Official Sources
The primary source of the model. Here you will find information about the model, the official directory of trained therapists, the training calendar, and the most current research on the effectiveness of IFS.
The Foundation for Self Leadership is the official non-profit organisation that advances IFS through scientific research, documenting its effectiveness in cases such as PTSD and addictions. The foundation also invests in extending the model beyond psychotherapy, applying it in education (IFS-in-Schools) and social programmes for the development of Self-Leadership.
On their website you will find the online magazine PARTS & SELF (partsandself.org), the podcast Facing the Moment (foundationifs.org/podcast), and rich material for understanding the multiplicity of the mind.
Podcasts
This is Tammy Sollenberger's podcast. It is highly accessible and ideal for clients and the general public, with episodes covering topics from foundational concepts to specialized themes such as IFS and parenting or addictions.
Produced by Internal Family Systems Portugal (hosted by Portuguese psychologist Aníbal Henriques and Tisha Shull). This is perhaps the most in-depth and clinically focused podcast, as it frequently features Richard Schwartz himself alongside other leading international trainers. Ideal for therapists interested in deepening their understanding of the model.
Video Gallery
1. The IFS Model
→ Explaining the Model (The Core Overview)
Dr. Richard Schwartz explains Internal Family Systems (IFS)
What it is: An introductory video from the official IFS Institute. Schwartz explains the foundational structure of the model in less than 8 minutes.
→ Interviews (Deep Dive)
How to Achieve Inner Peace & Healing | Dr. Richard Schwartz (Huberman Lab)
What it is: One of the most recent and popular interviews with Andrew Huberman. Ideal for those wishing to understand the connection between IFS, neuroscience, and trauma therapy.
Dr. Richard Schwartz X Rich Roll: Multiplicity of the Mind
What it is: A compelling interview that frames IFS as a radical paradigm shift. The video includes a rare live demonstration (demo), in which Rich Roll comes into contact with an "exiled" part of himself. This is the ideal resource for understanding not only the theory, but also the depth of the IFS process.
2. Live IFS Sessions
IFS Therapy Demonstration with Dr. Richard Schwartz (Liam's Session)
In this live session, Richard Schwartz works with a therapist, Liam, who comes into contact with an exiled infant part carrying the terror of his birth in an institution. This is an outstanding example of how IFS can approach pre-verbal trauma.
IFS Therapy Demonstration with Derek Scott (IFSCA) — Tammy
In this live session, Derek Scott works with a therapist, Tammy (known from the podcast "The One Inside"). Derek Scott guides Tammy in exploring a "protective part" that continuously pushes her to be productive and busy. The session reveals how the need for constant action connects to a deeper feeling of "unworthiness".
IFS Therapy Demonstration with Derek Scott (IFSCA) — Susan
In this outstanding demonstration session, Derek Scott guides Susan through a deep therapeutic journey for the healing of an "exiled" childhood part that felt neglected and "bad". The session serves as a model for how the complete unburdening process is performed within the IFS model.
3. Experiential exercises / Meditations
Note: IFS meditations are not simple relaxation exercises, but invitations for inner dialogue. If you experience intense activation, you can always stop and return to your breath.
Introductory Meditation: "Getting to Know a Protective Part"
A brief meditation by Dr. Richard Schwartz, ideal for those encountering the concept of "parts" for the first time.
The "Path" Meditation (The Path Exercise)
One of the most classic IFS meditations which guides the client along an imagined path, where they observe their "parts" making space, allowing the energy of the Self to emerge.
Book Recommendations
For the general public
Greek
English
No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems Model
personRichard C. Schwartz
For therapists
Greek
Το Μεταμορφωτικό ταξίδι της θεραπείας IFS: Αγκαλιάζοντας τον Εσωτερικό μας κόσμο
groupRichard C. Schwartz & Martha Sweezy
English
Internal Family Systems Therapy (2nd edition)
groupRichard C. Schwartz & Martha Sweezy
Advanced IFS Bibliography for Therapists
Intimacy from the Inside Out: Courage and Compassion in Couple Therapy
Toni Herbine-Blank
Toni Herbine-Blank & Martha Sweezy
Cece Sykes, Martha Sweezy & Richard C. Schwartz
Internal Family Systems Therapy: Supervision and Consultation
Emma Redferm (ed)
IFS-Informed EMDR: Creative and Collaborative Approaches
David Polidi (Editor)
Are you a therapist in Greece interested in official IFS training recognised by the IFS Institute?
Browse the following European pages for recognised Level 1-2-3 IFS trainings
If you are interested in an introduction to the model and its initial clinical integration, please refer to our dedicated training section
Training Services arrow_forwardIf you are already trained in the model or IFS-informed and are interested in supervision/ consultation services, see here
Supervision Services arrow_forward