Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Tigard, OR

Photo of Haley Brotzman
Haley Brotzman
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
I help facilitate this through multiple trauma-informed, somatic, and relational lenses like EMDR, Attachment theory, and IFS/Parts work.
I am passionate about working with folks highly motivated to grow and create positive change in their lives by breaking cycles of abuse and trauma. Clients of mine have described themselves as “too self-aware for therapy” or an “intellectualizer,” often due to the intersection of neurodivergence (ADHD/Autism) and complex trauma.
I help facilitate this through multiple trauma-informed, somatic, and relational lenses like EMDR, Attachment theory, and IFS/Parts work.
I am passionate about working with folks highly motivated to grow and create positive change in their lives by breaking cycles of abuse and trauma. Clients of mine have described themselves as “too self-aware for therapy” or an “intellectualizer,” often due to the intersection of neurodivergence (ADHD/Autism) and complex trauma.
(503) 461-1625 View (503) 461-1625
Photo of Danielle Biegler, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Biegler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I like to work with IFS or internal Family systems as well.
Excited. Persistent. Results oriented and good sense of humor. That's me! You’re not alone when you say, “I really don’t want to get out of bed today, just a little while longer,” as you pull the covers over your head. Today feels gray, you feel overwhelmed, even numb and the nagging “duties” of the day pull at your attention, one after another. You want to scream and hide under a rock to make it all go away for a minute, but you open your eyes to see the list of “should’s” just get longer. And worse yet, you feel alone in all of it.
I like to work with IFS or internal Family systems as well.
Excited. Persistent. Results oriented and good sense of humor. That's me! You’re not alone when you say, “I really don’t want to get out of bed today, just a little while longer,” as you pull the covers over your head. Today feels gray, you feel overwhelmed, even numb and the nagging “duties” of the day pull at your attention, one after another. You want to scream and hide under a rock to make it all go away for a minute, but you open your eyes to see the list of “should’s” just get longer. And worse yet, you feel alone in all of it.
(503) 852-2516 View (503) 852-2516
Photo of Melinda Arnold, MA, LPC, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I use treatments theories such as Internal Family Systems, Attachment, and Developmental in conjunction with AEDP, Gestalt, interpersonal, CBT, EMDR and Solution-Focused Brief therapy techniques to treat the emotional and relational issues listed above.
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
I use treatments theories such as Internal Family Systems, Attachment, and Developmental in conjunction with AEDP, Gestalt, interpersonal, CBT, EMDR and Solution-Focused Brief therapy techniques to treat the emotional and relational issues listed above.
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
(503) 406-8848 View (503) 406-8848
Photo of Aaron K Potratz, LPC, MA, NCC, CCTP, CADC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aaron K Potratz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC, CCTP, CADC-I
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I utilize, among others, emotionally-focused and internal family systems approaches.
I believe that people are generally capable of overcoming obstacles in their lives, but sometimes they need help with finding the right tools. I provide hope, encouragement, insight, and guidance so that my clients can find their path to happiness. My goal for clients is to help them become more effective, insightful, self-confident, and successful at overcoming future hurdles in their own lives and in their relationships.
I utilize, among others, emotionally-focused and internal family systems approaches.
I believe that people are generally capable of overcoming obstacles in their lives, but sometimes they need help with finding the right tools. I provide hope, encouragement, insight, and guidance so that my clients can find their path to happiness. My goal for clients is to help them become more effective, insightful, self-confident, and successful at overcoming future hurdles in their own lives and in their relationships.
(971) 236-4080 View (971) 236-4080
Photo of Vicki Templeton, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Vicki Templeton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97224
I have advanced training in Gottman Method Couple's Therapy, Restoration Therapy, IFS and depression.
I am passionate about working with young adults and women. I have worked with a variety of clients, many of whom are experiencing a loss of trust, stability, love or hope in their lives, and are trying to find a place of safety and healing. Finding a therapist you connect with is crucial to your journey. I believe in the power of a great connection and strive to create a space where each person feels heard and valued on their unique path to wellness. My style is warm, thoughtful and calm. I combine it with a direct approach of finding ways to help you navigate a healthier and happier way of being in the world.
