Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Edina, MN

Photo of Katelyn Aubrey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katelyn Aubrey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
I practice from an integrated framework of experiential approaches, narrative techniques, and internal family systems, to help individuals, couples, and families work through subtle or unseen disruptions to mental health.
I work with my clients on tuning into their embodied wisdom and abundant creativity so that they can live their lives out of desire, not fear. I enjoy supporting individuals experiencing relational conflict, grief and loss, or those recovering from adversity and trauma, in order to live and love authentically. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and families, from adolescence to adulthood. I am passionate about understanding the unique neurological and sensory processes of neurodivergent individuals and the intersectionality of operating in a society that wasn’t built for us.
I practice from an integrated framework of experiential approaches, narrative techniques, and internal family systems, to help individuals, couples, and families work through subtle or unseen disruptions to mental health.
I work with my clients on tuning into their embodied wisdom and abundant creativity so that they can live their lives out of desire, not fear. I enjoy supporting individuals experiencing relational conflict, grief and loss, or those recovering from adversity and trauma, in order to live and love authentically. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and families, from adolescence to adulthood. I am passionate about understanding the unique neurological and sensory processes of neurodivergent individuals and the intersectionality of operating in a society that wasn’t built for us.
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Photo of Melissa Lenz, MA, MHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Lenz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHP
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
My theoretical orientation is grounded in Emotion Focused and Internal Family Systems therapies.
I have a passion for working with individuals as they navigate challenges in their life, especially during periods of transition and uncertainty. Whether you are struggling with trauma, grief, postpartum anxiety/depression, substance use, or parenting issues, we can work together to identify your core concern and develop tools that will help you move towards healing.
My theoretical orientation is grounded in Emotion Focused and Internal Family Systems therapies.
I have a passion for working with individuals as they navigate challenges in their life, especially during periods of transition and uncertainty. Whether you are struggling with trauma, grief, postpartum anxiety/depression, substance use, or parenting issues, we can work together to identify your core concern and develop tools that will help you move towards healing.
(952) 800-9895 View (952) 800-9895
Photo of Lauryn Nelson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauryn Nelson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
My approach is trauma-informed and I gravitate towards mindfulness, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
My goal is to create a nonjudgmental and warm space for you to explore all parts of yourself. I aim to create a curious, affirming, and shame-free environment so that you feel welcome and safe in session. Our time together might mean exploring your family of origin stories, unraveling your relationship patterns, or diving deeper into your emotions at a pace that feels comfortable to you. I have worked with clients and couples who have experienced complex PTSD, narcissistic abuse, life transitions, low self-worth, or relationship issues.
My approach is trauma-informed and I gravitate towards mindfulness, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
My goal is to create a nonjudgmental and warm space for you to explore all parts of yourself. I aim to create a curious, affirming, and shame-free environment so that you feel welcome and safe in session. Our time together might mean exploring your family of origin stories, unraveling your relationship patterns, or diving deeper into your emotions at a pace that feels comfortable to you. I have worked with clients and couples who have experienced complex PTSD, narcissistic abuse, life transitions, low self-worth, or relationship issues.
(952) 522-6881 View (952) 522-6881
Photo of Jenna Foss, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Jenna Foss
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439  (Online Only)
I use techniques inclusive of Internal- Family Systems ( IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and more.
I believe sustained joy is possible even in the deepest trenches of human pain and circumstance. I've supported clients who have experienced traumatic events, have been excessively reliant on someone emotionally or physically, feelings of anxiety or depressed, substance use concerns, and relationship or martial guidance. I believe sustained joy is possible even in the deepest trenches of human pain and circumstance.
I use techniques inclusive of Internal- Family Systems ( IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and more.
I believe sustained joy is possible even in the deepest trenches of human pain and circumstance. I've supported clients who have experienced traumatic events, have been excessively reliant on someone emotionally or physically, feelings of anxiety or depressed, substance use concerns, and relationship or martial guidance. I believe sustained joy is possible even in the deepest trenches of human pain and circumstance.
