Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Rochester, NY
Anahata Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
I’m a holistic therapist and I use EMDR, extensive training and experience in IFS and somatic/ body based therapies.
I love working with high performing and Motivated clients/couples with relationship trauma or other trauma who use therapy as an avenue for healing. If talk therapy hasn't helped you fulfill your goals then my approaches could help. I enjoy helping clients explore relationship patterns that don't serve them. This work requires commitment and motivation to change current patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior. I believe accountability is paramount to change, I provide a safe space. Immediate openings for Trauma Intensives and Couples Intensives with no wait list. This option can save time and be financially helpful.
I’m a holistic therapist and I use EMDR, extensive training and experience in IFS and somatic/ body based therapies.
I love working with high performing and Motivated clients/couples with relationship trauma or other trauma who use therapy as an avenue for healing. If talk therapy hasn't helped you fulfill your goals then my approaches could help. I enjoy helping clients explore relationship patterns that don't serve them. This work requires commitment and motivation to change current patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior. I believe accountability is paramount to change, I provide a safe space. Immediate openings for Trauma Intensives and Couples Intensives with no wait list. This option can save time and be financially helpful.
Emily Luckenbach
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
I often integrate a variety of strengths-based, mindfulness-based, and person-centered approaches, along with Internal Family Systems (IFS), psychodynamic therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I became a therapist because I believe everyone deserves to be heard and validated. I love working with clients to navigate life’s various obstacles and challenges. My experience has been most focused on working with children and teens, ages 5-19, and their families, in addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harm, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other traumas, emotional and behavioral concerns, self-esteem, and relational difficulties. My goal is to create a calm and nurturing therapeutic environment to help my clients feel as safe and comfortable as possible.
I often integrate a variety of strengths-based, mindfulness-based, and person-centered approaches, along with Internal Family Systems (IFS), psychodynamic therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I became a therapist because I believe everyone deserves to be heard and validated. I love working with clients to navigate life’s various obstacles and challenges. My experience has been most focused on working with children and teens, ages 5-19, and their families, in addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harm, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other traumas, emotional and behavioral concerns, self-esteem, and relational difficulties. My goal is to create a calm and nurturing therapeutic environment to help my clients feel as safe and comfortable as possible.
We set the therapeutic container to inquire, identify and reorganize patterns that no longer serve you using IFS, Somatics/ neurobiological techniques, Brainspotting EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
As a body/brain-based therapist, I take an emergent approach to treating historic and intergenerational trauma as we look at personal trauma, knowing that today’s experiences are linked to trauma, resilience and the cultural/economic systems of your ancestors. Without examination of how colonialism, white supremacy, capitalism and heteropatriarchy have impacted you & your lineage, we often feel a lack of value. These oppressive structures have served to separate and disempower most, while stroking fear, isolation, perfectionism, anti-social behaviors and a never ending sense of urgency in the few who benefit.
We set the therapeutic container to inquire, identify and reorganize patterns that no longer serve you using IFS, Somatics/ neurobiological techniques, Brainspotting EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
As a body/brain-based therapist, I take an emergent approach to treating historic and intergenerational trauma as we look at personal trauma, knowing that today’s experiences are linked to trauma, resilience and the cultural/economic systems of your ancestors. Without examination of how colonialism, white supremacy, capitalism and heteropatriarchy have impacted you & your lineage, we often feel a lack of value. These oppressive structures have served to separate and disempower most, while stroking fear, isolation, perfectionism, anti-social behaviors and a never ending sense of urgency in the few who benefit.
Gia Lioi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607 (Online Only)
I incorporate Narrative Therapy, IFS, EMDR, and specialize in Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration Therapy, and Brainspotting.
Did you know one of the most frequently discussed topics in a therapy session is relationships? We are wired to connect. Love and acceptance are needs we strive to experience. But we may lack the ability to communicate our priorities and values and to engage and regulate ourselves during intense conversations. This often leads to stagnation, limited opportunities, and a lack of meaningful connection. Therapy with me can bring clarity through identifying your strengths and developing additional skills to bolster your ability to tap into your greatness.
I incorporate Narrative Therapy, IFS, EMDR, and specialize in Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration Therapy, and Brainspotting.
Did you know one of the most frequently discussed topics in a therapy session is relationships? We are wired to connect. Love and acceptance are needs we strive to experience. But we may lack the ability to communicate our priorities and values and to engage and regulate ourselves during intense conversations. This often leads to stagnation, limited opportunities, and a lack of meaningful connection. Therapy with me can bring clarity through identifying your strengths and developing additional skills to bolster your ability to tap into your greatness.
