Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Jefferson City, TN

Photo of Alexis Castle, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Castle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm Alexis, a creative therapist with a direct approach. I enjoy working side by side with my clients to help them reach their goals. Starting therapy is a difficult step for many and I aim to present a welcoming and safe environment for each of my clients. My clinical focus is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, have complex PTSD, or are working through dissociative disorders. In addition, I work with women who have ADHD— especially those that have been diagnosed in adulthood. I am trained in EMDR and in DBR levels 1-3 as well as adjunctive DBR trainings.
Hello! I'm Alexis, a creative therapist with a direct approach. I enjoy working side by side with my clients to help them reach their goals. Starting therapy is a difficult step for many and I aim to present a welcoming and safe environment for each of my clients. My clinical focus is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, have complex PTSD, or are working through dissociative disorders. In addition, I work with women who have ADHD— especially those that have been diagnosed in adulthood. I am trained in EMDR and in DBR levels 1-3 as well as adjunctive DBR trainings.
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Photo of Alisha L Cobb, MSc, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alisha L Cobb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Special interest in helping people work through difficulties they are facing in order to get to a better place in life. Everyone faces various types of struggles throughout life and it is nice to find someone who can help you navigate through those times. It's very important to me to develop strong, trusting relationships with my clients. This creates a safe environment for issues to be discussed and goals to be set. A solid working relationship helps people feel comfortable in discussing difficult things and situations they are going through which helps to get to the root of a problem & find a true solution.
Special interest in helping people work through difficulties they are facing in order to get to a better place in life. Everyone faces various types of struggles throughout life and it is nice to find someone who can help you navigate through those times. It's very important to me to develop strong, trusting relationships with my clients. This creates a safe environment for issues to be discussed and goals to be set. A solid working relationship helps people feel comfortable in discussing difficult things and situations they are going through which helps to get to the root of a problem & find a true solution.
(865) 737-2133 View (865) 737-2133
Photo of Jada N. Smith, LMFT-T, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jada N. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760
“We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship". Rooted in a deep, personal, and lifelong passion for therapy, I understand the strength and the vulnerability it takes to seek help among the many struggles life has to offer. I desire to provide each of my clients with gentle, affordable, and effective care.
“We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship". Rooted in a deep, personal, and lifelong passion for therapy, I understand the strength and the vulnerability it takes to seek help among the many struggles life has to offer. I desire to provide each of my clients with gentle, affordable, and effective care.
(865) 205-6292 View (865) 205-6292
Photo of Samantha Dickens, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Dickens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Life can often seem confusing and out of control. During those times, it can be difficult to maintain a daily routine and enjoy the little moments. It’s common to experience highs and lows that come along with stress but sometimes washing your hair can even feel like a mountain to climb. As a therapist, I would like to come alongside you and help in those times of difficulties.
Life can often seem confusing and out of control. During those times, it can be difficult to maintain a daily routine and enjoy the little moments. It’s common to experience highs and lows that come along with stress but sometimes washing your hair can even feel like a mountain to climb. As a therapist, I would like to come alongside you and help in those times of difficulties.
(865) 213-9145 View (865) 213-9145

