Therapists in Bridport, VT
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Vermont below.More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Ashley McCullough, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36f89d1c-8a1c-464b-96d7-c0433f650ca3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley McCullough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753
Waitlist for new clients
I approach the work from a trauma-informed, client-centered and strengths based lens, drawing from narrative and solution focused approaches, as well as Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT).
I currently have a waitlist, but please inquire if you would like to be added to it. I hold an LICSW in VT with about ten years of experience supporting people across the lifespan. I have worked with children, teens, families and adults navigating challenges with life stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, abuse, as well as people grappling with thoughts of suicide and/or homicide. Whatever the reason you are seeking support at this time, I can help you gain meaning and understanding with compassion and empathy.
I approach the work from a trauma-informed, client-centered and strengths based lens, drawing from narrative and solution focused approaches, as well as Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT).
I currently have a waitlist, but please inquire if you would like to be added to it. I hold an LICSW in VT with about ten years of experience supporting people across the lifespan. I have worked with children, teens, families and adults navigating challenges with life stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, abuse, as well as people grappling with thoughts of suicide and/or homicide. Whatever the reason you are seeking support at this time, I can help you gain meaning and understanding with compassion and empathy.
![Photo of Corrine Mertz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cac3a3b3-9777-4606-be6f-22d63f00658f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Corrine Mertz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middlebury, VT 05753
Availability: 9AM, 11AM Tuesdays in Bristol/telehealth, noon Thursdays in Burlington: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I support marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is like having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and teens, I utilize an evidence-based modality based in neuroscience called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
Availability: 9AM, 11AM Tuesdays in Bristol/telehealth, noon Thursdays in Burlington: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I support marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is like having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and teens, I utilize an evidence-based modality based in neuroscience called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Steven Lecce, LMHC, LCMHC, NCC, C-DBT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/208a34ea-2e12-4636-8ef6-441581e6efd4/1/320x400.png)
Steven Lecce
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
My method is grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed therapies, with an emphasis on EMDR, DBT, and IFS techniques.
Are you or your child finding it difficult to manage life changes, cope with stress, face depression, tackle anxiety, address trauma, or combat addiction? Do these issues profoundly affect your relationships, career, and daily life? Rest assured, I'm committed to providing support and guiding you toward realizing the love and happiness you deserve.
My method is grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed therapies, with an emphasis on EMDR, DBT, and IFS techniques.
Are you or your child finding it difficult to manage life changes, cope with stress, face depression, tackle anxiety, address trauma, or combat addiction? Do these issues profoundly affect your relationships, career, and daily life? Rest assured, I'm committed to providing support and guiding you toward realizing the love and happiness you deserve.
![Photo of Cherise Renee Boutin, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/492d748a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cherise Renee Boutin
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hardwick, VT 05843
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is grounded in internal family systems, sensorimotor methods, narrative therapy techniques, mindfulness practices and guided self-reflection to assist clients in a holistic healing process.
In our journeys through life we experience both pleasurable and distressing events. When these events reach a level of trauma and are not processed or effectively integrated, individuals may rely on less adaptive strategies to manage discomfort, stress and change. These strategies can negatively influence the way we perceive and interact with the world and affect our intuitive nature and our intentionality for seeking meaning and experiencing joy. My practice is informed by a deeply attuned and heartfelt approach to my client’s emotional wellbeing. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families.
My practice is grounded in internal family systems, sensorimotor methods, narrative therapy techniques, mindfulness practices and guided self-reflection to assist clients in a holistic healing process.
In our journeys through life we experience both pleasurable and distressing events. When these events reach a level of trauma and are not processed or effectively integrated, individuals may rely on less adaptive strategies to manage discomfort, stress and change. These strategies can negatively influence the way we perceive and interact with the world and affect our intuitive nature and our intentionality for seeking meaning and experiencing joy. My practice is informed by a deeply attuned and heartfelt approach to my client’s emotional wellbeing. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families.
![Photo of Kristi Beck, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db72e86f-630d-4f2d-988e-1b7cbe1345e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristi Beck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brattleboro, VT 05301
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, hypnotherapy, & other client- centered approaches.
Do you consider yourself to be a people pleaser? You may feel anxiety at the idea of others being upset with you. You might feel as if you have no time for yourself or your needs. You are finally ready to make a shift & make space for yourself in your life. You can gain the freedom to no longer need to walk on eggshells and control others feelings. People pleasing is a learned behaviors that many have been conditioned to believe is the way to get love & acceptance. Together we can help you relearn your inherent worth and include yourself in the kindness & care you give to others.
I utilize the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, hypnotherapy, & other client- centered approaches.