I have advanced training in Gottman Method Couple's Therapy, Restoration Therapy, IFS and depression.
I am passionate about working with young adults and women. I have worked with a variety of clients, many of whom are experiencing a loss of trust, stability, love or hope in their lives, and are trying to find a place of safety and healing. Finding a therapist you connect with is crucial to your journey. I believe in the power of a great connection and strive to create a space where each person feels heard and valued on their unique path to wellness. My style is warm, thoughtful and calm. I combine it with a direct approach of finding ways to help you navigate a healthier and happier way of being in the world.
(971) 328-4165 View (971) 328-4165
Photo of Taryn Holm, Pre-Licensed Professional
Taryn Holm
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224
I integrate restoration therapy, internal family systems, and interpersonal neurobiology.
Hey, I’m Taryn! I believe that holding a space for individuals to reconnect and heal the relationship with themselves is one of the most beautiful aspects of therapy. In my experience, therapy is a mixture of cultivating inner love, deconstructing shame, and allowing all emotions to exist without judgment. Laughter and tears are welcome too :)
I integrate restoration therapy, internal family systems, and interpersonal neurobiology.
Hey, I’m Taryn! I believe that holding a space for individuals to reconnect and heal the relationship with themselves is one of the most beautiful aspects of therapy. In my experience, therapy is a mixture of cultivating inner love, deconstructing shame, and allowing all emotions to exist without judgment. Laughter and tears are welcome too :)
(971) 320-7467 View (971) 320-7467
Photo of Libby Gregory, Pre-Licensed Professional
Libby Gregory
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I use various modalities including Narrative Therapy, IFS, Somatic, and Emotion Focused Therapy to customize the healing process for each client.
I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating and trying to understand their challenges and relationship to Autism, ADHD, trauma, anxiety, self esteem issues, or, not uncommonly, a combination of the listed. I also enjoy working with a large range of individuals, as I believe each person holds so much value with their unique experience. I also work within other topics such as narcissism, spirituality, LGBTQIA+, life transitions, attachment, and inner child work.
I use various modalities including Narrative Therapy, IFS, Somatic, and Emotion Focused Therapy to customize the healing process for each client.
I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating and trying to understand their challenges and relationship to Autism, ADHD, trauma, anxiety, self esteem issues, or, not uncommonly, a combination of the listed. I also enjoy working with a large range of individuals, as I believe each person holds so much value with their unique experience. I also work within other topics such as narcissism, spirituality, LGBTQIA+, life transitions, attachment, and inner child work.
(971) 318-6314 View (971) 318-6314
Photo of McKayla Dulski, LPCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
McKayla Dulski
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
In therapy, I firmly believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual client, couple, or family. I take into consideration your personal beliefs about therapy, as well as the specific issues you are facing. Some of the theories I have worked with include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Family Systems Approach, and Solution Focused Therapy.
In therapy, I firmly believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual client, couple, or family. I take into consideration your personal beliefs about therapy, as well as the specific issues you are facing. Some of the theories I have worked with include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Family Systems Approach, and Solution Focused Therapy.
(503) 548-4381 View (503) 548-4381
Photo of Sarah Felsted, MA
Sarah Felsted
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
With IFS, I help each client identify parts of self that need understanding, compassion, and healing.
Is your teenager extra moody? Are you and your partner at an impasse and don't know how to move on?I look at issues through the lens of relationships: we impact those around us and they impact us. I believe that we all want and need connection, but relationships and life can make us feel disconnected and hurt. Using EMDR and IFS, I help individuals build a healthy self image and develop coping strategies to handle anxiety and depression. With couples and families, I use restoration therapy to go to the heart of the problem by looking at the emotions that we feel when we are in conflict and define the cycles that we get trapped in.
With IFS, I help each client identify parts of self that need understanding, compassion, and healing.
