An Introduction to Internal Family Systems Therapy

Have you ever felt that there’s a debate going in inside you with one person saying “Go on- take that risk – what have you got to lose? “And another shouting “No – play it safe! it’s not a good time for change!” You are not alone – we all have a family of parts, all with their own motivations, feelings and beliefs. This is the core assumption of the IFS model, developed by Dr Richard Schwartz in the 1980’s.

IFS conceptualizes the mind as comprising of distinct “parts”, which have all developed to support us, even though it may not feel that way at times.

IFS doesn’t try to silence these parts, but rather to try and get to know and understand them and create harmony among them.

Then there is the Self, which is a calm, compassionate and curious internal presence.

One of the aims of the IFS model is to support people to become more Self led.

This webinar is not official IFS training. It is a brief introduction to the model.

It will introduce the IFS model, including:

• The assumption of multiplicity of the mind.
• What is the Self in IFS?
• Who are the Parts in IFS? Protectors (Managers and Firefighters) and Exiles.
• Applications for practice and personal development.

This webinar will provide personal insights, practice examples and information on official IFS training in Australia, as well as an opportunity to reflect on your own counselling practice

About the Presenter:

Sue Drummond is a Social Worker and psychotherapist with training in Gestalt therapy, EMDR and Level I and 2 IFS. Prior to training as a psychotherapist Sue worked with migrant and refugee communities as an EAL teacher, community development worker, in policy development and capacity building at various peak bodies such as the Centre for Multicultural Youth and Victorian Transcultural Mental health.

She has worked in community organisations for thirty years as a community development worker, in policy development and advocacy, and as a counsellor.

Currently she works as a counsellor in Community Health in regional Victoria and in private practice. Her areas of interest are supporting people through life transitions and those who have experienced trauma, with a specialist interest in supporting victim survivors of Family Violence. She also teaches counselling and psychotherapy at ACAP University College and has taught for 30 years in various Universities.

Once Sue found IFS through engaging with an IFS therapist in her own therapy, she was excited to find a model that is gentle, compassionate and empowering for everyone.

Please note: Professional Development certificates will only be issued to attendees with an 80% attendance; this is to uphold the integrity of the event and presenter.