Kaitlee Derx
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14624 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In my work, I pull from a variety of modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and internal family systems.
You’re here because you want things to be different. Maybe you’re envisioning a version of yourself that’s calm and confident but you’re not sure how to get there. I believe you have the tools to unlock the person you’re striving to be, you just may need a little guidance.
In my work, I pull from a variety of modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and internal family systems.
You’re here because you want things to be different. Maybe you’re envisioning a version of yourself that’s calm and confident but you’re not sure how to get there. I believe you have the tools to unlock the person you’re striving to be, you just may need a little guidance.
We are trained in multiple trauma-specific therapy modalities: EMDR (Certified Therapist & Consultant), AF-EMDR, Ego State Therapy ( IFS-Informed), Clinical Hypnosis, EFT "Tapping", Structural Dissociation Theory, and Polyvagal Theory.
Our bodies are not "one size fits all" so our treatments can't be either. Mindful Psychology is dedicated to providing the right mental health service for each individual who walks through the door. Even if it's not with us. At Mindful Psychology, you can expect a personalized approach, collaborating with your other treatment providers as needed, whether they are psychiatrists and physicians or acupuncturists and chiropractors. We like alternative methods of healing, focusing on how our bodies can best heal ourselves if given the right tools.
We are trained in multiple trauma-specific therapy modalities: EMDR (Certified Therapist & Consultant), AF-EMDR, Ego State Therapy ( IFS-Informed), Clinical Hypnosis, EFT "Tapping", Structural Dissociation Theory, and Polyvagal Theory.
Our bodies are not "one size fits all" so our treatments can't be either. Mindful Psychology is dedicated to providing the right mental health service for each individual who walks through the door. Even if it's not with us. At Mindful Psychology, you can expect a personalized approach, collaborating with your other treatment providers as needed, whether they are psychiatrists and physicians or acupuncturists and chiropractors. We like alternative methods of healing, focusing on how our bodies can best heal ourselves if given the right tools.
Molly K Larkin
Licensed Master Social Worker, RN , LMSW, CLC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14620
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy incorporates mindfulness, nervous system regulation, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and self-inquiry.
Do you feel like it takes everything you've got just to get through the day? Are you so caught up in anxiety, people pleasing, or compulsive behavior that you feel like you've lost yourself? I get it. Being human is hard. But you are so much more than your symptoms and struggles. Incredibly, the things that challenge us the most can be doorways to real and lasting change. Happiness and healing are possible, and it begins with connection and support.
My approach to therapy incorporates mindfulness, nervous system regulation, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and self-inquiry.
Do you feel like it takes everything you've got just to get through the day? Are you so caught up in anxiety, people pleasing, or compulsive behavior that you feel like you've lost yourself? I get it. Being human is hard. But you are so much more than your symptoms and struggles. Incredibly, the things that challenge us the most can be doorways to real and lasting change. Happiness and healing are possible, and it begins with connection and support.
I'm well-versed in IFS, Intergenerational, Relational & Trauma therapies.
Taking care of your mental health is one of the most compassionate things you can do. Expected, even positive life transitions tend to cause some level of stress and resistance. Those stressors can force us to operate in extreme ways causing experiences of fear or uncertainty, dissatisfaction in relationships, or an erratic relationship with food. Most clients I see are high achievers, perfectionists or people pleasers; To the average eye, they appear as though they have everything yet, they are struggling inside. These are people seeking change but are often fearful of what that will entail or where to start.
I'm well-versed in IFS, Intergenerational, Relational & Trauma therapies.
Taking care of your mental health is one of the most compassionate things you can do. Expected, even positive life transitions tend to cause some level of stress and resistance. Those stressors can force us to operate in extreme ways causing experiences of fear or uncertainty, dissatisfaction in relationships, or an erratic relationship with food. Most clients I see are high achievers, perfectionists or people pleasers; To the average eye, they appear as though they have everything yet, they are struggling inside. These are people seeking change but are often fearful of what that will entail or where to start.
Graceful Grit Therapy Svcs/Julie Hofmann, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Waitlist for new clients
I am eclectic in practice but am grounded in methods like CBT, DBT (standard and radically open), EMDR, pain reprocessing therapy (PRT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and IFS informed therapy.