Do you consider yourself to be a people pleaser? You may feel anxiety at the idea of others being upset with you. You might feel as if you have no time for yourself or your needs. You are finally ready to make a shift & make space for yourself in your life. You can gain the freedom to no longer need to walk on eggshells and control others feelings. People pleasing is a learned behaviors that many have been conditioned to believe is the way to get love & acceptance. Together we can help you relearn your inherent worth and include yourself in the kindness & care you give to others.
![Photo of Wesley Wolter, MS, MA, LCMHC , LADC, RYT500, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/661820ee-32bc-4a00-b350-9e4acc8f3c02/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
![Photo of Parker Bowling, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dca70f2-3bb5-4803-87dc-91489658960d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Parker Bowling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
Our work together can draw on an eclectic array of therapeutic techniques, including evidence-based somatic and mindfulness modalities like IFS and ACT.
If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed and stressed, therapy can offer a compass to navigate the complexities of your inner and outer worlds in order to live a more meaningful day-to-day life. By creating a compassionate space for reflection, insight and motivation, I support people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, grief, substance use, and developmental trauma. Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis, we will work together to understand the root causes of your symptoms and co-create an actionable path towards healing.
Our work together can draw on an eclectic array of therapeutic techniques, including evidence-based somatic and mindfulness modalities like IFS and ACT.
If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed and stressed, therapy can offer a compass to navigate the complexities of your inner and outer worlds in order to live a more meaningful day-to-day life. By creating a compassionate space for reflection, insight and motivation, I support people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, grief, substance use, and developmental trauma. Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis, we will work together to understand the root causes of your symptoms and co-create an actionable path towards healing.
![Photo of Rebecca Morse, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb39fd59-05e2-4737-af7b-42d89e84f81e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
Drawing from a blend of mindfulness, IFS ( Internal Family Systems), and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), I support people to increase self-awareness in order to recognize patterns of thinking and behavior that can cause stress, pain and insecurity in their lives.
The quality of the therapeutic relationship is an important part of the healing process. With 27 years of experience counseling adolescents, adults and families, I offer a warm and trusting environment. My approach is client-centered, nonjudgmental and collaborative.
Drawing from a blend of mindfulness, IFS ( Internal Family Systems), and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), I support people to increase self-awareness in order to recognize patterns of thinking and behavior that can cause stress, pain and insecurity in their lives.
The quality of the therapeutic relationship is an important part of the healing process. With 27 years of experience counseling adolescents, adults and families, I offer a warm and trusting environment. My approach is client-centered, nonjudgmental and collaborative.
![Photo of Julie Coffey, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddba4900-6daf-4c75-8ac4-b1e43d43f699/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Coffey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinesburg, VT 05461
Waitlist for new clients
I believe people are experts in their own lives and so I meet them where they are, in the moment. That is why I offer a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment in which to safely explore life challenges, heal, and grow. I draw from multiple treatment approaches including but not limited to Person-centered, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT), and always through a Trauma focused lens.
I believe people are experts in their own lives and so I meet them where they are, in the moment. That is why I offer a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment in which to safely explore life challenges, heal, and grow. I draw from multiple treatment approaches including but not limited to Person-centered, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT), and always through a Trauma focused lens.
![Photo of Rachael M. Little, MSc, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c273deed-ea36-43ed-807b-87275afe938e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachael M. Little
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819
My style incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral, coaching, interpersonal, and family systems therapies.
East Coast upbringing meets West Coast ideology! I currently practice in both Vermont and California, and am proud to blend the progressive nature of the SF Bay with my Northern Attitude and roots. I work with families, couples, and individuals, supporting folks through life transitions, work stress, tough relationships, and difficult adolescent periods. I approach our work with a sense of directness, candor, and humor. I promise I can not only handle your tough stuff, but help you through to the other side. Our work together will be fulfilling and never boring, and I'll help you take control of your life in ways you never dreamed.
My style incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral, coaching, interpersonal, and family systems therapies.
East Coast upbringing meets West Coast ideology! I currently practice in both Vermont and California, and am proud to blend the progressive nature of the SF Bay with my Northern Attitude and roots. I work with families, couples, and individuals, supporting folks through life transitions, work stress, tough relationships, and difficult adolescent periods. I approach our work with a sense of directness, candor, and humor. I promise I can not only handle your tough stuff, but help you through to the other side. Our work together will be fulfilling and never boring, and I'll help you take control of your life in ways you never dreamed.
