Introduction to Using Internal Family Systems for Trauma (2HR)

This training will provide mental health professionals with a beginning understanding of the Internal Family Systems (IFS), a therapeutic model developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz. IFS views the mind as a system of parts, often including younger, wounded versions of ourselves that hold trauma, unmet needs, and protective mechanisms. Participants will learn how to integrate Internal Family Systems into treatment, with a special focus on working with clients experiencing complex or acute trauma. This training will emphasize trauma-informed, compassionate, and strengths-based interventions, offering both theoretical foundations and experiential exercises. Participants will leave with practical tools to help clients foster self-compassion, reduce internal conflict, and build emotional resilience.

Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:

• Apply introductory IFS tools to help clients increase emotional resilience and improve trauma symptoms
• Describe the basic concepts of Internal Family Systems and how the mind is viewed as a system of “parts.”
• Explain how IFS can be applied when working with clients who have complex or acute trauma.
• Identify trauma-informed and strengths-based IFS strategies that support self-compassion and reduce internal conflict.

Instructor: Ashley Esry, LCSW, LCAS

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