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In this episode, we're joined by M.Ed, Master Life Coach, and IFS Practitioner Andrea Tessier to explore how the next-level version of you is already inside—she is just crowded by protective parts. Andrea introduces the power of Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help you build unshakeable self-trust and step into a model of liberated leadership.Tune in to learn:How to identify and unblend from the protective sub-personalities—like the perfectionist, inner judge, and people-pleaser—that create hesitation in your leadership.The secrets to navigating the cycle of self-doubt and over-responsibility by shifting from generic external roadmaps to your own internal guidance.Practical ways to use the power tool of unblending to regain your agency and create space for compassionate self-leadership when you feel internal resistance.How to lead from your wise, calm core to make bold decisions and step into your authority with grace and courage.By learning to navigate your internal world with compassion, you unlock the ability to lead your business and life from a place of deep alignment.Free Gift: Self-Trust Starter KitThe Self-Trust Starter Kit is a powerful introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS) and shows you how to understand the parts of you that create self-doubt, hesitation, and overthinking. Inside, you'll learn how to work with these protective patterns so you can build genuine, embodied self-trust from the inside out. If you're ready to make confident decisions, honour your inner wisdom, and lead yourself with clarity, this guide will show you where to begin.Andrea's Giveaway Contribution: IFS Coaching Experience 90-minute IFS Coaching Experience—a deep, personalized session designed to help you understand the parts driving your patterns and reconnect with the clarity of your Self. Together, we'll explore what's been blocking your confidence and map out a customized path forward so you can lead yourself with greater ease, alignment, and conviction. You'll walk away with a personalized roadmap and a renewed sense of inner authority (Valued at $500!).Connect with Andrea: Website | Instagram---Enter the Book Launch Celebration Giveaway!
If you find yourself stuck in a cycle of attracting the wrong partners or repeating the same painful relationship dynamics, this episode serves as a spiritual guide to breaking those patterns for good. Gabrielle Bernstein reveals that our relationship struggles aren't coincidences, but rather "spiritual assignments" that mirror our internal core wounds and beliefs. Drawing on the profound self-healing practices of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, Gabrielle teaches you how to transform your greatest triggers into opportunities for growth, how to energetically shift a connection by "taking care of your side of the street," and how to raise your self-worth by learning to truly see yourself first. This episode is a deep dive into becoming an energetic match for the love you deserve while maintaining the clarity and boundaries needed for a miraculous life.Try Gabrielle's FREE guided meditation to heal relationships https://gabbybernstein.com/relationship/Read Gabrielle's #1 NYT Bestselling books: Self Help: This Is Your Chance to Change Your Life. http://bit.ly/4j1asmA Join Gabby for the Trust the Universe 21-day Challenge and learn how to co-create your dream life with the Universe http://bit.ly/4eTlKZxIf you feel you need additional support, please consult this list of safety, recovery, and mental health resources.Disclaimer: This podcast is intended to educate, inspire, and support you on your personal journey towards inner peace. I am not a psychologist or a medical doctor and do not offer any professional health or medical advice. If you are suffering from any psychological or medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified health professional.Sponsors:Use my code GABBY to save 20% at tonetoday.comGet 60% off your first order, plus free shipping, when you head to smalls.com/gabbyGet 15% off OneSkin with the code DEARGABBY at oneskin.co/DEARGABBY #oneskinpodProduced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if the reason you haven't finished the thing you keep thinking about isn't motivation, discipline, or follow-through — but fit? In this episode, Eric is joined by Katherine Mutti Driscoll, PhD, an AuDHD coach, educator, and author, for a conversation that starts with writing a book and quickly becomes something much bigger: how neurodivergent adults actually get meaningful work done. They explore why so many ADHD and AuDHD adults carry "someday projects" for years, how structure (not willpower) turns intention into action, and why unmasking isn't just about identity — it's about designing systems that work with your nervous system instead of against it. Writing is the case study. Adaptation is the point. In This Episode, We Talk About Why motivation isn't the real problem for ADHD and AuDHD adults How an interest-based nervous system shapes creativity and follow-through The role of structure, deadlines, and external accountability in finishing big projects ADHD, autism, and the balance between novelty and predictability Unmasking your process and letting go of "normal" ways of working Why you don't have to love the process to do meaningful work Perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and surviving the one-star review Dictation, movement, printing drafts, and other non-traditional workflows How support, containers, and community make progress possible A Key Takeaway You don't need to become more disciplined. You need a container that fits. When the system works for your brain, the work has a chance to happen. About the Guest Katherine Mutti Driscoll, PhD is an AuDHD coach, educator, and author. She holds a PhD in education, is trained through the International ADHD Coach Training Center and Impact Parents, and is currently studying to become a mental health counselor. Katherine is the author of The ADHD Workbook for Teen Girls and is currently working on her second book focused on Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria. Website: https://catherinemuttidriscoll.com Book (The ADHD Workbook for Teen Girls, New Harbinger): https://www.newharbinger.com/9781648482809/the-adhd-workbook-for-teen-girls/ Resources & Links Mentioned ADHD reWired (podcast, resources, and programs): https://www.adhdrewired.com ADHD reWired Coaching & Accountability Groups: https://www.adhdrewired.com/arc Adult Study Hall (ADHD-friendly virtual coworking): https://www.adultstudyhall.com Internal Family Systems (IFS / parts work): https://ifs-institute.com Interest-Based Nervous System (ADDitude overview): https://www.additudemag.com/interest-based-adhd-nervous-system/
Rebecca Geshuri, therapist and co-author of the new book When Good Moms Feel Bad joins me to talk about why so many "good moms" still feel overwhelmed, reactive, or stuck in cycles of guilt, anger, and self-criticism. Together we explore: - Drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS) Rebecca breaks down what "parts work" is and how understanding your inner parts can reduce reactivity and shame. - How polarization between "what my child needs" and "what I need" fuels burnout and emotional overwhelm. - Why parenting feels hardest when younger, protective parts take over. - What the "inner mom" is and how learning to access this part of yourself builds calm, confidence, and connection. - A simple framework to slow down in triggering moments and respond with more compassion. - How self-compassion and nervous system awareness support secure attachment — for both you and your child. If you've been feeling overwhelmed and burnt out in parenthood, this episode offers validation, language for what you're experiencing, and practical tools to help you feel more grounded, regulated, and connected. LEARN MORE ABOUT MY GUEST:
This episode is brought to you by Alma. Visit https://helloalma.com/dg/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=privatepractice to learn more Get the Couples Therapy 101 course: https://www.couplestherapistcouch.com/ Join the Couples Therapist Inner Circle: https://www.couplestherapistcouch.com/inner-circle-new Join The Couples Therapist Couch Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/295562197518469/ In this episode, Shane talks with Liz Phillips about Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Couples. Liz is a therapist trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and IFS. Hear what's so unique about IFS, how it avoids common vicious cycles, how to move your clients to focus on themselves first, how to create clarity for your clients, and why every therapist should do their own therapy. To learn more about Liz Phillips & IFS, visit: LizPhillipsTherapy.Ca IFS-Institute.com
"Send us a message! (questions, feedback, etc.)"For anyone who has ever said, "A part of me wants to ________, but another part thinks it might not be a good idea..." This episode is for you.People actually ARE made up of many complex parts...it's part of how we reflect the image of God. And a counseling modality know as Internal Family Systems (IFS) that began in the 1980s has helped countless people better understand themselves and how they experience the world around them.Jenna Riemersma is a therapist who has become one of the world's leading experts in IFS. She is a Certified Sexual Addiction (CSAT) and Certified Multiple Addictions (CMAT) Therapist, and has written multiple books on IFS, including the groundbreaking Altogether You.Greg and Stacey got a chance to have a conversation with Jenna in which she gave a crash course in IFS - what it is, how it works, and how it helps people understand and approach all their parts with curiosity and compassion.Jenna's websiteJenna's books (on Amazon)Insight Timer app (Jenna has meditations in the app) Support the showAwaken websiteRoots Retreat Men's IntensiveRoots Retreat Women's WorkshopAwaken Men & Women's support meeting info (including virtual)
In this solo episode, Lisa takes a step back and asks a different question about “disorders”—especially eating disorders—not as something broken or pathological, but as ways the nervous system learned to survive. Lisa's discussion centers on healing through safety, trust, and behavior-first change—embodying new patterns until the nervous system habituates—through tender and fierce self-compassion, balanced integration, and very small, sustainable steps. Along the way, Lisa offers practical examples that apply to intuitive eating, weight loss, and everyday habits, inviting listeners into a more human, aligned, and compassionate way of changing.Topics Include:Survival StrategiesSelf-CompassionEmbodied ChangeHumanized Healing[0:55] Lisa welcomes listeners and encourages listeners to catch up for the full context of this episode. This chapter marks a transition toward topics she has long been eager to address more directly.[2:45] Lisa discusses graduate social work training where the DSM is treated as authoritative. Lisa discusses how eating disorder categories have expanded over time due to observed patterns, not necessarily because human behavior fundamentally changed.[7:58] Lisa contrasts dissociative identity disorder with Internal Family Systems (IFS), which validates natural inner parts or sub-personalities. She talks about how clients doing the work notice conflicting inner parts; she normalizes this as human, not psychosis..[10:45] Lisa challenges reframing things as not an eating disorder but a strategy to regulate the energetic mind-body-soul system involving food. Similarly, Lisa points out that it's not about the substance or behavior but the function it serves and how it regulates the nervous system. [16:02] Lisa talks about how some addictions like overworking are socially rewarded; while others are condemned. She talks about how a person in a larger body overeating and a person in a smaller body undereating may be driven by comparable nervous-system conditions. Despite opposite behaviors, both can produce similar nervous-system sensations, reinforcing familiar physiology and cycles.[20:42] Lisa talks about not being impressed by things such as weight loss if they cost health, relationships, and well-being. She values outcomes integrated into a balanced, joyful life—sustainable, gradual changes with work-life balance, fulfillment, family time, and hobbies. [27:18] Lisa shares her thoughts on how it's more that we accept the love we feel safe to receive, not necessarily the love we think we deserve. She discusses how many are conditioned through diet culture, hustle culture, family dynamics, social systems, into self-objectification and suppression of feelings, relating to themselves as bodies to control rather than whole beings. [31:09] Lisa discusses acting as if you are worthy and safe to receive care, even if feelings lag behind. She suggests one does not need to feel worthy to receive care but be willing to receive it and do the caring behaviors anyway. She states the method for this is baby steps to honor the nervous system; progress paced to sensitivity and regulation rather than idealized timelines.[56:04] Lisa closes the episode with a discussion of the growth zones, embraces the learning zone; avoids overshooting into danger and how discomfort is necessary for learning. She states to integrate action and acceptance across behaviors for sustainable change, one must pair outer steps with inner care.*The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.LISA IS NOW ACCEPTING: One-on-One Clients!Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal PromptsLeave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form Email Lisa: lisa@lisaschlosberg.comOut of the Cave Merch - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa's Socials: Instagram Facebook YouTube
In this live event recording, sex educator Luna Matatas breaks down why kink can feel so electrifying by exploring the psychology of power, risk, and taboo and how “eroticism” is really the felt sense of being lit up in mind and body. She offers a practical way to translate fantasy into real life by focusing less on props and more on the feelings and “flavors” you want to create, building a clear container of consent, and asking the two questions that change everything: How do I want to feel? How do you want to feel?Then sexologist and coach Ashley Manta introduces Internal Family Systems (IFS) as a powerful tool for relationships and non-monogamy: learning to notice your “parts,” stop speaking from them, and start speaking for them. With vulnerable, funny stories and concrete steps, she shows how to work with jealousy, fear, and insecurity without outsourcing your safety to your partner, and how self-energy (calm, curiosity, compassion, clarity, courage) turns conflict into repair, intimacy, and better sex.Website:www.NaughtyGym.comUpcoming Events:1. Wild Love Theory Retreat -- https://www.naughtygym.com/wild-love-theory-retreat2. Barcelona Adventure Trip -- https://www.naughtygym.com/barcelona-20263. El Salvador Retreat -- https://www.naughtygym.com/naughty-gym-el-salvador
Episode 87: Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is one of the most misunderstood mental health diagnoses. In this remixed episode, Dr. Alisa Brady and guest Clay Whitten—who lives with DID—offer an inside look at the condition that separates myth from reality. The conversation explores how DID develops, the challenges of misdiagnosis, and how Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy can support healing.
