Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Hastings on Hudson, NY

Photo of Monica Rickenberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Rickenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hastings on Hudson, NY 10706  (Online Only)
I draw on my training in experiential, emotional, body based approaches (AEDP and IFS), as well as CBT.
I help people see and appreciate their strengths. When we are compassionate with ourselves, we discover that even aspects of our personalities that get in our way have developed for good reasons. This understanding tends to quiet our self-criticism, opening the door for creative problem-solving and growth. As Carl Rogers famously said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
I draw on my training in experiential, emotional, body based approaches (AEDP and IFS), as well as CBT.
I help people see and appreciate their strengths. When we are compassionate with ourselves, we discover that even aspects of our personalities that get in our way have developed for good reasons. This understanding tends to quiet our self-criticism, opening the door for creative problem-solving and growth. As Carl Rogers famously said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
(914) 673-1918 View (914) 673-1918
Photo of Jessica A. Rose, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica A. Rose
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hastings on Hudson, NY 10706  (Online Only)
I work with people experiencing discomfort and dysregulation across a wide spectrum of issues ranging from anxiety to attachment ruptures, from relationship issues to sexual boundary violations, and from imposter syndrome to perfectionism. Our work will harness discernment and curiosity as we uncover the root causes of imbalance, finding our way to deep understanding and compassion & thus healing. I utilize a holistic and integrative approach that traverses contemporary psychodynamic therapy, attachment therapy, Somatic Experiencing, harm reduction, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and internal family systems work.
I work with people experiencing discomfort and dysregulation across a wide spectrum of issues ranging from anxiety to attachment ruptures, from relationship issues to sexual boundary violations, and from imposter syndrome to perfectionism. Our work will harness discernment and curiosity as we uncover the root causes of imbalance, finding our way to deep understanding and compassion & thus healing. I utilize a holistic and integrative approach that traverses contemporary psychodynamic therapy, attachment therapy, Somatic Experiencing, harm reduction, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and internal family systems work.
(332) 378-5569 View (332) 378-5569
Photo of Elizabeth Crossfield, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Crossfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hastings on Hudson, NY 10706
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained specifically as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained specifically as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
(914) 430-0949 View (914) 430-0949
Photo of Mitch Lisa - Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couple Workshop/Specialist, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couple Workshop/Specialist
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Hastings on Hudson, NY 10706
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(914) 483-5470 View (914) 483-5470
Photo of Emily Rentas, LMHC
Emily Rentas
LMHC
Verified Verified
Hastings on Hudson, NY 10706  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help individuals seeking guidance through life's challenges. Whether feeling stuck, burnt-out, or facing hopelessness, I offer a unique opportunity for personal growth. Together, we navigate the unexpected, turning challenges into valuable lessons on the path to resilience and self-discovery.
I help individuals seeking guidance through life's challenges. Whether feeling stuck, burnt-out, or facing hopelessness, I offer a unique opportunity for personal growth. Together, we navigate the unexpected, turning challenges into valuable lessons on the path to resilience and self-discovery.
(914) 219-6996 View (914) 219-6996
Photo of Tina M Reiser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina M Reiser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hastings on Hudson, NY 10706
Not accepting new clients
My approach is primarily psychodynamic but I individualize by also using my experience with CBT, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS (understanding the different parts of you that are often in conflict) when these will help you reach your goals.
Though people can share similar life experiences the impact of these experiences is unique to each individual. Together we will help you gain insights to how your unique early relationships and experiences are informing your current relationships, feelings, thoughts and behaviors. We will focus on understanding your difficulties, how you protect yourself from painful feelings and how this might be interfering with your relationships and enjoyment of life. We will identify your strengths to guide you towards new ways of coping with stressors and reducing your anxiety and depression. Most importantly you will learn self-compassion.
My approach is primarily psychodynamic but I individualize by also using my experience with CBT, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS (understanding the different parts of you that are often in conflict) when these will help you reach your goals.
Though people can share similar life experiences the impact of these experiences is unique to each individual. Together we will help you gain insights to how your unique early relationships and experiences are informing your current relationships, feelings, thoughts and behaviors. We will focus on understanding your difficulties, how you protect yourself from painful feelings and how this might be interfering with your relationships and enjoyment of life. We will identify your strengths to guide you towards new ways of coping with stressors and reducing your anxiety and depression. Most importantly you will learn self-compassion.
(914) 477-2260 View (914) 477-2260

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of LeAnn Knapp, LCSW-R, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LeAnn Knapp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma work and utilize both EMDR and Internal Family Systems to help people heal past and present traumas.
