In this training, we will learn about Internal Family Systems, a therapeutic model developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz. This modality believes that we all have various ‘parts’ of us that makeup who we are- and often these parts of younger versions of ourselves. Participants will learn an overview of the model that teaches how to identify, connect to, and offer healing to these parts. This training will include experiential learning and how to integrate inner-child work into sessions, while always maintaining a trauma-informed and compassionate approach.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Define and describe the foundations of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
- Discuss the different types of parts and their relationships to each other and self.
- Identify how to utilize IFS for inner-child and trauma work.
- Learn how to implement IFS interventions with clients
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Foundations of Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Define IFS as a therapeutic model based on internal subpersonalities called parts
- Introduce Dr. Richard Schwartz as the creator of IFS and founder of the IFS Institute
- Acknowledge IFS integration with structural, strategic, narrative, and Bowenian therapy approaches
- Present research supporting IFS for PTSD, depression, and chronic illness
- Describe IFS principles: all parts are welcome, integration over elimination, internal and external systems are connected
- Identify goals of IFS including internal balance and Self-leadership
Objective #2: Types of Parts and Their Relationships
- Define parts as subpersonalities with distinct ages, roles, and traits
- Exiles hold pain and trauma, often isolated for protection
- Managers control daily functioning to prevent exile activation
- Firefighters distract or numb when exiles are triggered
- Introduce the Self as the inner leader characterized by calm, curiosity, clarity, compassion, confidence, creativity, courage, and connectedness
- Use parts mapping to visualize internal dynamics
Objective #3: Using IFS for Inner Child and Trauma Work
- Identify inner child parts as often being stuck at the developmental age of trauma
- Recognize their isolation and disconnection from other parts and the Self
- Foster safety and trust through Self-to-part connection
- Engage in unburdening to help parts release extreme beliefs, roles, or emotions
- Emphasize integration of healed parts and access to qualities they were denied
Objective #4: Implementing IFS Interventions with Clients
- Track and reflect on internal conflicts and feelings using part language
- Introduce IFS through metaphors such as the internal conference table
- Gain consent from all parts before engaging in trauma processing
- Identify and target parts for therapeutic work with attention to pacing
- Use unblending techniques to create space between parts and the Self
Objective #5: Working With Polarization and the 6 Fs Process
- Define polarization as internal conflict between parts blocking access to Self
- Guide clients through the 6 Fs: Find, Focus, Flesh Out, Feel Toward, Befriend, and understand Fear
- Help clients access Self energy and build relationships with parts
Objective #6: The Unburdening Process
- Build a trusting relationship between Self and the target part
- Witness the part’s experience with compassion and curiosity
- Engage in retrieval and do-over to reprocess trauma and provide corrective experiences
- Facilitate the unburdening of negative beliefs and emotions
- Invite the return of lost qualities such as creativity and joy
- Support integration of change into the internal system and check in with protectors
Objective #7: Therapist’s Role and Self-Energy
- Practice and model the 5 Ps: patience, perspective, presence, playfulness, persistence
- Use meditation and self-awareness to stay grounded in Self during sessions
- Recognize and tend to your own parts to maintain therapeutic attunement
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Ashley Esry, MSW, LCSWA, LCAS
Recording Date: May 5, 2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com