Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Bristol, VT

Photo of Kristen J Ginsburg, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristen J Ginsburg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Bristol, VT 05443
Taking new clients. I am passionate about your personal growth and helping you identify and achieve your life goals. I use attachment theory, somatic awareness, mindfulness techniques, and a polyvagal framework to help you identify your thoughts and feelings. Once we name it, then we tame it! We will work to increase understanding, coping skills, and focus through the exploration of your unique story.
Taking new clients. I am passionate about your personal growth and helping you identify and achieve your life goals. I use attachment theory, somatic awareness, mindfulness techniques, and a polyvagal framework to help you identify your thoughts and feelings. Once we name it, then we tame it! We will work to increase understanding, coping skills, and focus through the exploration of your unique story.
(802) 546-8708 View (802) 546-8708
Photo of Amy Aiko Hovland, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Aiko Hovland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VT 05443  (Online Only)
You don’t feel ready for what you’re going through. You may be facing hardship because of gender role non-conformity, capitalist abuses, queerness, poverty, racism, classism, misogyny, ageism, adultism. You are feeling more pain around being marginalized than pride in who you are. The feeling of “not - enough” is your long-time companion. The search for an identity that you can claim with confidence is a source of pain and confusion. You struggle to show-up for yourself in the face of perfectionism and White Body Supremacy that erases and destroys your uniqueness. You’ve frequently felt yourself to be an imposter.
You don’t feel ready for what you’re going through. You may be facing hardship because of gender role non-conformity, capitalist abuses, queerness, poverty, racism, classism, misogyny, ageism, adultism. You are feeling more pain around being marginalized than pride in who you are. The feeling of “not - enough” is your long-time companion. The search for an identity that you can claim with confidence is a source of pain and confusion. You struggle to show-up for yourself in the face of perfectionism and White Body Supremacy that erases and destroys your uniqueness. You’ve frequently felt yourself to be an imposter.
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Corrine Mertz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corrine Mertz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VT 05443
Private pay openings: Bristol 9 or 10AM Tuesdays, Burlington Wednesdays 10.30 or 4PM, Thursdays 7PM: 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 children alike, I utilize a modality called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
Private pay openings: Bristol 9 or 10AM Tuesdays, Burlington Wednesdays 10.30 or 4PM, Thursdays 7PM: 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 children alike, I utilize a modality called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Penélope Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penélope Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, VT 05443  (Online Only)
Openings for private pay clients, evening, afternoon, and daytime. You, your teen, or your partnership are feeling overwhelmed trying to cope with the demands of daily life. You don’t have the supports you need to consistently enjoy your life. Instead, you feel anxious and down, not knowing how to truly take care of yourself or help your teen to thrive. You may be dealing with medical needs that are complex or that you’re not getting answers for and it’s impacting your quality of life. Your relationships are suffering, you feel isolated and stuck. You know you want a change but where to turn? How to begin?
Openings for private pay clients, evening, afternoon, and daytime. You, your teen, or your partnership are feeling overwhelmed trying to cope with the demands of daily life. You don’t have the supports you need to consistently enjoy your life. Instead, you feel anxious and down, not knowing how to truly take care of yourself or help your teen to thrive. You may be dealing with medical needs that are complex or that you’re not getting answers for and it’s impacting your quality of life. Your relationships are suffering, you feel isolated and stuck. You know you want a change but where to turn? How to begin?
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Charlotte R McGray, PsyD, Psychologist
Charlotte R McGray
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bristol, VT 05443
Seek me out when you are having problems with depression, anxiety, pain, stress, self- esteem, anger, health, or in your relationship. Marital problems such as loss, betrayal, trust, anger or alienation are common problems that couples or individuals bring to me. I have a warm, clear, reflective, interpersonal style. I tailor my approach to the needs of the client. This means we may look at your need for dealing with negative thoughts, how to manage your pain, relaxation training, or look at your developmental experiences to design corrective experiences. Clearly decision- making, communication skills, managing emotion could be addressed.
