
Our Psychotherapy Techniques
Psychotherapy techniques are distinct approaches our therapists use to help you understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Each technique offers a unique pathway to healing, growth, and achieving your personal goals. At Aligned Health, we specialize on the following:
Art Therapy
Our Practitioners of Art Therapy
MA, RCAT, RP
Certified Art Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist
Currently accepting clients working on sexual issues through Art Therapy
Student Art Therapist
Experienced teacher and parent bringing warmth, curiosity and a little playful energy to our work together
Student Art Therapist
I have used art as a therapeutic and expressive tool my whole life. As a first generation immigrant, I understand the struggle to finding belonging.
What is Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a unique form of psychotherapy that utilizes creative processes like drawing, painting, sculpting, and other art forms to explore emotions, reduce stress, improve self-esteem, and manage behaviors. It emphasizes personal expression and the therapeutic benefits of the creative process itself, rather than focusing on artistic skill.

How Does Art Therapy Work?
Art therapy works by providing a safe, non-verbal outlet for expression. When words are difficult to find, art can offer a direct pathway to your inner world, allowing you to externalize feelings, memories, and thoughts. The act of creating, guided by a trained Art Therapist, may help to process emotions, resolve conflicts, reduce anxiety, and foster self-awareness. The art-making process itself can be therapeutic, and the resulting art can be a tangible representation of your journey and insights.
Who would benefit from Art Therapy?
Art therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with verbal expression, or for those dealing with trauma, complex emotions, or developmental challenges.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Art Therapy
Art Therapy is a versatile approach used to address a wide range of conditions and life challenges, including:​
​
- 
Trauma and PTSD 
- 
Anxiety and Depression 
- 
Grief and Loss 
- 
Stress Management 
- 
Emotional Regulation Difficulties 
- 
Low Self-Esteem and Identity Issues 
- 
Relationship Problems 
- 
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Neurodevelopmental Differences 
- 
Chronic Illness and Pain Management 
- 
Developmental Challenges in Children and Youth 
Why Consider Art Therapy
You might consider Art Therapy if you find it challenging to express yourself verbally, or if you're looking for a creative and experiential approach to healing. It can be excellent option for exploring deep emotions in a contained way, gaining new insights into yourself, and developing new coping strategies through a hands-on process. Art therapy offers a unique path to understanding and transformation, regardless of artistic skill.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Our Practitioners of the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
- Client-centered, strength-based approach
- Couples, families, youth (12-18)
- Experience providing court-mandated anger management & domestic violence programs
​
Registered Social Worker
Masters of Social Work
Psychotherapist
- 28 years of experience supporting youth and adults
- Experience with diverse cultures, faiths, sexual orientations, family structures
​
Registered Social Worker
Masters of Social Work
Psychotherapist
- African Caribbean, Black & people of color community
- Culturally sensitive evidence based psychotherapy
​
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely-used and highly effective form of psychotherapy that focuses on the powerful connection between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is a goal-oriented, structured approach that helps you become aware of negative or unhelpful thinking patterns so you can respond to challenging situations in a more effective way.