(952) 592-5742 View (952) 592-5742
Photo of Katherine Eder, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katherine Eder
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55436
I focus on experiential therapy, trauma treatment, navigating rupture and repair in relationships, healing attachment wounds, developing emotional awareness, practicing congruence between values and behaviors, exploring the role of dysfunctional “parts” using an IFS lens, increasing self-compassion and self-care skills, and building nervous system awareness.
I believe great therapy goes beyond symptom reduction. I want to see my clients thrive. In our work together, we will unpack and define your emotional pain points, understand how those pain points affect your daily life and relationships, and develop strengths-based strategies to overcome your emotional wounds in order to live a life rooted in your values. I want all of my clients to feel empowered with concrete therapeutic tools and supported by our work together as they heal and face the challenges in their lives.
I focus on experiential therapy, trauma treatment, navigating rupture and repair in relationships, healing attachment wounds, developing emotional awareness, practicing congruence between values and behaviors, exploring the role of dysfunctional “parts” using an IFS lens, increasing self-compassion and self-care skills, and building nervous system awareness.
I believe great therapy goes beyond symptom reduction. I want to see my clients thrive. In our work together, we will unpack and define your emotional pain points, understand how those pain points affect your daily life and relationships, and develop strengths-based strategies to overcome your emotional wounds in order to live a life rooted in your values. I want all of my clients to feel empowered with concrete therapeutic tools and supported by our work together as they heal and face the challenges in their lives.
(651) 565-9618 x1 View (651) 565-9618 x1
Photo of Brooke Keilholtz, PhD, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brooke Keilholtz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I use aspects of Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
There are many stressors and situations in life that may cause disconnect from our selves and others. This may lead to feelings of irritability, sadness, stuck-ness, or resentment, as well as less fulfillment in relationships or at work. In my approach, I aim to reestablish or strengthen the connection one has with themself and others. I work to understand your perspective, build awareness and compassion, and increase resources, like coping and communication skills, that assist you in living an intentional and enjoyable life.
I use aspects of Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
There are many stressors and situations in life that may cause disconnect from our selves and others. This may lead to feelings of irritability, sadness, stuck-ness, or resentment, as well as less fulfillment in relationships or at work. In my approach, I aim to reestablish or strengthen the connection one has with themself and others. I work to understand your perspective, build awareness and compassion, and increase resources, like coping and communication skills, that assist you in living an intentional and enjoyable life.
(612) 887-3416 x101 View (612) 887-3416 x101
Photo of Naomi J. Schwenke, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Naomi J. Schwenke
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I am trained in Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems models, and I use these evidence-based approaches to help individuals and couples address trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, and family and relational dynamics.
Have you tried talk therapy in the past or are you looking for a new innovative approach to traditional talk therapy? How do you feel toward your life? You may be good at keeping up appearances on the outside, but on the inside, you may be struggling with parts of yourself that are feeling overwhelmed, angry, impulsive, lost, sad, lonely, stressed, burnt out or stuck and reactive to people or situations. I help people learn how to calm their nervous system, heal their stories, and lead with awareness.
I am trained in Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems models, and I use these evidence-based approaches to help individuals and couples address trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, and family and relational dynamics.
Have you tried talk therapy in the past or are you looking for a new innovative approach to traditional talk therapy? How do you feel toward your life? You may be good at keeping up appearances on the outside, but on the inside, you may be struggling with parts of yourself that are feeling overwhelmed, angry, impulsive, lost, sad, lonely, stressed, burnt out or stuck and reactive to people or situations. I help people learn how to calm their nervous system, heal their stories, and lead with awareness.
(612) 223-7768 View (612) 223-7768
Photo of Corey Busch, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Corey Busch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I use a proven therapy process called Internal Family Systems (IFS) that goes beyond talking about and managing thoughts and feelings, to a deeper place of healing.