Seek me out when you are having problems with depression, anxiety, pain, stress, self- esteem, anger, health, or in your relationship. Marital problems such as loss, betrayal, trust, anger or alienation are common problems that couples or individuals bring to me. I have a warm, clear, reflective, interpersonal style. I tailor my approach to the needs of the client. This means we may look at your need for dealing with negative thoughts, how to manage your pain, relaxation training, or look at your developmental experiences to design corrective experiences. Clearly decision- making, communication skills, managing emotion could be addressed.
(802) 388-0929 View (802) 388-0929

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jane Beaumont Snyder, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Jane Beaumont Snyder
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
North Ferrisburgh, VT 05473  (Online Only)
I am a trained Depth therapist with a background in family systems and expressive arts.
I see a state of imbalance in the world that affects all beings and brings out our collective and individual defenses. These intersect with trauma, relationship issues, fear, anxiety, grief, and depression to create patterns of disharmony within our lives and our dynamics with others. Whatever brings you to therapy, I believe that therapy can help ease the burden. I see therapy as a process of co-creatively and compassionately tending to threads of discord that have become intransigent, freeing new pathways of thinking, feeling, and being. With time and attention, therapy can help cultivate and strengthen an inner balance.
I am a trained Depth therapist with a background in family systems and expressive arts.
I see a state of imbalance in the world that affects all beings and brings out our collective and individual defenses. These intersect with trauma, relationship issues, fear, anxiety, grief, and depression to create patterns of disharmony within our lives and our dynamics with others. Whatever brings you to therapy, I believe that therapy can help ease the burden. I see therapy as a process of co-creatively and compassionately tending to threads of discord that have become intransigent, freeing new pathways of thinking, feeling, and being. With time and attention, therapy can help cultivate and strengthen an inner balance.
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Photo of Ashley McCullough, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley McCullough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hinesburg, VT 05461
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.
(802) 397-9596 View (802) 397-9596
Photo of Marybeth Caseiro, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Marybeth Caseiro
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Vergennes, VT 05491
I provide collaborative, creative and practical counseling and psychotherapy. Using a holistic approach that integrates the latest research on neuroscience with mind, body and spirit, we will work together to help you overcome troublesome patterns and to develop greater well-being, confidence, and happiness. I have specialty and advanced training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, EMDR, and somatic therapy. I also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
I provide collaborative, creative and practical counseling and psychotherapy. Using a holistic approach that integrates the latest research on neuroscience with mind, body and spirit, we will work together to help you overcome troublesome patterns and to develop greater well-being, confidence, and happiness. I have specialty and advanced training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, EMDR, and somatic therapy. I also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
(802) 222-8755 View (802) 222-8755
Photo of Carolyn Balparda, MS, Registered Psychotherapist
Carolyn Balparda
Registered Psychotherapist, MS
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753  (Online Only)
Hi there! Are you struggling to feel joy in your everyday life? Do you have difficulty managing your stress or worries? Are you looking to gain more insight into repeating patterns in your life? We all go through tough times in our lives, and talking to a professional can be incredibly helpful in not only learning new ways to approach the problems we face, but also in building resilience, finding joy and creating meaning through adversity. I have a focus on working with neurodivergent folks assigned female at birth.
Hi there! Are you struggling to feel joy in your everyday life? Do you have difficulty managing your stress or worries? Are you looking to gain more insight into repeating patterns in your life? We all go through tough times in our lives, and talking to a professional can be incredibly helpful in not only learning new ways to approach the problems we face, but also in building resilience, finding joy and creating meaning through adversity. I have a focus on working with neurodivergent folks assigned female at birth.
(802) 328-9316 View (802) 328-9316

Online Therapists

Photo of Rudorwashe 'rudo' Cusack - Solace & Healing Counseling, LMHC, CRC, MBA, Counselor
Solace & Healing Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, CRC, MBA
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
Some examples of approaches I use are CBT, Solution-focused therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Positive psychology, Christian & Catholic counseling, IFS, etc.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. My ideal client is focused on personal growth and healing. If you feel stressed, anxious, and scared, this is a great time to reach out and find support. If you are dealing with loss, a traumatic past, relationship issues, women's issues, or work stresses, let's work together to help you cope with life's stressors. My goal is to help you navigate challenges, make sense of your experiences, and find hope, joy, and healing.