Online Therapists

Photo of Rachel M Kimbrel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel M Kimbrel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy includes EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
I believe a healthy mind is essential to finding peace and fulfillment in life. My goal is to help you in your journey to clarity, purpose and harmony within yourself and in your relationships. I am a therapist dedicated to supporting adult women through their healing journeys. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and depression. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
My approach to therapy includes EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
I believe a healthy mind is essential to finding peace and fulfillment in life. My goal is to help you in your journey to clarity, purpose and harmony within yourself and in your relationships. I am a therapist dedicated to supporting adult women through their healing journeys. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and depression. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
(865) 459-4348 View (865) 459-4348
Photo of Jennifer Smith McComas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Smith McComas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
In order to help clients achieve their goals, I draw from internal family systems, interpersonal therapy, mindfulness and values congruent living.
Are you someone who is curious about your inner life? Has something difficult happened and you can’t seem to move on? Have you noticed frustrating patterns in relationships, self-esteem struggles, codependency, perfectionism, identity questions or spiritual concerns? In a world where we can feel caught between so many competing demands, it can be hard to identify our own voice. While I work with a variety of individuals, I specialize in young adults, women and LGBT people experiencing life transitions, anxiety, identity concerns, relationship challenges and those deconstructing/reconstructing religious faith.
In order to help clients achieve their goals, I draw from internal family systems, interpersonal therapy, mindfulness and values congruent living.
Are you someone who is curious about your inner life? Has something difficult happened and you can’t seem to move on? Have you noticed frustrating patterns in relationships, self-esteem struggles, codependency, perfectionism, identity questions or spiritual concerns? In a world where we can feel caught between so many competing demands, it can be hard to identify our own voice. While I work with a variety of individuals, I specialize in young adults, women and LGBT people experiencing life transitions, anxiety, identity concerns, relationship challenges and those deconstructing/reconstructing religious faith.
(865) 328-2327 View (865) 328-2327
Photo of Gray Bryant, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gray Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
I have experience as a therapist in outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, cancer treatment facilities, substance abuse treatment centers and schools. With 10 years of serving both individuals and family systems, I have addressed a vast array of symptoms related to mental health concerns. I tend to focus on the whole body and its connections. I understand counseling as growth, much in the same way a tree grows. In counseling we honor our roots, noting where we came from while stretching our branches high and reaching for what we wish to become.
I have experience as a therapist in outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, cancer treatment facilities, substance abuse treatment centers and schools. With 10 years of serving both individuals and family systems, I have addressed a vast array of symptoms related to mental health concerns. I tend to focus on the whole body and its connections. I understand counseling as growth, much in the same way a tree grows. In counseling we honor our roots, noting where we came from while stretching our branches high and reaching for what we wish to become.
(865) 217-0518 View (865) 217-0518
Photo of Barrett G Wilson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barrett G Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37920
He applies the Gottman Method for couples counseling and relationships, Internal Family Systems for trauma and identity challenges, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for depression and anxiety; and Attachment work to explore and understand relational dynamics.
Please note that I will be out of the office from 7/4-7/25. You can still schedule free consultations or appointments through my website here: www.ascendingself.com Ascending Self is a safe place where we will utilize the most effective, science-based, and relationally sound approaches to helping you heal while gaining understanding of self, communication, and relationships. If you're looking for a safe place to make meaningful changes in relationships with your self or loved ones, this is the place. Barrett offers his clients the best professional help with a balance of connection, support, and efficacy.
He applies the Gottman Method for couples counseling and relationships, Internal Family Systems for trauma and identity challenges, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for depression and anxiety; and Attachment work to explore and understand relational dynamics.
Please note that I will be out of the office from 7/4-7/25. You can still schedule free consultations or appointments through my website here: www.ascendingself.com Ascending Self is a safe place where we will utilize the most effective, science-based, and relationally sound approaches to helping you heal while gaining understanding of self, communication, and relationships. If you're looking for a safe place to make meaningful changes in relationships with your self or loved ones, this is the place. Barrett offers his clients the best professional help with a balance of connection, support, and efficacy.
(865) 234-9370 View (865) 234-9370
Photo of Elizabeth Sinclair, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Sinclair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in CBT, IFS and DBT, and incorporate mindfulness, meditation, and soothing exercises in session when appropriate.