Welcome! Seeking therapy is a wise and adaptive choice that can help you build connection with self and others by enhancing your capacity to face stressful situations, the past, and relationships. Sometimes personal patterns can make it difficult to share and live life in a way that is meaningful and honors your values. In my practice, therapy is a collaborative partnership that helps identify stuck points, builds resilience in the face of adversity, and develops strategies to pursue the life you deserve. The process will guide you to better understand the deeper aspects of yourself.
I am eclectic in practice but am grounded in methods like CBT, DBT (standard and radically open), EMDR, pain reprocessing therapy (PRT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and IFS informed therapy.
Welcome! Seeking therapy is a wise and adaptive choice that can help you build connection with self and others by enhancing your capacity to face stressful situations, the past, and relationships. Sometimes personal patterns can make it difficult to share and live life in a way that is meaningful and honors your values. In my practice, therapy is a collaborative partnership that helps identify stuck points, builds resilience in the face of adversity, and develops strategies to pursue the life you deserve. The process will guide you to better understand the deeper aspects of yourself.
I take a collaborative and insight oriented approach to therapy, utilizing modalities such as internal family systems, narrative therapy, and attachment theory.
Sometimes we end up living our lives based off of other people’s values, expectations, or societal norms rather than figuring out what feels true for us. And before we know it, life can feel like an old sweater that once was cozy, but doesn’t quite fit right anymore. We are growing and changing humans after all! Therapy can be a place where we practice taking off our masks, and discover our own truths. Where we learn about who we are underneath other’s expectations, and in turn strengthen feelings of pleasure, joy, and deepen relationships.
I take a collaborative and insight oriented approach to therapy, utilizing modalities such as internal family systems, narrative therapy, and attachment theory.
Sometimes we end up living our lives based off of other people’s values, expectations, or societal norms rather than figuring out what feels true for us. And before we know it, life can feel like an old sweater that once was cozy, but doesn’t quite fit right anymore. We are growing and changing humans after all! Therapy can be a place where we practice taking off our masks, and discover our own truths. Where we learn about who we are underneath other’s expectations, and in turn strengthen feelings of pleasure, joy, and deepen relationships.
I am experienced in many therapy approaches & techniques including: insight & strength-based approaches, eclectic, IFS, CBT, mindfulness + life coaching, among others.
Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult, and finding a therapist that's right for you is an important step. My therapy style involves, first and foremost, working to help you feel safe and supported as you go through the therapy process. We will work together to identify, understand and then address the issues that are causing you trouble in your life. I specialize in a number of patient concerns including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness and other medical concerns, coping with major life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, women's issues and stress management.
I am experienced in many therapy approaches & techniques including: insight & strength-based approaches, eclectic, IFS, CBT, mindfulness + life coaching, among others.
Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult, and finding a therapist that's right for you is an important step. My therapy style involves, first and foremost, working to help you feel safe and supported as you go through the therapy process. We will work together to identify, understand and then address the issues that are causing you trouble in your life. I specialize in a number of patient concerns including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness and other medical concerns, coping with major life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, women's issues and stress management.
15 Second Videos
Anahata Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Madeleine Quercia
Charlie Health
Aspire Counseling and Coaching by Mary Testa, LMHC
Jen Saul Agnitti
Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couples Workshops/Seminars
The Art of Integration
Shawn Shannon-Missal
Dawn Garber
Jacque Tara Washington
Harvest House Counseling
Kirk Pineda
Shamima Akhter
Alia Healy Cross
Sarah R. Cottone
Erica Tringali
Ross Griswold
Jacob Vecchio
Denise L Hyland
Anastasia Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14642 (Online Only)
I view therapy as finding harmony between accepting what will be, while striving to grow toward what can be. I work with individuals, couples, and families for a variety of presenting concerns including transitional stressors, family systems dynamics, marital/relationship challenges, coping with chronic health conditions, and pain management. Whether you are working through a life transition, having difficulty communicating with your partner, or struggling to cope with chronic pain, I can offer a space of exploration, collaboration, and guidance.
I view therapy as finding harmony between accepting what will be, while striving to grow toward what can be. I work with individuals, couples, and families for a variety of presenting concerns including transitional stressors, family systems dynamics, marital/relationship challenges, coping with chronic health conditions, and pain management. Whether you are working through a life transition, having difficulty communicating with your partner, or struggling to cope with chronic pain, I can offer a space of exploration, collaboration, and guidance.
Using an IFS evidence-based approach provides clients with inner resources to sustain them well beyond the therapist's office.
