Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Cottonwood Heights, UT

Photo of Brianna Davis - Peak Pathways Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianna Davis - Peak Pathways Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
I am EMDR Certified and IFS-informed, and I use these therapies to help clients explore and heal both past and present emotional experiences.
Accepting new clients as of September 2024! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my mission is to help you move from simply surviving to truly thriving. I specialize in working with complex trauma (cPTSD), attachment and identity issues, faith transitions, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore how your past experiences affect your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors today. Together, we’ll focus on building healthy coping skills, emotional resilience, self-compassion, and strengthening your relationships—all while working towards lasting inner peace.
I am EMDR Certified and IFS-informed, and I use these therapies to help clients explore and heal both past and present emotional experiences.
Accepting new clients as of September 2024! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my mission is to help you move from simply surviving to truly thriving. I specialize in working with complex trauma (cPTSD), attachment and identity issues, faith transitions, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore how your past experiences affect your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors today. Together, we’ll focus on building healthy coping skills, emotional resilience, self-compassion, and strengthening your relationships—all while working towards lasting inner peace.
(385) 469-0937 View (385) 469-0937
Photo of Kaati Tarr, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaati Tarr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
I have done my own grief work and am DBT informed, EMDR and IFS trained.
My clients are individuals interested in learning ways to make positive changes in their lives. If you're struggling with life transitions, friendships and/or relationships, trying to move through difficult experiences or memories, or feeling lost in your current situation, you are not alone! Schedule a free phone consultation to see if I'm a good fit for you. I also offer Counseling Consultations for a fee. This would be a good option for anyone who needs help navigating mental health services, is having trouble finding good chemistry with a provider, or keeps getting put on waiting lists months out. Email me for details.
I have done my own grief work and am DBT informed, EMDR and IFS trained.
My clients are individuals interested in learning ways to make positive changes in their lives. If you're struggling with life transitions, friendships and/or relationships, trying to move through difficult experiences or memories, or feeling lost in your current situation, you are not alone! Schedule a free phone consultation to see if I'm a good fit for you. I also offer Counseling Consultations for a fee. This would be a good option for anyone who needs help navigating mental health services, is having trouble finding good chemistry with a provider, or keeps getting put on waiting lists months out. Email me for details.
(801) 663-7101 View (801) 663-7101
Photo of Stacy Gibbons, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy Gibbons
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
I engage in parts work (Internal Family Systems and Theory of Structural Dissociation), Trauma-​Informed practice, and depth focused relational therapy to help my clients ​navigate their pain and trauma and create vitality and growth within ​their inner and outer lives.
We all experience pain and search for healing. This can be overwhelming to us and we can experience a lack of control or hope for the future. Our relationship with ourselves is often impacted, hurt, and internalized through our unbearable ​experiences of early life relationships. This can leave us feeling isolated and fearful to engage fully in life and with others. We often create subconscious strategies for managing this pain in search of safety and meaning. As we grow, many ​of the ways that we learned to cope with what was once unbearable begin to feel burdensome and overwhelming and we find ourselves needing something new.
I engage in parts work (Internal Family Systems and Theory of Structural Dissociation), Trauma-​Informed practice, and depth focused relational therapy to help my clients ​navigate their pain and trauma and create vitality and growth within ​their inner and outer lives.
We all experience pain and search for healing. This can be overwhelming to us and we can experience a lack of control or hope for the future. Our relationship with ourselves is often impacted, hurt, and internalized through our unbearable ​experiences of early life relationships. This can leave us feeling isolated and fearful to engage fully in life and with others. We often create subconscious strategies for managing this pain in search of safety and meaning. As we grow, many ​of the ways that we learned to cope with what was once unbearable begin to feel burdensome and overwhelming and we find ourselves needing something new.
(801) 989-3632 View (801) 989-3632
Photo of Jessica Meekins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Meekins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
My approach in treatment focuses on a genuine therapeutic relationship with my clients. I'm experienced in treating trauma, codependency, postpartum mental health, faith transitions/crisis, body image, grief/loss, family roles/dynamics, relationships and attachment, ADHD/neurodivergence, Women's issues, and substance/sexual addictions. Based on client needs, I utilize various modalities including EMDR, CBT, ACT, IFS Informed practices, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I'm open to working with all genders and sexual orientations. I value helping clients find the root cause for their symptoms.
