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Welcome to IFC


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Welcome to IFC


We are so glad that you are here.

First, take a deep breath and give yourself credit.  Getting this far has taken a lot of courage and personal strength!

What is IFC?

Inclusive Family Counseling is a therapy collective serving individuals, families, and organizations in the NY area. Learn more about our model as a therapy collective here.

Now, let us tell you a little about who we are here at IFC.

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Our Team


Our Team


Smiling female clinician

 Heather Zawislak, MA, LCSW, PMH-C

I am a strong believer in the power of talk.  Talking heals.  Many people shy away from connecting with a therapist because they feel they have plenty of support from friends, family, and even co-workers - why would they need a therapist?  While I agree that the support from loved ones is essential to a happy and healthy life, the benefit of a counselor is having an uninvolved ear, an unbiased, and non-judgmental person who can help the individual look at their life in ways a friend or family member may not be able to within the scope of a personal relationship.  I have always felt that the relationship between client and therapist has the potential to be one of the most positive and empowering ones for an individual.  Whether you want to talk about your childhood, your current life situation, or make plans and set goals for your future, I can promise you a warm, caring environment and empathetic ear. 

Smiling male therapist

Adam Birkenstock, LCSW

Change isn’t always easy, but it’s a fact of life. I believe that one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is a place to embrace change and all its challenges. Therapy and coaching can be just that - a space to try on new ideas, brainstorm a new approach, and confront challenges in a safe, supportive environment.

No two problems are the same, and I believe strongly in treating you as uniquely as anyone else. We’ll work together to define the challenges you face, develop the skills and strategies to overcome them, and create a pathway for you to grow into your best self. I offer psychotherapy to adults, families, couples, and adolescents, as well as career coaching, and management consultation to nonprofit organizations looking to improve the ways they help others. I work hard to create a welcoming, open, and forward-moving space for you to do your best work.

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How IFC Works


How IFC Works


Collective Practice

 

Collaboration is critical.

Unlike a group practice, in which a practice owner employs other clinicians, directs their practice, and receives a cut of their income, IFC clinicians are all independent practitioners in charge of their own work. We believe that quality care comes from strong therapists working together on an even playing field.

 

Collective Wisdom

 

Knowledge is meant to be shared.

All IFC clinicians sign an agreement to allow for coordination of care, collaboration, and supervision to ensure every member (and every client) has access to the skills and support of every other member. As part of intake, we ask our clients to sign a similar agreement acknowledging that we will work collaboratively on your care.

 

Collective Purpose

 

Ethical care is quality care.

Our members are committed to upholding a high ethical standard in their practice. IFC clinicians agree to the following principles of practice: