Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Alberta
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Emma Laughlan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
I work with children (10+), teens, and adults who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or exhausted by the pressure to get everything “right.” You may be stuck in overthinking, people‑pleasing, panic symptoms, health anxiety, or relationship patterns that leave you doubting yourself. On the outside, you might appear high‑achieving and capable. Inside, you feel tense, self‑critical, or never quite enough.
Coltan Thompson
Registered Psychologist
I help clients achieve their goals by getting to the root of issues while introducing practical strategies along the way. My approach to therapy is a mixture of directive, exploratory, and supportive.
Paige Abbott
Registered Psychologist
Paige specializes in addiction recovery and individual relationship support-her specialties for over 15 years. Sana Psychological is a small team of therapists also led by Paige Abbott. We provide modern, evidence-based in person and virtual therapy services in Calgary and Alberta. We offer support for addiction, OCD, anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, relationships, youth, kids and more.
Ramelle Masters
Registered Psychologist
Our primary approach uses neurobiologically informed somatic processing therapies to address the root causes of trauma. By understanding how trauma impacts the brain and nervous system, we help support deeper healing and lasting change from the inside out.
Laura Shaw
Registered Psychotherapist
Do you have high expectations or a brain that won’t shut off? I specialize in supporting women (20s-40s) navigating anxiety, life transitions, and suspected (or confirmed) neurodivergence (ADHD or AuDHD). My approach is neuro-affirming, mind-body centered, and specifically tailored to help you stop overthinking and start living authentically. Let's build a life that actually feels like you!
Candice Ebert
Registered Social Worker
Compassionate, client-centred counsellor supporting individuals through anxiety, trauma, emotional regulation challenges, self-worth concerns, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. I prioritize emotional safety and provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space that blends practical coping strategies with self-awareness to foster resilience, confidence, and lasting change.
Maya Awad
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, ADHD-SP, HBSc (she, her)
Accepting NEW clients - Are you feeling overwhelmed or like you’re carrying a lot on your own? Feel like you're doing everything you’re “supposed to do,” but something still doesn’t feel right? Have a desire to better understand your thoughts, emotions, or patterns, work on building confidence or self-esteem, or find support for your relationship?
Erin Sullivan
Clinical Counsellor / Psychotherapist
Are you a professional or woman struggling with anxiety, burnout, or overwhelming stress from work or everyday life? Are you facing challenges around self worth, or navigating the pain & isolation of infertility or family building? Perhaps you are struggling with relationships or transitions in your life & need a safe space to talk through it. Whatever it is, I want you to know you are not alone.
Melody Hazelton
Counselling Therapist
Feeling stuck, anxious, or disconnected? I’m a trauma-informed therapist specializing in somatic therapy, CBT, and ART to help you heal, build resilience, and reconnect with yourself. Whether you’re facing anxiety, trauma, or relationship struggles, I provide a safe, supportive space for growth. Online sessions make getting started easy—click to learn more and book a free consultation!
Erin Ibrahim
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, EMDR, ADHD-CCSP, BA
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, relationship stress, self-esteem struggles, or just feeling stuck, we can work through it together. Pulling from a variety of frameworks to instead suit your unique needs instead of making it feel one-size-fits-all, I have interest in anxiety, depression, relationships, attachment, neurodiversity, and self-esteem. I look forward to connecting!
Meghan Nimmo
Registered Provisional Psychologist
I work with adults, youth and couples on a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, chronic illness, and medical trauma. I work to create an environment where you feel supported to be yourself. Therapy can be scary, and I want to make sure you do not feel judged but instead heard. I use a variety of modalities, incorporating traditional and bottom-up approaches.
Sawyer Hick
Therapist
Life often consists of many challenges, but you don't have to face them alone! I am here to walk along side you on your journey as you rediscover your inner light and gain a better sense of who you are, what matters most in your life, and how to get back on the path towards increased mental health and wellness.
Michelle Keough
Master of Clinical Social Work, Registered Social Worker
Feeling disconnected from your partner has got you feeling discouraged and frustrated in your relationship. You're tired of having the same arguments continue to happen in your relationship with no understanding. Being stuck in conflict has lead to you feeling disconnected from your partner and is holding you back from creating a secure loving bond. You no longer need to feel alone in your rela...