![Photo of Jessica Taylor, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b9afb8d-6e34-4373-b427-ab0d20a025b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Taylor
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Putney, VT 05346
Waitlist for new clients
Quirky, queer, sensitive, creative and neurodivergent people often wonder why daily living and achieving “success” appears so much easier for others. You may struggle with; focus and organization, intense emotions, burnout, developing rewarding relationships, meeting goals, or a demoralized self-image You are not alone my friend! In fact 1 in 6 people are neurodivergent and we really do learn and think differently and need a different approach to therapy. Clients come to me when they are interested in working with their brains and not against them. My approach is playful, pragmatic and immediately helpful.
Quirky, queer, sensitive, creative and neurodivergent people often wonder why daily living and achieving “success” appears so much easier for others. You may struggle with; focus and organization, intense emotions, burnout, developing rewarding relationships, meeting goals, or a demoralized self-image You are not alone my friend! In fact 1 in 6 people are neurodivergent and we really do learn and think differently and need a different approach to therapy. Clients come to me when they are interested in working with their brains and not against them. My approach is playful, pragmatic and immediately helpful.
![Photo of Nacara Foss, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d92fc6f7-85e2-4848-a816-3d682607a9ba/1/320x400.png)
I'm dedicated to helping you unlock the potential within yourself and embark on a transformative journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. I wholeheartedly believe that you are the expert in your own life journey. Together, we'll forge a partnership guided by your unique needs, values, and aspirations. I'm here to support and empower you, offering guidance and insights along the way. At the heart of effective counseling is the establishment of a strong, trusting, and secure client-therapist relationship. This is where our work begins.
I'm dedicated to helping you unlock the potential within yourself and embark on a transformative journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. I wholeheartedly believe that you are the expert in your own life journey. Together, we'll forge a partnership guided by your unique needs, values, and aspirations. I'm here to support and empower you, offering guidance and insights along the way. At the heart of effective counseling is the establishment of a strong, trusting, and secure client-therapist relationship. This is where our work begins.
![Photo of Alecia Armstrong, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f8de723-81f0-415b-8e88-23bd43e7f866/1/320x400.jpeg)
One of the greatest truths is that life can be difficult. Once we see this truth, we can transcend it. My counseling approach is centered on you and where you are in the moment. We'll explore you, your life, where you've been, and where you want to go. We'll design a therapeutic approach that is right for you. I have 35 years of experience and have worked with many models of treatment, treating a myriad of symptoms and life situations. I was a crisis clinician for 27 years, so not much intimidates me. When contacting me, please provide your insurance's name, 3 ideal time slots, and if you are willing to do telehealth sessions.
One of the greatest truths is that life can be difficult. Once we see this truth, we can transcend it. My counseling approach is centered on you and where you are in the moment. We'll explore you, your life, where you've been, and where you want to go. We'll design a therapeutic approach that is right for you. I have 35 years of experience and have worked with many models of treatment, treating a myriad of symptoms and life situations. I was a crisis clinician for 27 years, so not much intimidates me. When contacting me, please provide your insurance's name, 3 ideal time slots, and if you are willing to do telehealth sessions.
![Photo of Kate Nichols Lathrop, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53107972-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical social worker with twenty two years experience working with families and individuals of all ages. A recent client had this to say about our time together, "your healing energy and...comfort that you bring to your practice is so warming, safe and empowering. You have undoubtedly contributed to making me "me" during a time of transformation [and I} will always have your many perspectives tucked away in my brain for when things get tough"
I am a licensed clinical social worker with twenty two years experience working with families and individuals of all ages. A recent client had this to say about our time together, "your healing energy and...comfort that you bring to your practice is so warming, safe and empowering. You have undoubtedly contributed to making me "me" during a time of transformation [and I} will always have your many perspectives tucked away in my brain for when things get tough"
![Photo of Maya Kunigis, MEd, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcd6e57d-fde4-45ce-82f0-81301388b033/3/320x400.jpeg)
I value working collaboratively with my clients in a patient, authentic, and empathic manner to help empower individuals to find ways to more effectively navigate and cope with the challenges and stressors in their lives. I have experience working with children, adolescents, families, adults, and couples from a wide variety of racial, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. I've worked in crisis intervention with individuals experiencing suicidal ideation, as well as with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, low self-esteem, substance use issues, relationship issues, and LGBTQ concerns.
I value working collaboratively with my clients in a patient, authentic, and empathic manner to help empower individuals to find ways to more effectively navigate and cope with the challenges and stressors in their lives. I have experience working with children, adolescents, families, adults, and couples from a wide variety of racial, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. I've worked in crisis intervention with individuals experiencing suicidal ideation, as well as with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, low self-esteem, substance use issues, relationship issues, and LGBTQ concerns.