In this conversation, Sathiya and Jenna Riemersma explore the integration of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with faith-based perspectives. Jenna discusses the concept of 'parts' within ourselves, the importance of compassion in healing, and how to approach our internal struggles with curiosity rather than control. They also delve into Jenna's new book, 'Move Toward', which provides practical tools for self-awareness and emotional healing.
Why do eating disorders and ADHD so often overlap, and why does standard eating disorder treatment frequently fail neurodivergent people? In this episode of Dr. Marianne-Land, I'm joined by Taylor Ashley @taylorashleytherapy, Registered Psychotherapist based in Guelph, Ontario, who specializes in eating disorders, ADHD, trauma, body image, and neurodivergence. Taylor brings both professional expertise and lived experience to this conversation, offering a deeply honest look at how eating disorders can function as coping and regulation systems for neurodivergent brains. Together, we unpack why recovery often looks different for people with ADHD, why hunger cues may never fully return for some, and how approaches like mechanical eating, HAES-informed care, and trauma-informed therapy can make recovery more accessible and sustainable. In This Episode, We Discuss: Eating Disorders and ADHD We explore why ADHD and eating disorders frequently co-occur, including how dopamine regulation, anxiety, and nervous system overload shape behaviors like restricting, purging, and binging. Neurodivergent-Affirming Eating Disorder Recovery Taylor explains why traditional eating disorder treatment models often miss neurodivergent needs and how affirming care prioritizes sensory safety, autonomy, and individualized support. Mechanical Eating vs Intuitive Eating We talk openly about why intuitive eating is not realistic or safe for many neurodivergent people and how mechanical eating can be a supportive, valid recovery strategy. Sensory Processing, Clothing, and Body Image From sports uniforms to fabric textures, we discuss how sensory sensitivities and body shame intersect and how these experiences can quietly drive eating disorder behaviors. Brain Chemistry, Dopamine, and Regulation Taylor breaks down how restricting, purging, and binging can temporarily regulate dopamine and serotonin, especially for people with ADHD, and why this makes eating disorders feel grounding and hard to let go of. Trauma-Informed and IFS-Informed Approaches We explore Internal Family Systems (IFS) and how understanding the protective role of eating disorder behaviors can reduce shame and support long-term change. HAES-Informed and Weight-Inclusive Care We discuss why Health at Every Size–informed treatment matters, how weight-focused care can cause harm, and what to look for when building a neurodivergent-affirming outpatient treatment team. When Inpatient Treatment Is Not the Right Fit Taylor shares why inpatient programs can be unsafe for neurodivergent people when they lack sensory awareness and flexibility, and how intensive outpatient support can sometimes be a better option. Who This Episode Is For This episode is for: People with ADHD and eating disorders Neurodivergent adults navigating recovery Clinicians and therapists working in eating disorder treatment Anyone who feels like standard recovery advice has never fit their brain or body About Taylor Ashley, RP Taylor Ashley is a Registered Psychotherapist based in Guelph, Ontario, specializing in eating disorders, ADHD, trauma, neurodivergence, and body image. Her work centers neurodivergent-affirming, trauma-informed, and HAES-aligned care. Taylor brings lived experience, deep compassion, and clinical insight to her work with individuals seeking recovery that actually fits their nervous system. Follow Taylor on Instagram: @taylorashleytherapy Learn more: taylorashleytherapy.com Related Episodes Unmasking, Embodiment, & Trust: A Neurodivergent Approach to Eating Disorder Recovery With Dr. Emma Offord @divergentlives via Apple & Spotify. Unmasking in Eating Disorder Recovery: What Neurodivergent People Need to Know About Safety & Healing via Apple & Spotify. Recovering Again: Navigating Eating Disorders After a Late Neurodivergent Diagnosis (Part 1) With Stacie Fanelli, LCSW @edadhd_therapist via Apple & Spotify. Final Note If eating disorder recovery has felt inaccessible, overwhelming, or unsafe in the past, this conversation offers validation, language, and concrete reframes that may finally make things click.
Most people think confidence is about believing in yourself. Gabrielle Bernstein knows better — it's about befriending the parts of yourself that hold you back. After two decades as a spiritual teacher and writing 11 bestselling books, the author of The Universe Has Your Back and Self-Help has cracked the code on why we sabotage our success, stay stuck in negative loops, and block the very abundance we're trying to attract. In this raw, deeply personal conversation, Gabrielle breaks down the exact Internal Family Systems (IFS) framework that changed her life, why pushing harder actually blocks manifestation, how suppressed trauma creates parts that sabotage you decades later, and why the 3 AM spiral can be stopped by visualizing your thoughts in a bubble and sending them away. And it's not just vibes — it's applied psychology. If you've ever felt like you're blocking your own success, spiraling in negative self-talk, or pushing so hard you can't receive what's trying to come to you, this episode will rewire how you think about confidence, manifestation, and what it actually takes to attract abundance. If this episode hits a nerve, good. Because insight without action is just expensive therapy. That's why we built Main Street Millionaire Live — three days with real operators learning how to buy and build boring, cash-flowing businesses that create actual freedom. Main Street Millionaire Live is where mindset turns into money. Less manifesting. More ownership. Learn more at https://contrarianthinking.biz/MSML_BDYT26 Keep up with Gabrielle Bernstein: Website: https://gabbybernstein.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabbyb YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GabrielleBernstein Podcast: https://gabbybernstein.com/podcast/ ___________ 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:25 The Confidence Problem: Why We Don't Set Big Goals 00:04:03 Breaking the Spiral: The Loop-Breaking Method 00:09:02 When You Change How You Look at Things, Everything Changes 00:09:46 Doing vs. Allowing: Drop the Tupperware, Keep the China 00:11:30 Manifesting Done Right: You're Always Manifesting Something 00:16:16 Energy Is Contagious: The Science Behind Your Imprint 00:18:04 Main Street Millionaire Live: Your Path to Business Ownership 00:18:40 The Choose Again Method: Name It, Forgive It, Redirect It 00:21:16 Why We Lose Our Joy: Core Beliefs and Protection Mechanisms 00:22:18 Internal Family Systems: Befriending the Parts That Hold You Back 00:31:03 The Four-Step Check-In: How to Heal Your Parts 00:39:20 Real Boundaries Come From Self-Compassion, Not Rage 00:28:13 The Hormone Monster: Perimenopause, Parts, and Partnership 00:45:42 How to Find a Good Therapist: The Safety Test 00:50:04 AI, Mediumship, and the Future of Spiritual Guidance 00:56:38 Abundance, Receptivity, and the Maternal Energy Shift 01:03:57 Do Less, Attract More: The Promise That Changes Everything 01:04:52 Main Street Millionaire Live: Join the Revolution ___________ MORE FROM BIGDEAL
Confessions of a Freebird - Midlife, Divorce, Dating, Empty Nest, Well-Being, Mindset, Happiness
Have you ever felt like you were doing everything “right” on your healing journey—only to find yourself right back in your old pain on your personal growth journey?Maybe you finally found a healing modality that worked. You felt grounded, regulated, even hopeful. And then one comment, one moment of disconnection, or one unexpected ending stirred something much deeper—bringing old wounds, loneliness, or abandonment back to the surface.In this deeply personal solo episode, I'm reintroducing myself—not just as your host, but as a woman actively in the midst of her own healing.I share openly about my recent breakup after a 3.5-year relationship, and how it activated an abandonment wound I've carried since childhood. Despite years of personal growth and trauma-informed work, I realized something important: healing isn't about finding the right tool—it's about going deeper into the body when old patterns resurface.That realization led me back to Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems (IFS)—two practices that helped me slow down, reconnect with my body, meet my protective parts with compassion, and begin rebuilding self-trust from the inside out and tend to an old abandonment wound that I've carried since childhood.Because the truth is: the only way to find joy again… is to go through the pain.In this episode, I share how nervous system regulation became the foundation for real trauma healing and helped me shift lifelong relationship patterns—how physical symptoms pointed the way forward, and how learning to stay with sensations (instead of avoiding it) expanded my capacity to feel, grieve, and eventually experience joy again.In this episode, you'll learn:What somatic healing looks like in everyday lifeWhy nervous system regulation is the gateway to deeper emotional healingHow Internal Family Systems (IFS) and parts work helped me relate differently to the parts that once helped me surviveHow healing childhood trauma can restore your capacity for joy.Why building tolerance for physical sensations is essential to trauma recoveryHow healing after divorce laid the foundation for healing after this breakup.What it means to fully grieve, feel, and slowly reconnect with yourselfIf you're navigating heartbreak, grief, or the confusion of feeling “set back” on your healing journey, this episode is a gentle reminder: nothing is wrong with you. Healing is not linear. Your body remembers. And your pace matters.Much love,LaurieClick here to fill out my Podcast survey for 2026.Click here to learn about my NEW “Nervous System Regulation Starter Kit” Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting GoFree ResourcesClick here to schedule a FREE inquiry call with me.Click here for my FREE “Beginner's Guide to Somatic Healing”Please leave me feedback. I cannot respond so if you'd like me to respond, please leave your email***********************DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.