“There are a lot of therapists out there! How do I find a good fit?” Good question. I have a somewhat different approach that I introduce in a short video. You can find it on my website: coreybusch.com (or there's a link on my profile). Here’s a summary of the video: "Many people reach out to me because they don’t want to do traditional talk therapy. They are looking to do a therapy method that will get to the root of the problem and lead to long-term change. Great, that’s exactly what I do."
I use a proven therapy process called Internal Family Systems (IFS) that goes beyond talking about and managing thoughts and feelings, to a deeper place of healing.
“There are a lot of therapists out there! How do I find a good fit?” Good question. I have a somewhat different approach that I introduce in a short video. You can find it on my website: coreybusch.com (or there's a link on my profile). Here’s a summary of the video: "Many people reach out to me because they don’t want to do traditional talk therapy. They are looking to do a therapy method that will get to the root of the problem and lead to long-term change. Great, that’s exactly what I do."
(612) 351-6174 View (612) 351-6174
Photo of Laura Lucas-Silvis, MS, LPCC, MN, LPC, IL, CSAT, NCC, Counselor
Laura Lucas-Silvis
Counselor, MS, LPCC, MN, LPC, IL, CSAT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55436
Carnes' Task Centered Model for Tx of Sex Addiction, mindfulness-based Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, Transpersonal psychotherapies and 12 Step recovery principles to create a wholistic approach to healing.
Discover your healing wisdom, strength and serenity as you confront unhealthy patterns in your relationships. Problems and crises offer invitations to personal or relational growth. We explore strategies for moving forward, whether that means feeling empowered to make changes, or accepting life on life's terms. Learn to respond to difficult situations non-reactively, with curiosity, detachment and compassion. Develop skillful communication which enables you to negotiate healthy boundaries and effectively resolve conflicts. Begin speaking your truth, expecting to be heard. Believe that you deserve to be treated well, with kindness. Learn simple, daily skills which promote happiness and contentment.
Carnes' Task Centered Model for Tx of Sex Addiction, mindfulness-based Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, Transpersonal psychotherapies and 12 Step recovery principles to create a wholistic approach to healing.
Discover your healing wisdom, strength and serenity as you confront unhealthy patterns in your relationships. Problems and crises offer invitations to personal or relational growth. We explore strategies for moving forward, whether that means feeling empowered to make changes, or accepting life on life's terms. Learn to respond to difficult situations non-reactively, with curiosity, detachment and compassion. Develop skillful communication which enables you to negotiate healthy boundaries and effectively resolve conflicts. Begin speaking your truth, expecting to be heard. Believe that you deserve to be treated well, with kindness. Learn simple, daily skills which promote happiness and contentment.
(952) 373-0412 View (952) 373-0412
Photo of Susan Broadwell - Mind-Body Coaching and Healing
Mind-Body Coaching and Healing
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
You will have a highly sensitive guide experienced in Mindful Somatic Healing, IFS (parts work), Brainspotting, Inner Child Healing, Spiritual Healing and more.
Hi, I'm Susan, and I welcome you wherever you are at in your life. I work holistically, and can help you to accept yourself with less judgment, learn new methods to find safety and calm within, work through unresolved feelings, and make the changes necessary to be at peace with yourself. Sometimes there is a restlessness inside or symptoms in the mind and body surface because you are needing to get clear about who you are and what your purpose is in this life. I will help you to trust your deepest self. Reach out to me if you're wanting lasting resolution of stress, trauma, seeking somatic healing and/or spiritual healing.
You will have a highly sensitive guide experienced in Mindful Somatic Healing, IFS (parts work), Brainspotting, Inner Child Healing, Spiritual Healing and more.
Hi, I'm Susan, and I welcome you wherever you are at in your life. I work holistically, and can help you to accept yourself with less judgment, learn new methods to find safety and calm within, work through unresolved feelings, and make the changes necessary to be at peace with yourself. Sometimes there is a restlessness inside or symptoms in the mind and body surface because you are needing to get clear about who you are and what your purpose is in this life. I will help you to trust your deepest self. Reach out to me if you're wanting lasting resolution of stress, trauma, seeking somatic healing and/or spiritual healing.