How Does CBT Work?
CBT operates on the principle that your thoughts shape your feelings and actions. In therapy, you will work collaboratively with your therapist to identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns that are contributing to your distress. The process is educational and skills-based, teaching you practical, real-world strategies for shifting your perspective, changing your behaviour, and developing healthier coping mechanisms. The goal is to give you the tools you need to become your own therapist in everyday life.
Conditions Commonly Addressed with CBT
CBT can be highly effective for individuals experiencing:
​
- 
Anxiety Disorders (e.g., social anxiety, panic attacks, generalized anxiety) 
- 
Depression and other mood-related concerns 
- 
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 
- 
Phobias 
- 
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) 
- 
Insomnia and other sleep-related issues 
- 
Chronic Pain management 
- 
Stress and emotional regulation difficulties 
Why Consider CBT
You might consider CBT if you are looking for a practical, skills-based approach to therapy. It is particularly beneficial for those who want to actively learn and apply concrete strategies to manage their thoughts, feelings, and actions. CBT can empower you with a toolkit to handle life's challenges, reduce symptoms, and make lasting positive changes.
Couples Therapy - Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Our Practitioners of the Emotionally Focused Therapy
MA, RCAT, RP
Certified Art Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist
Areas of Special Interest:
- Sexual and relationship minorities (Kink, BDSM, poly, ENM), LGBTQ2S+)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
- Client-centered, strength-based approach
- Couples, families, youth (12-18)
- Court-mandated anger management & domestic violence programs
​
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
- Relationship Challenges
- Sexuality
- Gender identity polyamory
- Ethical non-monogamy (ENM)
Registered Social Worker
Masters of Social Work
Psychotherapist
- African Caribbean, Black & people of color community
- Culturally sensitive evidence based psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker
Masters of Social Work
Psychotherapist
- 28 years of experience supporting youth and adults
- Experience with diverse cultures, faiths, sexual orientations, family structures
What is Emotionally Focused Therapy?
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a highly researched and effective short-term therapy approach primarily developed for couples, but also adapted for families and individuals. Rooted in attachment theory, EFT focuses on identifying and transforming negative emotional patterns and cycles that create distress in relationships. It helps individuals and partners understand their deepest emotional needs and create more secure, loving bonds.

How Does Emotionally Focused Therapy Work?
EFT operates on the understanding that relational distress often stems from insecure attachment needs going unmet. The therapist guides clients through three main stages:
​
- 
De-escalation: Identifying the negative interaction cycles that lead to conflict and disconnection, and recognizing the underlying fears and unmet needs driving these patterns. 
- 
Restructuring: Helping partners (or individuals) to express their vulnerable emotions and attachment needs directly to each other in new ways, fostering empathy and responsiveness. This creates new, positive emotional experiences. 
- 
Consolidation: Solidifying new interaction patterns and creating a stronger, more secure emotional bond that can withstand future challenges. 
EFT helps clients understand how emotions organize their experiences and how to use emotions as a guide for connection rather than conflict.
Conditions and Relationship Challenges Addressed with EFT
EFT can be highly beneficial for individuals and couples struggling with:
​
- 
Relationship Distress: Frequent arguments, emotional distance, or a sense of disconnection. 
- 
Communication Breakdown: Difficulty expressing needs, feeling unheard, or recurring misunderstandings. 
- 
Trust Issues: Healing from infidelity, betrayal, or other breaches of trust. 
- 
Intimacy Concerns: Addressing emotional or physical intimacy challenges. 
- 
Parenting Conflicts: Navigating disagreements and supporting a united front. 
- 
Life Transitions: Coping with stress from major changes affecting the relationship. 
- 
Depression and Anxiety within a Relational Context: When these issues are exacerbated by or contribute to relationship problems. 
- 
Individual Attachment Issues: Exploring patterns of relating formed early in life and how they impact current relationships. 
Why Consider Emotionally Focused Therapy
You might consider EFT if you and your partner (or as an individual) are seeking to understand and change the deeper emotional patterns that contribute to distress in your relationships. It can be particularly beneficial if you desire to move beyond surface-level conflicts to create a more secure, loving, and deeply connected bond, transforming your relationship into a safe haven.
Couples Therapy - Gottman Method
Our Practitioners of the Gottman Method
MA, RCAT, RP
Certified Art Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist
Areas of Special Interest:
- Sexual and relationship minorities (Kink, BDSM, poly, ENM), LGBTQ2S+)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
- Relationship Challenges
- African Caribbean, Black & people of color community
​
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
- Relationship Challenges
- Sexuality
- Gender identity polyamory
- Ethical non-monogamy (ENM)
Registered Social Worker
Masters of Social Work
Psychotherapist
- African Caribbean, Black & people of color community
- Culturally sensitive evidence based psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker
Masters of Social Work
Psychotherapist
- 28 years of experience supporting youth and adults
- Experience with diverse cultures, faiths, sexual orientations, family structures
What is the Gottman Method?
The Gottman Method Couple Therapy is an evidence-based approach to relationship counseling developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. It is built upon over 40 years of research with thousands of couples, identifying the specific behaviors and patterns that predict relationship success or failure. Rather than focusing solely on conflict, the Gottman Method helps couples build a stronger "Sound Relationship House" by fostering friendship, managing conflict constructively, and creating shared meaning.

