Fundamentals of Internal Family Systems (IFS) Theory
- Structure of the Psyche
- Multiplicity of the mind
- Parts: Protective and Vulnerable
- Burdens
- Self
Fundamentals of Polyvagal Theory
- Structure and function of the Autonomic Nervous System
- The regulated nervous system
- Adaptive survival states of the nervous system (fight/flight, freeze, shutdown/numb/collapse)
- Impact of trauma on the nervous system
- Three operating principles of the Autonomic Nervous System
- Neuroception
- Hierarchy
- Co-Regulation
- Fundamental goals of psychotherapy through the lenses of PVT and IFS
Integration of IFS Theory and Polyvagal Theory
- Translation of Polyvagal concepts to IFS terminology and vice versa
- The relationship between parts and the nervous system
- Self and the nervous system
Polyvagal-Informed IFS Therapy Practice
- How can an understanding of Polyvagal Theory underlie and support safer and more effective IFS practice?
- The essential contribution of the Self-led, ventrally regulated presence of the therapist
- Co-regulation and “internal co-regulation” in IFS therapy
- Anchoring the client’s system in Self/ventral to enhance the safety and effectiveness of trauma work
- IFS strategies for working with parts associated with sympathetic and dorsal survival states in the nervous system
- Analysis of video examples of PVT-informed IFS work
- Limitations of the Research and Potential Risks


