Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Saint Louis Park, MN

Photo of Karina Golberg, MA, LPCC, RPT, SEP, Counselor
Karina Golberg
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT, SEP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
I have additional training in Brainspotting, Eating Disorders, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, and Trauma-Informed Yoga Therapy.
Using an integrative approach, I will work with you to overcome challenges you may be dealing with. I am passionate about working with trauma in people of all ages and exploring how it impacts one's connection to Self, their attachment and relationships. My approach incorporates the use of Somatic Experiencing, Trauma-Informed Therapeutic Yoga and other holistic strategies to enhance the lives of those who invite me on their path to growth and healing. I believe everyone should be treated with equality and respect, and I will strive to meet you where you are at and support you in addressing the areas of concern impacting you.
I have additional training in Brainspotting, Eating Disorders, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, and Trauma-Informed Yoga Therapy.
Using an integrative approach, I will work with you to overcome challenges you may be dealing with. I am passionate about working with trauma in people of all ages and exploring how it impacts one's connection to Self, their attachment and relationships. My approach incorporates the use of Somatic Experiencing, Trauma-Informed Therapeutic Yoga and other holistic strategies to enhance the lives of those who invite me on their path to growth and healing. I believe everyone should be treated with equality and respect, and I will strive to meet you where you are at and support you in addressing the areas of concern impacting you.
(651) 401-8406 View (651) 401-8406
Photo of Julie Richter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Richter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
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.
(612) 445-3677 View (612) 445-3677
Photo of Leigh A Hoffert, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh A Hoffert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Using mindfulness, EMDR therapy, internal family systems, sensorimotor psychotherapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy, I’ll help you make empowered changes so you can come home to your truest self.
Do you long for a deeper connection with yourself and others? Do you feel like you’re playing a version of yourself that just doesn’t feel right? Maybe you know what you long for, but you have no idea how to get there. This is where I can be of help. Let’s explore your situation together with genuine curiosity to find understanding and a path forward. If you have experienced trauma, anxiety or depression, or you’re going through a life transition, relationship issues, or other challenges to your personal growth, I would love to work with you.
Using mindfulness, EMDR therapy, internal family systems, sensorimotor psychotherapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy, I’ll help you make empowered changes so you can come home to your truest self.
Do you long for a deeper connection with yourself and others? Do you feel like you’re playing a version of yourself that just doesn’t feel right? Maybe you know what you long for, but you have no idea how to get there. This is where I can be of help. Let’s explore your situation together with genuine curiosity to find understanding and a path forward. If you have experienced trauma, anxiety or depression, or you’re going through a life transition, relationship issues, or other challenges to your personal growth, I would love to work with you.
(952) 209-8925 View (952) 209-8925
Photo of Kate Schmidt, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55426
I am a certified Brainspotting practitioner, and this along with the Polyvagal Theory, parts work (IFS) and narrative approaches have become very influential in my work and have helped those I team with to heal.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as an MN-BSW Approved Clinical Supervisor. I work with young adults, adults, couples and families. I believe in providing space to show up as your authentic self and believe that transformative work begins through connection with a trusted therapist. I pull from my own life experiences and weave many therapeutic approaches into my work. My goal is to join with you in your healing, and I am committed to providing a supportive, caring, and nonjudgmental space in order to witness and explore your stories. I value transparency in therapeutic work and believe that therapy is a partnership
I am a certified Brainspotting practitioner, and this along with the Polyvagal Theory, parts work (IFS) and narrative approaches have become very influential in my work and have helped those I team with to heal.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as an MN-BSW Approved Clinical Supervisor. I work with young adults, adults, couples and families. I believe in providing space to show up as your authentic self and believe that transformative work begins through connection with a trusted therapist. I pull from my own life experiences and weave many therapeutic approaches into my work. My goal is to join with you in your healing, and I am committed to providing a supportive, caring, and nonjudgmental space in order to witness and explore your stories. I value transparency in therapeutic work and believe that therapy is a partnership
(952) 295-3196 x115 View (952) 295-3196 x115
Photo of Susan Broadwell - Mind-Body Coaching and Healing
Mind-Body Coaching and Healing
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
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 Allison Burns, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is person-centered, and based in family systems.
I have a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relational issues, trauma, and I am trained in EMDR. I take special interest in working with college students/young adults struggling with Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge-Eating Disorder, and OSFED. I value each person's unique perspective, and would be honored to walk along side you in your journey!