How Does the Gottman Method Work?
The Gottman Method involves a thorough assessment of the couple's relationship, often including individual interviews, joint sessions, and questionnaires. Therapy then focuses on specific areas to strengthen the relationship, including:
​
- 
Building Love Maps: Deepening knowledge of each other's inner worlds. 
- 
Nurturing Fondness and Admiration: Expressing appreciation and respect. 
- 
Turning Towards Each Other: Responding to bids for connection. 
- 
The Positive Perspective: Maintaining a positive view of each other. 
- 
Managing Conflict: Learning to discuss disagreements constructively, including addressing "solvable" problems and accepting "unsolvable" ones. 
- 
Making Life Dreams Come True: Supporting each other's aspirations. 
- 
Creating Shared Meaning: Developing rituals, roles, and goals that give purpose to the relationship. 
​Therapists guide couples in replacing negative patterns (like criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling – the "Four Horsemen") with healthy, positive interactions.
Conditions and Relationship Challenges Addressed with the Gottman Method
The Gottman Method can be highly effective for couples experiencing:
​
- 
Communication Breakdown: Frequent misunderstandings or difficulty expressing needs. 
- 
Frequent Conflict: Recurring arguments that don't get resolved. 
- 
Emotional Distance: Feeling disconnected or lacking intimacy. 
- 
Trust Issues: Healing from infidelity or other betrayals. 
- 
Parenting Differences: Navigating disagreements on raising children. 
- 
Financial Disagreements: Developing shared financial goals and management. 
- 
Life Transitions: Adjusting to major changes like a new baby, career shifts, or retirement. 
- 
Premarital Counseling: Building a strong foundation before marriage. 
- 
General Relationship Enhancement: Even strong relationships can benefit from deepening connection and learning new skills. 
Why Consider the Gottman Method?
You might consider the Gottman Method if you and your partner are committed to improving your relationship and are looking for a structured, research-based approach. It can be particularly beneficial for couples seeking practical tools to manage conflict, enhance intimacy, and build a more fulfilling and resilient partnership.
Sex Therapy
Our Practitioners of Sex Therapy
MA, RCAT, RP
Certified Art Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist
Areas of Special Interest:
- Sexual and relationship minorities (Kink, BDSM, poly, ENM), LGBTQ2S+)
What is Sex Therapy?
Sex Therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that focuses on addressing sexual concerns, dysfunctions, and relationship issues related to intimacy and sexuality. It provides a confidential and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to explore sexual challenges, improve communication, and enhance their sexual well-being. It is a talk-based therapy, and there is no physical contact involved.

How Does Sex Therapy Work?
Sex therapy works by facilitating open and honest conversations about sensitive topics. Your therapist will help you understand the root causes of your sexual concerns, which can be psychological, emotional, relational, or educational. Sessions often involve exploring past experiences, current beliefs about sex, communication patterns with partners, and providing education about sexual health and functioning. You may receive practical exercises or communication strategies to try outside of sessions, tailored to your specific goals.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Sex Therapy
Sex Therapy can address a diverse array of sexual concerns for individuals and couples, including:
​
- 
Low Sexual Desire or Arousal Difficulties 
- 
Erectile Dysfunction or Ejaculation Concerns 
- 
Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia, Vaginismus) 
- 
Orgasm Difficulties 
- 
Sexual Trauma Recovery 
- 
Communication Issues around Sex and Intimacy 
- 
Differences in Libido within a Relationship 
- 
Sexual Identity and Orientation Exploration 
- 
Concerns related to Kink and Non-Monogamous Relationships (in an affirming context) 
- 
Body Image and Sexual Confidence 
- 
Sexual Addiction or Compulsive Sexual Behaviors 
Why Consider Sex Therapy
You might consider Sex Therapy if you or your partner are experiencing sexual difficulties that are causing distress or impacting your relationship. It's a valuable option for anyone seeking to improve their sexual communication, overcome specific sexual challenges, or simply enhance intimacy and satisfaction in a supportive, expert environment.
Person-Centered Therapy (PCT)
Our Practitioners of PCT
MA, RCAT, RP
Certified Art Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist
Areas of Special Interest:
- Sexual and relationship minorities (Kink, BDSM, poly, ENM), LGBTQ2S+)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
- Relationship Challenges
- African Caribbean, Black & people of color community
​
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
- Relationship Challenges
- Sexuality
- Gender identity polyamory
- Ethical non-monogamy (ENM)
Registered Social Worker
Masters of Social Work
Psychotherapist
- African Caribbean, Black & people of color community
- Culturally sensitive evidence based psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker
Masters of Social Work
Psychotherapist
- 28 years of experience supporting youth and adults
- Experience with diverse cultures, faiths, sexual orientations, family structures
What is the Person-Centered Therapy (PCT)
Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), also known as Rogerian therapy, was developed by Carl Rogers. It is a humanistic approach that views every individual as having an innate capacity for self-understanding and personal growth. Unlike more directive therapies, PCT emphasizes the client's unique experience and perspective, believing that, given the right conditions, individuals can discover their own solutions and move towards self-actualization.

