The Coherent Self & System:
IFS and Memory Reconsolidation
Course Description
This 3 hour pre-recorded and self-paced workshop introduces Coherence Therapy and how it approaches the psychotherapeutic process to elicit the experiential steps of memory reconsolidation. Then it compares this process to IFS (Internal Family Systems), translating key concepts and applying Coherence Therapy to specific aspects of the IFS healing process. Unblending and differentiating parts from Self more fully, identifying their positive intentions and fears more precisely, and creating an ongoing organic and relational juxtaposition experience are discussed and then demonstrated in context via session videos.
Memory Reconsolidation
is the one and only form of neuroplasticity that allows an emotional learning or schema stored in long-term implicit memory to be actually erased, not just overridden and suppressed by the learning a preferred response. Research has demonstrated the erasure of implicit emotional learning using entirely experiential methods. Implicit memories are unconscious, automatic, reactive, habitual strategies that underlie many symptoms that people seek therapy to address.
Coherence Therapy
elicits the same experiential process: discovering & reactivating the symptom-generating emotional learning, discovering & activating a concurrent experience that contradicts the emotional schema(called a "juxtaposition experience" ); then repeating that contradictory experience, so it serves as new learning that unlearns and rewrites the symptom-generating schema.
Internal Family Systems
understands that Parts are the carriers of implicit memories, which are the behavior patterns, strategies, and reactions known in IFS as burdens. Coherence Therapy concepts can be incorporated into IFS to assist with unblending parts, fully differentiating Self, and precisely identifying the positive intentions and fears of parts. These enhancements support the healing process by setting up a juxtapositionexperience, a key step in producing memory reconsolidation.
Your Instructor
Bruce Hersey, LCSW, is an Approved Consultant in EMDR and also a Certified IFS Therapist & Consultant.
Having completed IFS Levels I, II & III Training, and as a repeat Level One Program Assistant, he has passionately imparted his deep understanding of the model by teaching numerous introductory IFS workshops, leading IFS consultation groups, and providing individual IFS consultation.
He has presented at the IFS International Conference several times, and has been teaching workshops on the integration of EMDR & IFS since 2013.
Additionally, Bruce has extensive experience in Clinical Hypnosis & Sex Therapy.
Contact Bruce for online consultation (zoom video) on the integration of EMDR and IFS, or toward certification in EMDR or IFS at $150 for a 45 minute session.
Course Objectives
After completing this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Name and describe the two components of a juxtaposition experience.
- Discuss how these components compare to the IFS constructs of Self and Burdened Part.
- Identify the problem and solution aspects of a burdened part's fears and positive intentions
Bibliography
Anderson, F.G., Sweezy, M., & Schwartz, R.C. (2017). Internal family systems skills training manual: Trauma-informed treatment for anxiety, depression, PTSD & substance abuse. Eau Claire, Wisconsin: PESI Publishing.
Ecker, B., Ticic, R. & Hulley, L. Unlocking the Emotional Brain: Eliminating Symptoms at Their Roots Using Memory Reconsolidation (2012) New York: Routledge.
Ecker, B. Erasing Problematic Emotional Learnings: Psychotherapeutic Use of Memory Reconsolidation Research. In Lane R. D. & Nadel L. (Eds.) (2020) Neuroscience of Enduring Change: Implications for Psychotherapy (pp. 273-299). New York: Oxford University Press. doi: 10.1093/oso/9780190881511.003.0011
Goulding, R.A., & Schwartz, R.C. (2002). The mosaic mind: Empowering the tormented Selves of child abuse survivors. Oak Park IL: Trailheads Publications, The Center for Self Leadership.
Holmes, T. & Holmes, L. (2007). Parts work: An illustrated guide to your inner life. Chicago: Winged HeartPress.
Schwartz, R.C. & Sweezy, M. (2020). Internal Family Systems Therapy (2nd ed.). New York NY: Guilford Press.
Free Pre-workshop Resources for Background
A podcast and two videos.
You will benefit from reviewing these before the workshop:
YouTube videos deftly explaining Coherence Therapy/memory reconsolidation:
Tori Olds, PhD on Memory Reconsolidation: How to Rewire Our Brain - Chapter 4
Tori Olds, PhD on Transformational Change: A Deeper Kind of Growth - Chapter 5
Podcast with additional info:
Bruce Ecker & Tori Olds on The Life-Changing Science of Memory Reconsolidation
Continuing Education Information
Application pending for 3.0 CE distance education through EMDRIA (EC provider #17025), and psychologists, social workers, and counselors as below. Approved for 3.0 CE by Commonwealth Educational Seminars (see additional information below). Application pending for 3.0 CE for IFS recertification (submit CES certificate with IFS recertification application).
Accommodations for the Differently Abled
emdrifs.com and Bruce Hersey, LCSW training facilities are handicap accessible. Individuals needing special accommodations, please contact: Bruce Hersey, LCSW 814-944-3852 or [email protected]
Grievance Policy
Bruce Hersey; [email protected], or call 814-944-3852.
Grievances would receive, to the best of our ability, corrective action in order to prevent further problems.