Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Aberdeen, NC

Photo of Susan Diane Couch - Serenity Mental and Medical Health Care, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Mental and Medical Health Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
Drawing from IFS, somatic therapy, Mindfulness, and DBT, I creates a custom toolbox to help you meet your goals.
Our clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive health care. We have a collaborative practice which allows us to see the "whole person" not just parts. We believe in the innate ability our bodies have to heal wounds both physical and psychological. Each client is treated with compassion and care. We focus on developing a treatment plan that addresses your needs as well as our knowledge. We don't believe in "doing things" to clients without their understanding. Developing a safe and caring relationship is of utmost importance so we make every effort to create an environment that is as relaxing as possible.
Drawing from IFS, somatic therapy, Mindfulness, and DBT, I creates a custom toolbox to help you meet your goals.
Our clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive health care. We have a collaborative practice which allows us to see the "whole person" not just parts. We believe in the innate ability our bodies have to heal wounds both physical and psychological. Each client is treated with compassion and care. We focus on developing a treatment plan that addresses your needs as well as our knowledge. We don't believe in "doing things" to clients without their understanding. Developing a safe and caring relationship is of utmost importance so we make every effort to create an environment that is as relaxing as possible.
(919) 344-0849 View (919) 344-0849
Photo of Brandon Patrick Couch, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Patrick Couch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
My passion for helping others stems from my belief in the inherent resilience that lies within every person. I am a firm advocate for de-stigmatizing mental health challenges and fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance. I understand that seeking help can be a courageous step, and I am here to provide a judgment-free space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and concerns. My approach to therapy is rooted in a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I enjoy working with Neurodivergents.
My passion for helping others stems from my belief in the inherent resilience that lies within every person. I am a firm advocate for de-stigmatizing mental health challenges and fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance. I understand that seeking help can be a courageous step, and I am here to provide a judgment-free space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and concerns. My approach to therapy is rooted in a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I enjoy working with Neurodivergents.
(910) 606-6274 View (910) 606-6274
Photo of Liz Harry (She Her Hers), MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Harry (She Her Hers)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aberdeen, NC 28315
Not accepting new clients
In my practice I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
I believe that we live in difficult and challenging times and there is no one who, at least on occasion, would not benefit from help in navigating their way through these times in order to have a better quality of life. I am here to listen to you and to help you achieve your vision for a happier and healthier life. I work with adults, teens, youth and children to address issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment to life changes, abuse, trauma, grief, and behavioral problems.
In my practice I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems ( IFS).
I believe that we live in difficult and challenging times and there is no one who, at least on occasion, would not benefit from help in navigating their way through these times in order to have a better quality of life. I am here to listen to you and to help you achieve your vision for a happier and healthier life. I work with adults, teens, youth and children to address issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment to life changes, abuse, trauma, grief, and behavioral problems.
(910) 213-3100 View (910) 213-3100

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Adelina Roman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adelina Roman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I use an integrative and trauma informed approach using EMDR, EFT (tapping), CBT, DBT, and IFS, among other research-based approaches.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed with sadness or worry? Do you find yourself reliving past painful events? Are you struggling with life changes, grief, or relationship conflicts? Do you want to make changes, but just can’t seem to do it on your own? When faced with painful events in life, or struggle with difficult emotions, life can seem out of balance. You may become so overwhelmed that sometimes you may shut down or act out. These are all normal and common responses when under stress. Unfortunately, when you’re in a chronic state of stress, this may affect the way you relate to others and yourself.
I use an integrative and trauma informed approach using EMDR, EFT (tapping), CBT, DBT, and IFS, among other research-based approaches.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed with sadness or worry? Do you find yourself reliving past painful events? Are you struggling with life changes, grief, or relationship conflicts? Do you want to make changes, but just can’t seem to do it on your own? When faced with painful events in life, or struggle with difficult emotions, life can seem out of balance. You may become so overwhelmed that sometimes you may shut down or act out. These are all normal and common responses when under stress. Unfortunately, when you’re in a chronic state of stress, this may affect the way you relate to others and yourself.