(952) 800-3137 View (952) 800-3137
Photo of Elizabeth Padilla, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Padilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55424
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on learning who a person is uniquely, and I take an active role in treatment, offering genuine warmth and support as well as practical feedback. I draw from various theoretical approaches but commonly use cognitive behavioral therapy, mindful self-compassion, exposure response prevention, and internal family systems. As a licensed clinical social worker I have had the pleasure of working in cities across the United States with a wide range of individuals from a variety of backgrounds.
I focus on learning who a person is uniquely, and I take an active role in treatment, offering genuine warmth and support as well as practical feedback. I draw from various theoretical approaches but commonly use cognitive behavioral therapy, mindful self-compassion, exposure response prevention, and internal family systems. As a licensed clinical social worker I have had the pleasure of working in cities across the United States with a wide range of individuals from a variety of backgrounds.
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Photo of Kiel Walters, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiel Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
Waitlist for new clients
I offer EMDR, along with drawing from cognitive-behavioral, somatic, ACT, IFS, and solution-focused approaches to foster deep therapeutic work.
I look forward to engaging in an open dialogue with you, offering perspective, and providing support as you take steps toward positive life change. I have extensive experience treating clients suffering from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship difficulties, and refine my therapeutic approach to each individual's needs. This means helping clients develop coping skills and change behaviors, connecting with teenagers, providing parent guidance, facilitating communication among families, and guiding processing to find resolution and relieve suffering.
I offer EMDR, along with drawing from cognitive-behavioral, somatic, ACT, IFS, and solution-focused approaches to foster deep therapeutic work.
I look forward to engaging in an open dialogue with you, offering perspective, and providing support as you take steps toward positive life change. I have extensive experience treating clients suffering from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship difficulties, and refine my therapeutic approach to each individual's needs. This means helping clients develop coping skills and change behaviors, connecting with teenagers, providing parent guidance, facilitating communication among families, and guiding processing to find resolution and relieve suffering.
(612) 260-1537 View (612) 260-1537
Photo of Jessica Schiller, MA, LAMFT, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Schiller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55343
Waitlist for new clients
I use collaborative, attachment, somatic, and strength-based approaches, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems techniques among others.
I believe through trusting, compassionate relationships and connecting with the wisdom of the body and the inner Self, it is possible to find wholeness, growth, and fulfillment. I have been a Licensed Alcohol and Drug counselor since 2008, working with substance use and trauma, before completing my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with couples and individuals ages 17 and older. Anxiety, trauma, attachment injuries, healing from the impacts of addiction, and couples work focusing on reducing protective responses & increasing feelings of safety and security are specialty areas of mine.
I use collaborative, attachment, somatic, and strength-based approaches, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems techniques among others.
I believe through trusting, compassionate relationships and connecting with the wisdom of the body and the inner Self, it is possible to find wholeness, growth, and fulfillment. I have been a Licensed Alcohol and Drug counselor since 2008, working with substance use and trauma, before completing my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with couples and individuals ages 17 and older. Anxiety, trauma, attachment injuries, healing from the impacts of addiction, and couples work focusing on reducing protective responses & increasing feelings of safety and security are specialty areas of mine.
(612) 706-9630 View (612) 706-9630
Photo of Colleen Bethel, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Bethel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55343  (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.
(763) 220-6198 View (763) 220-6198
Photo of Kelly Miklas - Kelly J. Miklas - KJ Psychotherapy & Intensives. , MA, LPCC
Kelly J. Miklas - KJ Psychotherapy & Intensives.
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55416
Sunday/Tuesday availability, self-pay only. No insurance openings currently. Offering weekly or biweekly psychotherapy. I also offer intensive/extended therapy sessions (self-pay only, telehealth or in-person in S. Minneapolis at Yess Yoga). My specialties are treating anxiety and trauma utilizing Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), IFS, ACT, and more.
