Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Affirming, Evidence-Based Internal Family Systems Therapy in Illinois for Adults Struggling with Emotional & Mental Health Concerns, such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, and More.
Therapy that feels like talking with someone who gets it—because we do.
Therapy for adults struggling with emotional or mental health concerns.
Using IFS, we help you navigate feeling stuck, low self-esteem, relationship issues, emotional distress, self-discovery, and more. We also cover topics such as gender, sex, identity, and more.
We also use general therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and more.
While most sessions are 45-60 minutes, each session is fully personalized to you and your concerns. This is your space.
We accept most major insurances.
We offer virtual sessions throughout Illinois.
To learn more, check out our FAQ page.
At Freelife BH, we embrace Internal Family Systems (IFS) as a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery. IFS views every person—straight, LGBQIA+, and beyond—as a system of protective and wounded inner parts, all led by a core Self. We believe that the mind’s natural multiplicity is a strength, not a flaw. Just like members of a family, inner parts can be pushed into extreme roles, yet at the center, the Self remains whole, unbreakable, and fully capable of healing.
At Freelife BH, we are committed to expanding access to IFS with inclusive educational programs designed for therapists, the broader public, and professionals across multiple fields. No matter who you are or where you’re coming from, you belong here—and your journey toward healing starts with you.
Rebuild Confidence
Support in challenging negative self-talk and embracing your strengths.
Create a Safe Space
A judgment-free environment where you can openly express your thoughts and emotions.
Heal from the Past
Compassionate support in processing trauma, loss, or life’s challenges.
Navigate Life’s Transitions
Assistance in managing major changes like career struggles, relationship shifts, or redefining personal goals.
Strengthen Connection
Guidance on improving communication, setting boundaries, and maintaining healthy relationships.
What is IFS Therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy is an approach that views the mind as made up of different “parts,” each with its own feelings, roles, and perspectives. Instead of trying to eliminate difficult thoughts or emotions, IFS helps people understand and relate to these parts with curiosity and compassion.
How does IFS Therapy help?
IFS Therapy helps people identify protective patterns, emotional wounds, and inner conflicts that influence how they think and behave. By building awareness of these internal parts, clients can reduce shame, process past experiences, and develop a more balanced relationship with themselves.
Can IFS Therapy be used with other therapies?
Yes. IFS Therapy is often integrated with other therapeutic approaches such as trauma-informed therapy, mindfulness practices, or cognitive-based methods. Combining approaches can provide a more flexible and personalized path toward healing and self-understanding.
Why Freelife BH for Therapy?
Choosing a therapist is about more than credentials. It is about finding a space where you feel understood, respected, and able to be honest. At Freelife, therapy is collaborative, direct, and grounded in real-life application. We focus on helping you build insight, improve communication, regulate stress, and create meaningful change that carries outside the therapy room.
Our clinicians are experienced, thoughtful, and committed to ongoing learning. We balance warmth with accountability, offering support while also helping you challenge patterns that no longer serve you. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship stress, identity questions, or life transitions, Freelife provides structured, informed care that meets you where you are and helps you move forward with clarity.
The Therapy Process—Explained
Intake
We start by getting to know you, your goals, and what’s bringing you to therapy in a way that feels welcoming and low-pressure.
Assessment
Together, we explore patterns, history, and current challenges to better understand what support will be most helpful for you.
Treatment
Your therapist works with you using evidence-based, affirming approaches tailored to your needs, identity, and pace.
Integration
You practice applying what you’re learning in real life, building insight, resilience, and trust in yourself over time.
Follow-Up
We check in, adjust as needed, and make sure your care continues to support your growth beyond each session.
You deserve support that sees all of you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. While IFS Therapy is widely used for trauma work, it can also help with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, identity exploration, and self-esteem. Many people use IFS simply to better understand their internal patterns and emotional responses.
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In IFS Therapy, “parts” refer to different aspects of a person’s inner experience. For example, one part might feel protective or critical, while another carries sadness or fear. IFS helps people recognize these parts and develop a more compassionate relationship with them.
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The timeline varies from person to person. Some clients notice new insights and emotional relief within a few sessions, while deeper healing can take longer depending on the issues being explored. IFS is designed to move at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
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Freelife accepts Blue Cross and Blue Shield PPO, Blue Choice PPO, and Aetna PPO insurance plans. Clients using these plans will be responsible for the portion of costs dictated by their individual plans (co-pays).
Clients not using these insurance plans will be responsible for paying for their sessions themselves. Freelife is happy to provide a superbill to these clients if they would like to submit this to their insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement.
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Freelife therapists offer both virtual and in-person options.
We utilize technology powered by Google which is HIPAA compliant and easy to use.
We also offer in-person sessions at our office located at 1300 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657.
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Schwartz, Richard C. Internal Family Systems Therapy. Guilford Press, 1995.
Schwartz, Richard C., and Martha Sweezy. Internal Family Systems Therapy, Second Edition. Guilford Press, 2019.
International Association for Internal Family Systems. “About IFS.” https://ifs-institute.com
Getting Started is Easy
To get started, fill out the form below and we will reach out for your free consultation.