Photo of Tania Beaudet - Couples Individuals Families, LMFTA, MACFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tania Beaudet - Couples Individuals Families
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MACFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
Currently Accepting New Clients. Cultivating meaning in life and connections with our loved ones serves as cornerstones in discovering growth, purpose and happiness within our lives. As a trauma-informed systemic, relational therapist, I use narrative therapy, IFS, couples therapy (EFT/Gottman), EMDR and mindfulness to assist clients working through life transitions, challenges, relationship/family/parenting issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and grief. I am dedicated to offering therapy that is inclusive and empathetic, as well as offering care to clients of systemically oppressed communities.
Currently Accepting New Clients. Cultivating meaning in life and connections with our loved ones serves as cornerstones in discovering growth, purpose and happiness within our lives. As a trauma-informed systemic, relational therapist, I use narrative therapy, IFS, couples therapy (EFT/Gottman), EMDR and mindfulness to assist clients working through life transitions, challenges, relationship/family/parenting issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and grief. I am dedicated to offering therapy that is inclusive and empathetic, as well as offering care to clients of systemically oppressed communities.
(425) 374-4642 View (425) 374-4642
Photo of Nicole Swedberg, EdD, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nicole Swedberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, EdD, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
My tools and training include Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, Gottman Method, the Developmental Model from the Couple’s Institute, DBT, CAMS-Care Suicide Prevention, and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions.
I work with courageous humans who are interested in exploring ways of healing from and growing through difficult life experiences. When a tree is injured, it doesn’t just ignore the trauma, but it balances short-term healing with a longer journey of change and adaptation. Whether you are searching for a clearer sense of your own identity, processing a loss, or trying to make your relationship work, my approach is to help you feel more stable and secure, then walk alongside you as you find your sky and grow towards it.
My tools and training include Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, Gottman Method, the Developmental Model from the Couple’s Institute, DBT, CAMS-Care Suicide Prevention, and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions.
I work with courageous humans who are interested in exploring ways of healing from and growing through difficult life experiences. When a tree is injured, it doesn’t just ignore the trauma, but it balances short-term healing with a longer journey of change and adaptation. Whether you are searching for a clearer sense of your own identity, processing a loss, or trying to make your relationship work, my approach is to help you feel more stable and secure, then walk alongside you as you find your sky and grow towards it.
(425) 494-5468 View (425) 494-5468
Photo of Calvin Linder, LMHCA, NCC, MEd
Calvin Linder
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
I utilize Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Somatic), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems to achieve your specific goals.
Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, substance use, low self-esteem, and burnout impact how we show up for those we love or the work we do. Are things you've held down bubbling up? Or are you, once again, in a dark place? Perhaps you're overwhelmed? Is it politics, late-stage capitalism, or the loss of our natural world? Whatever the reasons, I want you to know this: change is not only possible for you. It is inevitable. A principle of person-centered therapy and my deeply-held belief is that you innately possess what you need to heal. Distant or broken parts are stepping stones to return to yourselves or step into your grandeur.
I utilize Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Somatic), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems to achieve your specific goals.
Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, substance use, low self-esteem, and burnout impact how we show up for those we love or the work we do. Are things you've held down bubbling up? Or are you, once again, in a dark place? Perhaps you're overwhelmed? Is it politics, late-stage capitalism, or the loss of our natural world? Whatever the reasons, I want you to know this: change is not only possible for you. It is inevitable. A principle of person-centered therapy and my deeply-held belief is that you innately possess what you need to heal. Distant or broken parts are stepping stones to return to yourselves or step into your grandeur.
(206) 457-1783 View (206) 457-1783
Photo of Chris Lott, LMHCA, Counselor
Chris Lott
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98134
I often integrate IFS, Hakomi, somatic therapy, Gestalt, psychodrama, & psychedelic therapy support.
Something within you has led you here. Something yearning for understanding, change, or acceptance. Maybe you feel anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in holding patterns, tending old wounds or wondering "What's next?" Whatever is present for you, it is my honor to meet you where you are, as you are, with compassion and curiosity. My goal as a counselor is to create a nonjudgmental, supportive space for you to connect with your truth. All of us are already whole, and therapy is a way to return to that knowing. I'm inspired by my clients' wisdom and creativity as they explore the highs and lows of their experience and find a way forward.
