IFIO therapy helps couples understand patterns that block connection and intimacy. As they learn more about themselves and each other, they are able to feel seen and safe even in vulnerable moments.

In IFIO couple sessions, partners learn about each other and themselves with deep insight into who they are and why they are the way they are. By focusing on patterns of relating rather than content or problem solving, couples who use IFIO are able to change long standing patterns that block them from connecting with each other. Couples learn how to find a new level of safety, vulnerability, and connection with each other.

IFIO therapy helps couples build attachment in safe ways with each other and ultimately with others in their lives. This starts by learning about yourself and building internal safety through self knowledge and self compassion. As each partner gets to know themselves, they begin to build internal security and attachment from the inside, which they can then bring to the relationship with their partners. IFIO provides couples with the concrete and experiential knowledge of how to communicate their needs to their partners, and how to listen and support their partners in health ways.

“Inviting the exploration of each partner’s individual’s inner life supports couples in envisioning a lively dance that includes: Communicating well; Repairing inevitable rupture; Making room for the needs of both individuals, as well as the relationship; and Exploring authentic heartfelt connection.”—Toni Herbine-Blank

I have been trained in IFIO by Toni Herbine-Blank among others, and am certified in IFS by the IFS Institute.

About IFS and IFIO Therapy

Please see my other page which describes the fundamentals of IFS therapy. One of the best ways to get a sense of IFS (outside of trying it!) is to watch a demonstration of an IFS therapy session. Some videos are linked on the righthand column of webpage. Below are some additional links that you might find helpful:

• A podcast interview with Richard Schwartz, founder of IFS

• A Facebook live demonstration of IFS therapy with Richard Schwartz and Deran Young

• The IFS Institute’s videos

There are also a number of books about IFIO and IFS therapy that can be useful. If you read them, please know that everyone’s internal world is different, so don’t be worried if your mind isn’t organized in the same way as in the examples the books present.

• Intimacy from the Inside Out by Toni Herbine Blank

• You are the One You’ve Been Waiting For by Richard C. Schwartz, PhD

• No Bad Parts by Richard C. Schwartz, PhD

• Self Therapy by Jay Earley, PhD

• Internal Family Systems Therapy (2nd ed.) by Richard C. Schwartz, PhD and Martha Sweezy, PhD

• Introduction to the Internal Family Systems Model by Richard C. Schwartz, PhD

I offer a free 30-minute consultation to let you get to know me and ask me any questions you have.

IFIO trainer and developer Toni Herbine-Blank talks about “courageous communication”, the IFIO technique that helps couples heal their relationships and themselves.

Excerpts from three couple sessions using IFIO with trainer and developer Toni Herbine-Blank

Interview with Liz Phillips about IFIO and IFS therapy.