Is your teenager extra moody? Are you and your partner at an impasse and don't know how to move on?I look at issues through the lens of relationships: we impact those around us and they impact us. I believe that we all want and need connection, but relationships and life can make us feel disconnected and hurt. Using EMDR and IFS, I help individuals build a healthy self image and develop coping strategies to handle anxiety and depression. With couples and families, I use restoration therapy to go to the heart of the problem by looking at the emotions that we feel when we are in conflict and define the cycles that we get trapped in.
(503) 852-9304 View (503) 852-9304
Photo of Kierra Baretich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kierra Baretich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
Some of the modalities you’ll see in session with me include traditional talk therapy (in the form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, primarily) while others dive into resources beyond what words can offer (utilizing tools such as mindfulness skills, internal family systems/parts work, etc.
I am passionate about working with people just like you; those looking for help. Though I work with clients of all backgrounds, I attest to the Christian faith and have a deep passion for working with Christian individuals who are looking to integrate their spirituality into their healing journey. I believe and have found that deep healing work is best achieved when we invite the spirit into (and even leading) the process. I also have expertise in working with individuals looking to recover from relational abuse, be that familial, work related, or from a romantic partner.
Some of the modalities you’ll see in session with me include traditional talk therapy (in the form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, primarily) while others dive into resources beyond what words can offer (utilizing tools such as mindfulness skills, internal family systems/parts work, etc.
I am passionate about working with people just like you; those looking for help. Though I work with clients of all backgrounds, I attest to the Christian faith and have a deep passion for working with Christian individuals who are looking to integrate their spirituality into their healing journey. I believe and have found that deep healing work is best achieved when we invite the spirit into (and even leading) the process. I also have expertise in working with individuals looking to recover from relational abuse, be that familial, work related, or from a romantic partner.
(503) 563-3221 View (503) 563-3221
Photo of Stacie Giese, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stacie Giese
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a collaborative, client-centered approach incorporating elements of Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, neuroscience, mindfulness techniques, and creativity to find a framework for therapy which works for each client.
My ideal client is someone experiencing disconnection from their authentic self or is trying to unmask. They might be experiencing anxiety, depression, or emotional triggers related to past traumas with which they are struggling. Perhaps they are interested in understanding more about their neurodivergence and ways to build supportive systems to address symptoms. I am honored to help with navigating questions of identity, gender, sexuality, and building relationships with oneself and others.
I offer a collaborative, client-centered approach incorporating elements of Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, neuroscience, mindfulness techniques, and creativity to find a framework for therapy which works for each client.
My ideal client is someone experiencing disconnection from their authentic self or is trying to unmask. They might be experiencing anxiety, depression, or emotional triggers related to past traumas with which they are struggling. Perhaps they are interested in understanding more about their neurodivergence and ways to build supportive systems to address symptoms. I am honored to help with navigating questions of identity, gender, sexuality, and building relationships with oneself and others.
(503) 782-8806 View (503) 782-8806
Photo of David C Manfield, PhD, Psychologist
David C Manfield
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist with over thirty years clinical experience. Over the years I've worked with and helped hundreds of individuals and couples through a wide range of difficulties. My style is respectful, interactive and dynamic. I've learned that there are a lot ways to help, to heal and to promote personal growth, and that no particular approach fits every person or situation. Anxious? Depressed? Or individuals with problems arising from recent traumatic events or from childhood trauma or neglect, whose parents may have been inconsistent or worse, I often combine EMDR, IFS and other mindfulness strategies.
I am a therapist with over thirty years clinical experience. Over the years I've worked with and helped hundreds of individuals and couples through a wide range of difficulties. My style is respectful, interactive and dynamic. I've learned that there are a lot ways to help, to heal and to promote personal growth, and that no particular approach fits every person or situation. Anxious? Depressed? Or individuals with problems arising from recent traumatic events or from childhood trauma or neglect, whose parents may have been inconsistent or worse, I often combine EMDR, IFS and other mindfulness strategies.