(910) 725-6336 View (910) 725-6336
Photo of Denise Frutchey, PsyD, Psychologist
Denise Frutchey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 35 years. I have devoted my career to working with clients of all ages who come to me with some form of emotional distress or problems in living. I help them to understand the cause of their pain, educate about the importance of healthy boundaries and guide them to find relief and workable solutions. To this end I use family of origin therapy, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR. I address such concerns as anxiety and depression, panic, trauma, self-esteem and couples and family conflict.
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 35 years. I have devoted my career to working with clients of all ages who come to me with some form of emotional distress or problems in living. I help them to understand the cause of their pain, educate about the importance of healthy boundaries and guide them to find relief and workable solutions. To this end I use family of origin therapy, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR. I address such concerns as anxiety and depression, panic, trauma, self-esteem and couples and family conflict.
(910) 601-3351 View (910) 601-3351
Photo of Dr. Pamela Cassellius - Promise Counseling, PLLC, LCMHCS, LCMHCA
Promise Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28374
At Promise Counseling, PLLC, our focus is to help clients grow and heal as they become aware of their inner strengths. We strive to achieve this by providing a safe environment where clients can be heard and understood. We collaborate with our clients to establish goals that will move them toward freedom from the things that they believe are keeping them from fully engaging in their lives. Our team includes: Dr. Pamela Cassellius, LCMHCS (Carthage/Telehealth), Ms. Carly Meadows, LCMHCA (Charlotte/Tele), Mrs. Jordan Quate, LCMHCA (Carthage/Tele), Mrs. Ashley Harris, LCMHCA (Carthage/Tele) and Ms. Kelsie Boss, LCMHCA (Telehealth).
At Promise Counseling, PLLC, our focus is to help clients grow and heal as they become aware of their inner strengths. We strive to achieve this by providing a safe environment where clients can be heard and understood. We collaborate with our clients to establish goals that will move them toward freedom from the things that they believe are keeping them from fully engaging in their lives. Our team includes: Dr. Pamela Cassellius, LCMHCS (Carthage/Telehealth), Ms. Carly Meadows, LCMHCA (Charlotte/Tele), Mrs. Jordan Quate, LCMHCA (Carthage/Tele), Mrs. Ashley Harris, LCMHCA (Carthage/Tele) and Ms. Kelsie Boss, LCMHCA (Telehealth).
(910) 634-3783 View (910) 634-3783
Photo of Heather M Scarboro - Healing Selves Therapeutics, PLLC , LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Healing Selves Therapeutics, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
We are Licensed Professionals Providing: Psychotherapy, Substance Use Counseling, Trauma Processing, EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, and Consultation. We specialize in dissociative disorders, trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and Depression.
We are Licensed Professionals Providing: Psychotherapy, Substance Use Counseling, Trauma Processing, EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, and Consultation. We specialize in dissociative disorders, trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and Depression.
(336) 361-2717 View (336) 361-2717
Lotus Care Psychological Services PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD , HSP-P
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28374
Lotus Care Psychological Services was established in 2022 in the Fayetteville area by Dr. Alina Contino. At Lotus Care Psychological Services we support, diagnose and empower, children, individuals and families living with the challenges of mental health conditions and disabilities. Lotus Care will provide you with resources and service referrals to help you grow in wisdom, knowledge and understanding. We want to promote your self awareness in order to treat and help you manage your life challenges the best way possible.
Lotus Care Psychological Services was established in 2022 in the Fayetteville area by Dr. Alina Contino. At Lotus Care Psychological Services we support, diagnose and empower, children, individuals and families living with the challenges of mental health conditions and disabilities. Lotus Care will provide you with resources and service referrals to help you grow in wisdom, knowledge and understanding. We want to promote your self awareness in order to treat and help you manage your life challenges the best way possible.