Sunday/Tuesday availability, self-pay only. No insurance openings currently. Offering weekly or biweekly psychotherapy. I also offer intensive/extended therapy sessions (self-pay only, telehealth or in-person in S. Minneapolis at Yess Yoga). My specialties are treating anxiety and trauma utilizing Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), IFS, ACT, and more.
(952) 900-6845 View (952) 900-6845
Photo of Tessa Gittleman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tessa Gittleman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
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.
(763) 244-3189 View (763) 244-3189
Photo of Juliann V. Miller, MA, LP, Psychologist
Juliann V. Miller
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435  (Online Only)
As a therapist I work hard to understand my patients at a personal level. I provide a warm and trusting atmosphere where we can explore the difficulties in their lives. Together, through the therapeutic relationship we work on emotional problems to make deep and lasting changes. We address road blocks which may have developed over the years and seem to keep them stuck in negative patterns. Through an increased awareness of these patterns alternative choices can be made by my patients. Working together in therapy my patients are increasingly able to live more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
As a therapist I work hard to understand my patients at a personal level. I provide a warm and trusting atmosphere where we can explore the difficulties in their lives. Together, through the therapeutic relationship we work on emotional problems to make deep and lasting changes. We address road blocks which may have developed over the years and seem to keep them stuck in negative patterns. Through an increased awareness of these patterns alternative choices can be made by my patients. Working together in therapy my patients are increasingly able to live more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
(952) 373-0482 View (952) 373-0482
Photo of Dana Barnaal, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana Barnaal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55424
Through building an environment of trust, compassion, and curiosity, we will focus on healing and growth from challenging experiences and life transitions. All feelings are welcome during our time together! You will feel empowered to be your authentic self and find joy, hope, and confidence to handle challenges. Everyone needs support, and I feel honored to witness and support my clients on their healing journey.
Through building an environment of trust, compassion, and curiosity, we will focus on healing and growth from challenging experiences and life transitions. All feelings are welcome during our time together! You will feel empowered to be your authentic self and find joy, hope, and confidence to handle challenges. Everyone needs support, and I feel honored to witness and support my clients on their healing journey.
(612) 808-5483 View (612) 808-5483
Photo of Erica Warffuel, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Erica Warffuel
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435
Immediate client openings available! I approach treatment and therapy through a trauma-informed, client-centered, and harm-reduction lens. I would like to assist you in processing your emotions in a healthy manner and to assist you in learning the necessary skills to acquire new tools to make the changes you want in your life. I am passionate in helping individuals that struggle with PTSD, substance use, depression, anxiety, fear, shame/guilt, grief/loss, life transitions, identity issues, and relationship concerns.
Immediate client openings available! I approach treatment and therapy through a trauma-informed, client-centered, and harm-reduction lens. I would like to assist you in processing your emotions in a healthy manner and to assist you in learning the necessary skills to acquire new tools to make the changes you want in your life. I am passionate in helping individuals that struggle with PTSD, substance use, depression, anxiety, fear, shame/guilt, grief/loss, life transitions, identity issues, and relationship concerns.
(952) 900-5619 View (952) 900-5619
Photo of Nathan Ernst, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nathan Ernst
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Relationships are a fundamental part of our lives, bringing both immense joy and complex challenges. If you have found yourself struggling with communication issues, conflicts, or a potential or realized breakup, I am here to provide a safe space for growth and transformation. I am passionate about meeting the needs of my clients in therapy. I will help you foster healthier connections by enhancing your communication skills, learning to build emotional intimacy, and establishing boundaries that can honor your needs.
Relationships are a fundamental part of our lives, bringing both immense joy and complex challenges. If you have found yourself struggling with communication issues, conflicts, or a potential or realized breakup, I am here to provide a safe space for growth and transformation. I am passionate about meeting the needs of my clients in therapy. I will help you foster healthier connections by enhancing your communication skills, learning to build emotional intimacy, and establishing boundaries that can honor your needs.
(763) 401-8384 View (763) 401-8384
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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.