Certification – A globally applicable gold-standard for IFS expertise #
Certification provides assurance of a deep understanding of IFS and the skills to apply it effectively.
Demonstrated Expertise #
- Extensive Training and Experience: Certification involves rigorous training, typically:
- IFS Level 1, 2, and 3 trainings
- Ongoing supervision from Approved IFS Clinical Consultant
- At least 200 hours practicing IFS with clients
- Video Review by an IFS Certification Reviewer: Most IFS trainings require nothing more than attendance. The video review is like a final exam that evaluates whether the candidate can apply IFS skills in real-time.
Deep Understanding of IFS Principles #
- Internal Parts: They have a nuanced understanding of how different “parts” of a person’s personality interact, including:
- The core Self
- Protectors (managers and firefighters)
- Exiles (wounded parts carrying pain and trauma)
- Therapeutic Relationship: They skillfully guide clients to access their core Self, build trust with parts, and facilitate healing.
Commitment to IFS Practice #
- Ongoing Professional Development: Certified counselors maintain their expertise through:
- Continuing education courses
- Peer consultation groups
- Stay updated with the latest IFS research and advancements.
FAQ #
Who has more expertise, (Level 1 trained & Certified) or (Level 3 trained & not Certified)?
Trainings like IFS Level 1 or Level 3 only require attendance and are no guarantee that the material taught was mastered. IFS Certification offers assurance that a counselor has mastered the model and will be effective.
Which is better, a licensed therapist or unlicensed practitioner?
Both can be excellent. The key question for IFS work is depth of IFS training, not licensure status. Licensure requires thousands of hours across many modalities—which can mean less focused IFS experience. An IFS Certified practitioner has demonstrated mastery specifically in this model through a rigorous video review process.
The main practical difference: licensure is required for insurance reimbursement. If that matters to you, a licensed therapist is the right choice.