![Photo of Hailey Libbey, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaac522c-4702-4197-8a6e-8248b9a112ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hailey Libbey
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Have you experienced a traumatic event or loss and struggling to navigate the world around you? I may be able to help. I graduated with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2019. For the past 5 years I have worked with children and teens (5-18) along with their caregivers (bio/foster/adoptive/kin). I have provided direct client care to adults 65+ for over 15 years. I will use a collection of therapeutic modalities to meet your needs. Contact me today.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Have you experienced a traumatic event or loss and struggling to navigate the world around you? I may be able to help. I graduated with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2019. For the past 5 years I have worked with children and teens (5-18) along with their caregivers (bio/foster/adoptive/kin). I have provided direct client care to adults 65+ for over 15 years. I will use a collection of therapeutic modalities to meet your needs. Contact me today.
![Photo of Libbi Keith, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e79caa0-8e09-4fae-9177-b4794c3c809e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Libbi Keith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Waitlist for new clients
People seek therapy for many reasons such as feeling lonely, overwhelmed, anxious or sad. My client centered approach supports the client taking an active role in their therapy. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has many years working with children through adults. My approach to family therapy and marriage therapy is to understand the dynamics of the relationships and how to foster growth. I hope to provide a collaborative and comfortable space to help solve or manage daily struggles, life transitions, divorce, marriage, co-parenting, anxiety, depression.
People seek therapy for many reasons such as feeling lonely, overwhelmed, anxious or sad. My client centered approach supports the client taking an active role in their therapy. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has many years working with children through adults. My approach to family therapy and marriage therapy is to understand the dynamics of the relationships and how to foster growth. I hope to provide a collaborative and comfortable space to help solve or manage daily struggles, life transitions, divorce, marriage, co-parenting, anxiety, depression.
![Photo of Asa Twombly, MA, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ace25ba0-90c6-4592-9b99-45bfc85b6e3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be hard, and we don't have to go it alone. Change is possible, but it can take support to make the necessary steps. I approach each session with curiosity, directness, and humor. My goal is to help you recognize patterns, thoughts, or behaviors that no longer serve you. I work with primarily with adults and teens. I use a directive approach emphasizing evidence-supported tools that are foundational to mental and physical health. I believe the path to fulfillment is a process, not an ultimate destination. By clarifying your values, we can begin to identify both long and short term goals towards wholeness.
Life can be hard, and we don't have to go it alone. Change is possible, but it can take support to make the necessary steps. I approach each session with curiosity, directness, and humor. My goal is to help you recognize patterns, thoughts, or behaviors that no longer serve you. I work with primarily with adults and teens. I use a directive approach emphasizing evidence-supported tools that are foundational to mental and physical health. I believe the path to fulfillment is a process, not an ultimate destination. By clarifying your values, we can begin to identify both long and short term goals towards wholeness.
![Photo of Gavin B Chadwell, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c7bc5ed-0f58-4590-99a2-e94f4e2d086e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am now maintaining a waitlist; contact for scheduling options. Adolescence and adulthood are challenging; coping with anxiety, depression, and the daily barriers of life can easily complicate things further. You may struggle to cope with and find balance between the frustrations of school, relationships, work, and family. Maybe you feel it is time to focus on personal growth and seek harmony. Taking the first steps can feel extraordinarily challenging but I will be there to provide support and guidance within your journey. I believe everyone has the capacity to manage life's challenges and I can provide you the skills to do so.
I am now maintaining a waitlist; contact for scheduling options. Adolescence and adulthood are challenging; coping with anxiety, depression, and the daily barriers of life can easily complicate things further. You may struggle to cope with and find balance between the frustrations of school, relationships, work, and family. Maybe you feel it is time to focus on personal growth and seek harmony. Taking the first steps can feel extraordinarily challenging but I will be there to provide support and guidance within your journey. I believe everyone has the capacity to manage life's challenges and I can provide you the skills to do so.
![Photo of Maria Velasco Fontaine, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a3c8486-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Velasco Fontaine
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich, VT 05055 (Online Only)
I meet people where they are so we can begin the journey towards a more healthy and productive life. As a bicultural, bilingual clinician, I am well aware of how important cultural and family norms are and what role these play in our daily lives. I am sensitive to inter-generational conflicts that arise due to acculturation issues. Experience working with maternal wellness, teen & adults. Envisioning a rich and rewarding life can be challenging when you are overcome by either longstanding or daily problems.
I meet people where they are so we can begin the journey towards a more healthy and productive life. As a bicultural, bilingual clinician, I am well aware of how important cultural and family norms are and what role these play in our daily lives. I am sensitive to inter-generational conflicts that arise due to acculturation issues. Experience working with maternal wellness, teen & adults. Envisioning a rich and rewarding life can be challenging when you are overcome by either longstanding or daily problems.
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.