Intimacy from the Inside Out: working with couples and relationships

Kate Lingren, a certified IFS therapist and trainer of Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO), discusses applying Internal Family Systems (IFS) to couples therapy. Lingren details how IFIO helps partners achieve self-to-self communication by addressing vulnerable parts and needs, rather than operating from protective energies. A key element is the "U-turn," where individuals shift focus from blaming their partner to examining their own internal reactions and needs. Lingren stresses the importance of therapists being aware of their own parts and potential biases when working with couples, and also highlights the role of witnessing individual work in the presence of a partner to foster understanding and compassion. She also addresses the significance of courageous communication, which involves speaking on behalf of parts and listening from a place of self-leadership.