Frank Anderson

Frank Anderson, MD is a psychiatrist and one of the most prominent voices in the world of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. His mission is to heal trauma and bring more love, compassion, and unity to the world. He began his academic journey as a chemistry major at the University of Illinois before attending Rush University Medical College, driven by a desire to make a difference. A pivotal personal encounter with mental health inspired his shift to psychiatry, a path he pursued through a residency at Harvard Medical School, where the complex relationship between trauma and mental health came into full focus.

Anderson has authored numerous impactful works, including co-authoring the IFS Skills Training Manual with Richard Schwartz and Martha Sweezy. His book Transcending Trauma is widely regarded as the definitive guide to using IFS for complex PTSD, and his memoir To Be Loved brings personal vulnerability to his clinical authority. He has served as chair and executive director of the Foundation for Self Leadership, and his teachings and consultations have reached millions across the globe.

In addition to his writing and clinical work, Frank leads The Learning Lab, a series of live, immersive programs pairing world-renowned experts — including Bessel van der Kolk, Gabor Maté, Terry Real, and others — with guided integration. He also facilitates consultation groups for clinicians seeking depth and meaningful clinical dialogue. His work is grounded in neuroscience-informed approaches to trauma, dissociation, and complex PTSD.