(503) 446-5093 View (503) 446-5093
Photo of Maddelyne Corrales - Ally Counseling, PCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maddelyne Corrales - Ally Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224
Drawing from a blend of evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing.
Congratulations on taking this courageous first step towards your healing journey. Your decision to seek support marks the beginning of a transformative and empowering process, and I'm honored to accompany you on this path of growth and self-discovery. As your therapist, my priority is creating a nurturing, non-judgmental safe space where my clients can explore and process difficult emotions.
Drawing from a blend of evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing.
Congratulations on taking this courageous first step towards your healing journey. Your decision to seek support marks the beginning of a transformative and empowering process, and I'm honored to accompany you on this path of growth and self-discovery. As your therapist, my priority is creating a nurturing, non-judgmental safe space where my clients can explore and process difficult emotions.
(971) 606-4417 View (971) 606-4417
Photo of Kitty Kloud - Tailwind ADHD, MSW, CSWA
Tailwind ADHD
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Our clinic uses a trio of modalities: IFS, eye movement trauma therapy (EMDR, ART), and skills work (CBT).
Tailwind ADHD offers ADHD assessment, 1:1 therapy, and groups for adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships issues. Text us to schedule a consultation at (971) 999-3193 www.tailwindadhd.com We'd love to talk with you.
Our clinic uses a trio of modalities: IFS, eye movement trauma therapy (EMDR, ART), and skills work (CBT).
Tailwind ADHD offers ADHD assessment, 1:1 therapy, and groups for adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships issues. Text us to schedule a consultation at (971) 999-3193 www.tailwindadhd.com We'd love to talk with you.
(503) 714-9780 View (503) 714-9780
Photo of Natalie Kalisa, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Natalie Kalisa
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Natalie is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that allows her clients to explore, comprehend, and inspire change within themselves and their relationships. Natalie works from a trauma-informed, attachment-based framework that focuses on her client’s relationships across the entire lifespan. Clients work toward fostering stronger connections, developing more flexibility, and gaining more understanding of their emotional needs. Treatment plans incorporate a range of evidence-based modalities drawn from Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Natalie is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that allows her clients to explore, comprehend, and inspire change within themselves and their relationships. Natalie works from a trauma-informed, attachment-based framework that focuses on her client’s relationships across the entire lifespan. Clients work toward fostering stronger connections, developing more flexibility, and gaining more understanding of their emotional needs. Treatment plans incorporate a range of evidence-based modalities drawn from Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(971) 318-2399 View (971) 318-2399
Photo of Jezaiah Valencia, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jezaiah Valencia
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
My approach with individuals consists of Person-Centered therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment theory using a strengths-based perspective.
I believe that each individual has the potential to reach life satisfaction through self-exploration in therapy. As your therapist, I aspire to help you discover your strengths and navigate challenges within yourself and interpersonal relationships to achieve the fulfillment that everyone strives for. My hope is to support and encourage you towards learning the different parts of who you are and within your relationships so you may feel empowered throughout your life.
My approach with individuals consists of Person-Centered therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment theory using a strengths-based perspective.
I believe that each individual has the potential to reach life satisfaction through self-exploration in therapy. As your therapist, I aspire to help you discover your strengths and navigate challenges within yourself and interpersonal relationships to achieve the fulfillment that everyone strives for. My hope is to support and encourage you towards learning the different parts of who you are and within your relationships so you may feel empowered throughout your life.
(503) 739-9138 View (503) 739-9138
Photo of Brian E Shimer, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
Brian E Shimer
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I'm Internal Family Systems trained (not certified), work with theophostic prayer counseling, if you are open to it, and understand just how challenging it can be to heal.
Hearts and life can become complex, and I believe your heart can be set free from all that holds it back and causes it to stumble. I am convinced that your heart is unique and exquisitely beautiful. You have a great destiny and it would be my privilege to help discover what it is. Sound too good to be true? Does your heart feel in pain? Have you been numbing that pain, exploding with anger when you wish you would “hold it in,” or isolating from relationships? Your heart has its reasons for feeling the way it does. Let's begin either in person or via phone or video. I work with couples and individuals.
