Internal Family Systems Workshop

The Internal Family Systems Model is a method of therapy that fosters transformation, gently, quickly, and effectively. It views multiplicity of mind as our natural state and our “parts” as sub-personalities that may be healed and transformed by bringing the Self into its rightful role as leader of the internal system. The Self, a core of valuable leadership qualities, is our true nature–compassionate and loving. Although IFS has been most widely used as a treatment for trauma, it is a flexible model that provides abundant opportunities for application. 

IFS advances treatment in several areas: 

First, by showing respect and appreciation for the client’s protective parts, it reduces resistance and backlash. 

Second, it helps clients fully unburden the extreme beliefs and emotions they accrued from their traumas. 

Third, affect is regulated in a simple and effective way so that clients are not overwhelmed during sessions. 

Fourth, because it is the client’s Self that is leading in the healing, transference is reduced and clients do much of the work on their own, between sessions. 

Fifth, IFS gives therapists practical ways to understand and work with their countertransference so they can remain in the open-hearted state of Self leadership with clients. 

Sixth, it frees therapists from the role of trying to police clients' symptoms like suicide, eating disorders, addictions, and self-mutilation. 

Seventh, therapists are free to be themselves, without having to be clever or controlling, and come to enjoy partnering in the fascinating and sacred process that naturally unfolds as clients heal themselves. 

This workshop is designed for therapists with little exposure to IFS as well as those who know the basics of IFS, but have trouble when clients resist, have particularly difficult parts, or when it comes to using the model with couples or larger systems. We will begin with an overview of IFS and then move on to the deeper exploration of issues that arise during treatment. This course will also provide the opportunity for participants to identify and work with the parts of themselves that interfere in their relationships with clients. The workshop will be a balance of lectures, demonstrations, and experiential exercises.