Congratulations! Taking this first step onto your path of healing and happiness is not always an easy one. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, compassionate environment to help you navigate the ups and downs life can throw your way. I have over 11 years experience as an LCSW-R providing therapy to individuals looking to create changes and cultivate happiness in their lives. I know how hard this first step can be in your healing journey and I hope that together we can develop a therapeutic relationship that helps you achieve your short and long term goals.
I specialize in trauma work and utilize both EMDR and Internal Family Systems to help people heal past and present traumas.
Congratulations! Taking this first step onto your path of healing and happiness is not always an easy one. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, compassionate environment to help you navigate the ups and downs life can throw your way. I have over 11 years experience as an LCSW-R providing therapy to individuals looking to create changes and cultivate happiness in their lives. I know how hard this first step can be in your healing journey and I hope that together we can develop a therapeutic relationship that helps you achieve your short and long term goals.
(914) 829-3282 View (914) 829-3282
Photo of Sejginha Williams-Abaku - Personal Life Wellness Marriage and Family Therapy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Personal Life Wellness Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Yonkers, NY 10710
My approach is supported by theories of narrative, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, emotionally-focused, and IFS therapy.
If you're seeking a therapist who understands the importance of finding the right fit and is dedicated to helping you make significant changes in your life and relationships, you've come to the right place. As an experienced therapist, I specialize in empowering my clients to take action and create meaningful transformations. Clients describe me as compassionate, insightful, and empowering, valuing the safe environment I create for them to explore their challenges. With extensive training in the latest therapeutic techniques and methodologies, I bring a wealth of knowledge to our sessions.
My approach is supported by theories of narrative, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, emotionally-focused, and IFS therapy.
If you're seeking a therapist who understands the importance of finding the right fit and is dedicated to helping you make significant changes in your life and relationships, you've come to the right place. As an experienced therapist, I specialize in empowering my clients to take action and create meaningful transformations. Clients describe me as compassionate, insightful, and empowering, valuing the safe environment I create for them to explore their challenges. With extensive training in the latest therapeutic techniques and methodologies, I bring a wealth of knowledge to our sessions.
(914) 984-4598 View (914) 984-4598
Photo of Claudia Krugovoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Krugovoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
As an Internal Family Systems therapist, I help you to become in deeper relationship to all the parts that make up who you are.
Psychotherapy can help you to develop greater self awareness, deepen connections with others, and create a personally meaningful life. I see myself as a concerned and nonjudgmental partner in this process. I try to foster an atmosphere of safety in which you experience a sense of freedom to think and feel. Maybe you are having trouble adjusting to a new change or are feeling stuck; perhaps you repeatedly find yourself in unhappy relationships or conflicts at work and struggle with low self-esteem. It may be that your familiar assumptions and modes of behaving, which originally developed out of need, are no longer working for you.
As an Internal Family Systems therapist, I help you to become in deeper relationship to all the parts that make up who you are.
Psychotherapy can help you to develop greater self awareness, deepen connections with others, and create a personally meaningful life. I see myself as a concerned and nonjudgmental partner in this process. I try to foster an atmosphere of safety in which you experience a sense of freedom to think and feel. Maybe you are having trouble adjusting to a new change or are feeling stuck; perhaps you repeatedly find yourself in unhappy relationships or conflicts at work and struggle with low self-esteem. It may be that your familiar assumptions and modes of behaving, which originally developed out of need, are no longer working for you.
(646) 351-1653 View (646) 351-1653
Photo of Allie Fuller, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allie Fuller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10060  (Online Only)
I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, drawing from evidence-based modalities like DBT, CBT, IFS, REBT, and EMDR.
I work best with clients who are prepared to do the work that comes with true healing and self-growth. Our partnership will be collaborative, and it will be in your power to identify our goals for therapy, prioritize where we start, and to redirect the process if you feel something needs to change.
I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, drawing from evidence-based modalities like DBT, CBT, IFS, REBT, and EMDR.
I work best with clients who are prepared to do the work that comes with true healing and self-growth. Our partnership will be collaborative, and it will be in your power to identify our goals for therapy, prioritize where we start, and to redirect the process if you feel something needs to change.
(929) 264-5102 View (929) 264-5102
Photo of Dr. Marissa Alexander, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Marissa Alexander
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
My approach is rooted in compassion, insight, and evidence-based techniques, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), designed to empower you to reconnect with yourself, build healthier relationships, and find joy in your everyday life.
