Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Michigan

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is an approach that helps us understand the different parts of ourselves that can emerge in response to our experiences. Rather than viewing these parts as problems, we explore them with curiosity and compassion to better understand what they may be trying to protect, express, or communicate. In sessions, we may slow down and gently notice what is happening internally when you experience anxiety, relationship difficulties, emotional reactions, or other struggles. We explore the thoughts, feelings, memories, and beliefs connected to those experiences without judgment. Sessions are collaborative and paced according to your comfort level. The goal is to develop a deeper understanding of yourself and the different layers of your experiences, allowing you to relate to yourself with greater compassion and clarity and make more intentional choices about how you move forward.

I am a Clinical Certified Trauma Professional and Somatic Therapist specializing in anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties. I graduated with a Masters degree in Clinical Social Work and began her clinical and educational experience as a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor that eventually expanded into varying components of relational, emotional and physical health: attachment sources of relationship issues, women’s specific needs, anxiety, depression and something that has lied in the forefront of many decisions and experiences for folks, the expression of undigested experiences and aspects of self (trauma). My passion is helping people gain a deeper sense of who they are and teasing through varying layers within themselves to have clarity and understanding around the conditioning, experiences and belief systems that continue to play out in their lives, how this affects each person and choosing how to move forward. Therapy sessions are designed to be supportive in the present as well as gently getting to the root of what’s happening, expanding beyond the symptoms on the surface, but the deeper experiences, emotions, and patterns that have shaped how you move through life. In working with me, there is a slowing down and listening to what’s really happening underneath the struggle, so you can begin to understand yourself in a fuller, gentler and compassionate way.

Internal Family Systems is one of my favorite therapies. I think that it is helpful to see the different parts of ourselves as having good intentions with the goal of protecting us. IFS allows us to get to know ourselves and our parts without judgement or fear in a very authentic way. I highly recommend trying it!

I am licensed social worker specializing in substance use, trauma and mental wellness. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology and graduate degree in social work at the University of Michigan. I am currently participating in a three-year Somatic Experiencing training through the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute. I also have training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical behavioral Therapy (DBT). My treatment approach is interactive, empathetic, eclectic, nonjudgmental, holistic, and strength based. As a therapist, I integrate a multitude of treatment modalities to create an individualized plan to optimize each person’s unique healing process.