For 25 Free IFS Meditations and to join the free Facebook Community, visit exploreifs.comSummaryIn this episode of IFS Meditations and Insights, Tim Fortescue delves into the concept of 'exiles' within the Internal Family Systems (IFS) framework. Exiles are the parts of ourselves that carry deep emotional pain and vulnerability, often pushed away by our protective mechanisms to help us cope with overwhelming experiences. Tim emphasizes the importance of recognizing these exiled parts, which can manifest as feelings of shame, grief, or rejection, and how they influence our current behaviors and reactions. He shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how these exiles can be approached with compassion rather than criticism, allowing for healing and integration into our broader self-system.Tim also discusses the role of 'protectors,' the parts of us that work tirelessly to shield our exiles from pain. These protectors may manifest as perfectionism, over-functioning, or numbing behaviors. He highlights that while these protectors are often seen as problematic, they are actually devoted guardians trying to keep us safe. The episode encourages listeners to gently engage with their exiles, fostering a sense of safety and connection, which can lead to a more harmonious internal experience. Tim concludes with practical steps for listeners to begin this journey of self-discovery and healing.KeywordsInternal Family Systems, exiles, protectors, emotional healing, self-compassion, mental health, Tim Fortescue, IFS Meditations, personal growth, inner childTakeawaysExiles carry our deepest pain and vulnerability.Protectors are devoted guardians, not just problematic parts.Approaching exiles gently is a radical act of compassion.Exiles need to be met on their own terms, not forced into the light.Building trust with protectors allows for healing of exiled parts.Sound bites"Exiles don't need to be dragged into the light.""Approaching exiles gently is itself, a radical act.""It makes sense that some parts had to go underground."Chapters00:00 Introduction to IFS and Exiles00:46 Understanding Exiles and Their Impact05:01 The Role of Protectors in Our System07:53 Personal Story: Encountering My Exiles12:41 Gentle Approaches to Healing Exiles15:46 Practical Steps for Self-Discovery and Healing
Is it possible to quit porn by changing your beliefs?Can you overcome porn addiction—not through willpower or positive thinking—but by going deeper into the painful emotions and unconscious beliefs that actually drive the habit?In this episode, I challenge the popular idea that you can “just believe differently” or manifest your way out of porn addiction. While mindset does matter, most advice about belief change misses a crucial step—and that missing step is the reason so many men keep relapsing despite doing “everything right.”Porn addiction is not just a behavior problem. It's not even just a habit problem.At its core, porn addiction is driven by unconscious beliefs, emotional conditioning, and nervous system patterns that were formed long before porn ever entered the picture.In this episode, I walk you through a real-life case study of a client (we'll call him Joseph) who struggled with porn addiction for nearly 20 years—and is now over three months sober for the first time since he was a child. What changed wasn't his willpower. It wasn't positive affirmations. It was the way he learned to work with painful emotions, triggers, and deeply rooted beliefs like shame, defectiveness, fear, and unworthiness.I also break down the step-by-step belief-release process Joseph used—drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), parts work, emotional mindfulness, somatic psychology, and nervous system regulation—to release old beliefs and allow new, healthier beliefs to take root naturally.We'll explore the psychology and neuroscience behind why this approach works, including:Implicit (unconscious) beliefs and emotional memoryWhy beliefs live in the body, not just the intellectMemory reconsolidation and why old beliefs must be activated before they can changePrediction error and how self-efficacy is built through lived experienceWhy acceptance—not force—is the key to lasting porn addiction recoveryThis episode is for you if:You're trying to quit porn but keep relapsingYou feel trapped by shame, fear, or emotional overwhelmYou've done therapy, programs, or accountability—but something still feels missingYou want a deeper, more compassionate, neuroscience-backed approach to recoveryThis is not a quick fix. It's not a magic wand. But it is a grounded, psychological and neurological path toward real freedom—one that integrates emotional healing, nervous system regulation, and a healthier relationship with yourself.If you're ready to stop fighting your mind and start healing it, this episode will change the way you understand recovery.Link to Blog Article for this episodeIf you're looking for deeper support and real connection in recovery, I'm opening the No More Desire Brotherhood on January 15th. The pre-launch is open right now, and when you join you'll get free lifetime access to my 4 Pillars of Recovery mini-course, plus exclusive pre-launch bonuses. You can learn more and join here: https://www.nomoredesire.com/prelaunchGrab my Free eBook and Free Workshop for more strategies to overcome porn addiction, rewire your brain, and rebuild your life.Support the showNo More Desire
Join Tim Fortescue in this guided meditation as we explore the Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach to understanding and embracing our thinking parts. Discover how your thinking style can be a protector, helping you navigate life's challenges with greater compassion and self-awareness.In this gentle meditation session, you'll:Explore your relationship with your thinking partEmbrace self-energy through compassionate self-explorationLearn to recognize how your thinking serves and protects youWhether you're new to IFS or deepening your practice, this meditation offers a warm invitation to meet yourself with curiosity and care.For more meditations and resources, visit exploreifs.com.
In this episode of the Kriya Yoga Podcast, we explore how Internal Family Systems (IFS) can support deeper meditation, psychological integration, and an authentic experience of divine communion. Drawing from yogic philosophy, contemplative practice, and modern therapeutic insight, this talk examines why sincere meditation and devotion sometimes feel blocked—even after years of practice. The core insight: spiritual realization flourishes most naturally when the inner world is coherent, stable, and Self-led. Internal Family Systems offers a practical framework for understanding the “parts” of the psyche—protective managers, reactive firefighters, and wounded exiles—and how unresolved inner conflict can quietly interfere with meditation, prayer, and daily spiritual life. When these parts are listened to, integrated, and guided by the Self, inner noise settles and spiritual practice becomes more effortless, spacious, and alive. The episode connects IFS with key yogic principles such as Īśvara Praṇidhāna (communion or surrender to the Divine), samādhi, and Self-realization, suggesting that psychological healing is not a detour from the spiritual path, but often a powerful accelerator of it. This conversation is especially relevant for long-time meditators who feel stalled, seekers struggling to sustain inner peace beyond the cushion, or anyone interested in bridging therapy, yoga, and contemplative spirituality in a grounded, discerning way. Referenced text includes No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz and prior Kriya Yoga Podcast discussions on psychological wellbeing and spiritual practice. The Kriya Yoga Podcast 202 Spiritual Counseling Spiritual Practice The Kriya Yoga Podcast 95 Healing Blockages of the Heart Chakra -
Building a Business That Honors Your Energy: Emily Fraser's Journey from Burnout to BalanceQuick SummaryEmily Fraser returns to share how she built a thriving online business that generates consistent revenue while working only 1-2 hours per week. After a traumatic brain injury ended her teaching career, Emily discovered how to create a business model that honors her energy limitations—and teaches others to do the same. This candid conversation explores the reality behind "passive income," the power of setting boundaries from day one, and why sometimes the most profitable thing you can do is rest.In This EpisodeHow Emily's car accident and brain injury led to the creation of The Spoonie MentorThe concept of "bright lines" (boundaries) and how they shaped her entire business modelBuilding an evergreen group program that runs with minimal weekly involvementWhy Emily eliminated a profitable business coaching program (and what that taught her)The truth about expansion and contraction cycles in businessHow her business continued generating revenue during IVF, pregnancy loss, and family griefRedefining consistency: what it means when you're not posting on social media for monthsThe danger of jumping from guru to guru and constantly changing your business modelWhy "desperation repels dollars" and how to build from abundance insteadKey TakeawaysDesign for your constraints first: Emily set "bright lines" before launching—no evening work, limited Zoom calls, maximum 2-4 hours daily. This wasn't negotiable, and every system was built around these boundaries.Revenue-generating activities only: Every 25-minute work session focused exclusively on activities that would generate income. Everything else got outsourced or eliminated.Maintenance is a valid season: Between expansion and contraction lies maintenance—a season where systems run, revenue flows, and you don't have to be "on." This isn't failure; it's the reward for building well.Your worth isn't your work: Emily had to actively reprogram the belief that productivity equals worthiness. Her business generates income even when she's grieving, healing, or simply living life.Test live before automating: Run your offer live multiple times, gather feedback, and ensure it works before creating evergreen systems. Automation amplifies what's already proven.Memorable Quotes"The less I do, the more I earn. I've really focused on these affirmations and implementing these beliefs of what I desire.""Every time I've had huge wins in the business, it's been followed by periods of dips because I subconsciously struggle to allow myself to receive.""Desperation repels dollars. Approaching anything in business with that mentality is going to set you up for failure."Resources MentionedEmily's Website: thespooniementor.comKelsey's Website: KelseyReidl.comKelsey's Podcast: Rain or Shine (350+ episodes featuring Canadian entrepreneurs)Instagram/Social: @KelseyReidlSpoon Theory (energy management framework)Internal Family Systems (IFS) by Dr. Richard SchwartzTime-based pacing strategiesCustom mobile app for community buildingThe Thriving Spoonie Pathway (signature program)About Emily FraserEmily Fraser is the founder of The Spoonie Mentor, where she helps people with chronic health conditions build businesses and lives that honor their energy. A former music teacher whose career ended after a traumatic brain injury, Emily transformed her recovery journey into a thriving business model that proves you don't have to hustle to succeed. She's supported over 100 people through her signature program while working just a few hours per week.