"History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived; however, if faced with courage, need not be lived again". Facing pain and brokenness of the deepest kind requires amazing strength and courage! Counseling is a unique opportunity to connect w/ the overwhelming issues that can block one's most earnest efforts to "do it differently this time". I'd consider it an honor to work with you as you come to understand your story--whether anxiety, discouragement, addictions, relationships. I look forward to collaborating with you in this challenging, yet rewarding work, as you move toward freedom from any concern that holds you back.
Using an IFS evidence-based approach provides clients with inner resources to sustain them well beyond the therapist's office.
"History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived; however, if faced with courage, need not be lived again". Facing pain and brokenness of the deepest kind requires amazing strength and courage! Counseling is a unique opportunity to connect w/ the overwhelming issues that can block one's most earnest efforts to "do it differently this time". I'd consider it an honor to work with you as you come to understand your story--whether anxiety, discouragement, addictions, relationships. I look forward to collaborating with you in this challenging, yet rewarding work, as you move toward freedom from any concern that holds you back.
I also regularly integrate Schema-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic therapies into my work with clients.
I'm not currently accepting new clients; however, I'm happy to refer to another clinician with openings at my trauma-focused group practice, Sustainable Wellness. I believe we all have the potential to better ourselves, and that growth occurs while exploring the root causes of issues - not just treating symptoms. I have a holistic approach, treating the entire person rather than a disorder or specific hardship. I view my clients as experts on their own lives and my role as the facilitator of change. I help address my clients' struggles while, equally importantly, maintaining areas of strength.
I also regularly integrate Schema-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic therapies into my work with clients.
I'm not currently accepting new clients; however, I'm happy to refer to another clinician with openings at my trauma-focused group practice, Sustainable Wellness. I believe we all have the potential to better ourselves, and that growth occurs while exploring the root causes of issues - not just treating symptoms. I have a holistic approach, treating the entire person rather than a disorder or specific hardship. I view my clients as experts on their own lives and my role as the facilitator of change. I help address my clients' struggles while, equally importantly, maintaining areas of strength.
Lorrie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
EMDR, IFS and Brainspotting relieve and desensitize painful memories, promoting repair and disrupting negative beliefs connected to past experiences and trauma.
Hi, I am really glad you stopped by. Are you struggling with the direction your life is going? Or are your symptoms keeping you from healthy relationships, excelling at work, or living life to the fullest? Well, change is possible no matter how difficult things feel. You can cultivate the life you want and deserve by engaging in strength based, compassionate, solution-focused healing. I specialize in attachment wounds, dissociation, and trauma intervention. My passion is in neuroscience; I’m trained in Ketamine, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Schema, DBT, EMDR and Gottman. I see couples, individuals and facilitate groups.
EMDR, IFS and Brainspotting relieve and desensitize painful memories, promoting repair and disrupting negative beliefs connected to past experiences and trauma.
Hi, I am really glad you stopped by. Are you struggling with the direction your life is going? Or are your symptoms keeping you from healthy relationships, excelling at work, or living life to the fullest? Well, change is possible no matter how difficult things feel. You can cultivate the life you want and deserve by engaging in strength based, compassionate, solution-focused healing. I specialize in attachment wounds, dissociation, and trauma intervention. My passion is in neuroscience; I’m trained in Ketamine, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Schema, DBT, EMDR and Gottman. I see couples, individuals and facilitate groups.
Madeleine Quercia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14610 (Online Only)
I am Tier 1 Certified in Internal Family Systems Therapy, an evidenced-based and trauma-informed therapeutic modality.
You’re a millennial woman trying to juggle it all… relationships, career, family life, etc. You may feel burned out or find yourself in a “quarter life crisis.” Does this sound like you? If you’re looking to gain a little more clarity, find a little more peace, carve out time for yourself, I would be honored to work with you. If you’re feeling motivated to dive a little deeper and build a stronger relationship with yourself, you’ve found the therapist for you. While I work with a variety of people with a myriad of challenges, my passion is working with 20-something and 30-something women.
I am Tier 1 Certified in Internal Family Systems Therapy, an evidenced-based and trauma-informed therapeutic modality.
You’re a millennial woman trying to juggle it all… relationships, career, family life, etc. You may feel burned out or find yourself in a “quarter life crisis.” Does this sound like you? If you’re looking to gain a little more clarity, find a little more peace, carve out time for yourself, I would be honored to work with you. If you’re feeling motivated to dive a little deeper and build a stronger relationship with yourself, you’ve found the therapist for you. While I work with a variety of people with a myriad of challenges, my passion is working with 20-something and 30-something women.