How Does Person-Centered Therapy Work?
In PCT, the therapist fosters a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment through three core conditions:
​
- 
Unconditional Positive Regard: The therapist accepts and values the client completely, without judgment. 
- 
Empathy: The therapist deeply understands and reflects the client's feelings and experiences from their perspective. 
- 
Congruence (Genuineness): The therapist is authentic and transparent, building a real and trustworthy relationship. 
Within this accepting space, clients are empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors at their own pace, gaining clarity, insight, and confidence in their own inner wisdom. The therapist acts as a facilitator, mirroring and clarifying, allowing the client to lead the therapeutic process.
Conditions Commonly Addressed with Person-Centered Therapy
Person-Centered Therapy can be beneficial for individuals seeking to:
​
- 
Improve Self-Esteem and Self-Worth: Develop a stronger sense of self-acceptance and value. 
- 
Enhance Self-Awareness: Gain deeper insight into personal thoughts, feelings, and motivations. 
- 
Navigate Life Transitions: Cope with significant changes, such as career shifts, relationship changes, or grief. 
- 
Reduce Anxiety and Depression: Find clarity and inner resources to manage emotional distress. 
- 
Improve Relationship Dynamics: Learn to communicate more authentically and build healthier connections. 
- 
Address Feelings of Loneliness or Isolation: Develop a greater sense of connection with themselves and others. 
- 
Explore Identity and Purpose: Discover their true self and life direction. 
Why Consider Person-Centered Therapy?
You might consider Person-Centered Therapy if you are looking for a deeply supportive and empowering therapeutic experience where you feel truly heard and understood. It can be particularly beneficial if you prefer a less directive approach, wish to explore your inner world at your own pace, and believe in your innate capacity for growth and self-healing.
Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy
Our Practitioners of Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
- Relationship Challenges
- African Caribbean, Black & people of color community
​
What is Prolonged Exposure Therapy?
Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy is a highly effective, evidence-based form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) specifically designed to help individuals overcome the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related anxiety disorders. It works by gradually exposing you to trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations in a safe and controlled environment, helping you to process them and reduce their power.