My approach in treatment focuses on a genuine therapeutic relationship with my clients. I'm experienced in treating trauma, codependency, postpartum mental health, faith transitions/crisis, body image, grief/loss, family roles/dynamics, relationships and attachment, ADHD/neurodivergence, Women's issues, and substance/sexual addictions. Based on client needs, I utilize various modalities including EMDR, CBT, ACT, IFS Informed practices, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I'm open to working with all genders and sexual orientations. I value helping clients find the root cause for their symptoms.
(385) 206-6152 View (385) 206-6152
Photo of Stacy Lund, LCSW, CCTP, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy Lund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
I am a certified EMDR clinician and have completed courses in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Exposure and Response therapy (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), HRT for Trichotillomania, (Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), and Othmer Method Neurofeedback.
I believe in a collaborative approach to build the path to healing as well as a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. My practice as a clinician is centered around helping individuals process traumatic experiences so they can heal and live a more present and focused existence. I have extensive knowledge of end-of-life issues including chronic pain, unresolved trauma, personal spirituality, , as well as the grieving process.
I am a certified EMDR clinician and have completed courses in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Exposure and Response therapy (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), HRT for Trichotillomania, (Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), and Othmer Method Neurofeedback.
I believe in a collaborative approach to build the path to healing as well as a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. My practice as a clinician is centered around helping individuals process traumatic experiences so they can heal and live a more present and focused existence. I have extensive knowledge of end-of-life issues including chronic pain, unresolved trauma, personal spirituality, , as well as the grieving process.
(385) 346-2684 View (385) 346-2684
Photo of Charles Johnson - Family Counseling Center, CMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, CMHC
Verified Verified
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84047
Our clinicians use several trauma-informed approaches in therapy, such as CBT, ACT, existential, IFS, and MBCT.
The Family Counseling Center offers relief and support to people struggling with mental health, substance use, or behavioral concerns. Individuals, couples, and families are welcome. We will affirm you in all of your identities and will see you as more than your diagnoses. We work with a wide range of people and seek to match you with clinicians based on the nature of the concern and your lived experience. Our team is here to listen and to help you find your own best way forward.
Our clinicians use several trauma-informed approaches in therapy, such as CBT, ACT, existential, IFS, and MBCT.
The Family Counseling Center offers relief and support to people struggling with mental health, substance use, or behavioral concerns. Individuals, couples, and families are welcome. We will affirm you in all of your identities and will see you as more than your diagnoses. We work with a wide range of people and seek to match you with clinicians based on the nature of the concern and your lived experience. Our team is here to listen and to help you find your own best way forward.
(385) 293-3786 View (385) 293-3786
Photo of Triona McMaster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Triona McMaster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84093
I also utilize IFS (Internal Family Systems) to assist in my trauma-focused practice.
I enjoy working with clients with a variety of backgrounds, life circumstances, and struggles. I especially enjoy working with those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, addiction, and trauma related issues. Often times, these clients need to be heard. They need to be reminded that they have a plethora of internal strengths. They need coping skills and insights to get through their challenges and be stronger and healthier. I appreciate clients who come into therapy knowing that it is often a tough and uncertain road, but keep going despite setbacks, challenges, and struggles along the way.
I also utilize IFS (Internal Family Systems) to assist in my trauma-focused practice.
I enjoy working with clients with a variety of backgrounds, life circumstances, and struggles. I especially enjoy working with those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, addiction, and trauma related issues. Often times, these clients need to be heard. They need to be reminded that they have a plethora of internal strengths. They need coping skills and insights to get through their challenges and be stronger and healthier. I appreciate clients who come into therapy knowing that it is often a tough and uncertain road, but keep going despite setbacks, challenges, and struggles along the way.
(385) 247-0369 View (385) 247-0369
Photo of Madeline Glenn, MSW, CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madeline Glenn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121  (Online Only)
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) with clients which utilize your brain and “parts” work to heal.