I often integrate IFS, Hakomi, somatic therapy, Gestalt, psychodrama, & psychedelic therapy support.
Something within you has led you here. Something yearning for understanding, change, or acceptance. Maybe you feel anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in holding patterns, tending old wounds or wondering "What's next?" Whatever is present for you, it is my honor to meet you where you are, as you are, with compassion and curiosity. My goal as a counselor is to create a nonjudgmental, supportive space for you to connect with your truth. All of us are already whole, and therapy is a way to return to that knowing. I'm inspired by my clients' wisdom and creativity as they explore the highs and lows of their experience and find a way forward.
(253) 802-8475 View (253) 802-8475
Photo of Natalie Temple, LMHC, Counselor
Natalie Temple
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
IFS Level 1 Training pending completion December 2024! I believe that we are all experts on our own lives and inner world, but sometimes there are factors that stand in the way of our innate ability to heal. My intention is to meet my clients where they are at with unconditional positive regard, and to build a compassionate therapeutic alliance based on mutual trust and respect. Through use of a holistic and integrative lens, I assist clients in discovery of inner resources, and identify and target obstacles. Through our work, you may find new ways of orienting to your environments and relationships.
IFS Level 1 Training pending completion December 2024! I believe that we are all experts on our own lives and inner world, but sometimes there are factors that stand in the way of our innate ability to heal. My intention is to meet my clients where they are at with unconditional positive regard, and to build a compassionate therapeutic alliance based on mutual trust and respect. Through use of a holistic and integrative lens, I assist clients in discovery of inner resources, and identify and target obstacles. Through our work, you may find new ways of orienting to your environments and relationships.
(206) 855-6976 View (206) 855-6976
Photo of Bethany Aragon, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bethany Aragon
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
I offer individual, family, and couple sessions, utilizing evidence-based modalities such as IFS, TF-CBT, Narrative Family Therapy, Somatic Practices and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Now Accepting New Family and Couples! I specializes in working with trauma/PTSD, relationship challenges, children/adolecents and complex family dynamics. As a systemic therapist with over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I am deeply committed to fostering healing through a holistic lens. I'm trained in family therapy, couple work, somatic practices and children/adolescents. Passionate about diversity and equity, I strive to create a space where all clients feel heard and supported.
I offer individual, family, and couple sessions, utilizing evidence-based modalities such as IFS, TF-CBT, Narrative Family Therapy, Somatic Practices and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Now Accepting New Family and Couples! I specializes in working with trauma/PTSD, relationship challenges, children/adolecents and complex family dynamics. As a systemic therapist with over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I am deeply committed to fostering healing through a holistic lens. I'm trained in family therapy, couple work, somatic practices and children/adolescents. Passionate about diversity and equity, I strive to create a space where all clients feel heard and supported.
(425) 671-0978 View (425) 671-0978
Amber Ashford
Counselor, NCC, CMHCA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98199
I admire the courage it takes to seek help and make change, and believe everyone has the capacity for healing. I bring compassion and curiosity to my person centered work with clients. My approach is collaborative, feedback driven, strengths based, and often infused with play, art, and nature therapy techniques. While the work we do will be as unique as each client, I am most inspired by internal family systems, emotionally focused therapy, solution focused brief therapy, and AEDP.
I admire the courage it takes to seek help and make change, and believe everyone has the capacity for healing. I bring compassion and curiosity to my person centered work with clients. My approach is collaborative, feedback driven, strengths based, and often infused with play, art, and nature therapy techniques. While the work we do will be as unique as each client, I am most inspired by internal family systems, emotionally focused therapy, solution focused brief therapy, and AEDP.
(808) 207-7497 View (808) 207-7497
Photo of Lauren Thomas, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
Lauren is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. She received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from University of Utah and her Master’s in Social Work from University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. Lauren has graduate and post-graduate clinical training in assessing, diagnosing, and treating OCD, ADHD, PTSD, school refusal, and other areas of need. Lauren specializes in treatment of adolescents and family systems, and is dedicated to this work and enjoys helping others.
