Join Dr. Richard Schwartz, the founder of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, for an engaging and transformative course that introduces the core principles of IFS therapy. This evidence-based approach views the mind as composed of distinct parts, each with unique roles and emotions, centered on the belief that a compassionate, curious "Self" can heal the inner system.
Whether you're a therapist, coach, or counselor wanting to deepen your therapeutic practice or an individual interested in personal growth, this course offers valuable insights into the IFS approach for creating meaningful and lasting change from within.
What You’ll Learn:
1. Identify and articulate the core goals of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
2. Describe the process for releasing uncomfortable feelings and limiting beliefs to foster harmony and balance within the inner system.
3. Identify and analyze the dynamics within IFS's three-part system.
About Dr. Richard Schwartz
Dr. Richard Schwartz began his career as a family therapist and academic at the University of Illinois at Chicago. While working with patients, he discovered that traditional family therapy did not fully relieve symptoms. Patients described their inner struggles with distinct “parts,” forming networks of inner relationships resembling external families.
Through these explorations, Dr. Schwartz identified the “Self,” a core state of curiosity, calm, confidence, and compassion, even in individuals with severe trauma. This led to the creation of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model in the early 1980s. Today, IFS is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach widely used to address trauma and other challenges.
Dr. Schwartz resides in Brookline, Massachusetts, and is a faculty member at Harvard Medical School’s Department of Psychiatry.
Links and Resources:
Sarah Bergenfield's work: sarahbergenfield.com