Stacey Sanderson
Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker, Subject Matter Expert
I am Subject Matter Expert in complex, relational trauma, narcissism and high conflict divorce. If you are in a toxic relationship, I can help you navigate the process while learning the powerful boundaries and strategy you need to get to the next chapter in your life feeling confident and empowered. I will help you understand the attachment patterns that are keeping you stuck.
Chantelle Vaz
Registered Psychotherapist
I offer a warm and collaborative space where you can explore your experiences with curiosity and care. My approach is rooted in empathy and authenticity, supporting you in understanding your story, building self-compassion, and creating meaningful change. I draw from narrative, attachment, and emotion-focused therapies to meet your unique needs.
Betrayal Trauma & Grief Counsellor
Registered Provisional Psychologist
I help individuals and couples across Alberta heal from betrayal, infidelity, grief, and relational trauma. If you’re feeling emotionally unsafe, disconnected, or stuck in painful cycles, I offer structured, compassionate, trauma informed therapy to restore trust, rebuild connection, and strengthen emotional resilience. I offer in-person sessions in Calgary and virtual session across Alberta.
Sheri Sadowick
Professional Counsellor - B.A., RTCc, CT
West Kootenay based empathetic, trauma-informed counsellor and coach offering online Parent Support and Trauma Recovery Counselling, plus empowering 1-1 coaching. Founder of 'The Move Forward Method' 12-week online program for women healing. Travel the world with me... customized Adventure Travel Coaching! Sheri Lee Wellness: Healing with Intention ~ Growing with Purpose.
Katharine Heimbigner-Tenor
Registered Psychologist
Katharine specializes in working with adult individuals and couples who have experienced trauma and may be struggling with PTSD, C-PTSD, dissociation, somatic/body complaints, anxiety or depression. Additionally, they may be neurodivergent (ADHD, ASD, AUDHD, gifted etc.) or suspect they are. Along with counselling she also provides ADHD, PTSD, psychoeducational and other assessments.
The Mental Health Clinic
Counselling Therapist | Canadian Certified Counsellor | Registered Social Worker
Too many people have worked with therapists who feel distant, rushed, or disconnected. At The Mental Health Clinic, we do things differently. Our therapists are carefully chosen for both their experience and their genuine passion for helping others. With online counselling across Alberta, we’re here to make sure you feel supported, understood, and cared for every step of the way.
Mara Behan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
I help couples and individuals find growth, healing, and stronger connections. Using evidence-based and individualized approaches, I support those struggling with women's health concerns (e.g., pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, menopause), relationship concerns (e.g., resentment, infidelity), and life transitions (e.g., separation/divorce, parenting). I offer a free 15-minute consultation!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Internal Family Systems (IFS)
What is Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a model of psychotherapy developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz that views the mind as made up of multiple "parts" — sub-personalities or inner voices that each carry their own feelings, beliefs, and motivations. IFS also posits the existence of a core "Self" — a calm, compassionate, and curious centre that can lead the inner system toward healing. Therapy involves building a relationship between the Self and various parts, including protective parts and wounded "exile" parts, to create greater inner harmony.
What conditions does IFS therapy help with?
IFS is used for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction, relationship difficulties, chronic pain, and general personal growth. It is particularly valued for complex or developmental trauma, where multiple protective patterns and deeply buried wounds need to be addressed with care. IFS has a growing evidence base and is recognized as an empirically supported treatment for PTSD.
What does an IFS therapy session look like?
IFS sessions typically involve the therapist guiding you into a focused inner state where you can turn attention inward and notice different parts — often felt as emotions, thoughts, physical sensations, or inner voices. You might be invited to "get curious" about a part, ask it questions, and understand its role and fears. The tone is gentle and exploratory rather than confrontational. Many people find IFS deeply validating because it treats all parts of the self as having good intentions, even when their behaviour is problematic.
Is IFS therapy evidence-based?
IFS has a growing body of research and has been recognized as an evidence-based practice by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in the United States. Studies show effectiveness for PTSD, depression, rheumatoid arthritis symptom management, and personal resilience. IFS is widely practised and taught across Canada, and many therapists incorporate it alongside other evidence-based approaches.
How long does IFS therapy typically take?
IFS therapy is often a longer-term process, particularly when addressing complex trauma or deeply entrenched protective patterns. Many people work with an IFS therapist for six months to several years, though some use IFS-informed approaches as part of shorter-term therapy for specific concerns. The depth of the work tends to make IFS particularly meaningful for people who want not just symptom relief but genuine inner transformation.