Treating complex trauma with internal family systems (IFS)

Most modes of psychotherapy believe to have “parts” is pathological. Not in Internal Family Systems (IFS). In IFS, the idea of multiplicity of the mind is normal. Every part has a good intention, and every part has value. Even for trauma survivors.

In the treatment of trauma, IFS is different from traditional phase-oriented treatments. Instead of starting with building resources in clients before processing traumatic memories, it welcomes extreme symptoms from the onset, learns about their positive protective intentions and gets their permission to access the traumatic wounds. IFS also differs from traditional attachment focused therapies, both value the therapeutic relationship; however, IFS additionally supports the relationship between the client’s “Self” and their part as the primary healing agent.

Hailed by Dr. van der Kolk, the world’s leading expert in trauma, IFS is the treatment method that all clinicians should know. Nearly all clients with a trauma history have innate abilities that help them improve their mental health if they listen to their parts. IFS does just that. IFS is an evidence-based approach for clinicians working with traumatized clients. Once you see it in action, you’ll want to incorporate it into your practice.

Join IFS and trauma expert Frank Anderson, MD, a colleague of Dr Bessel van der Kolk and Dr Richard Schwartz, in this transformational certificate training.

Clients will leave your office with skills to use outside the therapy room to help them master their emotions. This experiential training will show video demonstrations and include exercises and meditation techniques to use with your clients.