Direct Access: An Essential IFS Skill

About this program: 

Direct access is a fundamental IFS skill that supports deeper, more fluid work with protectors and exiles. In this program, you’ll build embodied confidence with both implicit and explicit direct access through teaching, demonstrations, and clinical examples.  

Across four modules, you’ll learn how to prepare your own system, conduct protector interviews, address common protector fears, and pivot skillfully from in-sight to direct access. The course emphasizes attunement, Self-leadership, and responsiveness in real clinical moments. You’ll leave with practical tools to bring greater clarity, ease, and effectiveness to your IFS sessions. 

This learning program was held live in Summer 2023. 

Module 1: The Foundations of Direct Access 

This module introduces the foundations of direct access, including key definitions and protocols. You’ll learn how to prepare your own system, apply the steps of direct access, and distinguish between implicit and explicit access. 

Module 2: Direct Access in Action 

This module offers extended demonstrations of direct access in practice. You’ll learn to build and apply protector interviews, offer authentic validation, and work with implicit access when Self access is limited. 

Module 3: Addressing Protector Fears 

This module explores the ten common protector fears and how they show up in clinical work. You’ll learn how to respond with effective validation and use direct access skills to support trauma work with angry, fearful, and protective parts. 

Module 4: Special Topics 

This module deepens your ability to work with exiles and challenging protectors, with special attention to fierce critics. You’ll learn how to pivot from in–sight to direct access, respond to dissociation, and use Self energy to create a direct, healing connection with clients’ parts. 

What’s included:

This course includes approximately 4 hours of core teaching on the program’s main topic, along with around 5 hours of recorded live Q&A sessions facilitated by the instructor. 

You’ll also get approximately 4 hours of exclusive bonus content featuring Dr. Richard Schwartz, the founder of IFS. These recorded demonstrations and case consultations offer rare, behind-the-scenes access to see the model in action. While these sessions may not always align directly with the program’s primary theme, they’re designed to deepen your overall clinical understanding and help you see how IFS principles show up across different contexts. 

What are on-demand programs:

IFSI’s on-demand courses are recordings of some of our most loved advanced IFS programs led by IFS  trainers and thought leaders who bring deep experience and insight. Learn anytime, at the pace your system needs. 

Who is it for: 

These offerings are ideal for those who are enrolled in or have completed IFS Level 1 Training, and those who have already participated in the IFS Online Circle. They’re designed to help you deepen specific skills, build confidence in niche areas, and feel more grounded in your work with clients. 

CE Credit & Certificate of Completion: 

Please note that these programs don’t offer professional CE, but each provides 14 IFS CE Credits to support your IFS certification or recertification path. An IFSI Certificate of Completion will also be available upon completion of this program.  

Note: Materials and methods included in this course may include interventions or practices that are beyond your scope of practice. As a professional in your given field, you are responsible for reviewing the scope of practice, including activities that are defined by applicable law as beyond the boundaries of your practice, and applying your learning in compliance with your professional standards.