Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO)

Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO) is a couples (and more - polycules, siblings, friends) relationship counseling model that grew from Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.  It was designed by IFS therapist, Toni-Herbine Blank in the early 2000's.  IFIO supports two or more clients in exploring the parts of them which (who) show up in relationship.

​

As a trained IFIO coach, I get to warmly welcome all the parts that arise in people within relationship and help all parties to get to know their own and others' parts.  We create a safe place for everyone to be fully seen and heard, which builds trust with our more vulnerable parts.

 

I will support you in identifying the patterns that show up in relationship to one another and strengthen skills to step out of these patterns.  Instead, you can begin to interact from the wise, curious, loving core of each person called "Self" in IFS.  With support, you can begin to practice a new way of communicating that builds grounding and connection.

The practice of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a lovely partner to IFIO in supporting clients in identifying their own sensations, feelings, needs and requests, finding skillful ways of expressing these needs, as well as training clients in learning how to listen and reflect in ways that feel satisfying to others. NVC is a powerful guide to support clients in holding everyone's needs with care.

I am grateful to my Level 2 IFIO Training instructors, Anne Drouilhet, Sallie Ingle, and Krissy Tingle, as well as the program assistants.