Feeling overwhelmed & dysregulated, stuck in unsatisfying relationships and unsure how to break free? I am a licensed psychologist & relationship specialist with almost 20 years of experience helping people improve their relationships, alleviate anxiety, and create a greater sense of meaning in their lives. Together, we'll develop practical solutions & build emotional regulation skills that will help you feel more fulfilled and better equipped to handle life's challenges.
My approach is rooted in compassion, insight, and evidence-based techniques, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), designed to empower you to reconnect with yourself, build healthier relationships, and find joy in your everyday life.
Feeling overwhelmed & dysregulated, stuck in unsatisfying relationships and unsure how to break free? I am a licensed psychologist & relationship specialist with almost 20 years of experience helping people improve their relationships, alleviate anxiety, and create a greater sense of meaning in their lives. Together, we'll develop practical solutions & build emotional regulation skills that will help you feel more fulfilled and better equipped to handle life's challenges.
(845) 237-3745 View (845) 237-3745
Photo of Diane Cleary, LCSW-R, ACSW, CATP, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Cleary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, ACSW, CATP, CTP
Verified Verified
Palisades, NY 10964  (Online Only)
I offer a variety of evidence-based therapies such as CBT, IFS, EFT (Tapping), and EMDR.
I know how difficult it can be to reach out for help, and you may have some mixed emotions about it. I am here to join you on this journey, you will not be alone! I am a caring, energetic, and non-judgemental therapist and my goal is to help you explore and manage difficult emotions and issues in your life in healthier ways. Building a trusting and therapeutic relationship with my clients is paramount to the treatment process. Through my own personal life/ professional experiences and training, I have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that I will use to work with you so that you can find more joy and peace in your life.
I offer a variety of evidence-based therapies such as CBT, IFS, EFT (Tapping), and EMDR.
I know how difficult it can be to reach out for help, and you may have some mixed emotions about it. I am here to join you on this journey, you will not be alone! I am a caring, energetic, and non-judgemental therapist and my goal is to help you explore and manage difficult emotions and issues in your life in healthier ways. Building a trusting and therapeutic relationship with my clients is paramount to the treatment process. Through my own personal life/ professional experiences and training, I have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that I will use to work with you so that you can find more joy and peace in your life.
(845) 407-9629 View (845) 407-9629
Photo of Robin Friedman, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ardsley, NY 10502
In my practice, I help individuals move through some of the most difficult moments in their lives the strong emotional tides and automatic responses that are often inherent to any unexpected life change, or past traumatic experiences. Our everyday responses to stress - anxiety, anger, irritability, bouts of depression, or fatigue and the effectiveness of our ability to cope with current stressors are often related to painful past experiences, some recent and some from long ago. My practice is dedicated to offering individuals the supports necessary to navigate through pain from our past to a place of resiliency.
In my practice, I help individuals move through some of the most difficult moments in their lives the strong emotional tides and automatic responses that are often inherent to any unexpected life change, or past traumatic experiences. Our everyday responses to stress - anxiety, anger, irritability, bouts of depression, or fatigue and the effectiveness of our ability to cope with current stressors are often related to painful past experiences, some recent and some from long ago. My practice is dedicated to offering individuals the supports necessary to navigate through pain from our past to a place of resiliency.
(914) 288-6248 View (914) 288-6248
Photo of Laura Jean Solomon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Jean Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ardsley, NY 10502  (Online Only)
Hi. My Name is Laura Solomon. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing for 20 years. I also have a Master’s in Social Science and graduated from both the University of Albany and Binghamton University. I have worked with a wide range of clients including addiction, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, codependency, grief, and family issues to name a few. I believe in meeting people where they are at yet also healthily challenging them for growth purposes. I have worked with clients in person as well as virtually.
Hi. My Name is Laura Solomon. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing for 20 years. I also have a Master’s in Social Science and graduated from both the University of Albany and Binghamton University. I have worked with a wide range of clients including addiction, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, codependency, grief, and family issues to name a few. I believe in meeting people where they are at yet also healthily challenging them for growth purposes. I have worked with clients in person as well as virtually.
(646) 466-6650 View (646) 466-6650
Photo of Iris Warren Henry, PhD, Psychologist
Iris Warren Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
If you're feeling down, anxious, or overwhelmed, it may be because managing the day-to-day minutiae of our busy schedules often leaves little space to register our emotional experiences until they hit a fever pitch. Although many of us adapt by pushing the pain into the background much of the time, these hidden disappointments, hurts, and resentments don't disappear; they grow and can fester. Creating a safe place to process this pain is vital, and can free us to realize and accomplish our goals.