Lauren is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. She received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from University of Utah and her Master’s in Social Work from University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. Lauren has graduate and post-graduate clinical training in assessing, diagnosing, and treating OCD, ADHD, PTSD, school refusal, and other areas of need. Lauren specializes in treatment of adolescents and family systems, and is dedicated to this work and enjoys helping others.
(425) 202-5330 View (425) 202-5330
Photo of Elva Flannery, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elva Flannery
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use Family Systems Theory, which explains how most problems are rooted in family systems breakdowns and past traumas.
My work with my clients is based on respect and trust, while promoting growth. As a therapist it is my goal to aid my clients by teaching positive communication skills, conflict resolution, and tools to learn how to identify and change problematic interaction, patterns or behaviors. My therapeutic style is encouraging and engaging. I work with couples, families, individuals, children, and teens. I strive to support my clients in meeting their goals and find solutions to achieve successful happy results. I will maintain a honest, open, and safe therapeutic space for my clients, while building upon their strengths!
I use Family Systems Theory, which explains how most problems are rooted in family systems breakdowns and past traumas.
My work with my clients is based on respect and trust, while promoting growth. As a therapist it is my goal to aid my clients by teaching positive communication skills, conflict resolution, and tools to learn how to identify and change problematic interaction, patterns or behaviors. My therapeutic style is encouraging and engaging. I work with couples, families, individuals, children, and teens. I strive to support my clients in meeting their goals and find solutions to achieve successful happy results. I will maintain a honest, open, and safe therapeutic space for my clients, while building upon their strengths!
(360) 295-4606 View (360) 295-4606
Photo of Breda Waite, LMHCA, Counselor
Breda Waite
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Most often, I use Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, and Polyvagal Theory.
Brené Brown says that disappointment happens when expectations don't meet reality. If you are expecting a therapist who offers brief, solution, or behavior-focused therapy, I am not a good fit for you. I'd rather be the Sam to your Frodo, aka "I can't carry the ring for you, but I can carry you." If you don't get that reference, then "these are not the droids you're looking for." I thrive working with the complex, quirky clients who worry they are too broken, too weird, or too much. ADHD, ASD, PTSD, and LGBTQIA clients are my jam, along with folks who have left a religious or high control group and are deconstructing. I see you.
Most often, I use Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, and Polyvagal Theory.
Brené Brown says that disappointment happens when expectations don't meet reality. If you are expecting a therapist who offers brief, solution, or behavior-focused therapy, I am not a good fit for you. I'd rather be the Sam to your Frodo, aka "I can't carry the ring for you, but I can carry you." If you don't get that reference, then "these are not the droids you're looking for." I thrive working with the complex, quirky clients who worry they are too broken, too weird, or too much. ADHD, ASD, PTSD, and LGBTQIA clients are my jam, along with folks who have left a religious or high control group and are deconstructing. I see you.
(206) 533-3048 View (206) 533-3048
Photo of Rachel Kathleen Ramondetta, MA, LMFTA, MHP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rachel Kathleen Ramondetta
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training and experience in evidence-based therapies and systemic models of therapy, including Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral, Emotion Focused, Narrative, and Solution Focused Therapies.
I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life's challenges and transitions. My practice focuses on helping clients develop effective coping strategies to overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, relationships, and family dynamics. As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, my primary areas of focus include: distress related to attachment, identity, and adjustment issues, as well as communication difficulties, relationship concerns, healing from traumatic experiences, and family dynamics.
I have extensive training and experience in evidence-based therapies and systemic models of therapy, including Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral, Emotion Focused, Narrative, and Solution Focused Therapies.
I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life's challenges and transitions. My practice focuses on helping clients develop effective coping strategies to overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, relationships, and family dynamics. As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, my primary areas of focus include: distress related to attachment, identity, and adjustment issues, as well as communication difficulties, relationship concerns, healing from traumatic experiences, and family dynamics.