In this episode we sit down with Dr. Kendhal Hart, clinician, educator, author and trauma expert who has spent years refining how Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be brought together in a structured, relational, and highly usable way. Dr. Hart's work helps therapists move beyond seeing these models as separate tools and toward an integration that honors both clinical structure and the lived experience of clients. A central theme of our conversation is how couples therapy can be relational, safety-focused, and bring in elements of trauma and parts. We also reflect on making therapy more accessible for people with diverse nervous systems and learning styles — specifically how clinicians can be taught more specific about strategies in IFS to help them understand concepts of direct access and Self. Dr. Hart is the author of Treating Trauma with EMDR and IFS: A Clinician's Guide to Integrating Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy with Internal Family Systems, the first full-length book dedicated to this integration. This guide offers clear, practical steps for integrating IFS across all eight phases of EMDR, and it has become one of our favorite resources, together with my book, for clinicians seeking depth, coherence, and compassion in trauma work. If you are a clinician interested in thoughtful, grounded, and relational trauma therapy, this conversation is for you! Check out Dr. Hart's website here: kendhalhart.com Check out her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Treating-Trauma-EMDR-IFS-Desensitization/dp/1648487076/ref=sr_1_1?crid=19GPVFUYOZ2X2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.dJHFPN7PsVEdJS-txTB1OIkvKCpE3Iuhazeep5zeOOU.w0xvDgDGUIJTPgbsiBETYStLgdw2mwHSESa00afmi8o&dib_tag=se&keywords=kendall+hart&qid=1768189580&sprefix=kendhal+hart%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-1
In this episode, I'm sharing powerful lessons & insights from a recent Gabby Bernstein event in Toronto that completely changed how I think about surrendering, anxiety, self-sabotage, and trust. This conversation is for anyone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or exhausted from trying to control every outcome.We dive into:- What it actually looks like to let go (without ignoring your feelings) and how real healing begins when you learn to check in instead of checking out.- How to give your worries, stress, and anxiety to the universe for 24 hours- The universe's three answers to every desire: hell yes, not right now, or it's on the wayWhat Gabby Bernstein calls “driftwood”: the signs your manifestations are coming- Miracles happen when you're having fun- An intro to Internal Family Systems (IFS) - & so much moreConnect with me:- Free call: work with me here- Have period cramps? Check out my online course- DUTCH test (hormone test)- GI Map test (gut test) - Free resources- IG: @nutritionmoderation- TikTok: @nutritionmoderation- nutritionmoderation.comDISCOUNTS:- 15% off Eversio with code: ALEXKING - 15% off at MUDWTR using code: ALEXADELE- 10% off at Pascoe using code: ALEXKING10- Discount on Canadian Supplements: https://ca.fullscript.com/welcome/aking- Discount on US Supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/aking1654616901For podcast inquiries, email: holisticwomenshealthpodcast@gmail.com
"We heal not through perfection, but through presence." – Lisa Gillispie, as reflected by Emily Ruth On this special year-end episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth welcomes Brad Kammer, LMFT, LPCC, Training Director of the Complex Trauma Training Center, for an intimate conversation on the evolving landscape of trauma therapy practice and community. Together, they look back on a year filled with wisdom from leading voices in the field of complex trauma, and the courage to embrace imperfection. Emily Ruth and Brad reflect on memorable episodes featuring NARM®-trained colleagues and guests innovating across approaches including Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Psychology, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). They explore how practitioners like Lisa Gillispie and Kelly Cook are advancing integrative trauma modalities within schools, clinical supervision, and diverse care settings. The conversation honors stories from therapists working with marginalized groups, such as those impacted by the criminal justice system and LGBTQ+ communities, emphasizing how real transformation unfolds through deep relationships and shared humanity. Brad also shares insights from the inaugural year of the SPACE Inner Development Program, created to support therapists in supporting presence, awareness, connection and embodiment. The dialogue surfaces ongoing growth edges and challenges while celebrating the resilience and creative spirit within the complex trauma therapy field. We invite you to listen to the full episode and follow Transforming Trauma on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. *** **SPACE:** SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join. *** **The Complex Trauma Training Center:** https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com **View upcoming trainings:** https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ *** The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal. The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. *** We want to connect with you! **Facebook ** https://www.facebook.com/complextraumatrainingcenter/ **Instagram ** https://www.instagram.com/complextraumatrainingcenter/ **LinkedIn** https://www.linkedin.com/company/complex-trauma-training-center/ **YouTube** https://www.youtube.com/@ComplexTraumaTrainingCenter **X** https://x.com/CTTC_Training
In this episode, I sat down with international educator Kali Basman to explore the profound terrain of inner coherence. Kali seamlessly bridges Yin Yoga, Buddhist psychology, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), teaching us how to meet our inner 'parts' on the mat. We discussed the power of somatic inquiry, nervous system regulation, and how this holistic approach guides students back to their natural rhythm of wholeness. Support the showConnect with Inner Peace Yoga Therapy Email us: info@innerpeaceyogatherapy.com Website Instagram Facebook
In Episode 100 of the Thoughts from the Couch podcast, Justine sits down with therapist Renee Litt for a powerful conversation about perfectionism and the “striver” part that so many women lean on to feel safe and in control. Using the Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach, they explore how this part formed, why it works so hard, and what it believes it's protecting us from.Together, they unpack the key IFS concepts of managers, firefighters, and exiles, and how these inner roles shape the way we think, react, and push ourselves. Renee explains how the striver part often develops from early experiences or inherited patterns, and how it can quietly take over our decisions, leaving us anxious, drained, or overly self-critical.Their conversation offers a hopeful, compassionate path toward healing perfectionism by learning to meet this part with curiosity instead of judgment. Listeners will walk away with a clearer picture of how to reconnect with their grounded Self and ease the pressure of striving so they can move through life with more balance and self-trust.Learn more about how perfectionism could get in the way of your happiness.Learn more about Renee Litt: https://www.reneelitttherapy.com/Follow Renee Litt on Instagram: @reneelitttherapy
**Building A Life We Don't Want To Escape From**In this episode of The Broke Girl Society Podcast, guest host Terra from the Ambitious Addicts Podcast talks with Annelise, a woman in recovery from gambling harm. Annelise shares how gambling escalated quickly during a period of intense financial stress and major life changes, and how an early win on a gambling app reinforced the belief that she could win again and fix everything. When fear and consequences grew, she took steps to interrupt the cycle, including using bet blocking tools, seeking support, and attending Gamblers Anonymous.The conversation focuses on Internal Family Systems (IFS), a therapy model Annelise uses both professionally and in her own recovery. She explains IFS as a way of understanding that we all have different internal parts, including protective parts and parts that hold pain. Annelise describes how addiction can function as a protective response when the system feels overwhelmed, and how healing begins when we approach these parts with curiosity and compassion rather than shame. She also emphasizes the importance of working with a therapist who is trained in IFS and trauma-informed care.Warning and Disclaimer: DisclaimerThis episode discusses gambling harm, addiction, shame, and trauma. The information shared is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. Internal Family Systems is a clinical therapy model. If you are struggling, please consider seeking support from a qualified licensed professional. If you are in crisis or feel unsafe, contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.**If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self harm, please seek the help of professionals. We only speak from our own perspective and experience. This recording should not be used as a replacement for professional help but as encouragement in your recovery journey. ~ This episode is sponsored by The Better Institute - Where people go to get better! https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/'~ Gamfin - Financial Counseling with counselors who understand the impacts of gambling on financial health and individual goals. (For those in the US only). https://www.gamfin.org/ ~ Evive - An app that can help you better understand your relationship with gambling and help you navigate recovery in a new way! Use code BGS for ONE year free!! https://www.getevive.com/~ Birches Health - Find a Gambling Certified Therapist through telehealth that allows you to have a session in the comfort of your own home. https://bircheshealth.com/brokegirlsocietyResource Book: https://bgs-media.com/resources/-************************************************************************************************************If you'd like to support the work I do please rate this episode (Please be Kind!)#gamblingaddiction#recovery#gamblersanonymous#gamblingHelpful links:https://www.ncpgambling.org/ You can find State and International Resources Herehttps://800gambler.org/https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/https://gamblersinrecovery.com/ - 24/7 meetings all over the worldhttps://recoveryroadonline.com/ - meetings throughout the dayChristina Cook: https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/ / christina@thebrokegirlsociety.comUK Help:https://gordonmoody.org.uk/https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/services/new-beginningsAustralia Help:https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/Canada Help:https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gambling
In this insightful and empowering episode, I'm joined by Vanessa Gorelkin, an occupational therapist who brings a deeply compassionate and practical perspective to supporting ADHD, especially when it comes to emotional regulation, energy management, and creating environments that help us thrive.Together, we explore how occupational therapy (OT) can be a game-changer for adults with ADHD to help us understand our sensory needs, emotional responses, and daily rhythms. We also explore Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), two powerful frameworks that offer tools for navigating emotional ups and downs with more ease and self-compassion.My new book, The ADHD Women's Wellbeing Toolkit, is now available, grab your copy here!Key Takeaways:What occupational therapy can look like for adults with ADHDHow DBT techniques like emotional regulation and distress tolerance can help ADHDThe importance of workplace accommodations for neurodivergent individualsEnergy management and the mental health impact of overcompensating for sensory challengesHow to identify your optimal conditions to avoid overstimulation and burnoutThe role of the sensitive nervous system and being stuck in a high-cortisol stateUsing the diving reflex to regulate your internal state (yes to sighing, cold water, and essential oils!)Why timing matters when it comes to meditation and restHow Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps us understand our behaviours and emotional triggersWhy a holistic approach is essential in ADHD therapy and wellbeingWhether you're managing anxiety, experiencing burnout, or looking for practical, holistic strategies to support your nervous system, this episode is packed with supportive takeaways for you to try!Join the More Yourself Community - the doors are now open!More Yourself is a compassionate space for late-diagnosed ADHD women to connect, reflect, and come home to who they really are. Sign up here!Inside the More Yourself Membership, you'll be able to:Connect with like-minded women who understand you Learn from guest experts and practical toolsReceive compassionate prompts & gentle remindersEnjoy voice-note encouragement from KateJoin flexible meet-ups and mentoring sessionsAccess on-demand workshops and quarterly guest expert sessionsTo join for £26 a month, click here. To join for £286 for a year (a whole month free!), click here.We'll also be walking through The ADHD Women's Wellbeing Toolkit together, exploring nervous system regulation, burnout recovery, RSD, joy, hormones, and self-trust, so...