My approach to therapy is person-centered, and based in family systems.
I have a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relational issues, trauma, and I am trained in EMDR. I take special interest in working with college students/young adults struggling with Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge-Eating Disorder, and OSFED. I value each person's unique perspective, and would be honored to walk along side you in your journey!
(763) 402-9361 View (763) 402-9361
Photo of James Benda, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Benda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55426
Waitlist for new clients
IFS model) and theories of Structural Dissociation, Attachment, Development, and Neurobiology (like Polyvagal theory, etc.
I began working as a therapist in a Community Health Center seeing individuals, couples and families with minor to severe mental health issues, many suffering from past trauma. This led me to seek more education, supervision and training to help treat those reporting trauma and dissociative symptoms. Now, I mainly work with individuals dealing with complex trauma and dissociative disorders, though I still see some couples/families where one member is dealing with trauma-related dissociative symptoms. I work collaboratively, partnering with people to help resolve lingering past and current issues to achieve their stated goals.
IFS model) and theories of Structural Dissociation, Attachment, Development, and Neurobiology (like Polyvagal theory, etc.
I began working as a therapist in a Community Health Center seeing individuals, couples and families with minor to severe mental health issues, many suffering from past trauma. This led me to seek more education, supervision and training to help treat those reporting trauma and dissociative symptoms. Now, I mainly work with individuals dealing with complex trauma and dissociative disorders, though I still see some couples/families where one member is dealing with trauma-related dissociative symptoms. I work collaboratively, partnering with people to help resolve lingering past and current issues to achieve their stated goals.
(763) 284-3707 View (763) 284-3707
Photo of Alessandra Gaglio, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Alessandra Gaglio
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally-Focused Therapy into my approach.
In therapy I value equity, collaboration, humor, and patience. I believe in a holistic approach where we consider the individual not as a set of symptoms, but as a whole, complex, capable human being. You are the expert in your own life– in our work I will strive to provide support, reflection, and camaraderie as you seek out a life that fulfills you.
I incorporate Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally-Focused Therapy into my approach.
In therapy I value equity, collaboration, humor, and patience. I believe in a holistic approach where we consider the individual not as a set of symptoms, but as a whole, complex, capable human being. You are the expert in your own life– in our work I will strive to provide support, reflection, and camaraderie as you seek out a life that fulfills you.
(612) 482-4503 View (612) 482-4503
Photo of Colleen Bethel, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Bethel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
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 Sara J S Mize, PhD, LP , Psychologist
Sara J S Mize
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55436
Not accepting new clients
All parts are welcome, period. I use an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens with a body-centered, experiential and practical approach. Nonjudgmental, empathic and fiercely compassionate, I extend a radical welcome to any part that shows up. I am genuinely curious and mindful and hold a gentle persistence in encouraging change. I trust that we have smart bodies and that with collaborative observation and curiosity, we can learn from their wisdom and gain valuable insights for healing. I work with clients as equals to best support desired individual and relational goals.
All parts are welcome, period. I use an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens with a body-centered, experiential and practical approach. Nonjudgmental, empathic and fiercely compassionate, I extend a radical welcome to any part that shows up. I am genuinely curious and mindful and hold a gentle persistence in encouraging change. I trust that we have smart bodies and that with collaborative observation and curiosity, we can learn from their wisdom and gain valuable insights for healing. I work with clients as equals to best support desired individual and relational goals.
(612) 324-1217 View (612) 324-1217
Photo of Paul A. Buckley, MA, LMFT, SAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul A. Buckley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SAP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
In the tapestry of life, the majority of happiness comes from the relationships we keep. Likewise, most suffering comes from relationships that are strained or fraying. From spouses and children, to extended family and friends – things can go sideways and quite quickly. When this happens bad feelings crowd out the good. Over time, painful patterns form, seeming to have a life of their own. Breaking these painful patterns often requires the skills of an objective, seasoned professional.
In the tapestry of life, the majority of happiness comes from the relationships we keep. Likewise, most suffering comes from relationships that are strained or fraying. From spouses and children, to extended family and friends – things can go sideways and quite quickly. When this happens bad feelings crowd out the good. Over time, painful patterns form, seeming to have a life of their own. Breaking these painful patterns often requires the skills of an objective, seasoned professional.