(206) 207-6622 View (206) 207-6622
Photo of Dr. Puja Kakkar, PhD, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Puja Kakkar
Counselor, PhD, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
My therapeutic style is warm, engaging, empathic and collaborative, and is rooted in evidence-based approaches like Cognitive behavioral Therapy, Family Systems and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
Are you a teen who is feeling lost, sad and misunderstood? Are you a parent who is struggling with parenting ? Are you an adult having trouble in coping with anxiety, depression, ADHD, toxic work stress, or a couple struggling with marital problems where it is so hard to communicate with your partner? Life can be hard, and we often find ourselves stuck. I'm here to help you to cope with the life's struggles without feeling alone. I have 23 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults and couples. I can assist you in finding solutions to your problems and guide you to the path of happiness and success.
My therapeutic style is warm, engaging, empathic and collaborative, and is rooted in evidence-based approaches like Cognitive behavioral Therapy, Family Systems and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
Are you a teen who is feeling lost, sad and misunderstood? Are you a parent who is struggling with parenting ? Are you an adult having trouble in coping with anxiety, depression, ADHD, toxic work stress, or a couple struggling with marital problems where it is so hard to communicate with your partner? Life can be hard, and we often find ourselves stuck. I'm here to help you to cope with the life's struggles without feeling alone. I have 23 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults and couples. I can assist you in finding solutions to your problems and guide you to the path of happiness and success.
(425) 578-5986 View (425) 578-5986
Photo of Kimmy Anne Holm - Evergreen Spindle Counseling, LMCHA, Counselor
Evergreen Spindle Counseling
Counselor, LMCHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
My work incorporates elements of parts work ( IFS), body liberation, and feminist therapy.
I work with all kinds of people, but I especially welcome gender expansive identities, neurodivergent individuals, and those with trauma. My goal is to help you navigate hard times, and to assist you in your journey to a deeper understanding of yourself. No, you are not lazy or too emotional. Navigating our world can be overwhelming and overstimulating. All parts are welcome here.
My work incorporates elements of parts work ( IFS), body liberation, and feminist therapy.
I work with all kinds of people, but I especially welcome gender expansive identities, neurodivergent individuals, and those with trauma. My goal is to help you navigate hard times, and to assist you in your journey to a deeper understanding of yourself. No, you are not lazy or too emotional. Navigating our world can be overwhelming and overstimulating. All parts are welcome here.
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Photo of Sara Laurino, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Laurino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136
As a trained clinical social worker, I see you as a whole person. My practice is deeply rooted in mindfulness, kindness & social justice. I practice from a client centered & trauma informed perspective. All of the work that I do is collaborative... I am so glad that you are here! I am passionate about Intergenerational family healing: both family of choice & biological families. I work with clients who are living with anxiety, depression, and trauma survivors. My specialty areas include: life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, grief, relationship issues and spirituality.
As a trained clinical social worker, I see you as a whole person. My practice is deeply rooted in mindfulness, kindness & social justice. I practice from a client centered & trauma informed perspective. All of the work that I do is collaborative... I am so glad that you are here! I am passionate about Intergenerational family healing: both family of choice & biological families. I work with clients who are living with anxiety, depression, and trauma survivors. My specialty areas include: life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, grief, relationship issues and spirituality.
(206) 339-4164 View (206) 339-4164
Photo of Sophia Florence Bruce, CMHC, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sophia Florence Bruce
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122
Hi! I am so glad you are here and am excited to get to know you. I believe that therapy is a vital resource for everyone, no matter where you are from or what you are going through. I provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I strive to equip my clients with essential tools to understand themselves better and navigate life's ups and downs because the truth is, life is complex. Together we will explore, with compassionate curiosity, how to live your best life and navigate challenges effectively.
Hi! I am so glad you are here and am excited to get to know you. I believe that therapy is a vital resource for everyone, no matter where you are from or what you are going through. I provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I strive to equip my clients with essential tools to understand themselves better and navigate life's ups and downs because the truth is, life is complex. Together we will explore, with compassionate curiosity, how to live your best life and navigate challenges effectively.
(425) 600-7028 View (425) 600-7028
Photo of Erica Ashby-Johnson, BS, MA, LMHC
Erica Ashby-Johnson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, BS, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Walking with people through life's difficulties and struggles is a privilege, honor, and part of my purpose in life. I commit my life to helping people find their way back to the right paths that THEY should and WANT to be on in order to live out their own PURPOSE.