(910) 812-9475 View (910) 812-9475
Photo of Brandon Couch, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brandon Couch
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
​My expertise extends to assisting individuals facing various life challenges. I recognize the unique struggles that adults often face, and my goal is to empower them with the tools they need to overcome obstacles and thrive. Through my professional expertise I strive to create a holistic and compassionate approach to therapy. If you're seeking guidance, support, and a therapist who genuinely cares about your journey, I am here to walk beside you every step of the way.
​My expertise extends to assisting individuals facing various life challenges. I recognize the unique struggles that adults often face, and my goal is to empower them with the tools they need to overcome obstacles and thrive. Through my professional expertise I strive to create a holistic and compassionate approach to therapy. If you're seeking guidance, support, and a therapist who genuinely cares about your journey, I am here to walk beside you every step of the way.
(910) 725-6336 View (910) 725-6336
Photo of Anne Wray, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Anne Wray
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pinehurst, NC 28374
I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore new and past emotions that may be preventing you from enjoying the present moment. We will look at how your thoughts may be keeping you stuck in unhealthy patterns. You will learn to live life instead of fearing or fighting it. Begin with watching your thoughts and keep relaxing and releasing, soon the noise will stop and you will enjoy all the present moment has to offer. I have experience working with trauma, grief, communication problems and anger issues.
I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore new and past emotions that may be preventing you from enjoying the present moment. We will look at how your thoughts may be keeping you stuck in unhealthy patterns. You will learn to live life instead of fearing or fighting it. Begin with watching your thoughts and keep relaxing and releasing, soon the noise will stop and you will enjoy all the present moment has to offer. I have experience working with trauma, grief, communication problems and anger issues.
(910) 996-0076 View (910) 996-0076
Photo of John Lawson - ATLAS Child Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
ATLAS Child Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southern Pines, NC 28387
(910) 407-0052 View (910) 407-0052
Photo of Katie Zale, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Zale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pinehurst, NC 28374  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I use a blend of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems and mindfulness techniques to holistically address the whole person's being.
Hi! I am thrilled you have taken the first step towards a more peaceful existence. I primarily work with individuals, with a special focus on young adults. Topics we can work on include feelings of depression, anxiety, disordered eating, perfectionism, people pleasing and life adjustments
I use a blend of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems and mindfulness techniques to holistically address the whole person's being.
Hi! I am thrilled you have taken the first step towards a more peaceful existence. I primarily work with individuals, with a special focus on young adults. Topics we can work on include feelings of depression, anxiety, disordered eating, perfectionism, people pleasing and life adjustments
(206) 590-7810 View (206) 590-7810

Online Therapists

Photo of Chelsea Matson, LCMHC, QS
Chelsea Matson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
IFS therapy is an experiential approach designed to help clients find a path to lasting healing and change.
I believe therapy can be a life-changing investment for those who embark on the healing journey of self-understanding. My purpose is to guide clients in navigating their inner worlds so as to access fresh perspectives on their lived experiences. Through gaining a deep understanding of each client’s hopes and needs, I make the most of every session to move toward meaningful progress and change. I join clients to access self-compassion and strengths, empowering them to heal trauma wounds, unlearn painful patterns, and reconnect with values. As a Certified IFS Therapist, I primarily use Internal Family Systems therapy with clients.
IFS therapy is an experiential approach designed to help clients find a path to lasting healing and change.
I believe therapy can be a life-changing investment for those who embark on the healing journey of self-understanding. My purpose is to guide clients in navigating their inner worlds so as to access fresh perspectives on their lived experiences. Through gaining a deep understanding of each client’s hopes and needs, I make the most of every session to move toward meaningful progress and change. I join clients to access self-compassion and strengths, empowering them to heal trauma wounds, unlearn painful patterns, and reconnect with values. As a Certified IFS Therapist, I primarily use Internal Family Systems therapy with clients.
