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SELF-LIKE PARTS:
LOYAL GUARDIANS OF STABILITY

Course description

Self-like parts

Self-like parts often carry heavy responsibilities: keeping our systems steady, calm, competent. They help us endure, function, and succeed through clarity, reason, courage, or care. In demanding situations, they can respond with remarkable composure and discernment. They may become leading parts of the system, often intertwined with a sense of identity. These loyal heroes are frequently unrecognised, overworked, and undervalued, yet inviting them to unblend may feel unsettling.

 

About the workshop

In this workshop, we will approach these parts with warmth, respect, and appreciation. Rather than dismantling them, we will explore how to befriend them and truly listen to their stories. We will discover not only the roles they have taken on but also the cultural expectations and burdens, that may have shaped them.

We will learn to discern Self-like-Parts within ourselves and our clients without inducing shame or hierarchy. We will explore how to gently and safely invite these dedicated protectors to unblend and to build a relationship in which they feel valued for their service and invited to become our allies. When Self-like parts begin to feel appreciated for what they have carried, there is often a sense of relief. They no longer have to hold everything together on their own.

The setting allows space for questions, shared reflection, and guided practice, including small-group work.

By the end of the workshop, participants will have a grounded, compassionate understanding of Self-like parts and a practical set of approaches that foster clarity and connection.

 

Target audience:

Anyone who has completed IFS Level 1 or the IFS basic training and wants a deepening in this relevant topic. Please contact us if you are unsure wether you meet the criteria.

 

The continuing education credits have already been applied for with the Chamber of Psychotherapists.

mel herff ifs.jpg

Melanie Herff is a licensed psychological psychotherapist specializing in psychodynamic psychotherapy and has many years of experience in coaching and supervision. As a lecturer at psychotherapeutic training institutes, she combines in-depth expertise with a broad methodological spectrum – from IFS and communication psychology according to Schulz von Thun to couple and group dynamics. At the IFS Akademie, she supports our training programs as Lead Program Assistant.

Trainer: Dipl. Psych. Mel Herff

Overview

Date & Time :

  • German-speaking: October 24, 2026 (9:30 AM - 6:00 PM CET)

  • English-language: November 28, 2026 (9:30 AM - 6:00 PM CET)

Format: online (Zoom)

Participation fee: 249 EUR

Number of participants:  min. 5, max. 18 participants

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