“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” — Fred Rogers. I’ve studied people and learned about self-healing while working as a psych tech at Utah State Hospital along with other mental health roles. Did you know placebos work on medical conditions close to 33% and up to 60%? That means that your brain has enormous healing power. I like to learn about my clients' lives to discover their roadblocks and challenges, as well as their strengths and goals.
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) with clients which utilize your brain and “parts” work to heal.
“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” — Fred Rogers. I’ve studied people and learned about self-healing while working as a psych tech at Utah State Hospital along with other mental health roles. Did you know placebos work on medical conditions close to 33% and up to 60%? That means that your brain has enormous healing power. I like to learn about my clients' lives to discover their roadblocks and challenges, as well as their strengths and goals.
(385) 832-7185 View (385) 832-7185
Photo of Ashley Neve, ACMHC, Counselor
Ashley Neve
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84093
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping people going through religious and general life transitions. I personally understand the complexity and sometimes liberation one can feel when embarking on change. My passion is to help people cultivate self-compassion and autonomy to face life’s challenges. I strive to make therapy a place where clients feel safe and empowered to make positive changes. I use elements of Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), IFS and person-centered therapy. I am person-centered and want to meet people where they are at, so I will pull from other modalities if needed.
I specialize in helping people going through religious and general life transitions. I personally understand the complexity and sometimes liberation one can feel when embarking on change. My passion is to help people cultivate self-compassion and autonomy to face life’s challenges. I strive to make therapy a place where clients feel safe and empowered to make positive changes. I use elements of Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), IFS and person-centered therapy. I am person-centered and want to meet people where they are at, so I will pull from other modalities if needed.
(385) 595-5427 View (385) 595-5427
Photo of Caroline Alyce Kellough, CMHC, Counselor
Caroline Alyce Kellough
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84047
Waitlist for new clients
My work is influenced by many trauma-informed practices including attachment theory, object relations, EMDR (trained), family systems, and internal family systems.
I work with young adults, families, and couples helping them to shed light on themselves and the systems of which they are a part. I have worked predominately with clients experiencing symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, addictive disorders, and personality disorders. I have a background in wilderness therapy and experiential treatment and love to introduce creative, alternative modes of expression to my clients, including yoga movement, narrative, and outdoor based therapies (walk and talk). By the end of our first session, most of my clients feel relieved and hopeful for their next steps.
My work is influenced by many trauma-informed practices including attachment theory, object relations, EMDR (trained), family systems, and internal family systems.
I work with young adults, families, and couples helping them to shed light on themselves and the systems of which they are a part. I have worked predominately with clients experiencing symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, addictive disorders, and personality disorders. I have a background in wilderness therapy and experiential treatment and love to introduce creative, alternative modes of expression to my clients, including yoga movement, narrative, and outdoor based therapies (walk and talk). By the end of our first session, most of my clients feel relieved and hopeful for their next steps.
(435) 562-9024 View (435) 562-9024
Photo of Yassi Keshavarz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yassi Keshavarz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121  (Online Only)
As an EMDR Coach and Consultant in Training (CIT), Yassi integrates EMDR with Internal Family Systems (IFS) - Level I trained, Structural Dissociation & Ego State Therapy, and Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE).
Yassi is highly specialized in the treatment of various forms of trauma, including but not limited to medical trauma, such as surgical complications or distressing hospital experiences. She is particularly skilled in addressing Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), anxiety disorders including phobias and social anxiety, and depression. Yassi has a deep commitment to working with former refugees and immigrants, with a focus on Farsi/Persian-speaking communities, creating a culturally sensitive therapeutic space.
As an EMDR Coach and Consultant in Training (CIT), Yassi integrates EMDR with Internal Family Systems (IFS) - Level I trained, Structural Dissociation & Ego State Therapy, and Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE).
Yassi is highly specialized in the treatment of various forms of trauma, including but not limited to medical trauma, such as surgical complications or distressing hospital experiences. She is particularly skilled in addressing Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), anxiety disorders including phobias and social anxiety, and depression. Yassi has a deep commitment to working with former refugees and immigrants, with a focus on Farsi/Persian-speaking communities, creating a culturally sensitive therapeutic space.