I'm Internal Family Systems trained (not certified), work with theophostic prayer counseling, if you are open to it, and understand just how challenging it can be to heal.
Hearts and life can become complex, and I believe your heart can be set free from all that holds it back and causes it to stumble. I am convinced that your heart is unique and exquisitely beautiful. You have a great destiny and it would be my privilege to help discover what it is. Sound too good to be true? Does your heart feel in pain? Have you been numbing that pain, exploding with anger when you wish you would “hold it in,” or isolating from relationships? Your heart has its reasons for feeling the way it does. Let's begin either in person or via phone or video. I work with couples and individuals.
(971) 260-4581 View (971) 260-4581
Photo of Grace Spring, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace Spring
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
I incorporate several therapeutic modalities into my work including Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic/Embodiment work, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
My therapeutic work is grounded in the understanding that we all seek connection, acceptance, safety, and belonging. I emphasize a trauma-informed approach to counseling, which means I prioritize a strong relational foundation of trust. At my core, I trust in your intrinsic orientation towards healing and wholeness. This wisdom is what will help guide you on your therapeutic journey. I see my role, as your therapist, to be one in which I accompany you on your unique path.
I incorporate several therapeutic modalities into my work including Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic/Embodiment work, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
My therapeutic work is grounded in the understanding that we all seek connection, acceptance, safety, and belonging. I emphasize a trauma-informed approach to counseling, which means I prioritize a strong relational foundation of trust. At my core, I trust in your intrinsic orientation towards healing and wholeness. This wisdom is what will help guide you on your therapeutic journey. I see my role, as your therapist, to be one in which I accompany you on your unique path.
(971) 396-3192 View (971) 396-3192
Photo of Sheila Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I provide counseling focused on self discovery and increasing self trust. My practice is grounded in wonder and awe, and is informed by the latest neurobiology. Together we will learn about how you are stuck and then collaborate with your nervous system to advance changes you are seeking. My work is trauma-informed, anti-racist, queer/trans affirming, fat/body positive, embraces diversity of neurotypes, economic experiences, and abilities. I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) to promote cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral transformation and unburden anxious, fear, and/or critical parts.
I provide counseling focused on self discovery and increasing self trust. My practice is grounded in wonder and awe, and is informed by the latest neurobiology. Together we will learn about how you are stuck and then collaborate with your nervous system to advance changes you are seeking. My work is trauma-informed, anti-racist, queer/trans affirming, fat/body positive, embraces diversity of neurotypes, economic experiences, and abilities. I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) to promote cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral transformation and unburden anxious, fear, and/or critical parts.
(971) 206-6283 View (971) 206-6283
Photo of Caressa Kruth, LCSW, EMDR, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caressa Kruth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224  (Online Only)
Together, we'll explore the depths of your mind, body, and spirit using a holistic approach that integrates narrative therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and existential therapy.
Have you tried talk therapy with some success but feel you are ready for something else? Talk therapy can feel like you're discussing the problem of the week, with little movement on your larger goals. It can also be overly cognitive and based in rational thinking, not allowing the trauma stored in the body to heal. The emphasis is often on behavior change, which can feel like a lot of effort and is ultimately unsustainable. Ready for something more? If you are, then you're in the right place.
Together, we'll explore the depths of your mind, body, and spirit using a holistic approach that integrates narrative therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and existential therapy.
Have you tried talk therapy with some success but feel you are ready for something else? Talk therapy can feel like you're discussing the problem of the week, with little movement on your larger goals. It can also be overly cognitive and based in rational thinking, not allowing the trauma stored in the body to heal. The emphasis is often on behavior change, which can feel like a lot of effort and is ultimately unsustainable. Ready for something more? If you are, then you're in the right place.
(971) 266-1644 View (971) 266-1644
1
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.