(612) 509-9365 View (612) 509-9365
Photo of Rachel Kessler, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
We do the work on our own, but we don't do it alone. I'm here to help guide clients towards greater self-awareness and empowerment over their mental health struggles. Together, we'll work to uncover insights, foster resilience, and move towards positive change and fulfillment. Wether you're struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or identity/self worth, I offer a comfortable and safe environment where you can explore all the feelings and develop effective coping skills. I believe in owning your story, and I want to hear yours.
We do the work on our own, but we don't do it alone. I'm here to help guide clients towards greater self-awareness and empowerment over their mental health struggles. Together, we'll work to uncover insights, foster resilience, and move towards positive change and fulfillment. Wether you're struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or identity/self worth, I offer a comfortable and safe environment where you can explore all the feelings and develop effective coping skills. I believe in owning your story, and I want to hear yours.
(651) 946-7475 View (651) 946-7475
Photo of John L Jankord, LMFT, LADC, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
John L Jankord
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55426
Choosing a therapist who fits your specific needs, values, and methods for change can be challenging. There needs to be a comfort level and fit that will foster a positive and effective working relationship. The therapist's education, experience, competency, and certification are essential to promoting positive outcomes. I have been working with women, men, couples, and families for 26+ years and have learned much from clients regarding their concerns, hopes, dreams, and change methods. My approach is trauma-informed, Collaborative, Strengths-Based, and Solution-Focused.
Choosing a therapist who fits your specific needs, values, and methods for change can be challenging. There needs to be a comfort level and fit that will foster a positive and effective working relationship. The therapist's education, experience, competency, and certification are essential to promoting positive outcomes. I have been working with women, men, couples, and families for 26+ years and have learned much from clients regarding their concerns, hopes, dreams, and change methods. My approach is trauma-informed, Collaborative, Strengths-Based, and Solution-Focused.
(952) 856-3072 x101 View (952) 856-3072 x101
Photo of Janelle DeRubeis, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Janelle DeRubeis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
If you are struggling with your sense of self or relationships due to past traumatic events, depression, or anxiety, know that you are not alone. Experiences such as neglect, abuse, and violence can impact the way we view ourselves and the world. If you are looking to build your self-worth, secure relationships, and overall live a more fulfilling life, I may be able to help! I'm also passionate about working with LGBTQ+ clients who are looking to explore and find acceptance in their gender and sexuality. I gladly support transgender clients in transitioning, such as writing letters of support for gender affirming surgeries.
If you are struggling with your sense of self or relationships due to past traumatic events, depression, or anxiety, know that you are not alone. Experiences such as neglect, abuse, and violence can impact the way we view ourselves and the world. If you are looking to build your self-worth, secure relationships, and overall live a more fulfilling life, I may be able to help! I'm also passionate about working with LGBTQ+ clients who are looking to explore and find acceptance in their gender and sexuality. I gladly support transgender clients in transitioning, such as writing letters of support for gender affirming surgeries.
(612) 482-5459 View (612) 482-5459
Photo of Joyce Arendt, MSW, LICSW, RPT-S, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce Arendt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RPT-S, SEP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
My goal for my clients is to reduce the profound effects of challenging life events. I believe addressing the mind, body, and soul is the most effective way to heal from unexpected occurrences that affect us all. I believe most mental health symptoms and many medical issues originate in these events rather than being deficits or disorders of the person. These issues can be resolved through therapies that address the whole person. I am passionate and committed to helping individuals achieve a connection to themselves and others. I draw upon over thirty years of education and experience to guide clients through their unique journey.
My goal for my clients is to reduce the profound effects of challenging life events. I believe addressing the mind, body, and soul is the most effective way to heal from unexpected occurrences that affect us all. I believe most mental health symptoms and many medical issues originate in these events rather than being deficits or disorders of the person. These issues can be resolved through therapies that address the whole person. I am passionate and committed to helping individuals achieve a connection to themselves and others. I draw upon over thirty years of education and experience to guide clients through their unique journey.
(952) 592-7841 View (952) 592-7841
Photo of Elizabeth Wagner, PsyD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Wagner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Joy. It's what we're all searching for. Sometimes we need some help along the way to find it. Whether you are searching for joy for yourself, your child, or your family, I am here for you. Through a relational and compassionate approach I will help you uncover the strength and capacity that already exist within you and help you develop new insight and skills allowing you to persevere, blossom, and thrive.