Minna Ecker Levenkron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14609 (Online Only)
I primarily deal with the current issues that a client is coming into therapy for. I want to know if they were in therapy before and why. I primarily deal with a Family Systems Approach and due to that will be interest in the clients background and their family history. I will focus on current and past stressors and any traumatic experiences that the client identifies either currently or from children. I am currently only providing online services. I currently have openings and can schedule an appointment within several days of being contacted online or via my telephone number at 506-9620.
I primarily deal with the current issues that a client is coming into therapy for. I want to know if they were in therapy before and why. I primarily deal with a Family Systems Approach and due to that will be interest in the clients background and their family history. I will focus on current and past stressors and any traumatic experiences that the client identifies either currently or from children. I am currently only providing online services. I currently have openings and can schedule an appointment within several days of being contacted online or via my telephone number at 506-9620.
I use IFS, an evidenced based approach to harness the mind’s ability to change, heal, and transform.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-worth, a tough inner critic, or preoccupied with unwanted urges, thoughts or behaviors, I'm here to help. I will assist you in getting to know yourself better and transform the parts of you that are currently getting in the way of your happiness and aspirations for a better life. Let's work together to relieve your fears, insecurities, depression, anxiety, and intimacy issues. In addition, I am certified to help those struggling with the disruptive impact of sex & pornography addiction and betrayal trauma. This too can be healed for both you and your partner.
I use IFS, an evidenced based approach to harness the mind’s ability to change, heal, and transform.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-worth, a tough inner critic, or preoccupied with unwanted urges, thoughts or behaviors, I'm here to help. I will assist you in getting to know yourself better and transform the parts of you that are currently getting in the way of your happiness and aspirations for a better life. Let's work together to relieve your fears, insecurities, depression, anxiety, and intimacy issues. In addition, I am certified to help those struggling with the disruptive impact of sex & pornography addiction and betrayal trauma. This too can be healed for both you and your partner.
Sustainable Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
have training in and regularly integrate modalities including CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Schema-Focused Therapy, DBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic work, and Brainspotting.
Sustainable Wellness is a trauma-based therapy and wellness practice focused on providing a holistic approach to healing. We offer specialized mental health services for PTSD and other trauma disorders, along with trauma-informed care for communities exposed to high levels of chronic stressors. We're passionate about resolving and healing attachment wounds while striving to create a therapeutic environment based in trust and authenticity. We work closely with clients to help them feel more comfortable in their bodies and more connected to the moment in order to build self-compassion and move toward healing.
have training in and regularly integrate modalities including CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Schema-Focused Therapy, DBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic work, and Brainspotting.
Sustainable Wellness is a trauma-based therapy and wellness practice focused on providing a holistic approach to healing. We offer specialized mental health services for PTSD and other trauma disorders, along with trauma-informed care for communities exposed to high levels of chronic stressors. We're passionate about resolving and healing attachment wounds while striving to create a therapeutic environment based in trust and authenticity. We work closely with clients to help them feel more comfortable in their bodies and more connected to the moment in order to build self-compassion and move toward healing.
Eva Grove
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with kids (8+), teens, and adults, using a combination of CBT, REBT, Narrative Therapy, IFS/parts work, Schema Therapy, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy in my work with clients.
When a person is struggling, I look at the big picture, not just "problems" or "symptoms." Through a strengths-based perspective, I try to see how the problem areas came to be, formulate a plan to address concerns, and actively teach skills to foster change. Through this lens, I have successfully worked with kids (as young as 5), teens, and young adults to address depression, anxiety, self-harm, OCD, ADHD, and other behavioral and emotional disturbances.
I specialize in working with kids (8+), teens, and adults, using a combination of CBT, REBT, Narrative Therapy, IFS/parts work, Schema Therapy, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy in my work with clients.
When a person is struggling, I look at the big picture, not just "problems" or "symptoms." Through a strengths-based perspective, I try to see how the problem areas came to be, formulate a plan to address concerns, and actively teach skills to foster change. Through this lens, I have successfully worked with kids (as young as 5), teens, and young adults to address depression, anxiety, self-harm, OCD, ADHD, and other behavioral and emotional disturbances.
See more therapy options for Rochester
Nearby Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists Searches for Rochester
- Batavia
- Brighton
- Brockport
- Canandaigua
- East Rochester
- Fairport
- Greece
- Ontario
- Penfield
- Pittsford
- Victor
- Webster
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.