Abby Reflects on Access, Equity, and the Heart of CAP
IFSI Community Access Programs (CAP) continues to reflect IFS Institute’s commitment to expanding access to Self-led learning in ways that are relational, responsive, and rooted in care.
Growing Recognition Across Media, Clinical Practice, and Research
Internal Family Systems is increasingly entering conversations that shape how people understand mental health, healing, and human performance. Recent features and publications point to a broader cultural and professional momentum: IFS is being referenced in mainstream media, discussed in clinical education spaces, and explored in emerging areas of research beyond traditional psychotherapy settings.
Honoring Barbara Cargill's Life and Legacy
Dear all,
We are deeply saddened to let you know, that Barb Cargill, one of the founding Mothers of IFS passed away in late March. Barb was a Lead Trainer for many years, starting in the early 2000’s and was a beloved teacher, mentor and friend to many in the IFS community.
Kay Gardner shared the following about Barb.
Self-Leadership in a Climate of Fear: A Note from Dick Schwartz
Increasingly I have been asked, from the IFS perspective, what makes people close their hearts enough to commit the vile acts we witness repeatedly on TV and what makes them so lustful for power and money.
They also wonder what gives ordinary people the courage to resist, to protect their communities, to stand up to injustice, in the face of severe consequences. Below I share my thoughts, some of which come from a book I have been writing on Self leadership.
2025 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients
Honoring Pam Krause: A Legacy of Leadership, Mentorship, and Heart
At the 2025 IFS Conference, we had the profound honor of recognizing Pam Krause with the 2026 IFS Lifetime Achievement Award for her extraordinary contributions to the IFS community over nearly three decades of service, leadership, and mentorship.
Mary Mitrovich | 20 Years Anniversary Spotlight
This month, we’re honored to celebrate a remarkable milestone within our IFSI community. Mary Mitrovich, one of our longest-standing team members, is celebrating 20 years with the Institute.
Response to New York Magazine Article
The recent story published in New York Magazine’s lifestyle and fashion website, “The Cut”, has raised many questions about the IFS model and the Castlewood Treatment Center. We want to make sure that the facts are clear and questions are answered.
At IFS Institute, we take seriously any concerns about the misuse of therapeutic methods or potential client harm. Our commitment remains unwavering: to ensure that the IFS model is taught, practiced, and represented with the highest standards of safety, integrity, and compassion.
Fall 2025: Our Growing Trainer Community
We’re thrilled to share that our training team keeps expanding! Since our October newsletter, 33 trainers have been promoted. 🎉 You’ll find their names listed below—and don’t forget to follow us on social media to celebrate them with us through our weekly. #TrainerTuesday
LaTonya Demps, Co-Lead
Sand Chang, Co-Lead
Admissions Process Update: Growth and Evolution
Over the past year, the IFS Institute has refined our admissions process to create a more streamlined, transparent, and equitable experience for applicants. We are pleased to share that these updates have already made a meaningful difference in how professionals engage with our programs.
Taking a Moment to PAUSE: A New Approach to Workplace Wellness at IFSI
What if even our busiest days at work could hold more ease, curiosity, and compassion? That’s the idea behind PAUSE for Self-Leadership™ - a program that brings the wisdom of IFS into organizational life. PAUSE offers simple, practical tools to notice and work with the parts of us that push, pressure, or worry when deadlines loom.