach that is creative and responsive to my clients' unique needs, strengths and circumstances.
I am an EMDR certified clinician and consultant who is also trained in IFS and the Early Trauma Protocol.
I provide therapeutic treatment for adults struggling with a variety of concerns including: trauma and abuse, intense anxiety or depression, relationship struggles, persistent negative beliefs and unwanted intrusive thoughts, body sensations and emotions that are overwhelming and/or confusing. My clients often find that they get relief from the patterns and symptoms they've had for years and for which regular talk therapy has helped, but not sufficiently resolved. I use a whole brain, collaborative and respectful approach that is creative and responsive to my clients' unique needs, strengths and circumstances.
![Photo of Joanna Diem, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/664041b4-6fd4-49e6-bf0c-6941e32eb997/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Diem
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Golden Valley, MN 55422
I empower couples and individuals to overcome personal obstacles. Areas of special interest include couples and individuals coping with chemical addictions, anxiety & depression, grief & loss, and intimate relationships. I assist my clients to find an understanding of themselves in order to strengthen their connections and their relationships. With deep compassion and no judgment, I welcome all.
I empower couples and individuals to overcome personal obstacles. Areas of special interest include couples and individuals coping with chemical addictions, anxiety & depression, grief & loss, and intimate relationships. I assist my clients to find an understanding of themselves in order to strengthen their connections and their relationships. With deep compassion and no judgment, I welcome all.
![Photo of Kinsey Fitzloff, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af262a57-1ad2-434b-8de5-041dd992e5de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kinsey Fitzloff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55412
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma, anxiety, and ADHD that are unaddressed will have you feeling shame and guilt that never seems to go away. Feeling exhausted and disconnected from the people around you. Difficulty trusting others. Living in fear. Challenges with starting things and seeing them through to the end. Procrastinating and feeling "stuck". A critical voice in your head that never seems to chill out... To live this way can feel incredibly draining and debilitating. It doesn't have to be this way. There is hope and healing on the other side.
Trauma, anxiety, and ADHD that are unaddressed will have you feeling shame and guilt that never seems to go away. Feeling exhausted and disconnected from the people around you. Difficulty trusting others. Living in fear. Challenges with starting things and seeing them through to the end. Procrastinating and feeling "stuck". A critical voice in your head that never seems to chill out... To live this way can feel incredibly draining and debilitating. It doesn't have to be this way. There is hope and healing on the other side.
![Photo of Ange Hasert, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7999fe21-beb6-460d-817d-8317ebd44af4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ange Hasert
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hope, MN 55427
What do you do when you are spinning in circles and have no earthly idea where to begin? Is your relationship with those most important to you floundering? Do you struggle with feelings of acceptance, of yourself, by family members, by society? Do you struggle to believe the phrase, "You are enough!"? Regardless of whether it is due to trauma (developmental, attachment, PTSD), questioning gender identity, sexual identity and your relationships, ENM/Polyamorous relationships, Kink/BDSM, out-of-control sexual behaviors, or MAPs, we can work together to get you where you would like to be!
What do you do when you are spinning in circles and have no earthly idea where to begin? Is your relationship with those most important to you floundering? Do you struggle with feelings of acceptance, of yourself, by family members, by society? Do you struggle to believe the phrase, "You are enough!"? Regardless of whether it is due to trauma (developmental, attachment, PTSD), questioning gender identity, sexual identity and your relationships, ENM/Polyamorous relationships, Kink/BDSM, out-of-control sexual behaviors, or MAPs, we can work together to get you where you would like to be!
![Photo of Tara Lunde, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c45b43a8-6af7-4a46-bc3a-74d56f4a40ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Lunde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55427 (Online Only)
You are the pilot in your life journey and deserve to be and feel respected and supported; which I pride myself on in my practice. I individualize all of my work and tailor it to your needs. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, phobias, ARFID, OCD, Emetophoia, and panic disorders. I am trained in ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), which is the leading treatment for anxiety, panic, OCD, and other disorders that benefit from ERP therapy. I also have training in executive functioning and adult ADHD treatment.
You are the pilot in your life journey and deserve to be and feel respected and supported; which I pride myself on in my practice. I individualize all of my work and tailor it to your needs. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, phobias, ARFID, OCD, Emetophoia, and panic disorders. I am trained in ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), which is the leading treatment for anxiety, panic, OCD, and other disorders that benefit from ERP therapy. I also have training in executive functioning and adult ADHD treatment.
![Photo of Alicia B Losier, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57a5c096-6615-4b4c-ab5e-37871a573b80/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oftentimes we find ourselves stuck in patterns and cycles that we struggle to get out of, let alone have hope for to change. These patterns might be a well-rehearsed dance with another person or even a full cast of characters, or simply of our own internal world that ripples outward into our life. Through increased awareness of the dynamic between things within self and dynamics within relationships, we can disengage from the ineffective and instead move intentionally toward a more functional, fulfilling way of being.
Oftentimes we find ourselves stuck in patterns and cycles that we struggle to get out of, let alone have hope for to change. These patterns might be a well-rehearsed dance with another person or even a full cast of characters, or simply of our own internal world that ripples outward into our life. Through increased awareness of the dynamic between things within self and dynamics within relationships, we can disengage from the ineffective and instead move intentionally toward a more functional, fulfilling way of being.
