Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy in New York
What is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy?
IFS is a holistic, somatic-informed approach to therapy that recognizes we all have different parts of ourselves, each with their own feelings, beliefs, and ways of responding to the world. These parts often developed to help us cope with difficult experiences and protect us from emotional pain. IFS believes that all parts have a positive intention, even when they take on more extreme roles, as with addictive parts (eating, drinking, gambling, shopping) or avoidant, suicidal, or dissociative parts.
Often when we try to get rid of those less socially acceptable parts we find ourselves getting stuck in cycles of anxiety, shame, self-doubt, and frustration.
IFS invites us to come into relationship with all of our parts—including those extreme protectors—so we can get curious about their positive intentions and what they may be trying to do for us. By leaning in, rather than away, clients often find they’re able to build self-trust and finally give old patterns room to shift.
What does an IFS session look like?
We'll begin with something you're experiencing, such as a difficult emotion, recurring thought, or relationship pattern. Together, we'll slow down, get curious about the parts involved, and explore what they might need. We'll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you; no prior experience with IFS is necessary.
My approach to IFS therapy
As an IFS Level 1-trained therapist, I integrate IFS with attachment-informed and psychodynamic approaches, somatic awareness, and creative practices when helpful. My work is collaborative and tailored to your needs. As a board-certified art therapist, I can also offer creative ways to explore your inner experiences.
I offer online IFS therapy for adults throughout New York State, including NYC.
Curious about working together?
I offer a free 15-minute consultation to answer your questions and explore whether working together might be a good fit
Frequently Asked Questions
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Parts are aspects of ourselves that developed to help us navigate life's challenges. Common examples include the inner critic, people-pleaser, perfectionist, caretaker, or parts that hold worries.
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I have completed Level 1 training in Internal Family Systems through the IFS Institute, which includes structured training, experiential practice, and clinical application. This is different from learning about IFS informally, and provides a strong foundation for integrating the model in therapy.
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Many people begin to feel subtle shifts—such as more internal space, less reactivity, or increased self-understanding—within the first 1–2 sessions. Deeper, lasting change develops over time as different parts of you begin to feel understood and supported.