How Does Prolonged Exposure Therapy Work?
Prolonged Exposure therapy operates on the principle that avoiding reminders of trauma, while seemingly helpful in the short term, actually prevents healing and reinforces fear. Through PE, your therapist will guide you through two main types of exposure:
​
- 
Imaginal Exposure: You will repeatedly recount the traumatic event in detail, either verbally or by writing, allowing you to process the memory in a new way. 
- 
In-Vivo Exposure: With your therapist's support, you will gradually confront situations, places, or objects that you have been avoiding because they remind you of the trauma, but which are actually safe.​ 
This repeated, controlled exposure helps to "turn down" the emotional intensity of the memories and situations, allowing you to recognize that the feared outcomes are unlikely and that you can cope with the distress.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Prolonged Exposure Therapy
PE therapy is primarily used for:​
​
- 
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) resulting from various traumatic events (e.g., combat, sexual assault, accidents, natural disasters). 
- 
Acute Stress Disorder. 
- 
It can also be effective for certain Phobias and other Anxiety Disorders where avoidance patterns maintain distress. 
Why Consider Prolonged Exposure Therapy?
You might consider Prolonged Exposure Therapy if you are experiencing persistent and distressing symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, or avoidance of trauma reminders, and are ready to actively engage in processing these experiences. It can be a powerful pathway to regaining control over your life, reducing fear and anxiety, and freeing yourself from the grip of past trauma, allowing you to re-engage with life more fully.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy
Our Practitioners of EMDR Therapy
Registered Social Worker
Masters of Social Work
Psychotherapist
- 28 years of experience supporting youth and adults
- Experience with diverse cultures, faiths, sexual orientations, family structures
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful and evidence-based psychotherapy approach designed to help individuals heal from the emotional distress and symptoms resulting from disturbing life experiences. When traumatic events are not processed (or not processed properly), they become “preserved memories” and can be easily triggered by everyday sensations – sights, smells, tastes and touch.

How Does EMDR Work?
Highly trained practitioners use EMDR to retrain the brain and process these memories in a safe way using eye movements, tapping or sounds. EMDR therapy works by engaging your natural healing processes. During sessions, you'll focus on a distressing memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements, but also taps or tones). This process helps to reprocess the memory, reducing its vividness and emotional impact. It's thought to mimic the brain activity that occurs during REM sleep, allowing the brain to desensitize and reframe the traumatic information more adaptively.
How Effective is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma and other distressing experiences by major international health organizations, including the World Health Organization. Many clients report significant reductions in symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, and avoidance, often in fewer sessions than other therapies. Studies have shown EMDR to significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety, often achieving results in fewer sessions compared to some other therapies (Chen et al., 2014; Rodenburg et al., 2009). Its effectiveness in addressing the core symptoms of trauma is well-established in the scientific literature.
Conditions Commonly Treated with EMDR
EMDR is frequently used to treat a range of conditions stemming from distressing life events, including:
​
- 
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 
- 
Anxiety Disorders (e.g., panic attacks, social anxiety, generalized anxiety) 
- 
Phobias 
- 
Depression 
- 
Grief and Loss 
- 
Addiction and Compulsive Behaviors 
- 
Chronic Pain 
- 
Low Self-Esteem related to past events 
- 
Performance Anxiety 
Why Consider EMDR
You might consider EMDR if you're struggling with persistent emotional distress or symptoms linked to past disturbing experiences. It's particularly beneficial for those who find it challenging to verbalize their trauma or prefer a more active approach to processing their experiences. EMDR can help you move past what's holding you back, leading to a greater sense of peace and freedom.
Somatic Therapy
What is Somatic Therapy
Somatic Therapy is a body-centered approach to healing that recognizes the profound connection between the mind and body. It works on the principle that past experiences, especially trauma and stress, can become "stuck" or held in the body, manifesting as physical symptoms, emotional dysregulation, or chronic tension. Rather than just focusing on thoughts or emotions, somatic therapy helps you access and release these stored imprints directly through bodily awareness.

How Does Somatic Therapy Work?
Somatic therapy guides you to pay mindful attention to physical sensations (often called the "felt sense") in your body. Through gentle guidance, tracking subtle bodily shifts, and incorporating movement, breathwork, or touch (always with consent), the therapy helps to complete physiological responses that were interrupted during overwhelming events. This process allows your nervous system to regulate, discharge stored energy, and restore your body's natural capacity for healing and self-regulation. It's a gentle yet powerful way to integrate traumatic experiences and release chronic patterns of stress.​
Conditions Commonly Treated with Somatic Therapy
Somatic therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing:
​​
- 
Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 
- 
Chronic Stress and Burnout 
- 
Anxiety and Panic Attacks 
- 
Depression 
- 
Grief and Loss 
- 
Chronic Pain and Physical Symptoms with no clear medical cause 
- 
Dissociation 
- 
Emotional Dysregulation 
- 
Attachment Issues 
- 
Body Image Concerns 
Why Consider Somatic Therapy?
You might consider Somatic Therapy if you feel "stuck" in certain emotional or physical patterns, especially those related to past overwhelming experiences, and find that traditional talk therapy hasn't fully resolved them. It's also an excellent choice if you wish to deepen your mind-body connection, improve your ability to regulate emotions, or release chronic tension held in your body, leading to a greater sense of calm and empowerment.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
What is DBT?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that helps individuals learn to manage intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships. Developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, it combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices, emphasizing acceptance and change.