Joy. It's what we're all searching for. Sometimes we need some help along the way to find it. Whether you are searching for joy for yourself, your child, or your family, I am here for you. Through a relational and compassionate approach I will help you uncover the strength and capacity that already exist within you and help you develop new insight and skills allowing you to persevere, blossom, and thrive.
(952) 444-9744 View (952) 444-9744
Photo of Meredith Hyduke Dehn, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith Hyduke Dehn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55426
We can often find ourselves struggling to feel understood by each other. I meet with adult individuals or couples seeking help and encouragement as they navigate their relationships. Issues around communicating needs, conflict in their partnership, parenting, intercultural relationships, dynamics within family of origin or in-laws, work/life balance and couples that identify as LGBTQIA+ are all areas I'm familiar working with. I invite clients to create and practice new tools to better understand one another and emerge out bickering and into a collaboration.
We can often find ourselves struggling to feel understood by each other. I meet with adult individuals or couples seeking help and encouragement as they navigate their relationships. Issues around communicating needs, conflict in their partnership, parenting, intercultural relationships, dynamics within family of origin or in-laws, work/life balance and couples that identify as LGBTQIA+ are all areas I'm familiar working with. I invite clients to create and practice new tools to better understand one another and emerge out bickering and into a collaboration.
(952) 260-9188 x109 View (952) 260-9188 x109
Photo of Stacy Hatke, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stacy Hatke
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
My commitment in therapy is to help people live their fully authentic life - in whatever way that looks like to you. I have a particular passion for those who love outside the box - I specialize in working with polyamory and non-monogamy, kink, and queer and trans individuals. I like to get curious about the things that make you unique, and find ways to make those parts shine, while also holding space for the difficulty of living with marginalized identities. While I am not a trained trauma therapist, trauma, both single-instance and complex, informs all of my work.
My commitment in therapy is to help people live their fully authentic life - in whatever way that looks like to you. I have a particular passion for those who love outside the box - I specialize in working with polyamory and non-monogamy, kink, and queer and trans individuals. I like to get curious about the things that make you unique, and find ways to make those parts shine, while also holding space for the difficulty of living with marginalized identities. While I am not a trained trauma therapist, trauma, both single-instance and complex, informs all of my work.
(612) 712-3806 View (612) 712-3806
Photo of David Berg - David Berg, MA, LMFT, LADC, MA, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Berg, MA, LMFT, LADC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Online Therapy and Telehealth only. Currently accepting new day clients. My passion is helping people improve their lives, relationships, and find greater fulfillment. I help people help themselves. I've had the pleasure of a career of many years practicing counseling, therapy, coaching, and social work with individuals, couples, groups, and families in multiple settings. I am a Certified Clinically Trained Gottman Method and Emotions Focused Couples Therapist.
Online Therapy and Telehealth only. Currently accepting new day clients. My passion is helping people improve their lives, relationships, and find greater fulfillment. I help people help themselves. I've had the pleasure of a career of many years practicing counseling, therapy, coaching, and social work with individuals, couples, groups, and families in multiple settings. I am a Certified Clinically Trained Gottman Method and Emotions Focused Couples Therapist.
(218) 453-7020 View (218) 453-7020
Photo of Bianca Yvonne Matter, MA, MS, LPC, SEP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bianca Yvonne Matter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Bianca strives to effectively combine approaches from different psychological theories to address the individual on all levels of the human experience: affective, behavioral, cognitive, physiological, and spiritual. Bianca works with individuals, couples, and groups and welcomes welcomes adolescents through adults that are experiencing a variety of stressors and dis-ease; they include: anxiety, depression as well as other intrapersonal challenges, interpersonal difficulties, acute and complex trauma, and chronic medical issues (for example auto-immune diseases).
Bianca strives to effectively combine approaches from different psychological theories to address the individual on all levels of the human experience: affective, behavioral, cognitive, physiological, and spiritual. Bianca works with individuals, couples, and groups and welcomes welcomes adolescents through adults that are experiencing a variety of stressors and dis-ease; they include: anxiety, depression as well as other intrapersonal challenges, interpersonal difficulties, acute and complex trauma, and chronic medical issues (for example auto-immune diseases).
(952) 522-9501 View (952) 522-9501
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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.