Mapping your parts is a powerful exercise from Internal Family Systems IFS to heal from trauma Learn the skills to Regulate your Emotions, join the membership: https://courses.therapyinanutshell.com/membership Today we're going to do something a little different. We're going to do an exercise from Internal Family Systems called “Mapping your Parts”. In IFS we come to see our different feelings, inner voices, thoughts, urges or habits as “parts” that interact like an internal family. Because when we can see them clearly and learn to listen to them, our parts can start to work together for our good. This exercise can help you when you're internally conflicted, or have a difficult decision to make, or when you keep reacting to a situation in a way that you don't like or understand. IFS is a respected treatment modality for working through trauma or PTSD or Childhood Trauma. Your parts can give you a lot of insight into what's going on. Looking for affordable online counseling? My sponsor, BetterHelp, connects you to a licensed professional from the comfort of your own home. Try it now for 10% off your first month: https://betterhelp.com/therapyinanutshell Learn more in one of my in-depth mental health courses: https://courses.therapyinanutshell.com Support my mission on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/therapyinanutshell Sign up for my newsletter: https://www.therapyinanutshell.com Check out my favorite self-help books: https://kit.co/TherapyinaNutshell/best-self-help-books Therapy in a Nutshell and the information provided by Emma McAdam are solely intended for informational and entertainment purposes and are not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Although Emma McAdam is a licensed marriage and family therapist, the views expressed on this site or any related content should not be taken for medical or psychiatric advice. Always consult your physician before making any decisions related to your physical or mental health. In therapy I use a combination of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Systems Theory, positive psychology, and a bio-psycho-social approach to treating mental illness and other challenges we all face in life. The ideas from my videos are frequently adapted from multiple sources. Many of them come from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, especially the work of Steven Hayes, Jason Luoma, and Russ Harris. The sections on stress and the mind-body connection derive from the work of Stephen Porges (the Polyvagal theory), Peter Levine (Somatic Experiencing) Francine Shapiro (EMDR), and Bessel Van Der Kolk. I also rely heavily on the work of the Arbinger Institute for my overall understanding of our ability to choose our life's direction. And deeper than all of that, the Gospel of Jesus Christ orients my personal worldview and sense of security, peace, hope, and love https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/believe If you are in crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or your local emergency services. Copyright Therapy in a Nutshell, LLC
What if the part of you that does crazy or unwanted behaviors, like emotionally eating, isn't your enemy? What if it's actually trying to protect you? In this video, I share the way I love to work with compulsions: first, to bring curiosity to the conversation. The Internal Family Systems (IFS) perspective on binge eating and emotional eating is one modality that holds this view. You can completely changed how you view your compulsive behaviors. Instead of fighting the urge, what if you listened to it?
If you've ever felt the tension between big ideas and limited capacity - or wondered how to build a business that supports your wellbeing rather than consumes it - this episode is for you.In this episode, Melissa shares how understanding her internal patterns has reshaped her leadership. Through an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens, she has been able to honour the rhythms of her life through a framework she calls the Sustainable Capacity Operating System. This isn't about productivity hacks or scaling for the sake of growth. It's about operating in ways that honour your physiology, your season of life, and the real human conditions that make meaningful work possible.In this episode, you'll hear about:✨ The IFS Work That Changed EverythingWhy the goal isn't to eliminate your fast-moving, high-capacity parts - but to give them a defined place inside a grounded system.✨ Physiology, Performance, and Midlife Rhythms What Melissa has learned from integrating health data, hormone insights, and nervous-system awareness into capacity planning.✨ Sustainability as a Personal Practice - Not a Business StrategyHow this perspective has reshaped her pace, boundaries, and the way she stewards her team and programs.There's more to come ⏩In Episode 71, Melissa walks you through the next layer of this work — her Continuing Professional Education Plan and how she's mapping her own learning trajectory for the years ahead.Then, in Episode 72, she takes you behind the scenes of how that plan was actually designed: the pacing, decision points, and real-life constraints that shaped it.
To find out more and join the Faithfully Growing Community, visit exploreifs.comSummaryIn this episode, Tim Fortescue explores the intersection of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and spirituality, discussing how these concepts can coexist and support personal healing. He delves into the experience of overwhelm, the importance of self-energy, and the role of compassion in navigating inner chaos. Through practical steps and personal anecdotes, Tim guides listeners in recognizing their parts, practicing self-compassion, and accessing their inner wholeness.TakeawaysMany people feel a longing for connection to something larger than themselves.Spirituality can bring warmth and meaning, but also pain and wounds.The self is inherently compassionate and whole, regardless of external beliefs.Healing involves turning toward our inner parts with curiosity and tenderness.Flooding occurs when multiple parts overwhelm our system, leading to chaos.Self-energy is a calm, compassionate presence that can guide us through overwhelm.Practicing self-compassion can create space for healing and integration.Naming our parts helps us understand and manage our inner experiences.We can access self-energy without needing to adhere to a specific spiritual belief.Our inner world is a sanctuary where every part has dignity.Sound Bites"Just naming them helps.""Just being together.""Step one, pause."Chapters00:00 Exploring the Intersection of IFS and Spirituality06:34 The Nature of the Self and Its Inherent Qualities11:12 Understanding Inner Parts and Their Roles16:28 Personal Journey: Embracing Authenticity and Connection22:15 Practicing Compassionate Presence Within24:31 Introduction to Internal Family Systems and Overwhelm24:36 Final Thoughts on Overwhelm and Self-CareKeywordsInternal Family Systems, spirituality, self-energy, overwhelm, compassion, healing, mindfulness, mental health, emotional awareness, personal growth
Featuring Dr. Lauren Hartman M.D.Dr. Jim sits down with Dr. Lauren Hartman, a double board-certified specialist in Adolescent Medicine and Pediatrics, contributor to Psychology Today, and author of the forthcoming book Freeing Children & Young Adults from Shame, Scales & Stigma.In this episode, Dr. Hartman breaks down what every parent, clinician, and educator needs to understand about eating disorders—and why it's not your fault. She highlights the essential role families can play in the healing process and offers practical guidance for supporting adolescents with compassion and clarity.We explore the Barbie effect, the rise of GLP-1 medications, and how social media and comparison culture fuel distorted body image and perfectionism. Dr. Hartman underscores the absurdity of our societal ideals: the original 1959 Barbie, scaled to human size, would stand 5'9”, weigh 110 pounds, measure 39–18–33, and—ironically—would meet criteria for anorexia. And Barbie's measurements haven't improved much since.Zooming out, we look at the cultural forces that perpetuate body shaming and misunderstanding about what “healthy” truly means. Dr. Hartman shares how to talk with adolescents about their eating disorders, what treatments show the strongest evidence, and how to navigate parental shame without derailing recovery.Finally, we discuss the powerful role of Internal Family Systems (IFS) as an integrative therapeutic approach for adolescents and families—an essential model for clinicians working in this space.This episode is a must-listen for anyone supporting young people on the path toward healing, nourishment, and self-compassion.WCMI networking group A networking group for mindfulness-focused clinicians dedicated to learning together & collaborating for more information click here
Richard Schwartz and Cece Sykes, who—along with Martha Sweezy— have recently co-authored a book on Internal Family Systems for Addictions. Richard is the Founder of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model, a pioneering approach to psychotherapy which can be used to treat a wide range of problems, including eating disorders, self harm, addiction, and trauma. Cece is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and IFS Senior Trainer with over thirty years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples and families, specialising in working with the effects of trauma and addiction. In this lively and wide-ranging discussion, we cover: — A basic intro to the IFS Model — The root causes of addiction from an IFS lens — Why IFS offers a highly effective treatment modality for addictive processes — Best practices for using IFS when treating addiction and also important things to avoid. And more. You can learn more about Cece's work at www.cecesykeslcsw.com and find out information about Dr Schwartz's upcoming IFS trainings by visiting www.ifs-institute.com. --- Cece Sykes, LCSW, ACSW; IFS Senior Trainer, US and international. Contributed to Levels 1 and 2 IFS training manuals and teaches L1 as well as L2 Trauma and Addiction. Cece has over thirty years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples and families, specializing in work with the effects of trauma and addiction. Her chapter on compassionate approaches to addictive process appears in IFS: Innovations and Elaborations, 2016, Routledge. Cece also has special interests in spiritual practices intersecting with therapy and in the impact of psychotherapy upon the life of the therapist and she lectures, consults and leads workshops on all of these topics. Cece lives and works in the city of Chicago. Richard Schwartz, PhD., began his career as a systemic family therapist and an academic. Grounded in systems thinking, Dr. Schwartz developed Internal Family Systems (IFS) in response to clients' descriptions of various parts within themselves. He focused on the relationships among these parts and noticed that there were systemic patterns to the way they were organized across clients. He also found that when the clients' parts felt safe and were allowed to relax, the clients would experience spontaneously the qualities of confidence, openness, and compassion that Dr. Schwartz came to call the Self. He found that when in that state of Self, clients would know how to heal their parts. A featured speaker for national professional organizations, Dr. Schwartz has published many books and over fifty articles about IFS. Learn more at: www.ifs-institute.com. --- 3 Books Cece Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Drug use for grown-ups: Chasing liberty in the land of fear - Dr. Carl L. Hart - https://amzn.to/41YvsCJ — Unbroken Brain, A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction - Szalavitz, Maia - https://amzn.to/3oVEBgu — No Bad Parts; Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with IFS. Sounds- Richard Schwartz - https://amzn.to/3NuwDFu 3 Books Richard Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Internal Family Systems Therapy for Addictions - Cece Sykes, Martha Sweezy, Richard C. Schwartz - https://amzn.to/3Hyyqpc — Internal Family Systems Therapy: Second Edition - Richard Schwartz - https://amzn.to/44sagX9 — Introduction to Internal Family Systems- Richard Schwartz - https://amzn.to/3HBfgiC
