IFS Institute Annual Conference Presentation 2022
It was an honor to be selected to present at the 2022 IFS Institute Annual Conference with Marianne Turley, LMFT, as my co-presenter.
“Pathways to Parts and Self: Creative Externalization Beyond Mapping”
[Deepen into the externalizing approach of IFS with information grounded in the field of art therapy to extend beyond mapping into various practical exercises for getting to know parts]
Workshop Information
This workshop explored various techniques that assist individuals and clients in the process of unblending parts through externalizing and mapping techniques. Marianne and I provided experiential exercises, resources, a case study, and didactic learning on the role of externalization in the IFS model—including the uses, benefits, and client populations that are best supported by this method. This workshop also covered ways in which externalization supports development of Self-to-part relationships to build greater Self-trust in the internal system.
Participants were provided multiple practical exercises and visual examples to implement in their own personal work, or with clients, to bring greater awareness of parts and increased access to Self energy. This included art explorations, collage, sculpting, Sand Tray, and various online programs and mobile apps.
IFS and Art Therapy
Alicia provided practical and ethical considerations from the field of art therapy, including a follow-up practice to externalizing and mapping called “processing”. This inquiry is credited to Patricia B. Allen, an influential art therapist known for the Open Studio process in art therapy. It parallels the witnessing that is done in the IFS model and can greatly augment and deepen the work done with externalizing techniques in the IFS model.
Benefits of Externalizing in IFS
Greater awareness of parts
Development of Self-to-part relationships
Building greater Self-trust in the system
Allowing one to blend or unblend in order to befriend and get to know different parts
Curious to explore this further? I am happy to provide clinical consultation, themed workshops, or guest lectures on the intersection of IFS and art therapy using creative externalization. Connect with Alicia to inquire and learn more.
IFS parts mapping - Relationships and dynamics among parts
3D parts mapping using Model Magic clay
Parts and Self, adapted from a Gestalt art therapy directive