How Does DBT Work?
DBT's effectiveness lies in its focus on teaching practical skills to navigate life's challenges. In sessions, you will learn strategies across four key modules:
​
- 
Mindfulness: Cultivating present-moment awareness and non-judgmental observation. 
- 
Distress Tolerance: Developing healthy ways to cope with painful emotions and difficult situations without making them worse. 
- 
Emotion Regulation: Understanding, identifying, and effectively managing intense emotional responses. 
- 
Interpersonal Effectiveness: Improving communication skills, building healthier relationships, and setting appropriate boundaries 
​
​At Aligned Health, our therapists integrate these foundational DBT skills into individual therapy, and may offer group skills training, providing flexible approaches to help you build a life worth living.
Conditions Commonly Treated with DBT
DBT can be highly effective for individuals struggling with:
​
- 
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) 
- 
Chronic Suicidal Ideation and Self-Harm 
- 
Impulsive Behaviors (e.g., substance abuse, disordered eating) 
- 
Relationship Difficulties and interpersonal conflict 
- 
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (especially when co-occurring with emotion dysregulation) 
- 
Depression and Anxiety (when linked to difficulties with emotional control) 
Why Consider DBT?
You might consider DBT if you experience intense emotional swings, struggle with impulsive or self-destructive behaviors, or find it challenging to maintain stable relationships. DBT may offer a comprehensive and structured pathway to develop crucial life skills, gain emotional control, and build a life worth living.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
What is IFS
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative, evidence-based psychotherapy model that views the mind as naturally multiple, comprised of various "parts" rather than a single entity. These parts are not symptoms, but rather sub-personalities (like inner children, protectors, or critics) that hold different beliefs, feelings, and memories. At the core of every individual is the "Self" – a place of inherent wisdom, compassion, courage, and calm that can lead the internal system towards healing and harmony.

How Does IFS Work?
IFS therapy involves identifying and understanding these various internal parts and their intentions. Your therapist will guide you in accessing your compassionate "Self" to build trusting relationships with your parts, particularly those that have taken on extreme roles to protect you from pain. Through this process, exiled parts (those holding trauma or difficult emotions) can be unburdened, and protective parts can relax from their extreme duties, allowing your entire internal system to reorganize around the wise leadership of your Self.
Conditions Commonly Addressed with IFS
IFS therapy can be helpful for individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges, including:
​​
- 
Trauma and PTSD: Address the impact of past traumatic experiences by healing "exiled" parts. 
- 
Anxiety and Depression: Regulate emotions by understanding and working with anxious or depressed parts. 
- 
Self-Esteem Issues: Build a stronger sense of self-worth by reducing the influence of critical parts. 
- 
Relationship Difficulties: Improve interpersonal relationships by fostering internal harmony. 
- 
Eating Disorders and Addictions: Support recovery by understanding the protective roles these behaviors serve. 
- 
Chronic Pain and Physical Symptoms: Explore the emotional components contributing to physical distress. 
- 
Perfectionism and Procrastination: Provide insight into the parts driving these behaviors. 
Why Consider IFS?
You might consider IFS if you are seeking a deeply respectful, non-pathologizing approach that empowers you to heal from within. IFS can be particularly beneficial if you experience internal conflict, feel "stuck" in certain patterns, or are curious about understanding the different aspects of your inner world. It can offer a profound path to self-discovery, fostering compassion for all parts of yourself, and enabling your inherent wisdom to guide your life.









