Internal Family Systems: An Introduction

Workshop Description

The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model is a scientifically validated model of therapy that has proven to accelerate the healing process and bring lasting relief to clients far more rapidly than traditional approaches. Endorsed by Dr. Gabor Maté, Bessel Van der Kolk, and many other leaders in the field, this approach is a “must have” for all therapists’ tool kits. Beyond the therapy room, it is also used in settings including jails, schools, coaching and business.

In addition to the benefits for clients, practitioners have also found IFS to be personally beneficial due to the ease of its implementation as well the fact that it helps to facilitate a client’s own healing from distress, relieving the pressure on the practitioner and countering burnout and/or vicarious traumatization.

IFS uses “parts” language and rather than pathologizing certain symptoms or behaviours, it views these as “parts” of ourselves that have good intent and are there for a reason. Rather than trying to “control” or “conquer” certain behaviours, the IFS approach offers a curious and compassionate inquiry of these parts, and then effectively works with each of them to achieve dramatic results. IFS also posits that we all have a “Self” (highest self/best self) which is a wise, compassionate, curious centre that knows what is best for us and that can and should lead the system.  This understanding applies as much to mental health professionals as it does to clients.

Through a variety of teaching modalities, including experiential exercises, guided meditations, live demonstrations, and an annotated video of a complete IFS session by founder Richard Schwartz, this workshop will prepare you to effectively integrate IFS into your practice to maximize therapeutic outcomes. Various “parts” of the clinician that contribute to our work with vulnerable populations will also be explored and participants will be taught a number of techniques for both accessing their own Self – both in and out of the therapy room.

You will receive: 

• Login details and instructions emailed in advance of the workshop
• Downloadable handouts
• Certificate of attendance upon successful completion of a brief online quiz (if desired)
• Access to a recording of the workshop for a limited period of time after the workshop -  so if you can’t join live, or need to miss part of the live workshop and want to view it afterwards, we’ve got you covered!

About the Presenter

Derek Scott is a registered social worker and certified IFS (Internal Family Systems) therapist with an international online practice based out of Ontario, Canada. He has worked in the field of counselling/therapy for over 35 years, including 15 working exclusively as an IFS therapist. He is a popular guest lecturer at the University of Western Ontario and has presented at numerous national and international conferences.

Derek is the founder of the Internal Family Systems Counselling Association (IFSCA), an organization dedicated to bringing awareness of the IFS model to mental health professionals in Canada and beyond. He is also a published author, writing in the area of Internal Family Systems and grief. 

Incorporating methodologies from his background and training in gestalt therapy, psychodrama and sociometry, Derek brings a wealth of expertise in working with groups. He is known for his combination of compassion, insight and humour as well as his ability to facilitate engagement with the group process.

For more information or to register:

www.missionempowerment.ca