If you're feeling down, anxious, or overwhelmed, it may be because managing the day-to-day minutiae of our busy schedules often leaves little space to register our emotional experiences until they hit a fever pitch. Although many of us adapt by pushing the pain into the background much of the time, these hidden disappointments, hurts, and resentments don't disappear; they grow and can fester. Creating a safe place to process this pain is vital, and can free us to realize and accomplish our goals.
(917) 525-4912 View (917) 525-4912
Photo of Janice Korenblatt, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Korenblatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Ardsley, NY 10502
Are you feeling stuck? Do you want to create changes in your life, but don't know how? Are you struggling with a work or relationship issue? I am dedicated to help you develop strategies to increase your self awareness and promote positive lifestyle changes. I am a licensed therapist who believes that every person has strengths and resources to make significant changes in their lives.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you want to create changes in your life, but don't know how? Are you struggling with a work or relationship issue? I am dedicated to help you develop strategies to increase your self awareness and promote positive lifestyle changes. I am a licensed therapist who believes that every person has strengths and resources to make significant changes in their lives.
(914) 281-2487 View (914) 281-2487
Photo of Mira Tassone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mira Tassone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yonkers, NY 10710  (Online Only)
Are you ready to learn to be more confident and assertive in your life? Do you describe yourself as a “people pleaser?” Have difficulty saying “no” and often putting others first? Do you neglect your own needs, have difficulty setting healthy boundaries, and end up feeling guilty, depressed and anxious? Are negative thoughts keeping you up at night? If you answered “yes” to these questions, then you are ready to find your voice, and reclaim your personal power. You’ve decided that it’s finally time to make a positive change in your life.
Are you ready to learn to be more confident and assertive in your life? Do you describe yourself as a “people pleaser?” Have difficulty saying “no” and often putting others first? Do you neglect your own needs, have difficulty setting healthy boundaries, and end up feeling guilty, depressed and anxious? Are negative thoughts keeping you up at night? If you answered “yes” to these questions, then you are ready to find your voice, and reclaim your personal power. You’ve decided that it’s finally time to make a positive change in your life.
(845) 237-3912 View (845) 237-3912
Photo of Cynthia Ledesma, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Ledesma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yonkers, NY 10710  (Online Only)
Not feeling like yourself ? Are you going through something and need someone to talk to? Life can come at you hard and I understand what it feels like to have so many different thoughts, feelings & emotions running through your body. How do you manage? Do you try and talk it out with others, but they don’t seem to listen or understand? Or maybe you don’t have anyone to talk to, so you just keep it to yourself? If this resonates with you, I can help. I am here to meet you where you are, create a space in which you feel heard, supported and empowered, as I help you get to the next chapter in your life
Not feeling like yourself ? Are you going through something and need someone to talk to? Life can come at you hard and I understand what it feels like to have so many different thoughts, feelings & emotions running through your body. How do you manage? Do you try and talk it out with others, but they don’t seem to listen or understand? Or maybe you don’t have anyone to talk to, so you just keep it to yourself? If this resonates with you, I can help. I am here to meet you where you are, create a space in which you feel heard, supported and empowered, as I help you get to the next chapter in your life
(914) 915-8128 View (914) 915-8128
Photo of Hannah Rumpf, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Rumpf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522  (Online Only)
Welcome! Everyone goes through challenges at some point in their lives, and we all need support in difficult times. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, injury, trauma, or other challenges, therapy can provide the tools you need for renewed hope, healing, and transformation. I believe in a therapeutic relationship grounded in kindness, trust, and empathy. During our sessions, I will listen deeply and non-judgmentally to your unique experience. Our relationship can be the catalyst for positive change in your life.
Welcome! Everyone goes through challenges at some point in their lives, and we all need support in difficult times. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, injury, trauma, or other challenges, therapy can provide the tools you need for renewed hope, healing, and transformation. I believe in a therapeutic relationship grounded in kindness, trust, and empathy. During our sessions, I will listen deeply and non-judgmentally to your unique experience. Our relationship can be the catalyst for positive change in your life.
(607) 564-4328 View (607) 564-4328
Photo of Mitch Lisa - Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couple Workshop/Specialist, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couple Workshop/Specialist
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Yonkers, NY 10710
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(914) 430-0792 View (914) 430-0792

See more therapy options for Hastings on Hudson

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.