(704) 312-7420 View (704) 312-7420
Photo of Dawn Shea-Frick, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Shea-Frick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314
I am an IFS trained therapist; with training also in EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and NARM.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed, depressed or disconnected and wanting to make lasting change in your life and relationships? Feel like you have tried everything you know to do? Still nothing seems to work and you just want to feel better. I believe that many symptoms and problems are actually survival strategies that emerge from our need to cope with the hardships of life. These could be depression, shame, perfectionism and fear of rejection to name a few. My passion is helping people identify and understand their survival strategies and create new patterns that improve their lives and connection to self and others.
I am an IFS trained therapist; with training also in EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and NARM.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed, depressed or disconnected and wanting to make lasting change in your life and relationships? Feel like you have tried everything you know to do? Still nothing seems to work and you just want to feel better. I believe that many symptoms and problems are actually survival strategies that emerge from our need to cope with the hardships of life. These could be depression, shame, perfectionism and fear of rejection to name a few. My passion is helping people identify and understand their survival strategies and create new patterns that improve their lives and connection to self and others.
(910) 797-4404 View (910) 797-4404
Photo of Jessica Evans, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist who has worked with mental health, addiction, family systems, and disordered eating for the past 10 years.
I provide individual, intensive, and group therapy to adults. My clients are seeking relief from their trauma, dysfunctional relationships, shame, addictions, compulsive sexual behavior, disordered eating, grief, and codependency. Typically my clients are over functioning in many areas but cannot pinpoint why they struggle in relationship with others or feel chronically unhappy. Many of my clients identify as Adult Children of Alcoholic and Dysfunctional families or have addiction in their family system. I use techniques from Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, psychodrama, Internal Family Systems, Transforming Touch, and many more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist who has worked with mental health, addiction, family systems, and disordered eating for the past 10 years.
I provide individual, intensive, and group therapy to adults. My clients are seeking relief from their trauma, dysfunctional relationships, shame, addictions, compulsive sexual behavior, disordered eating, grief, and codependency. Typically my clients are over functioning in many areas but cannot pinpoint why they struggle in relationship with others or feel chronically unhappy. Many of my clients identify as Adult Children of Alcoholic and Dysfunctional families or have addiction in their family system. I use techniques from Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, psychodrama, Internal Family Systems, Transforming Touch, and many more.
(704) 272-2302 View (704) 272-2302
Photo of Wesley Jackson Wade - Forward Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, MA, CCMHC, LCAS, LCMHC, Counselor
Forward Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Counselor, MA, CCMHC, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
We all belong to various systems and support systems, such as family systems; community systems; oppressive capitalistic, racist, patriarchal, and ablest systems; and more. Over the span of our lives these systems take a compounding effect on our mental health and quality of life. Building a career, attaining advanced education, establishing a supportive community of family and friends, all requires us to unpack the role of these systems on our lives. This is how we become out authentic selves.
We all belong to various systems and support systems, such as family systems; community systems; oppressive capitalistic, racist, patriarchal, and ablest systems; and more. Over the span of our lives these systems take a compounding effect on our mental health and quality of life. Building a career, attaining advanced education, establishing a supportive community of family and friends, all requires us to unpack the role of these systems on our lives. This is how we become out authentic selves.
(984) 384-5949 View (984) 384-5949
Photo of Sara Riggs, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Riggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrative approach to individualize therapy, utilizing practices in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Embodied Recovery, DBT, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and Ecotherapy.
Your reasons for seeking therapy are valid. I will approach our work together with a compassionate heart and a non-judgmental mind. I want to help my clients create safety and peace in their bodies and feel connected to their world. I believe in empowering my clients through coping skills rooted in mindfulness and somatic practices, encouraging gentle vulnerability, and helping them identify paths towards Self confidence and embodiment. I use the natural world as a therapy setting and tool; I find it helps those who have felt stuck in the past with classic talk therapy.
I use an integrative approach to individualize therapy, utilizing practices in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Embodied Recovery, DBT, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and Ecotherapy.
Your reasons for seeking therapy are valid. I will approach our work together with a compassionate heart and a non-judgmental mind. I want to help my clients create safety and peace in their bodies and feel connected to their world. I believe in empowering my clients through coping skills rooted in mindfulness and somatic practices, encouraging gentle vulnerability, and helping them identify paths towards Self confidence and embodiment. I use the natural world as a therapy setting and tool; I find it helps those who have felt stuck in the past with classic talk therapy.