I believe in our innate capacity to grow and heal ourselves. It is my honor as a therapist to accompany my clients on their healing journey and support them along the way. I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients and am open to working with all populations. My therapeutic approach is to work with the client to build skills to address everyday issues and experience and improvement in daily life, while at the same time working to understand and heal the origin of limiting beliefs and trauma.
I specialize in CBT, IFS and DBT, and incorporate mindfulness, meditation, and soothing exercises in session when appropriate.
I believe in our innate capacity to grow and heal ourselves. It is my honor as a therapist to accompany my clients on their healing journey and support them along the way. I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients and am open to working with all populations. My therapeutic approach is to work with the client to build skills to address everyday issues and experience and improvement in daily life, while at the same time working to understand and heal the origin of limiting beliefs and trauma.
(865) 830-1746 View (865) 830-1746
Photo of Matt DeHart, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matt DeHart
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including a family systems perspective, narrative therapy, attachment theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
All of us can find ourselves in a difficult, confusing, or even painful point in our lives. Or maybe we just see a particular area in which we want to grow. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families to help them navigate through those parts of life. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual concerns, a difficult loss, or you are navigating a new chapter in your life, I would love to be able to help. I want to help you sort through those challenges and leverage your unique strengths to meet them.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including a family systems perspective, narrative therapy, attachment theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
All of us can find ourselves in a difficult, confusing, or even painful point in our lives. Or maybe we just see a particular area in which we want to grow. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families to help them navigate through those parts of life. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual concerns, a difficult loss, or you are navigating a new chapter in your life, I would love to be able to help. I want to help you sort through those challenges and leverage your unique strengths to meet them.
(865) 344-2241 x815 View (865) 344-2241 x815
Photo of Hannah Kristian Monarch, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Kristian Monarch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
By integrating my training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other techniques, I’m able to facilitate the process of targeting the root cause of my clientele’s symptoms.
I work with a range of clients and issues, but specialize in complex trauma and dissociation. I also do a lot of therapy with teens, young adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community. My biggest strengths as a counselor are my compassion and open-mindedness. I meet clients where they are at, tailoring the work to your preferences and needs, whether you would benefit most from talk therapy, skill building, trauma processing, or a combination of these. This allows for individualized treatment plans and use of creative, validating techniques.
By integrating my training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other techniques, I’m able to facilitate the process of targeting the root cause of my clientele’s symptoms.
I work with a range of clients and issues, but specialize in complex trauma and dissociation. I also do a lot of therapy with teens, young adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community. My biggest strengths as a counselor are my compassion and open-mindedness. I meet clients where they are at, tailoring the work to your preferences and needs, whether you would benefit most from talk therapy, skill building, trauma processing, or a combination of these. This allows for individualized treatment plans and use of creative, validating techniques.
(865) 309-9418 View (865) 309-9418
Photo of Rebecca Lewis Alexander, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Lewis Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
I often offer perspectives from narrative, internal family systems, and cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as being grounded in a systemic, ecological and existential "home base.
All of us can identify times when we want more for ourselves but can't seem to make it happen. Things get in the way - busy schedules, stress, fatigue, fear, emotional blocks and old patterns. It's ok. It's not you. We are not meant to heal and grow on our own, and we never really reach the end. Second Nature Therapy offers a safe, supportive system of care for healing your wounds, growing your strengths, identifying your values and vision, and building habits that become "second nature" to nurturing your best life.
I often offer perspectives from narrative, internal family systems, and cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as being grounded in a systemic, ecological and existential "home base.
All of us can identify times when we want more for ourselves but can't seem to make it happen. Things get in the way - busy schedules, stress, fatigue, fear, emotional blocks and old patterns. It's ok. It's not you. We are not meant to heal and grow on our own, and we never really reach the end. Second Nature Therapy offers a safe, supportive system of care for healing your wounds, growing your strengths, identifying your values and vision, and building habits that become "second nature" to nurturing your best life.
(423) 556-7578 View (423) 556-7578
Photo of Catherine E. Zook-Bell, PhD, Psychologist
Catherine E. Zook-Bell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
These include applications of mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and EMDR.