Some examples of approaches I use are CBT, Solution-focused therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Positive psychology, Christian & Catholic counseling, IFS, etc.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. My ideal client is focused on personal growth and healing. If you feel stressed, anxious, and scared, this is a great time to reach out and find support. If you are dealing with loss, a traumatic past, relationship issues, women's issues, or work stresses, let's work together to help you cope with life's stressors. My goal is to help you navigate challenges, make sense of your experiences, and find hope, joy, and healing.
(401) 681-3982 View (401) 681-3982
Photo of Kyla Suarez, MS, RYT-500, Y4C, Registered Psychotherapist
Kyla Suarez
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, RYT-500, Y4C
Verified Verified
Hartland, VT 05048  (Online Only)
Through EMDR, IFS, Attachment Therapy, Somatic Releases, honor the Inner-Child(ren), Yoga and the 8 Foundations of Wellness we will focus on regulating your nervous system so that we can then do the cognitive work together.
Please email to inquire about consultation. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to rediscover your truest self and remain an observant student to the challenges you are confronting. I will support you in facing fear so you can overcome challenges, achieve your goals and love yourself. You will learn ways to regulate your mind and body to support your goals and honor yourself. I support clients that are open and willing to dive deep and begin the practice of believing in themselves, remembering that you are amazing and loving your inner-child as well as connect to other inner-parts ( IFS) of yourself.
Through EMDR, IFS, Attachment Therapy, Somatic Releases, honor the Inner-Child(ren), Yoga and the 8 Foundations of Wellness we will focus on regulating your nervous system so that we can then do the cognitive work together.
Please email to inquire about consultation. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to rediscover your truest self and remain an observant student to the challenges you are confronting. I will support you in facing fear so you can overcome challenges, achieve your goals and love yourself. You will learn ways to regulate your mind and body to support your goals and honor yourself. I support clients that are open and willing to dive deep and begin the practice of believing in themselves, remembering that you are amazing and loving your inner-child as well as connect to other inner-parts ( IFS) of yourself.
(802) 222-8938 View (802) 222-8938
Photo of Jennifir Bailes Hart, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Jennifir Bailes Hart
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Brattleboro, VT 05301
Waitlist for new clients
I have completed extensive training in Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) and Narrative Therapy.
I offer compassionate, attentive, thoughtful counseling in the context of the relationship I build with my clients. I see our work as a collaborative endeavor that centers clients as the experts on their own lives and looks at problems as separate from people. I am interested in the stories of people's lives, creative responses to problems we encounter, and how our relationships with ourselves and others shape our sense of self and belonging. I believe in the healing power of the creative process, and can include the arts and movement into my work if that is something my client would like to explore.
I have completed extensive training in Internal Family Systems Therapy ( IFS) and Narrative Therapy.
I offer compassionate, attentive, thoughtful counseling in the context of the relationship I build with my clients. I see our work as a collaborative endeavor that centers clients as the experts on their own lives and looks at problems as separate from people. I am interested in the stories of people's lives, creative responses to problems we encounter, and how our relationships with ourselves and others shape our sense of self and belonging. I believe in the healing power of the creative process, and can include the arts and movement into my work if that is something my client would like to explore.
(802) 552-4613 View (802) 552-4613
Photo of Mary Jane Dieter, LCSW, LICSW, CPCC, ACC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Jane Dieter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CPCC, ACC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
IFS teaches you how to lead your life from a place of understanding and kindness toward yourself and others, changing the nature of how you feel both internally and in your relationships.
Many of us have internal critical voices telling us: "Get it right! Achieve more! Work harder! That was stupid! Lose weight! Quit drinking so much! Stop being selfish! Stop caring about what others think!" You are familiar with the tapes that run in your head and keep you ruminating about your mistakes or worrying about the future. In Internal Family Systems (IFS) individual therapy & Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO) couple therapy, we recognize these messages as different aspects of our personality, or “parts” of us, who perhaps lead us to experiences of feeling anxious, depressed, or behaving harmfully to ourselves and others.
IFS teaches you how to lead your life from a place of understanding and kindness toward yourself and others, changing the nature of how you feel both internally and in your relationships.
