Queering Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Episode 11 - Queering IFS (Internal Family Systems) - Is the Self Neurodivergent?

This week, Alessio and Jude explore the intersection of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and neurodivergence, as they ponder intriguing questions about the Self and neurodivergence. This is the third episode in their exploration of Self-energy, queerness and neurodivergence. With reference to Nick Walker's pioneering work on Neuroqueering, they navigate the shifting cultural and historical contexts of neurodiversity, offering listeners an understanding of what it means to embrace cognitive differences within societal norms.As we draw on the hardware-software analogy, where the body serves as hardware and the self and its parts as software, we delve into the nuanced relationship between neurocognitive functioning and personal identity. Referencing the perspectives of several different thinkers in the field, they challenge the scientific community's attempts to measure the intangible aspects of The Self. This conversation highlights the complexities of Self-energy as it weaves through gender identity, culture, ethnicity, and neurodivergence, raising questions about advocacy for neurodivergent selfhood. Connect with us as we continue to foster a community engaging with neuroqueer themes through workshops and projects. Our shared journey is one of curiosity and openness, encouraging listeners to appreciate diverse perspectives and question binary paradigms.DisclaimerThis podcast is hosted by qualified therapists who share personal reflections and professional insights into therapy and mental health. The views expressed are those of the individual speakers or guests and are personal to them.While we talk about therapy, this podcast is not therapy. It’s for information, reflection, and conversation only, and should never be considered a substitute for professional mental health support, diagnosis, or treatment. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship.Some episodes may touch on sensitive topics, so please take care while listening. If you're struggling, we encourage you to reach out to a qualified therapist or mental health professional in your area.Guest opinions are their own and don’t necessarily reflect those of the hosts.ContactsAlessio Rizzo (He/They) is a Certified IFS psychotherapist, IFS Trainer with the IFS institute, and Approved Clinical Consultant (ACC) - ⁠www.therapywithalessio.com⁠⁠Jude Carn (She/They) is a Certified IFS psychotherapist and an Approved Clinical Consultant (ACC) with the IFS Institute - ⁠www.anchoredinself.co.uk⁠Sound editing by Forbes Coleman

Episode 10 - Queering IFS - Keys to Neurodivergent Affirming Internal Family Systems Practice

In this episode, Jude Carn and Alessio Rizzo explore the keys to neurodivergent-affirming practices in IFS (Internal Family Systems) therapy, and psychotherapy and counselling more broadly, exploring how therapists can better accommodate clients’ diverse needs. Jude and Alessio share their experiences and offer practical advice on creating inclusive and supportive therapeutic spaces for neurodivergent individuals, emphasising adaptability and client-centred approaches. Key discussion points include sensory considerations, flexible scheduling, and the importance of open communication.Get in touch with us if this sparks interest in you, and please consider subscribing to help us get the word out there.DisclaimerThis podcast is hosted by qualified therapists who share personal reflections and professional insights into therapy and mental health. The views expressed are those of the individual speakers or guests and are personal to them.While we talk about therapy, this podcast is not therapy. It’s for information, reflection, and conversation only, and should never be considered a substitute for professional mental health support, diagnosis, or treatment. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship.Some episodes may touch on sensitive topics, so please take care while listening. If you're struggling, we encourage you to reach out to a qualified therapist or mental health professional in your area.Guest opinions are their own and don’t necessarily reflect those of the hosts.ContactsAlessio Rizzo (He/They) is a Certified IFS psychotherapist, IFS Trainer with the IFS Institute, and Approved Clinical Consultant (ACC) - ⁠www.therapywithalessio.com⁠⁠Jude Carn (She/They) is a Certified IFS psychotherapist and an Approved Clinical Consultant (ACC) with the IFS Institute - ⁠www.anchoredinself.co.uk⁠Sound editing by Forbes Coleman

Episode 9 - Queering IFS - Queering the Social Model of Disability in IFS (Internal Family Systems)

