Online Circle is an introductory learning program designed to give those new to the Internal Family Systems ® model, a comprehensive overview of the core IFS principles and techniques. This program is an intensive six month online course where you will be immersed into the IFS model through self-study learning videos, clinical demonstrations, and monthly live Q&A events. You will end this program with a foundational understanding of the IFS model along with essential skills and insights.
An IFSI Certificate of Completion will be available upon completion of this program. Your completion status will be tracked automatically as you progress through the program modules.
You can also earn up to 19 Continuing Education (CE) credits through our partner AMEDCO. Learn more about how you can earn CE credit.
Please note: Online Circle is not designed to replace the IFS Level 1 training, which is a requirement for anyone who wants to practice IFS in a clinical or professional setting.
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.
Live Q&A Event Schedule
- Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 3 p.m.-4:15 p.m. ET with Dick Schwartz
- Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 12 p.m.-1:15 p.m. ET with Crystal Jones
- Tuesday, June 24, 2025, 12 p.m.-1:15 p.m. ET with Pam Krause
- Tuesday, July 15, 2025, 12 p.m.-1:15 p.m. ET with Crystal Jones
- Tuesday, August 19, 2025, 12 p.m.-1:15 p.m. ET with Pam Krause
- Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 3 p.m.-4:15 p.m. ET with Dick Schwartz
Meet Your Instructors
Crystal Jones
Crystal Jones, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and lead trainer for IFSI, who passionately spreads the healing essence of the IFS model worldwide. Known for her embodied compassion, relatability, and heart-led approach to her work, Crystal has personally experienced the transformative power of the IFS model in her own healing journey. This profound experience fuels Crystal’s dedication to creating safe spaces for marginalized communities, particularly Black women and women of color, to feel connected, seen, heard, and valued as they embark on their healing journeys, individually and collectively. Crystal is fervently committed to teaching the model in a way that illuminates and speaks to the global majority, ensuring its adaptability, accessibility, and relevance to diverse populations.
Pamela Krause
Pamela Krause, MSW, LCSW, is a Senior Lead Trainer for IFSI, also trained in Hakomi therapy, and has led Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 trainings since 2005. Pam adapted the IFS model for use with children and adolescents and has created both onsite and online trainings on the topic. Pam authored a chapter on IFS with Children & Adolescents in Internal Family Systems Therapy: New Dimensions, and also co-authored a chapter called Getting Unstuck in the 2017 book Innovations and Elaborations in IFS – addressing occasional ruptures and impasses in our work in IFS. Pam has played a key role at the Institute in mentoring and teaching new trainers globally, helping to shape the next generation of IFS trainers. She also has a private practice in Mechanicsburg, PA.
Richard C. Schwartz
Richard C. Schwartz, PhD, is the creator of Internal Family Systems, a highly effective therapeutic model with a growing evidence base that de-pathologizes the multi-part personality. Richard is also the founder of the IFS Institute, which primarily offers training for professionals. He is currently a Teaching Associate in Psychiatry at Cambridge Health Alliance, a Harvard Medical School teaching affiliate. Richard has authored or co-authored more than ten books on Internal Family Systems and related topics, including No Bad Parts and Internal Family Systems Therapy. He lives near Chicago with his wife Jeanne, Vice President of the IFS Institute, close to his three daughters and six grandchildren.
Program Content
Module 1