Many of us have internal critical voices telling us: "Get it right! Achieve more! Work harder! That was stupid! Lose weight! Quit drinking so much! Stop being selfish! Stop caring about what others think!" You are familiar with the tapes that run in your head and keep you ruminating about your mistakes or worrying about the future. In Internal Family Systems (IFS) individual therapy & Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO) couple therapy, we recognize these messages as different aspects of our personality, or “parts” of us, who perhaps lead us to experiences of feeling anxious, depressed, or behaving harmfully to ourselves and others.
(415) 851-6793 View (415) 851-6793
Photo of Patrick Cassidy, MA
Patrick Cassidy
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602
My focus is on healing internal wounds (trauma) using the Internal Family Systems model.
My goal is to help you create the changes you want for your life. Whether you would like to experience less anxiety, handle grief with more grace, improve relationships, or process past trauma, I want to help you get to where you are going. I strive to show up as an ally for our BIPOC and LGBTQ communities. Hablo español con fluidez. Clientes hispanohablantes son siempre muy bienvenidos.
My focus is on healing internal wounds (trauma) using the Internal Family Systems model.
My goal is to help you create the changes you want for your life. Whether you would like to experience less anxiety, handle grief with more grace, improve relationships, or process past trauma, I want to help you get to where you are going. I strive to show up as an ally for our BIPOC and LGBTQ communities. Hablo español con fluidez. Clientes hispanohablantes son siempre muy bienvenidos.
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Photo of Nancy Forsythe Harrington - Nancy Forsythe Harrington, M.Ed., LICSW, MEd, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Forsythe Harrington, M.Ed., LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
Besides traditional dynamic psychotherapy approaches, I use training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EFT and Internal Family Systems.
Deciding to work with a therapist is an important step. Finding the right therapist can be challenging. My style is one of openness and curiosity, bringing the most current theories and perspectives in psychotherapy to my work with couples and individuals. Continually learning from the explosion of knowledge happening in the world of the body, emotions, and brain, I teach my patients about how the brain works to regulate their emotions. I've trained extensively throughout the past 30 years to incorporate highly effective therapy methods into my clinical practice (described below).
Besides traditional dynamic psychotherapy approaches, I use training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EFT and Internal Family Systems.
Deciding to work with a therapist is an important step. Finding the right therapist can be challenging. My style is one of openness and curiosity, bringing the most current theories and perspectives in psychotherapy to my work with couples and individuals. Continually learning from the explosion of knowledge happening in the world of the body, emotions, and brain, I teach my patients about how the brain works to regulate their emotions. I've trained extensively throughout the past 30 years to incorporate highly effective therapy methods into my clinical practice (described below).
(802) 553-3809 View (802) 553-3809
Photo of Allyson Murdock, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allyson Murdock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
I utilize family systems theory to help clients understand their role in the patterns they are stuck in with themselves and in important relationships.
Oftentimes clients come to therapy stuck in patterns that are not serving them well, and they do not understand how they ended up where they are. My goal in working with clients is to help them know, understand, and have compassion for themselves, and in the case of couples and families, for each other as well. I provide a safe and nurturing environment where clients are free to express their thoughts and feelings, and I work to help them make sense of it all. My goal is to meet clients where they are, and give them the tools to get to where they want to be emotionally and psychologically.
I utilize family systems theory to help clients understand their role in the patterns they are stuck in with themselves and in important relationships.
Oftentimes clients come to therapy stuck in patterns that are not serving them well, and they do not understand how they ended up where they are. My goal in working with clients is to help them know, understand, and have compassion for themselves, and in the case of couples and families, for each other as well. I provide a safe and nurturing environment where clients are free to express their thoughts and feelings, and I work to help them make sense of it all. My goal is to meet clients where they are, and give them the tools to get to where they want to be emotionally and psychologically.
(802) 278-6592 View (802) 278-6592
Photo of Aubrey Welch, LCMHC, Counselor
Aubrey Welch
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wells River, VT 05081
I think the connection between a therapist and client is the most important aspect of the counseling work. When a good relationship is established you can reach your goals and challenge yourself in an environment that feels safe. I enjoy working with children, teens, and families in a variety of ways. I also enjoy supporting parents with the many challenges of raising children in todays society. My theoretical approach is supported by Internal Family Systems theory where we will work with parts of self to help understand, and support a healthier version of ourselves.