Two of my favorite teachers started collaborating with one another to help us to individually, and collectively, release our burdens, heal, and deepen connection: Internal Family Systems (IFS) founder Richard Schwartz and group facilitator Thomas Hübl. Today, they share their process, helpful exercises and tools, and more from their new book, Releasing Our Burdens. For links to my previous episodes with Dick and Thomas, and all the show notes, head to my Substack.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with self-compassion teacher, somatic coach, IFS practitioner, and soon-to-be author Soulla Demetriou. We explore what it really means to come home to yourself, befriend your inner world, and move through life with more ease, compassion, and truth.In this conversation, we talk about:• Soulla's storyHow her early experiences with anxiety and panic opened the door to yoga, mindfulness, somatics, and eventually Internal Family Systems (IFS).• What self-compassion truly isNot clichés or forced positivity — but a daily practice of inner friendship, boundaries, honesty, and care.• The nervous system's role in healingWhy so many of our patterns come from old protective responses, and how safety changes everything.• A simple, grounded explanation of IFSHow our “parts” develop, what they're trying to protect, and how self-energy (the clear sky beneath the weather) helps bring them into balance.• The wound of “not enoughness”Why so many of us carry it, and how we begin healing it gently.• Returning to who we really areThe beautiful overlap between IFS self-energy and the Ayurvedic idea of living from sattva, clarity, and inner steadiness.About Soulla DemetriouSoulla is a somatic and transformational coach, IFS practitioner, mindfulness teacher, and author of the upcoming book You Have Always Been Enough. She supports people around the world in reconnecting with their inner truth and emotional sovereignty.Connect with SoullaWebsiteInstagram→ Begin a free 7-Day Self-Compassion Journey — a beautiful, practical introduction to building a kinder relationship with yourself→ Pre-order Soulla's book: You Have Always Been Enough: A Healing Guide to Self-Love and Inner Freedom→ Explore Soulshine Retreats in Spain→ Curious about working 1:1 with Soulla — simply email her to have a chat and find out more: soulla@soulshinewithsoulla.comResources:Ayurvedic Dosha Quick Reference Guide Abhyanga Self Massage Guide Weekend Nervous System Reset Nourished For Resilience Workbook Find me at www.nourishednervoussystem.comand @nourishednervoussytem on Instagram
If you've ever wondered why you feel stuck, why traditional therapy didn't go deep enough, or why your body reacts even when your mind says you're fine—this episode will finally make things click.We're breaking down two of the most powerful trauma-healing approaches, EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), in a way that actually makes sense. We explore how trauma lives in the nervous system, how to know whether you need medication or trauma work, and what healing looks like for people carrying spiritual, identity-based, or emotional wounds.What you will learn:How EMDR processes and heals traumaIFS principles and understanding your inner partsTherapy and medication working togetherImportance of affirming care for LGBTQ+ clientsA holistic, whole-person approach to psychiatryEpisode Resources:Carter WebsiteCarter Instagram
Most men are taught to hate the part of them that struggles.What if that part isn't your enemy at all… but your protector?Buy The Book Altogether You: https://amzn.to/4rvtnexIn this groundbreaking conversation, Coach Craig sits down with trauma therapist and bestselling author Jenna Riemersma, whose book Altogether You bridges Internal Family Systems (IFS) with Christian faith in a way that is nothing short of revolutionary.Together, they expose why the traditional addiction model keeps men trapped in shame and powerlessness—and how IFS offers a radically different path to healing, integrity, and self-leadership.You'll hear: • Why identifying as an “addict” feels empowering at first—but eventually becomes a cage. • Why the part of you that acts out isn't sinful, broken, or demonic… it's protective. • How Christian theology and modern psychology actually reinforce each other when it comes to understanding your parts. • Why partners get stuck in reactive boundary cycles—and how to break them. • Why relationship, compassion, and self-leadership heal what shame and control never will.Craig and Jenna unpack the Core Self from two directions—psychology and Christianity—and reveal a way of operationalizing faith that most churches completely miss.If you or your spouse is struggling with pornography, unwanted sexual behavior, or betrayal trauma, this episode will fundamentally shift how you see the struggle, yourself, and each other.This is the conversation every Christian man—and every church—needs to hear.Resources and Links MentionedBuy The Book Altogether You: https://amzn.to/4rvtnexJenna's website https://movetoward.comAltogether You On Demand Workshop https://movetoward.comUse code AY15 for 15% offFree IFS guided meditations and resources Available at https://movetoward.comBook referenced in the episode Altogether You by Jenna Riemersma
Come Back to Love® Radio: How Therapy Tools Strengthen Love: Practicing Compassion in Partnership In this heartfelt episode of Come Back to Love with Robyn Vogel, Robyn sits down with therapists and life partners Heather and David Polidi, co-founders of Empowered Through Compassion, LLC. Together, they explore how therapeutic practices like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR not only transform clients' healing but also nurture connection within their own marriage. Through honest reflections and real-life insights, Heather and David share how slowing down, pausing, and speaking “for” our emotions and not “from” them, can shift conflict into compassion. This conversation is a gentle invitation to bring self-awareness, curiosity, and love into every relationship. Topics Covered: How IFS and EMDR help couples navigate conflict and emotional triggers The power of pausing and self-reflection in moments of tension Speaking for your emotions instead of from them to deepen connection Balancing partnership, personal healing, and professional practice Using compassion and curiosity as tools for lasting relationship growth Bio: David Polidi, LMHC is a licensed therapist and co-founder of Empowered Through Compassion, LLC, where he specializes in trauma-informed therapy integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR. With a deep commitment to helping clients find healing and wholeness, he works with individuals, couples, and families navigating trauma, neurodiversity, anxiety, and relational challenges. David is the author of IFS Informed EMDR: Creative and Collaborative Approaches (2025), offering innovative insights into blending these modalities in clinical practice. Grounded in compassion and self-leadership, his work bridges emotional and spiritual well-being to foster authentic, lasting transformation. Heather Polidi, LMHC is a licensed therapist and co-founder of Empowered Through Compassion, LLC, where she supports women, parents, and couples in healing from trauma and reclaiming their inner strength. Blending Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, and trauma-informed approaches, she creates a safe, nurturing space for exploration and growth. Heather's work is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a deep belief in the human capacity for resilience and transformation. Through her integrative and heart-centered approach, she helps clients cultivate self-compassion, deepen connection, and create healing that ripples through their families and communities. Website: www.empoweredthroughcompassion.com Learn more about Robyn here: https://www.comebacktolove.com
I’ve noticed Internal Family Systems (IFS) being mentioned a lot lately, following a significant shift in how it's now presented as a spiritual philosophy for trauma healing. In this episode of The Gentle Rebel Podcast, I got Justin Sunseri back on the podcast, partly to talk about this recent addition to IFS. The last time he was on, he predicted further elements would be added before long. I also wanted to speak with him about ways we can approach these kinds of models without becoming overly dependent on them. https://youtu.be/w2uIFWAqNbY We talked about simplicity, stripping away the fluff, and getting to the core of things so we can let go rather than get pulled into the culture around particular therapeutic models, which now often include communities, language, rituals, and insider/outside status. These are things therapeutic practitioners need to stay aware of and avoid enabling. I wanted to address the structural elements here (which apply to many systematic modalities), rather than the content of IFS itself. I know people find it useful. That's not what this is about. It’s a call for awareness in how we hold and attach to systems. As Justin points out, a red flag is when new elements are added by decree from a single figure at the centre, often accompanied by books, train-the-trainer programs, and courses that extract profits from a highly invested audience of practitioners and followers. Development By Decree vs Organic Progress Justin contrasts a modality that evolves through scrutiny and refinement with one that changes by proclamation from its founder. In models like IFS, additions often arrive as top-down declarations rather than emerging iteratively and organically. When a system operates under capitalist logic, it must continually invent new things, reinvent existing ones, and proclaim the discovery of the missing piece. There have also been questions regarding the use of beliefs from established spiritual traditions, which reinforce doubts about the parameters of a therapeutic model and whether it needs to become a totalitarian system to be considered valuable. They can excel in their own sphere and allow people to connect the dots with other sources that resonate with them personally or within their cultures. Justin suggests this recent shift in IFS makes sense, as the model already frames people as having multiple parts or souls. Since it isn't grounded in scientific methodology (the claim that people have “parts” is unfalsifiable), it can't be presented as a psychological philosophy and instead becomes a spiritual one. How Can We Get as Simple and Clear as Possible? Justin takes us through his process, which begins with the goal of self-regulation. “What do we know about how to do that?”“Pendulation is a big part of it.”“OK, how do I do that?”“You have to feel what’s happening inside you.”“OK, well, how do I do that?”“You’ve got to feel your defensive activation and your body’s safety activation.”“Awesome, Justin… how do I do that?” His approach is to build skills through small, incremental steps. This moves toward simplicity rather than complexity. When a model relies on jargon and insider knowledge, it creates layers of investment that make access desirable and profitable. You want to be “in the know”. And it opens new markets because, however much one learns, there is always more to know. A belief system can never be total enough. There is always a potential missing part to capitalise on. Useful But Not Necessary It's helpful to distinguish what personally resonates from what is necessary. A model becomes religious in structure when it presents itself as a universal solution. This contrasts with the healthier goal of someone in a helping role, which is to become ultimately irrelevant. That stands against market logic, which demands perpetual growth rather than reaching the edge of usefulness and giving people ways to jettison the solid rocket boosters. Iterative Steps To Avoid Triggering Overwhelm Justin talked about his interest in Wabi Sabi (a tricky-to-define concept from Japan that emphasises imperfection, impermanence, incompleteness, and rootedness in the present moment) and Kaizen (continuous improvement through small, incremental changes). These ideas shape his therapeutic philosophy, which helps clients identify tiny, manageable steps that gradually move them toward their goals. For example, someone wanting to go to bed earlier may envision 10pm as their ideal, but shifting from midnight in one go is unlikely. A ten-minute adjustment each week over twelve weeks is far more sustainable and far less stressful. This reflects his whole approach to self-regulation. It unfolds through iterative micro-steps. Listening For The Pull When we're seeking help, we sometimes try to adopt multiple modalities at once, which can leave us more desperate and dysregulated. I might hear Justin talk about stoicism, Wabi Sabi, and Kaizen and attempt to apply them all as solutions. But he is describing influences he has been gradually drawn toward over a long period and has integrated in his own way. Finding a unique creative path requires a patient, long-term perspective, but this only becomes possible when the nervous system feels safe. For Justin, safety is cultivated through daily small actions and gradual changes rather than a bold intervention. He encourages each of us to listen for what we feel pulled toward, but only from a place of regulation, little by little, not all at once. How do you know it’s a healthy pull? It has a clean quality, a movement toward something that feels exciting or right. It can be soft or intense. Behaviours that leave us feeling guilt, shame, or regret are not pulls in this sense. Over time, we can identify the difference by remembering how we typically feel afterwards. We can listen most clearly when we're regulated because the body gravitates toward what helps it regulate. There is an intuitive knowing that arises when we feel safe and connected. For example, the intentions and desires that surface ahead of the new year. We often feel a pull during holidays because we are calmer and moving at a slower pace. It's similar on vacation. But turning that pull into lasting change requires micro-steps rather than grand gestures. In this sense, January isn't the moment to transform everything, but the bridge toward the changes we want to make.