(385) 270-8848 View (385) 270-8848
Photo of Meaghan Binis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meaghan Binis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121  (Online Only)
Embarking on life's journey brings about moments of joy, challenges, and opportunities for personal growth but sometimes, the weight of these experiences can leave you feeling lost, anxious, and disconnected. I am committed to helping you navigate through the complexities of your emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Together, we will explore the roots of your challenges, allowing you to gain insight into your journey and embrace the strength that lies within you.
Embarking on life's journey brings about moments of joy, challenges, and opportunities for personal growth but sometimes, the weight of these experiences can leave you feeling lost, anxious, and disconnected. I am committed to helping you navigate through the complexities of your emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Together, we will explore the roots of your challenges, allowing you to gain insight into your journey and embrace the strength that lies within you.
(801) 855-6137 View (801) 855-6137
Photo of Sarah Knudson, ACMHC, Counselor
Sarah Knudson
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
I have a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am dedicated to supporting your journey toward mental well-being. People seek therapy for a myriad of human and valid reasons when they are experiencing distress or wanting to make change. I have found in my work that many walk through the door and say, "Why am I feeling or acting this way?" and "How do I make it stop?". No matter what you are grappling with, I am here to provide compassionate, non-judgmental support and work towards those answers with you. I believe the conclusions you come to as we journey together will be more valuable than any advice I could give.
I have a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am dedicated to supporting your journey toward mental well-being. People seek therapy for a myriad of human and valid reasons when they are experiencing distress or wanting to make change. I have found in my work that many walk through the door and say, "Why am I feeling or acting this way?" and "How do I make it stop?". No matter what you are grappling with, I am here to provide compassionate, non-judgmental support and work towards those answers with you. I believe the conclusions you come to as we journey together will be more valuable than any advice I could give.
(385) 402-8090 View (385) 402-8090
Photo of Braeden M Guter, ACMHC, Counselor
Braeden M Guter
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
I focus on finding motivating values and passions that lead to curiosity. When we cannot find excitement in the ordinary, we can feel begin to feel heavy and isolated. As we move closer to our core motivators, we can begin to feel empowered and motivated toward change in all aspects of life. Creating a safe space to explore our identity allows us to reframe our thinking into a life that feels manageable and exciting. When someone feels heard, valued, encouraged, and support they are capable of embracing the freedom that comes in everyday life.
I focus on finding motivating values and passions that lead to curiosity. When we cannot find excitement in the ordinary, we can feel begin to feel heavy and isolated. As we move closer to our core motivators, we can begin to feel empowered and motivated toward change in all aspects of life. Creating a safe space to explore our identity allows us to reframe our thinking into a life that feels manageable and exciting. When someone feels heard, valued, encouraged, and support they are capable of embracing the freedom that comes in everyday life.
(801) 692-0743 View (801) 692-0743
Photo of Boe Eby, LCMHC, EMDR , CCTP ll, Counselor
Boe Eby
Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR , CCTP ll
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
"Everyone deserves to be and feel their very best". I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, certified in EMDR. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional level II (CCTP II). At United Counseling my goal is to have a safe therapeutic relationship, create awareness to your needs, and guide your journey with positive outcomes. Suffering can happen to anyone at any given time in life. It can be hurtful on the relationship with self and others. Feeling stuck with unwanted pain is awful and exhausting. Together let’s find your need, empower you with skills and tools, so you can achieve your desired transformation.
"Everyone deserves to be and feel their very best". I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, certified in EMDR. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional level II (CCTP II). At United Counseling my goal is to have a safe therapeutic relationship, create awareness to your needs, and guide your journey with positive outcomes. Suffering can happen to anyone at any given time in life. It can be hurtful on the relationship with self and others. Feeling stuck with unwanted pain is awful and exhausting. Together let’s find your need, empower you with skills and tools, so you can achieve your desired transformation.
(385) 217-9248 View (385) 217-9248
Photo of Dr. Kristin Robinson - Dr. Kristin Robinson, Clinical Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kristin Robinson, Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing burnout, stress, depression, anxiety? Are you finding it difficult to parent in your blended family or to parent a special needs child? Do you need help staying positive and focused while experiencing grief or a chronic health challenge? If you feel overwhelmed or have difficulty coping, reaching out to a psychologist is a sign of strength. In therapy, you can learn to address problems in ways that start making your life better after just a few sessions. Get practical tools that can address withdrawal, excessive worry and burnout.