Walking with people through life's difficulties and struggles is a privilege, honor, and part of my purpose in life. I commit my life to helping people find their way back to the right paths that THEY should and WANT to be on in order to live out their own PURPOSE.
(360) 614-4403 View (360) 614-4403
Photo of Karyn Andriesen, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Karyn Andriesen
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
Sometimes in life we all need a “companion on the journey,” someone to partner with us and help make sense of our experience, ease our pain, and support our goals. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe environment where individuals can identify their strengths, recognize unhelpful patterns, and live into their goals. Working from an integrative, client-centered approach, I seek to support individuals wherever they are on their journey and my approach is holistic, collaborative, and non-judgmental. I value cultural humility and look forward to working with people of all backgrounds, identities, and walks of life.
Sometimes in life we all need a “companion on the journey,” someone to partner with us and help make sense of our experience, ease our pain, and support our goals. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe environment where individuals can identify their strengths, recognize unhelpful patterns, and live into their goals. Working from an integrative, client-centered approach, I seek to support individuals wherever they are on their journey and my approach is holistic, collaborative, and non-judgmental. I value cultural humility and look forward to working with people of all backgrounds, identities, and walks of life.
(206) 752-3471 View (206) 752-3471
Photo of Lujane Helwani, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lujane Helwani
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hey! I'm Lujane and I am eager to meet you! If you are looking for someone who handles sensitive matters with care and ease where no topic is taboo, you've found them. All persons, backgrounds, situations, relationship dynamics, faiths, or lack thereof, are welcome. I help individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and relationship complexities. I love to bring humor into my sessions and provide a space where you feel understood and respected. Together we will enlist your strengths and resources to improve your quality of life and relationships. I am warm, compassionate, person-centered, and trauma-informed.
Hey! I'm Lujane and I am eager to meet you! If you are looking for someone who handles sensitive matters with care and ease where no topic is taboo, you've found them. All persons, backgrounds, situations, relationship dynamics, faiths, or lack thereof, are welcome. I help individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and relationship complexities. I love to bring humor into my sessions and provide a space where you feel understood and respected. Together we will enlist your strengths and resources to improve your quality of life and relationships. I am warm, compassionate, person-centered, and trauma-informed.
(360) 515-4722 View (360) 515-4722
Photo of Sarah Churchill Townsend - Sarah Townsend Counseling, MA, MHP, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Townsend Counseling
Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I specialize in individual and couples therapy. I often address issues relating to anxiety, depression and self worth. I have experience working with teenagers and adults. Another part of my practice is helping clients who are interested in changing their relationship to alcohol or substances. I am very passionate about this. I provide a safe, nurturing place to validate your feelings and look at what may/or may not be serving you to be your best self. My commitment is to you, believing in you and working at your pace to ensure a more positive journey in this (often times) challenging world.
I specialize in individual and couples therapy. I often address issues relating to anxiety, depression and self worth. I have experience working with teenagers and adults. Another part of my practice is helping clients who are interested in changing their relationship to alcohol or substances. I am very passionate about this. I provide a safe, nurturing place to validate your feelings and look at what may/or may not be serving you to be your best self. My commitment is to you, believing in you and working at your pace to ensure a more positive journey in this (often times) challenging world.
(917) 924-5109 View (917) 924-5109
Photo of Tanya Atkinson, MSW, LSWAIC, ILS, LMHCA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, ILS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with how you fit into the world we all share? Do you find that anxiety, depression, and the barriers you are facing are overwhelming? Finding acceptance and even love for our imperfections can be difficult in a world that is build for only displaying your best perfect self. I specialize in working with those that are physical and mental "disabilities", LGBTQI, Poly/Kink, ADHD, neurodiverse, Autistic, and DID.
Are you struggling with how you fit into the world we all share? Do you find that anxiety, depression, and the barriers you are facing are overwhelming? Finding acceptance and even love for our imperfections can be difficult in a world that is build for only displaying your best perfect self. I specialize in working with those that are physical and mental "disabilities", LGBTQI, Poly/Kink, ADHD, neurodiverse, Autistic, and DID.
(425) 686-9082 View (425) 686-9082
1
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists

What is Internal Family Systems therapy?

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

How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

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

Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?

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

How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?

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