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 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 & concurrently activating an experience that contradicts the emotional schema (this concurrent activation of experiences is called a "juxtaposition experience" ); then repeating that juxtaposition experience, which 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 juxtaposition experience, a key step in producing memory reconsolidation.

Course Objectives 


After completing this workshop, participants will be able to:

  1. Describe the two components of a juxtaposition experience.
  2. Discuss how these components compare to the IFS constructs of Self and Burdened Part.
  3. Identify the problem and solution aspects of a burdened part's fears and positive intentions


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.

Continuing Education Information


  • EMDRIA: Approved for 3.0 CE distance education through EMDRIA (EC provider #17025), 
  • IFS-I: Approved for 3.0 CE for IFS recertification.
  • NEAFAST: Approved by NEAFAST for LMFT's in Massachussetts (PC-041483). 
  • NY SW Board: emdrifs.com LLC is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #SW-0740.
  • NY MFT Board: emdrifs.com LLC is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed marriage and family therapists #MFT-0116.
  • NY MHC Board: emdrifs.com LLC is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors #MHC-0278.
  • NY PSY Board: emdrifs.com LLC is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0230. Approved for 3.0 Psychology CE Contact Hours.
  • NBCC: emdrifs.com, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7432. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. emdrifs.com, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs. 
  • ASWB ACE: The Coherent Self & System, #4696, is approved by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program to be offered by emdrifs.com (Bruce Hersey) as an individual course. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE course approval period: 09/09/2022 - 09/09/2024. Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical continuing education credits.






Example Curriculum

  Vital Information
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  The Coherent Self & System Lecture
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  Session Video: Getting Firm
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  Session Video: Too Healthy for a Man
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  Session Video: Crushed, Shattered and Shamed
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  Session Video: Powerless to Heal
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  Session Video: Run Over
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  Finishing Up
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Target Audience

This course was created on 10/21/21 for mental health professionals familiar with IFS and interested in learning Coherence Therapy concepts which can enhance their application of IFS.

Completion Requirements

Attendees must complete the entire course, post test and evaluation to receive credit.

A score of 75% or better is required to pass and gain access to your completion certificate. You may retake the test once, after which you must contact the administrator for further guidance.

Accommodations for the Differently Abled

This workshop is held in a facility and/or delivered in a manner that is in compliance with the Americans Disabilities Act. Please contact [email protected] if special accommodation is required.

Cancellation Policy

Once you have registered and paid for this course you have six months to complete it. After six months, a monthly extension subscription may be purchased. Cancellations or extensions may be requested if there are extenuating circumstances disabling the student from taking the course for the entire six months. Requests may be initiated by emailing [email protected] or calling 814-944-3852.

Grievance Policy

All grievances must be in writing to [email protected], and will be replied to within 5 - 10 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions


How long do I have access to the course?

You have access to this course for six months, even after you complete the course. After six months, you can purchase a monthly extension subscription for $15 per month by emailing [email protected].

Are there any prerequisites for this course?

A good working understanding of IFS which you have integrated into your practice is needed. IFS Level One Training is recommended.

How do I contact the school owner?

The owner/operator of emdrifs.com can be reached by email at [email protected] or 1-814-944-3852.

Can I get IFS recertification CE's for this course?

Yes, when you apply for IFS recertification, send your CE certificate with your application to the IFS Institute.

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.