Course Overview
Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO™) is an experiential model combining intrapsychic work with interpersonal exploration. IFIO uses intimate relationships as a vehicle for the growth and healing of both the individual and the couple.
Developed and presented by Senior IFS Trainer and IFIO Founder/Creator, Toni Herbine-Blank, MSN, RN, and Certified IFS Therapist and Senior IFIO Trainer, John Palmer, LCSW, this program is designed for those who already have a basic understanding of core IFS principles and want to expand their knowledge about how to apply IFS relationally.
Beginning in February, you’ll engage in a blended learning experience that includes about an hour of on-demand video content each month, paired with live Q&A events to deepen your learning. Refer to the full summary below for a complete list of what’s included.
Introduction to the IFIO Model
Explore the fundamental concepts of IFIO therapy, including:
- The three phases of IFIO therapy
- Identifying the five basic protocols
- Defining Self-Leadership as it applies to relationship work
- Identifying the arc of therapy while working with people to deepen intimate connection
- Addressing therapist parts
Tracking Sequences
Dive into the second basic IFS protocol, tracking sequences of the conflict, including:
- Explore the conflictual sequence
- Understanding the 3 components of tracking sequences - the purpose and process
- Identifying the purpose of the “invitation”
Courageous Communication™
Master the art of effective communication in therapy through:
- Defining Courageous Communication and how the protocol can be used universally
- Exploring the process of creating safety to speak and listen
- Working with the iceberg effect of communication
Getting Started with a Couple
Learn essential techniques to initiate work with couples, such as:
- Direct Access
- Assessment questions
- Unblending for inner differentiation
- IFIO contracts for therapy
Individual Work in the Presence of a Witnessing Other
Explore the dynamics of witnessing, the ANS system, and co-regulation in relationship therapy:
- Understanding Co-Regulation and witnessing individual work
- Concept of a “safe triangle”
- Understanding the importance of working with the autonomic nervous system and the concept of the window of tolerance
Anger and Needs
Explore the cycle of anger, unmet needs, and their impact on relationships, including:
- Exploring activated frustrated protector parts
- Describing the concept of expressing and meeting emotional needs
- Reviewing a protocol called A Choice in Every Moment
Let’s Get Started. Enroll Today!
About one hour of
on-demand teaching instruction per month
Monthly live Q&A events with your instructors–events are recorded for those unable to attend live
Transcripts and slides for all learning sessions, plus video demonstrations of protocol application and guided experiences for self-reflection
Connect with a global learning community
within our IFS
Learning Hub
Certificate of
Completion
Professional CE credits and/or IFS CE credit toward certification
Toni Herbine-Blank, MSN, RN (she/her) is a psychotherapist, educator, and senior trainer with the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Institute. She is the creator of Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO). Developed in 2009, IFIO emerged from Toni’s insight into couples’ deep desire to stay connected even amidst conflict and vulnerability. Her approach helps unravel the protective patterns that block intimacy and supports presence and mutual understanding.
Toni is the author of Intimacy from the Inside Out and co-author of The IFS Couple Therapy Skills Manual. Known for her grounded and compassionate presence, she creates spaces—whether in therapy or training—where clients and clinicians alike feel safe to explore the inner world and courageous enough to transform it.
John Palmer, LCSW (he/him) has over 30 years' experience working with couples and individuals. As an IFIO Lead Trainer and Certified IFS-Institute Approved Clinical Consultant and Therapist, he is passionate about helping students deepen their IFS and IFIO skills. John brings to his work a deep understanding of neuroscience with a strong focus on the autonomic nervous system as applied to intimate relationships and the therapeutic process. He maintains a private practice in Austin, Texas and spends his leisure time hiking with his lovely wife, Anne Marie, in the great outdoors.
Let’s Get Started.
Enroll Today!