An Introduction to Internal Family Systems

About this workshop:

This workshop offers an engaging introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS), a model of understanding the mind developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the USA and now rapidly spreading across the world. There is a growing evidence base for the model's efficacy, see https://ifs-institute.com/resources/research for more information.

IFS is a gentle and respectful way of being with people and provides a powerful and safe framework for working with trauma. It invites us to see ourselves as made up of many “parts” — different inner voices, emotions, or patterns that all have good intentions, even when they conflict. At the centre of this inner system is the Self, a calm and compassionate presence that can help bring understanding and balance.

Through a mix of discussion, experiential exercises and personal reflections, participants will gain a foundational understanding of key IFS concepts such as parts, protectors, exiles, and the Self. When parts can be fully understood and unburdened it is liberating, energising and transformational. The focus will be on exploring how IFS can deepen awareness of your own inner experience and broaden understanding of how our clients’ internal world can influence their daily life.

About the speaker:

Toni Buffham is a BACP Accredited Counsellor, Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. In her clinical practice, Toni works with individuals and couples, with a particular emphasis on trauma and relational healing. Alongside private practice, and offering workshops, Toni also co-facilitates Parenting Retreats.

Toni holds an MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy Research. As a researcher, her interests include topics such as Therapist’s Parts, Implicit Bias, and Therapist Self-Disclosure —all with the goal of understanding how therapists can hold more Self-energy to enhance their effectiveness in working with clients.

Coming full circle, Toni attended an IFS introductory workshop at Willows in 2016, marking the start of her immersion in the model. She then completed the IFS Level 1, Level 2 trainings and Level 3 with Dr Richard Schwartz. As a certified IFS Therapist and IFSI-Approved Clinical Consultant, Toni provides individual and group consultation and supervision. She has been actively involved in the IFS community, regularly serving on IFS L1, L2 and L3 trainings as a Program Assistant, including Lead PA, and more recently as an Assistant Trainer across the UK and Europe.

Practicalities:

Breaks - There will be two short refreshments breaks and a lunch break. Free tea & coffee will be available on site, and there are a number of shops and cafes locally that delegates may wish to use during lunch.

Parking - Limited free parking is available on site on a first come first served basis. There are a number of pay as you go car parks locally. The closest is at 51Prospect Place, SN1 3LJ, a 1one minute walk away.

Train/Bus - Willows Training is accessible by local bus routes. The main Swindon bus and rail stations are approx 20 minutes walk away.

Who is this workshop suitable for?

This workshop has been designed as a source of Continued Professional Development (CPD) for Counsellors, Psychotherapists, other mental health professionals, and students undertaking counsellor/psychotherapy training. It may also be helpful for anyone working in a caring, helping or pastoral profession, including Teachers, Teaching Assistants, Youth Workers and Social Workers.

About Willows Counselling and Training Service

Willows is a registered charity offering Counselling and Counsellor Training in Swindon, Wiltshire. With more than 30 years' experience, Willows is well established in both knowledge and reputation in the local area and beyond.

Willows offers the full suite of qualifying courses for counsellors: CPCAB Levels 2, 3 and Level 4 Diploma. For qualified therapists, they run a Postgraduate Diploma in Trauma (Level 6 equivalent), an NCPS Advanced Specialist course, as well as a programme of one-day CPD workshops and training conferences.