For more than twenty years I have had the privilege of working as a psychologist. My clients come to therapy with a number of different concerns and needs including mood disorders, trauma, relationship and family issues, transitions and personal growth. My intent is to work collaboratively with my clients toward symptom reduction and an improved sense of wellbeing and personal and relational healing.
These include applications of mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and EMDR.
For more than twenty years I have had the privilege of working as a psychologist. My clients come to therapy with a number of different concerns and needs including mood disorders, trauma, relationship and family issues, transitions and personal growth. My intent is to work collaboratively with my clients toward symptom reduction and an improved sense of wellbeing and personal and relational healing.
(865) 745-5041 View (865) 745-5041
Photo of Sarah J Lord, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah J Lord
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems.
I know that change can be hard, and that making the decision to call a therapist is difficult. I believe that we are all capable and deserving of living our best life, and that feeling safe and supported makes it easier to make those changes. Life can be messy, and I am here to help. I have a passion for helping others, and am grateful I get to be a part of that change process. I utilize an individual approach to meet the needs of each client, and want each client to feel heard, valued, and understood.
I have specialized training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems.
I know that change can be hard, and that making the decision to call a therapist is difficult. I believe that we are all capable and deserving of living our best life, and that feeling safe and supported makes it easier to make those changes. Life can be messy, and I am here to help. I have a passion for helping others, and am grateful I get to be a part of that change process. I utilize an individual approach to meet the needs of each client, and want each client to feel heard, valued, and understood.
(865) 217-1608 View (865) 217-1608
Photo of Jeff Cockerham, LPCMHSP, MSc, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeff Cockerham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, MSc, MDiv
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I use a variety of counseling approaches; Gottman Level 2 for relationships, narrative, CBT, neuroscience, existential, and IFS informed.
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in couples (Gottman Method - Level 2), depression, anxiety, anger, and religious trauma. I am not accepting insurance at this time. Both in-person and telehealth appointments are available. If you'd like to make an appointment, click here: www.jeff-cockerham-lpc-mhsp.square.site/
I use a variety of counseling approaches; Gottman Level 2 for relationships, narrative, CBT, neuroscience, existential, and IFS informed.
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in couples (Gottman Method - Level 2), depression, anxiety, anger, and religious trauma. I am not accepting insurance at this time. Both in-person and telehealth appointments are available. If you'd like to make an appointment, click here: www.jeff-cockerham-lpc-mhsp.square.site/
(865) 351-2646 View (865) 351-2646
Photo of Matalyn Olvera, LCSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matalyn Olvera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I offer both EMDR therapy and IFS informed therapy.
I work with individuals who are on a journey toward self-compassion and living more fully as their authentic selves. Many individuals I work with have experienced early life trauma, religious trauma, social anxiety, overwhelm, or are in the middle of a life transition. We can work together to gain more balance in your life and create more helpful thought patterns that offer healing instead of feeling "stuck". I offer sessions both in-person in Knoxville, TN or via telehealth throughout Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia between 8am-2pm EST on weekdays.
I offer both EMDR therapy and IFS informed therapy.
I work with individuals who are on a journey toward self-compassion and living more fully as their authentic selves. Many individuals I work with have experienced early life trauma, religious trauma, social anxiety, overwhelm, or are in the middle of a life transition. We can work together to gain more balance in your life and create more helpful thought patterns that offer healing instead of feeling "stuck". I offer sessions both in-person in Knoxville, TN or via telehealth throughout Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia between 8am-2pm EST on weekdays.
(865) 234-4318 View (865) 234-4318
Photo of Katie Peterson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach integrates person-centered therapy along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems techniques.
Adjusting to life changes can be hard to do on your own. Whether it is work stress, relationship challenges, or finding your new normal after trauma, I am here to help. Working with trauma survivors and the families of survivors is a passion of mine. Stress and trauma can have a debilitating effect on a person's physical and mental well being, causing them to feel unable to cultivate the lifestyle they wish to achieve. I can help give you the tools needed to bring mental stability into your day to day life.
My therapeutic approach integrates person-centered therapy along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems techniques.
Adjusting to life changes can be hard to do on your own. Whether it is work stress, relationship challenges, or finding your new normal after trauma, I am here to help. Working with trauma survivors and the families of survivors is a passion of mine. Stress and trauma can have a debilitating effect on a person's physical and mental well being, causing them to feel unable to cultivate the lifestyle they wish to achieve. I can help give you the tools needed to bring mental stability into your day to day life.
(865) 217-0510 View (865) 217-0510
Photo of Robin Kennen, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robin Kennen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
My areas of expertise include Trauma and Attachment, ADHD and other neurodivergent issues, Anxiety and Depression, Mental Performance and Sports, and Parenting and Family systems.