![Photo of Carissa Tchalla, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d27fcee0-94c4-404f-be69-270725e06b2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carissa Tchalla
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Robbinsdale, MN 55422
Do you feel unlovable or that you are not enough? Do you feel like you are always searching for acceptance from others? Do you feel like there is constant conflict in your relationship with your partner or family? You don’t have to struggle with this alone, and you don’t have to feel like this forever. I can help you! I work with individuals, couples, and families, providing them with assistance in working through the many challenges of life. I want to connect with you and create a space where you feel heard, validated, and supported. I also use my experience as an athlete and knowledge in sports psychology to help athletes succeed!
Do you feel unlovable or that you are not enough? Do you feel like you are always searching for acceptance from others? Do you feel like there is constant conflict in your relationship with your partner or family? You don’t have to struggle with this alone, and you don’t have to feel like this forever. I can help you! I work with individuals, couples, and families, providing them with assistance in working through the many challenges of life. I want to connect with you and create a space where you feel heard, validated, and supported. I also use my experience as an athlete and knowledge in sports psychology to help athletes succeed!
![Photo of Alissa Aune, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ad8e588-b6af-42f5-8e8c-f023890d3df9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alissa Aune
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55428
My commitment to lifelong learning informs my work, which is rooted in trauma-focused therapy modalities that prioritize the integration of mind, body and spirit. I believe that our bodies hold our stories, and it is crucial to incorporate body-based wisdom into therapy sessions. With nearly 20 years of experience, I have provided a safe space for healing, self-reflection, and support.
My commitment to lifelong learning informs my work, which is rooted in trauma-focused therapy modalities that prioritize the integration of mind, body and spirit. I believe that our bodies hold our stories, and it is crucial to incorporate body-based wisdom into therapy sessions. With nearly 20 years of experience, I have provided a safe space for healing, self-reflection, and support.
![Photo of Dr. Sametta E Hill, DMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65aca3e8-ca29-47bb-96cc-eb8128a10767/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sametta E Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hope, MN 55428
Are you having a lot of problems in your relationships (friends, family, a partner or spouse)? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing a lot of stress, anxiety, depression and/or worry due to work, being a single parent, divorce, marriage, committed relationship, racial issues, masculinity and/or self worth? Are you parenting alone and need some emotional support; need marital maintenance. Are you questioning things in life and need to make some decisions. Asking for support is a brave step. I am the Author of "Ruptured Attachment" and am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families heal from the inside out.
Are you having a lot of problems in your relationships (friends, family, a partner or spouse)? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing a lot of stress, anxiety, depression and/or worry due to work, being a single parent, divorce, marriage, committed relationship, racial issues, masculinity and/or self worth? Are you parenting alone and need some emotional support; need marital maintenance. Are you questioning things in life and need to make some decisions. Asking for support is a brave step. I am the Author of "Ruptured Attachment" and am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families heal from the inside out.
![Photo of Laura deRosier-Moran, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e423151-7eb8-4ebd-bb82-837b996a0282/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura deRosier-Moran
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Robbinsdale, MN 55422
My approach to therapy is warm, relational, and supportive. I practice a blend of trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches, as well as therapeutic interventions based in attachment, collaborative, and systemic models of therapy. I believe you are the expert on yourself and your experiences. My role is to help you figure out what needs to happen to accomplish your goals, whether that means learning new skills to face life’s challenges, navigating relational stress, processing highly stressful or traumatic experiences, or something else entirely. I also believe humor and fun are integral parts of the therapeutic experience.
My approach to therapy is warm, relational, and supportive. I practice a blend of trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches, as well as therapeutic interventions based in attachment, collaborative, and systemic models of therapy. I believe you are the expert on yourself and your experiences. My role is to help you figure out what needs to happen to accomplish your goals, whether that means learning new skills to face life’s challenges, navigating relational stress, processing highly stressful or traumatic experiences, or something else entirely. I also believe humor and fun are integral parts of the therapeutic experience.
I use individual, couples and family therapy to help people work through a wide range of issues, ranging from depression and anxiety to relationship and family issues. Every client's situation is unique, so I attend to their unique contextual factors, and focus on their strengths to help promote growth and solutions to problems.
I use individual, couples and family therapy to help people work through a wide range of issues, ranging from depression and anxiety to relationship and family issues. Every client's situation is unique, so I attend to their unique contextual factors, and focus on their strengths to help promote growth and solutions to problems.
![Photo of Pamela L Dehkes, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4c8b466-93fc-4bbd-b4e4-973e57701608/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela L Dehkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Golden Valley, MN 55427
I believe that the foundation of growth begins within the relationship between individual and therapist. The desire to feel seen, heard, and understood is universal and is an essential part of our overall well-being. I celebrate the courage of individuals who take steps into healing by engaging in the therapeutic process to manifest the life they desire. I am passionate about working together to ensure that you become an expert on yourself and believe in your own insight, strength, and self awareness. I believe that humor and laughter bring out our authentic selves and utilize this philosophy in my work.
I believe that the foundation of growth begins within the relationship between individual and therapist. The desire to feel seen, heard, and understood is universal and is an essential part of our overall well-being. I celebrate the courage of individuals who take steps into healing by engaging in the therapeutic process to manifest the life they desire. I am passionate about working together to ensure that you become an expert on yourself and believe in your own insight, strength, and self awareness. I believe that humor and laughter bring out our authentic selves and utilize this philosophy in my work.
See more therapy options for Crystal
Nearby Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists Searches for Crystal
- Brooklyn Park
- Fridley
- Golden Valley
- Hopkins
- Maple Grove
- Minneapolis
- Minnetonka
- New Brighton
- Osseo
- Plymouth
- Robbinsdale
- Saint Louis 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.