IFS-Informed Training Program, January – March 2026  9-Day Professional Training

Based on the Model of Dr. Richard Schwartz
 

This 9-day IFS-informed training is designed for mental health professionals who wish to gain a solid foundation in the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model—both in theory and practice.

Participants will learn to confidently apply the IFS model in their professional work, guided by an experienced and certified Level 3 IFS trainer team and GZ-psychologists. The program offers a rich blend of theoretical input, live demonstrations, experiential exercises, and supervised practice. In between training days participants are encouraged to continue practicing in peer pairs or small groups between modules.

By the end of the training, participants will have developed the skills, understanding, and confidence to integrate the IFS model effectively into their therapeutic work. A Certificate of Completion will be provided after the full 9-day program. 

Training Structure

Module 1: Foundations of IFS Therapy

16th -18th January 2026  9:00 -17:00 ‘O Clock

In this first module, participants will be introduced to the core concepts and structure of the IFS model developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz.

Key Topics

• Understanding the IFS framework and therapeutic principles
• The 6 Fs: Find, Focus, Flesh out, Feel toward, BeFriend, and Fear
• The parts: Managers, Firefighters, and Exiles
• Understanding the Self and cultivating Self-energy through the 8 Cs (Calmness, Curiosity, Clarity, Compassion, Confidence, Courage, Creativity, and Connectedness)
• Differentiating between parts and recognizing their roles and interactions
• Supporting clients in unblending from their parts and accessing Self-leadership

Learning Approach

• Theoretical teaching with guided discussions
• Practical demonstrations by certified trainers
• Experiential exercises in small groups and pairs
• Practice sessions to build confidence in applying the IFS model

After these first 3 days, participants will have a solid understanding of the IFS foundation and can begin integrating the model into their client sessions.

 

Module 2: Deepening Skills and Advanced Techniques

25th- 27th of February 2026 9:00 - 17:00 ‘O Clock

In the second module, participants will revisit the fundamentals and build upon them with advanced applications and techniques. The focus will be on direct work with parts and understanding the complex dynamics within the internal system.

Key Topics

• Review and integration of experiences from Module 1
• Working with direct access 
• Learn how to externalize parts to expand Self energy
• Understanding and resolving polarizations between parts
• The process of unburdening parts and restoring harmony in the system
• Deepening the therapeutic relationship through Self-to-Self connection

Learning Approach

• Interactive review and group reflection on practical experiences
• Demonstrations of advanced techniques
• Experiential learning through structured practice and role play
• Small-group exercises focusing on therapist presence and Self-energy

After this module, participants will have gained deeper practical experience and confidence in working with complex client systems and facilitating unburdening processes.

Module 3: Integration, Transgenerational Trauma, and Unattached Burdens

13th – 15th of March 2026  9:00 – 17:00 ‘O Clock

The final module focuses on integration and mastery of the IFS model. Participants will bring together everything they’ve learned from the previous modules and extend their understanding to transgenerational trauma and unattached burdens.

Key Topics

• Integration of foundational and advanced IFS skills
• Working with transgenerational trauma and inherited burdens
• Understanding and addressing unattached burdens in clients
• Supporting clients in deep healing processes and Self-led integration
• Therapist self-care and the importance of ongoing personal IFS work

Learning Approach

• Advanced demonstrations and guided healing experiences
• Experiential exercises for both personal and professional development
• Practice sessions with feedback and supervision
• Reflective integration of the entire learning process

This final module provides participants with the experience, skill, and confidence to apply the IFS model with a wide range of client issues, including trauma and complex systems.

For those wishing to continue their learning journey beyond this 9- Day Training, we offer:

• Advanced IFS modules to deepen and expand skills
• Supervision groups led by certified IFS therapists and trainers for continued support and professional growth