Are you experiencing burnout, stress, depression, anxiety? Are you finding it difficult to parent in your blended family or to parent a special needs child? Do you need help staying positive and focused while experiencing grief or a chronic health challenge? If you feel overwhelmed or have difficulty coping, reaching out to a psychologist is a sign of strength. In therapy, you can learn to address problems in ways that start making your life better after just a few sessions. Get practical tools that can address withdrawal, excessive worry and burnout.
(801) 890-5774 View (801) 890-5774
Photo of Hannah Zabka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Zabka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
I am passionate about helping adults experiencing anxiety, stress, and trauma learn how to heal the parts of themselves that are preventing them from living the life they want. My work as a therapist focuses on helping those who are struggling to set boundaries, are indecisive and overthinking everything; people-pleasing and trying to always keep the peace; striving for perfection and feeling overwhelmed in the process; feeling burnt out of putting everyone else's needs in front of their own; and wanting to work through the past to be able to move forward in life free of anxiety.
I am passionate about helping adults experiencing anxiety, stress, and trauma learn how to heal the parts of themselves that are preventing them from living the life they want. My work as a therapist focuses on helping those who are struggling to set boundaries, are indecisive and overthinking everything; people-pleasing and trying to always keep the peace; striving for perfection and feeling overwhelmed in the process; feeling burnt out of putting everyone else's needs in front of their own; and wanting to work through the past to be able to move forward in life free of anxiety.
(435) 395-3300 View (435) 395-3300
Photo of Aurelie Tauzin, ACMHC, Counselor
Aurelie Tauzin
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
Life is a roller-coaster: often challenging and sometimes overwhelming. However, I believe that everyone can find their strength and their own path through trauma and difficult decisions. This journey can be painful and difficult, as well as rewarding and liberating. I would like to be your guide on this healing journey and support you in connecting with your own self, recognizing your own needs, working on creating new boundaries, breaking cycles of unhealthy patterns, and developing new healthy relationships.
Life is a roller-coaster: often challenging and sometimes overwhelming. However, I believe that everyone can find their strength and their own path through trauma and difficult decisions. This journey can be painful and difficult, as well as rewarding and liberating. I would like to be your guide on this healing journey and support you in connecting with your own self, recognizing your own needs, working on creating new boundaries, breaking cycles of unhealthy patterns, and developing new healthy relationships.
(385) 376-1343 View (385) 376-1343
Photo of Jennylyn Hammond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennylyn Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121  (Online Only)
Hello there! I am an LCSW with experience in helping teens and adults to get curious about their experience, develop greater self-compassion, and create a balanced and meaningful life. Does the impact of past trauma keep you from living your best life? Do you sometimes feel lost and unsure of what really matters? Are you are often living life on autopilot or in survival mode? Do you long for deeper relationships with yourself and others? Are you ready to explore your inner world and build upon your unique qualities and strengths?
Hello there! I am an LCSW with experience in helping teens and adults to get curious about their experience, develop greater self-compassion, and create a balanced and meaningful life. Does the impact of past trauma keep you from living your best life? Do you sometimes feel lost and unsure of what really matters? Are you are often living life on autopilot or in survival mode? Do you long for deeper relationships with yourself and others? Are you ready to explore your inner world and build upon your unique qualities and strengths?
(385) 284-7976 View (385) 284-7976
Photo of Brian Murdock - Brian Murdock Counseling, LCMHC, Counselor
Brian Murdock Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I am a member of EMDRIA, and a Certified Therapist in EMDR. At Brian Murdock Counseling my goal is to help establish and increase personal empowerment. I am dedicated to helping others. The goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worthwhile.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I am a member of EMDRIA, and a Certified Therapist in EMDR. At Brian Murdock Counseling my goal is to help establish and increase personal empowerment. I am dedicated to helping others. The goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worthwhile.
(385) 215-7309 View (385) 215-7309
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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.