You've done the therapy. Read the books. Listened to the podcasts. You understand your trauma responses intellectually. But when you get triggered, your mind still spins out of control—and you can't make it stop. Here's what you need to know: Your spinning mind isn't something to fix or control. It's communication from a wounded part of you that needs your attention. In this episode, we're talking about: Why trying to think your way out of emotional pain actually makes it worse The difference between being triggered BY a part vs. BECOMING that part (blending vs. unblending) Why your wounded inner child doesn't speak the language of logic—and what she actually needs from you How to drop out of your spinning mind and into your body where the real healing happens Why "I've done so much work, why am I still dealing with this?" is the wrong question The practice that changes everything: showing up for your pain without trying to fix it This is Internal Family Systems (IFS) meets emotional sobriety. This is how you stop abandoning yourself when your wounded parts show up asking for help.
That Wellness Podcast with Natalie Deering: Internal Family Systems with a Twist
In today's expansive conversation, I sit down with Danielle Carron, a therapist, spiritual guide, and mystic who bridges Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing, meditation, and consciousness work. Danielle and I first met at the IFS conference and immediately bonded over our shared love of quantum physics, the mystery of time, and the sacred nature of healing. At 19 years old, Danielle survived a traumatic rock-climbing accident that initiated a profound Near Death Experience (NDE)—one that revealed timelessness, unconditional love, and the truth of who she really is beyond fear, identity, and the limits of the body. That experience became the foundation of her life's mission: bringing the sacred into healing and helping others awaken through their pain. This episode explores how meditation can access the same expansive, transcendent states of consciousness Danielle touched in her NDE—states of nonlinear time, eternal connection, and pure Self-energy. We explore what becomes possible when parts soften back and give us space to experience our higher consciousness directly. This is a deep, beautiful conversation that bends time itself. Topics We Cover How we met at the conference + shared love of quantum physics and time Danielle's Near Death Experience at age 19 and how it transformed her life Linear vs. nonlinear time and why it matters for healing Meditation as a pathway to expansive, transcendent states of Self The timeless nature of Self and accessing Divine unconditional love Parts that fear transcendence and how to support them Letting go of survival-driven linear time The theme of unconditional love in NDEs and Self-energy Discussion of Danielle's 45-minute meditation for nonlinear time My personal experience practicing her meditation Benefits of transcendent states + how present work impacts the past Recommendations for accessing higher consciousness through meditation “Who am I when my parts give me space?” About Danielle Carron, MS, MA, SEP, LPC Danielle has been working with clients in private practice for over 17 years. At age 19, she lived through a rock-climbing fall and a profound Near Death Experience that changed everything. It revealed her true identity beyond fear, beyond the body, and beyond linear time. Since then, Danielle has devoted her life to bridging psychology, embodiment, meditation, and the sacred. Her work integrates Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, spiritual practice, and consciousness studies. She guides clients into their wholeness—mind, body, and soul. She is a therapist, mystic, teacher, and companion for the full human experience. Connect with Danielle Website: daniellecarron.com Contact: https://daniellecarron.com/contact/ Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@daniellep.carronlpc3706 __________________________ Want to work with Natalie? Contact her below Website: https://www.ndwellnessservices.com/ Contact: https://www.ndwellnessservices.com/contact Instagram: @nataliedeering _____________________________ Donate to the podcast Here! Interested in sponsoring an episode of the podcast? Upgrade your business and let more people know about your amazing services or products by reaching hundreds to thousands of people by sponsoring an episode for only $100! Please email ndwellness.services@therapysecure.com for more information. Thank you for the support! *Please support the podcast by following, rating, and leaving a review*
In this episode of Real Money, Real Experts, hosts Rachael DeLeon and Dr. Brandy Baxter sit down with the iconic Saundra Davis — master certified coach, financial well-being expert, and founder of Sage Financial Solutions — to explore the deeper layers of money, mindset, and human behavior.Sandra shares her powerful journey from financial planning to financial coaching, unpacking why knowledge alone isn't enough to create change — and how understanding our “money parts” through the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model can transform both our personal and professional relationships with money.Together, they dive into:How different parts of ourselves — the saver, the spender, the worrier, the giver — all try to protect us in their own waysWhat it means to lead from our Self in financial decision-makingHow to bring compassion, cultural humility, and mindfulness into client workWhy continuous learning, reflection, and safe community spaces like the AFCPE Symposium are vital for financial professionalsWhether you're a coach, counselor, planner, or simply someone striving to make peace with money, this episode will leave you inspired to meet every “part” of yourself — and your clients — with grace, curiosity, and compassion.Show Notes: 03:24 Saundra's Journey into Financial Coaching06:18 The Framework of IFS (Internal Family Systems)11:57 How to Heal Your Money Parts28:37 A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Saundra's Pre-Conference Session36:37 Saundra's Two CentsShow Notes Links:Listening When Parts Speak by Tamala FloydNo Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz Explore Sage Financial Solutions!Connect with Saundra on Linkedin!Connect with Saundra on Facebook!Connect with Sage Financial Solutions on Instagram!Want to get involved with AFCPE®?Here are a few places to start: Become a Member, Sign up for an Essentials Course, or Get AFC Certified today! Want to support the podcast? We love partnering with organizations that share our mission and values. Download our media kit.
Send us a textMike Mandel is a world-leading hypnotist with over 50 years of professional experience. He's performed nearly 5,000 stage shows, trained over 10,000 students at his Toronto hypnosis academy, and co-hosts the Brain Software podcast.Our conversation bridges hypnosis, Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, pain management, and meaning-making—showing how different healing traditions can discover the same truths about how minds heal.Whether you're a therapist curious about hypnosis, an IFS practitioner, or simply fascinated by how minds work and heal, this conversation will expand your understanding.You'll hear:The "bungalow model" of ego states and stunning parallels with IFS therapyHow hypnosis stopped a severe burn from forming (tiny firemen with liquid nitrogen!)The history of hypnosis from ancient Egypt to Milton EricksonWhy you need at least three models of reality (not just one)How Mike reframed chronic pain from suffering into a reminder he's aliveKitchen surgery stories that will blow your mindRapid-fire questions about meaning, legacy, and what matters most⚠️ WARNING: Mike starts with a brief hypnotic demonstration. Pay attention—the more you focus, the more you'll experience it. We unpack how he did it at the end."Everything is an ego state issue without exception." — Mike MandelKey Timestamps05:50 - The Forgetting Demonstration07:28 - Ego States & The Bungalow Model15:23 - IFS & Hypnosis: Stunning Parallels21:50 - The Frozen Baby: A Profound Healing Story35:25 - Pain vs. Suffering40:52 - The Burn Treatment Story45:55 - What IS Trance?56:26 - History of Hypnosis: Mesmer to Erickson1:07:44 - How the Forgetting Demo Worked1:18:18 - Rapid-Fire Meaning QuestionsResourcesMikeMandelHypnosis.comBrain Software PodcastDeveloping Meaning is NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY INSTITUTIONS and is NOT INTENDED AS MEDICAL ADVICE.Theme Music by The Thrashing Skumz.Produced by Dirk Winter and Caroline HintonBrought to you by Consilient Mind LLC.
Seeing Your Blind Spots: Why We Make the Choices We Do In this powerful and reflective episode of the Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner and MaryAnn Michaelis explore why people make choices that go against their values—especially in the aftermath of trauma, betrayal, and emotional flooding. Drawing from clinical experience, Internal Family Systems (IFS) language, trauma reenactment, arousal templates, and the science of human behavior, they unpack the subconscious forces that drive unwanted patterns. The discussion highlights how “firefighter” parts act impulsively to stop emotional pain, why unresolved trauma often leads to repeated relational patterns, and how blind spots develop from both early experiences and generational learning. Dr. Skinner and MaryAnn explore how shame, fear, secrecy, and lack of boundaries contribute to destructive behaviors—whether as the betrayed or the betrayer. The heart of this episode centers on building self-awareness, humility, and character development through honest reflection. Listeners are invited to pause, examine the choices they're making, recognize patterns that no longer serve them, and take courageous steps toward change. Whether you're working through betrayal trauma, navigating recovery, or wanting to become a better version of yourself, this conversation offers insight, compassion, and a path forward. Resources Mentioned & Recommended Human Intimacy Courses RISE: Hope and Healing After Sexual Betrayal A comprehensive online course to help betrayed partners navigate trauma, rebuild emotional safety, and understand the healing journey. Reclaim: Healing from Pornography and Rebuilding Your Life A structured recovery program addressing unwanted pornography use, shame cycles, and rebuilding intimacy. Books & Frameworks Referenced Internal Family Systems (IFS) – Richard Schwartz Understanding “firefighter” parts and internal protective systems. Trauma Reenactment Concepts – Judith Herman, Bessel van der Kolk Insight into repeated relational and behavioral patterns tied to past trauma. Arousal Template Research – Dr. Kevin Skinner Clinical insights into how early sexual experiences shape adult behavior. Character Development Approach – Inspired by Benjamin Franklin's virtues A model for intentional growth and self-refinement. Additional Human Intimacy Resources Human Intimacy Podcast Archive HumanIntimacy.com – Articles, assessments, and healing tools Second Annual Human Intimacy Conference – March 13–14, 2026 (registration link in show notes)
Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we're diving deep into the conversation around emotional health, spiritual formation, and the journey toward wholeness with our special guest, Dr. Alison Cook, psychologist, author, and expert in Christian spiritual and emotional integration.In this episode, Michael and Alison explore her acclaimed book, "Boundaries for Your Soul." Together, they unpack what it truly means to set gentle, healthy boundaries within ourselves—not to exile or repress difficult emotions, but to get curious about them, listen to them, and ultimately befriend them as part of our God-given humanity. Drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory and Christian theology, Alison Cook explains how our inner world is made up of many different “parts,” each with their own stories and struggles. Through personal stories, practical takeaways, and a deep dive into the concept of the “Spirit-led self,” this episode invites listeners to consider a new way of relating to their internal experience, dealing with conflict within, and embarking on a path of true healing.Support the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!
