
IFS
Free
Internal Family Systems (IFS): Theory & Facilitator Guide
An evidence-informed introduction to Internal Family Systems, including core concepts, parts and roles, Self, recommended readings, current research, and guidance for safely facilitating an introductory IFS workshop.
This guide introduces the foundations of Internal Family Systems (IFS) for psychology students, therapists, and helping professionals who want to understand the model before facilitating an introductory parts-based workshop.
Inside, you’ll find:
an overview of IFS theory and its history
explanations of managers, firefighters, exiles, Self, blending, and unblending
recommended books and official IFS learning resources
an overview of the current research base
guidance on scope, safety, and facilitation boundaries
preparation recommendations for anyone planning to host an IFS-informed workshop
This resource is designed as the theory and facilitator-preparation companion to our separate Meet Your Parts: An Introductory IFS Workshop.
For the ready-to-use workshop exercises, participant prompts, parts mapping, reflective writing, and guided activities, access the Meet Your Parts workshop here.