Ever wondered about the difference between the medical and social models of disability? 🤔 This episode dives deep! Join Jude, Alessio, and Isabelle, as they explore how society creates barriers, the impact of cultural backgrounds, and practical applications within IFS therapy.This is a fascinating conversation, uncovering the real-world challenges faced by those who are disabled in, and by society, and how to support their journeys.Social Model of Disability, IFS Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Disability, Medical Model, Neurodivergence, Therapy, Accessibility, Client Experiences00:00 Welcome and Introductions03:56 Diving into the Social Model of Disability06:43 Contrasting Models: Social vs. Medical10:03 Cultural Perspectives on Disability15:02 The Intersection of Medical and Social Models23:00 Access Fatigue and Self-Advocacy30:02 Finding Community Among Neurodivergent Folks31:03 The Impact of Support on Disability32:40 Navigating Neurotypical Expectations36:12 Privilege and Adaptation in Workspaces39:03 Invisible Burdens of Neurodivergence42:01 Breaking the Cycle of Internalized Expectations45:12 Reflections and Future ConversationsGet in touch with us if this sparks interest in you, and please consider subscribing to help us get the word out there.DisclaimerThis podcast is hosted by qualified therapists who share personal reflections and professional insights into therapy and mental health. The views expressed are those of the individual speakers or guests and are personal to them.While we talk about therapy, this podcast is not therapy. It’s for information, reflection, and conversation only, and should never be considered a substitute for professional mental health support, diagnosis, or treatment. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship.Some episodes may touch on sensitive topics, so please take care while listening. If you're struggling, we encourage you to reach out to a qualified therapist or mental health professional in your area.Guest opinions are their own and don’t necessarily reflect those of the hosts.ContactsIsabelle Vrod, LMSW (she/her) is the Director of OCD | ​Care Coordinator |​ Therapist - spectrumservicesnyc.comAlessio Rizzo (He/They) is a Certified IFS psychotherapist, IFS Trainer with the IFS institute, and Approved Clinical Consultant (ACC) - www.therapywithalessio.com⁠Jude Carn (She/They) is a Certified IFS psychotherapist and an Approved Clinical Consultant (ACC) with the IFS Institute - www.anchoredinself.co.ukSound editing by Forbes Coleman

Episode 8 - Queering IFS- Queering Shame in IFS - Are We Missing Anything Out?

In this podcast, Alessio Rizzo and Jude Carn discuss the complex process of shame, which we all have experienced. Queering how we might understand and see this through and IFS lens. Many books have been written about shame, but, perhaps, there is something that we have missed out about the various layers of shame. Listen up to find out what it is!DisclaimerThis podcast is hosted by qualified IFS psychotherapists who share personal reflections and professional insights into therapy and mental health. The views expressed are those of the individual speakers or guests and are personal to them.While we talk about therapy, this podcast is not therapy. It’s for information, reflection, and conversation only, and should never be considered a substitute for professional mental health support, diagnosis, or treatment. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship.Some episodes may touch on sensitive topics, so please take care while listening. If you're struggling, we encourage you to reach out to a qualified therapist or mental health professional in your area.Guest opinions are their own and don’t necessarily reflect those of the hosts.Find out more about Alessio at www.therapywithalessio.comAnd Jude at www.anchoredinself.co.uk

Episode 7 - Queering IFS - Exploring the Burden of the Gender Binary with Anna Thomas (They / Them)

In this podcast Jude (She / They) and Alessio (He / They) discuss with their guest Anna Thomas (They / Them) about the importance of bringing awareness to the impact of "gender binary" on all our lives.Anna Thomas and Alessio present some of the ideas that have inspired them to offer an online retreat called "IFS Gender Journeys", which is an affinity space for queer and queer-adjacent IFS trained professionals, who want to honour the disenfranchised grief associated with the discovery and acceptance of not being cisgender.To know more about IFS Gender Journeys and book, if places are available, please click https://www.therapywithalessio.com/ifs-gender-journeysContactsDr Anna Thomas Tijsseling can be contacted on https://authentiekepraktijken.nl/en/home-enAlessio is a Certified IFS psychotherapist, IFS Assistant Trainer (AT) with the IFS institute, and Approved Clinical Consultant (ACC) - www.therapywithalessio.com⁠Jude is a Certified IFS psychotherapist and an Approved Clinical Consultant (ACC) with the IFS Institute - www.anchoredinself.co.ukSound editing by Forbes ColemanDisclaimer This podcast is hosted by qualified therapists who share personal reflections and professional insights into therapy and mental health. The views expressed are those of the individual speakers or guests and are personal to them.While we talk about therapy, this podcast is not therapy. It’s for information, reflection, and conversation only, and should never be considered a substitute for professional mental health support, diagnosis, or treatment. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship.Some episodes may touch on sensitive topics, so please take care while listening. If you're struggling, we encourage you to reach out to a qualified therapist or mental health professional in your area.Guest opinions are their own and don’t necessarily reflect those of the hosts.