Whitney unpacks a recent article from New York Magazine: “The Therapy That Can Break You” about Internal Family Systems (IFS) and what can go wrong when trauma treatment crosses ethical lines. She discusses the dangers of working with fragile populations without proper training, and what to watch for when working with different therapeutic modalities. She then answers two listener questions about navigating estrangement as the family scapegoat and balancing support for a depressed parent without losing yourself. Whitney Goodman is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and the founder of Calling Home, a membership community that helps people navigate complex family dynamics and break harmful cycles. Have a question for Whitney? Call in and leave a voicemail for the show at 866-225-5466 Join the Family Cyclebreakers Club Follow Whitney on Instagram | sitwithwhitFollow Whitney on YouTube | @whitneygoodmanlmft Order Whitney's book, Toxic Positivity Learn more about ad choices. Visit podcast.choices.com/adchoices This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice. 01:06 Introduction to IFS therapy and The Cut article 02:49 What went wrong at Castlewood Treatment Center 09:52 Believing victims and the reality of false memories 18:08 The need for stabilization when working with trauma 25:51 Listener question 1: Navigating estrangement as the family scapegoat 31:32 Listener question 2: Supporting a depressed parent without losing yourself Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Send us a textIn this powerful conclusion to the Shadow Into Light series, host Andrea Atherton takes you deep into the sacred process of healing your shadow through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Jungian psychology. Discover how the parts of yourself you once rejected, the jealous one, the controller, the avoider, are not your enemies but wounded protectors longing for compassion. Andrea explores how IFS provides a roadmap for integrating these parts into conscious wholeness, offering a bridge between Carl Jung's wisdom of shadow integration and Dr. Richard Schwartz's transformative IFS model.Through storytelling, Andrea brings to life a couple's journey from reactivity to reconnection. You'll witness how two partners learned to pause, unblend from their protectors, and speak from their Higher Selves, turning conflict into an opportunity for healing. This episode dives into the roles of protectors, managers, and exiles, showing how love deepens when both people learn to witness and soothe each other's inner worlds. With poetic warmth and psychological depth, Andrea invites listeners to see relationships as sacred mirrors where the shadow can be integrated, not feared.Join Andrea as she guides you toward Self-led intimacy, where love becomes less about perfection and more about presence. Whether you're a therapist, couple, or spiritual seeker, this episode will illuminate how embracing your shadow creates emotional safety, lasting connection, and true inner freedom. 30-minute Consultation with Andrea https://www.andreaatherton.com/booking-calendarAndrea Atherton Websitehttps://www.andreaatherton.com/Love Anarchy Websitehttps://www.andreaatherton.com/podcasthttps://loveanarchypodcast.buzzsprout.comLove Anarchy Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/loveanarchypodcast/Andrea Atherton Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/andreaatherton-17/
How's your self-talk? If you're like most folks, it's probably not as kind as you'd like. In this episode, we'll talk about the power of positive self-talk and gratitude. We'll get into how the chatter of those more critical self-talk "voices" can be navigated and even the positives behind them (with some attention to Internal Family Systems perspective). We'll also guide you through some power strategies to make your self-talk kinder. A few of these include 'Grateful Self-Talk' and the concept of 'distanced self-talk' or 'illeism,' which involves speaking to yourself in the second or third person to create psychological distance and foster self-compassion. After listening, be sure to give these practices a try. They're powerful and well worth your time. Incorporating more positive self-talk is a real pathway to better mental health and wellbeing. About: The Joy Lab Podcast blends science and soul to help you cope better with stress, ease anxiety, and uplift mood. Join Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek for practical, mindfulness-based tools and positive psychology strategies to build resilience and create lasting joy. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts! How's your self-talk? If you're like most folks, it's probably not as kind as you'd like. In this episode, we'll talk about the power of positive self-talk and gratitude. We'll get into how the chatter of those more critical self-talk "voices" can be navigated and even the positives behind them (with some attention to Internal Family Systems perspective). We'll also guide you through some power strategies to make your self-talk kinder. A few of these include 'Grateful Self-Talk' and the concept of 'distanced self-talk' or 'illeism,' which involves speaking to yourself in the second or third person to create psychological distance and foster self-compassion. After listening, be sure to give these practices a try. They're powerful and well worth your time. Incorporating more positive self-talk is a real pathway to better mental health and wellbeing. About: The Joy Lab Podcast blends science and soul to help you cope better with stress, ease anxiety, and uplift mood. Join Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek for practical, mindfulness-based tools and positive psychology strategies to build resilience and create lasting joy. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts! Like and follow Joy Lab on Socials: Instagram TikTok Linkedin Watch on YouTube Key moments: 00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast 00:32 Exploring Grateful Self-Talk 02:22 The Role of Internal Family Systems (IFS) 06:09 Distanced Self-Talk: Illeism Explained 08:55 Practical Applications and Personal Experiences 14:39 The Power of Gratitude and Self-Compassion 17:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Sources and Notes: Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life. More episodes about self-talk... our self compassion series is a great place to start: Self-Compassion: Don't Believe Everything You Think (about yourself) [ep. 26] Self-Compassion: Easing Up On Yourself [ep. 27] Self-Compassion: Remembering You're Not Alone [ep. 28] Full transcript here Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program. Please see our terms for more information. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. Like and follow Joy Lab on Socials: Instagram TikTok Linkedin Watch on YouTube Sources and Notes: Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life. More episodes about self-talk... our self compassion series is a great place to start: Self-Compassion: Don't Believe Everything You Think (about yourself) [ep 26] Self-Compassion: Easing Up On Yourself [ep. 27] Self-Compassion: Remembering You're Not Alone [ep. 28] Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program. Please see our terms for more information. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
Psychotherapist Jason Shires shares how childhood trauma shapes adult relationships. Jason explains how internal defense mechanisms formed in childhood impact our partner choices and relationship patterns. We discuss therapeutic approaches like Internal Family Systems and somatic experiencing, the dynamics of masculine and feminine energies, and the role of addiction as escapism. We also explore how you can heal anxiety inside of relationships, offering practical insights for navigating emotional triggers with compassion. Jason shares personal insights and resources for healing, emphasizing self-acceptance, vulnerability, and the ongoing journey toward deeper connection and intimacy. This episode offers compassionate guidance for understanding and transforming relational wounds.Episode Topic Overview (00:01:13) Announcement of the episode's focus: trauma's impact on adult relationships.Childhood Wounds and Partner Selection (00:03:13) How childhood wounds influence partner choice and relationship experiences.Personal Story of Childhood Trauma (00:05:13) Jason shares his own childhood trauma and its effect on his adult relationships.Internal Defense Mechanisms (00:08:37) Jason explains internal defense mechanisms as intelligent responses to childhood adversity.Parts Work and Somatic Approaches (00:12:10) Discussion of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and somatic experiencing in healing trauma.Impact of Trauma Work on Relationships (00:15:05) How trauma work can transform relationships and deepen connection.Navigating New, Healthy Relationships (00:18:06) The challenges and risks of embracing love after trauma.Welcoming Insecurity in Relationships (00:22:18) Welcoming and addressing insecurity to increase intimacy and trust.Summary and Healing Journey (00:37:14) Recap of the journey from trauma to healing and healthy relationships.Follow Jason:https://www.instagram.com/infiniterecoveryproject/Follow The Open Bedroom Podcast:https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast/
In this deeply informative episode, I'm joined by licensed marriage and family therapist Melissa Mose, LMFT, who brings 30 years of clinical experience to the table and a unique approach to treating OCD by integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS) with traditional methods like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Melissa shares how a personal experience—her daughter's sudden-onset OCD—propelled her into the world of OCD treatment and changed the direction of her career. We talk through how OCD manifests, why traditional ERP can be both life-changing and difficult for people, and how IFS can offer a more compassionate, effective way to approach healing by helping clients access their internal "Self." We also discuss Melissa's new book for clinicians, her training work, and the upcoming OCD SoCal Conference happening online on November 15–16, 2025.
This week on The Tarot Diagnosis, in honor of my upcoming book Dark Shadow, Golden Shadow, which releases on December 8, 2025, I'm reading a portion of chapter 2 (Roots of the Shadow) right here on the podcast.In Roots of the Shadow, I dive into the foundations of shadow work through a deeply therapeutic and psychologically grounded lens. I explore how Carl Jung's original concept of the shadow intersects with Internal Family Systems (IFS), Freud's ideas of the id, ego, and superego, and even Brené Brown's research on shame. Throughout this chapter, I explore academic theory, personal reflection, and practical exercises, because shadow work is just as much about theory as it is about application.You'll also get to experience one of the tarot spreads from the book, the Psychoanalytic Shadow Spread, designed to help you explore your inner world using tarot as a reflective tool. I walk you through each position in the spread and provide an example interpretation using cards like The High Priestess, Ace of Cups, Nine of Swords, and more.We also take a deep dive into the Pages of the tarot and how each one can represent developmental moments where your shadow may have started to form. Whether it's being told you're “too emotional,” “too much,” or “not enough,” these early messages get internalized and shadow work gives us the chance to revisit and reclaim those parts of ourselves.
If you struggle with binge eating or emotional eating, you've probably felt like you're at war with yourself. One part desperately wants to eat while another part screams "no, don't do it!" This episode explains the psychology behind binge eating using parts work and Internal Family Systems (IFS) concepts. Learn why the part of you that binges is actually trying to protect you, not sabotage you - and why understanding this changes everything.What You'll Discover:Why binge eating is a protective mechanism, not self-sabotageHow to identify different parts and what triggers themThe Anchored Self concept and why it matters for recoveryWhy trying to eliminate binge urges makes them stronger If you've tried willpower, diets, and restriction but still struggle with binge eating, this episode offers a completely different approach based on understanding your internal system rather than fighting it. Next week: Part 2 - How to Work With the Part of You That Wants to Binge, where we'll get into practical strategies, questions to ask your parts, and how to build trust with them.Want to know why you struggle with food and what to do next? Start watching The Binge Breakthrough Mini Series today.