(919) 689-4227 View (919) 689-4227
Photo of Wes Swan, LCMHC, NCC, Psychological Associate
Wes Swan
Psychological Associate, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
I use 2 unique and evidence-based form of therapy called Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and "Brainspotting".
Have you been told, "You just need to be more vulnerable." OK, but that's really hard! Face it, life is confusing and can often feel impossible. But working with the right counselor can help. Maybe you feel anxious, unmotivated, or unsure. So, what's the solution? Can you really learn to love yourself, deep down, living from a place of peace and clarity? Counseling helps you learn to live from your truest self. I enjoy helping adults and teenagers who suffer from trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, and more. I welcome folks from all backgrounds who want to discover their negative patterns and create changes that lasts.
I use 2 unique and evidence-based form of therapy called Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and "Brainspotting".
Have you been told, "You just need to be more vulnerable." OK, but that's really hard! Face it, life is confusing and can often feel impossible. But working with the right counselor can help. Maybe you feel anxious, unmotivated, or unsure. So, what's the solution? Can you really learn to love yourself, deep down, living from a place of peace and clarity? Counseling helps you learn to live from your truest self. I enjoy helping adults and teenagers who suffer from trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, and more. I welcome folks from all backgrounds who want to discover their negative patterns and create changes that lasts.
(336) 490-5945 View (336) 490-5945
Photo of Sarah Hastings, LCMHCA, Counselor
Sarah Hastings
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I facilitate an accepting and collaborative environment with a strength-based and internal family systems-informed approach with cognitive-behavioral techniques.
You have already taken the first step by looking into therapy, and I am so glad you're here! Whether this is your first time looking into therapy or you are jumping back in, I would be honored to work with you. Life's obstacles can create a tangled web of emotions: fear, stress, frustration, despair, and more. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, work-life balance, or exploring our identity- sometimes, we need a supportive space to help us navigate these challenges and the emotions that come with them. Therapy provides that safe environment so we can grow from those challenges using evidence-based interventions.
I facilitate an accepting and collaborative environment with a strength-based and internal family systems-informed approach with cognitive-behavioral techniques.
You have already taken the first step by looking into therapy, and I am so glad you're here! Whether this is your first time looking into therapy or you are jumping back in, I would be honored to work with you. Life's obstacles can create a tangled web of emotions: fear, stress, frustration, despair, and more. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, work-life balance, or exploring our identity- sometimes, we need a supportive space to help us navigate these challenges and the emotions that come with them. Therapy provides that safe environment so we can grow from those challenges using evidence-based interventions.
(980) 372-2008 View (980) 372-2008
Photo of Kristen Spell, MA, LCMHC, RPT, NCC
Kristen Spell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358  (Online Only)
I am trained in Internal Family Systems therapy and play therapy.
I am passionate about working with clients with ADHD who are anxious, overwhelmed, and want more out of life. I want to help ADHDers learn how to be connected to their body and improve their relationship with themselves. I work with clients to process their experiences while also sharing realistic tools, skills, and techniques to support anxiety, ADHD, and depression symptoms. During sessions, we may review relationships/attachments, childhood, traumas, family cycles, etc. My goal is to bring awareness to ADHD symptoms, connect clients to appropriate supports, and process emotional responses.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems therapy and play therapy.
I am passionate about working with clients with ADHD who are anxious, overwhelmed, and want more out of life. I want to help ADHDers learn how to be connected to their body and improve their relationship with themselves. I work with clients to process their experiences while also sharing realistic tools, skills, and techniques to support anxiety, ADHD, and depression symptoms. During sessions, we may review relationships/attachments, childhood, traumas, family cycles, etc. My goal is to bring awareness to ADHD symptoms, connect clients to appropriate supports, and process emotional responses.
(980) 243-4083 View (980) 243-4083
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.