Being human is hard! I believe most of us are doing the best we can with the awareness that we currently have, and also know that things can be easier and we can feel better. We must learn to attend to our own internal experiences to safely connect with ourselves and with others and build a healthy support system from the inside out. I’m passionate about providing a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore dysfunctional patterns that are causing pain, increasing stress, and taking away from our fulfillment in life. We must be and create the change we want to see, and I am here to help you, your family, and your child reach their goals.
My areas of expertise include Trauma and Attachment, ADHD and other neurodivergent issues, Anxiety and Depression, Mental Performance and Sports, and Parenting and Family systems.
Being human is hard! I believe most of us are doing the best we can with the awareness that we currently have, and also know that things can be easier and we can feel better. We must learn to attend to our own internal experiences to safely connect with ourselves and with others and build a healthy support system from the inside out. I’m passionate about providing a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore dysfunctional patterns that are causing pain, increasing stress, and taking away from our fulfillment in life. We must be and create the change we want to see, and I am here to help you, your family, and your child reach their goals.
(865) 484-3152 View (865) 484-3152
Photo of Jimmy Hill, LPC, MHSP, CSAT, cPA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jimmy Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CSAT, cPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a trauma-informed IFS and EMDR therapist. I work with clients who are struggling with sexually compulsive and addictive behaviors including compulsive porn use, infidelity, sexual aversions, and other problematic behaviors. I offer a non-judgmental, empirically-based approach to help work through and resolve behaviors. If you have any questions about whether or not a compulsion or addiction is present, I would be happy to assess those behaviors and provide recommendations.
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a trauma-informed IFS and EMDR therapist. I work with clients who are struggling with sexually compulsive and addictive behaviors including compulsive porn use, infidelity, sexual aversions, and other problematic behaviors. I offer a non-judgmental, empirically-based approach to help work through and resolve behaviors. If you have any questions about whether or not a compulsion or addiction is present, I would be happy to assess those behaviors and provide recommendations.
(865) 390-7656 View (865) 390-7656
Photo of Lauren W Hulse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren W Hulse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of trauma and trauma’s legacy in adolescents and adults. I take a warm, empathic, and collaborative approach to support you reaching your goals. While I integrate a range of therapeutic techniques tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs, I most often draw from training and experience in cognitive behavioral, somatic, mindfulness-based, internal family systems, and attachment-based modalities. I am dedicated to a practice that centers your lived experience and harnesses your innate resources for resilience, growth, and well-being. I am trained in a variety of
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of trauma and trauma’s legacy in adolescents and adults. I take a warm, empathic, and collaborative approach to support you reaching your goals. While I integrate a range of therapeutic techniques tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs, I most often draw from training and experience in cognitive behavioral, somatic, mindfulness-based, internal family systems, and attachment-based modalities. I am dedicated to a practice that centers your lived experience and harnesses your innate resources for resilience, growth, and well-being. I am trained in a variety of
(865) 344-2129 View (865) 344-2129

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Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists

What is Internal Family Systems therapy?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on sub-personalities, or “families,” within a person, which may be made up of wounded parts and unpleasant emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities can come into conflict with each other and with an individual’s core Self, leaving the person feeling detached from positive traits such as the “8 C’s” of confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. By healing a patient’s wounded parts, a therapist aims to restore balance and bring on positive change.

How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

An IFS therapist will work with a patient to identify their particular sub-personalities, recognize the emotions powering them, and release them. By doing so, the patient should become more able to address any underlying problems their sub-personalities may have been trying to protect them from. Ultimately, a patient discovers ways to manage internal and external conflicts on their own, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, journaling, and making charts depicting the relationships between their core Self and their distinct parts.

Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

IFS therapy has been shown to help people address conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, fears and phobias, trauma, and substance use disorders. Some research has also found that it can help individuals deal with symptoms of physical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, everyday functioning, depressive feelings, and low self-compassion. There are some conditions for which IFS treatment, specifically discussions of one’s “parts,” may be less appropriate, such as schizophrenia or other states that involve psychosis or paranoia.

How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for IFS therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core concepts of IFS, some patients quickly make progress. While experiences vary, most will find that it is a relatively longer-term therapy, involving months and sometimes years of sessions.