I think the connection between a therapist and client is the most important aspect of the counseling work. When a good relationship is established you can reach your goals and challenge yourself in an environment that feels safe. I enjoy working with children, teens, and families in a variety of ways. I also enjoy supporting parents with the many challenges of raising children in todays society. My theoretical approach is supported by Internal Family Systems theory where we will work with parts of self to help understand, and support a healthier version of ourselves.
(802) 424-8349 View (802) 424-8349
Photo of Cesar Seveso, MA, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cesar Seveso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05408
I have also completed training in internal family systems, accelerated resolution therapy, written exposure therapy, and collaborative assessment and management of suicidality.
I believe that the quality of our mind shapes the quality of our life. You can regain the freedom to choose how you feel and respond to challenges and difficulties while nurturing richer and happier relationships. My experience and training revolve around four major areas: anxiety, depression, trauma, and cancer. I know how to address your psychological distress with empathy and support, harnessing your strengths to master new coping skills. I view therapy as a collaborative effort and continually seek out feedback as to how treatment is progressing.
I have also completed training in internal family systems, accelerated resolution therapy, written exposure therapy, and collaborative assessment and management of suicidality.
I believe that the quality of our mind shapes the quality of our life. You can regain the freedom to choose how you feel and respond to challenges and difficulties while nurturing richer and happier relationships. My experience and training revolve around four major areas: anxiety, depression, trauma, and cancer. I know how to address your psychological distress with empathy and support, harnessing your strengths to master new coping skills. I view therapy as a collaborative effort and continually seek out feedback as to how treatment is progressing.
(281) 940-3601 View (281) 940-3601
Photo of Rachel Buckner, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Buckner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
I incorporate IFS, narrative, attachment, & somatic approaches to help clients identify triggers, release limiting beliefs, explore identity, foster emotional health, enhance worthiness, & heal from trauma.
My practice is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and self-discovery. My goal is to provide a safe container for you to bring all parts of yourself forward, explore what is blocking you from your joy, connect with your inner wisdom, & strengthen your ability to create loving connections with both yourself and others. I enjoy working with folks interested in delving deeper within themselves with curiosity and openness. Together, we'll identify different parts of your self and the stories they hold, creating space to rewrite your narratives from a place of empowerment and work towards meaningful change.
I incorporate IFS, narrative, attachment, & somatic approaches to help clients identify triggers, release limiting beliefs, explore identity, foster emotional health, enhance worthiness, & heal from trauma.
My practice is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and self-discovery. My goal is to provide a safe container for you to bring all parts of yourself forward, explore what is blocking you from your joy, connect with your inner wisdom, & strengthen your ability to create loving connections with both yourself and others. I enjoy working with folks interested in delving deeper within themselves with curiosity and openness. Together, we'll identify different parts of your self and the stories they hold, creating space to rewrite your narratives from a place of empowerment and work towards meaningful change.
(802) 210-1376 View (802) 210-1376
Photo of Karen Hastings, LCSW, MSW, BSW, AAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Hastings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW, AAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, VT 05468  (Online Only)
I am trained in IFS, EMDR, Trauma Integration, and Compassionate Inquiry.
Sometimes on our journey we need an objective guide. I can help you manage problems involving "big feelings” that otherwise overwhelm. If your goal is to start getting new results for old recurring problems we can do that with compassion and curiosity. It is important to explore our personal history to understand why we think or behave the ways we currently do. While personal growth isn't always painless, you don't have to be alone in the process if you have a therapist who will commit to the process along side of you. I can help you gain new perspectives that will get you to solve problems effectively.
I am trained in IFS, EMDR, Trauma Integration, and Compassionate Inquiry.
Sometimes on our journey we need an objective guide. I can help you manage problems involving "big feelings” that otherwise overwhelm. If your goal is to start getting new results for old recurring problems we can do that with compassion and curiosity. It is important to explore our personal history to understand why we think or behave the ways we currently do. While personal growth isn't always painless, you don't have to be alone in the process if you have a therapist who will commit to the process along side of you. I can help you gain new perspectives that will get you to solve problems effectively.
(480) 470-9590 View (480) 470-9590

See more therapy options for Bristol

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.