This one-day workshop will give a grounding in the Internal Family Systems Model (IFS). IFS therapy was developed by Richard Schwartz in the USA in the 1980’s and is now rapidly spreading across the world
IFS is used as a gentle, respectful, and powerfully transformative model of psychotherapy. It is also used by professionals in a wide range of settings as a clear and empowering framework with which to understand and compassionately relate to ourselves, to other people, and to wider systems, families, organisations etc, of which we are all a part.
At it’s most basic IFS is based on the principle of multiplicity, that we all have many different parts of us, which is a good thing. However, due to trauma, attachment wounds and neglect, these parts can get locked into extreme roles and negative cycles within our own psyche and in relation to our interactions with other people.
Explore the idea how this approach can be used to support more positive internal and external relationships
Practice working with their own inner system and considered where these methods could be utilised to support themselves and the people they work with.
Ideas and strategies that can be used in your work. Overview of the theory and flow of the model in practice.
Be able to describe key differences, in roles and qualities of the 3 categories of parts, and ‘Self’.
Consider through an IFS lens, the individual as a system of parts and Self, and explored ways to work with the whole person, with an awareness of the systems around the individual.
This course is suitable for those who wish to find out more about the IFS model.
It is valuable for professionals working in various roles supporting the mental health and the wellbeing of clients and service users, including but not limited to, counsellors, psychotherapists, psychologists and social workers.
This course will be suitable for those working with or caring for children and young people with a history of relational or developmental trauma. This includes adoption, fostering, residential, kinship and other non-family living arrangements
Lead Trainer: Sue Smith
Sue trained in IFS in 2011. She is a Certified IFS Therapist, Approved Clinical Consultant, supervisor, and a Trainer for the IFS Institute. She is a Member of the BACP, with a BA and Dip HE in Person-Centred Therapy, and since 2004 has worked as counsellor/psychotherapist with adults, young people and children in various educational and community settings. She now works mainly with adults in private practice in the North-West of England.
Supporting Trainer: Helen Marcus
Helen is a Certified IFS Therapist, Approved Clinical Consultant and supervisor. She is a Programme Assistant on IFS Institute trainings. She is an Accredited Member of the BACP and has an MA in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy. Helen is commissioned by local authorities to work with adopted young people. She also works with adults in private practice in East Anglia.
Date: 12th November 2025 (1 day)
Time: 9.30 - 4.30 (GMT)
Venue: Online Price: £160
Payment plans available on request
Booking: To book your place click here or email us at trainingwithus@adoptionplus.co.uk