In this episode, we explore the transformative psychological framework known as Internal Family Systems (IFS), developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz.

IFS is built on a simple but powerful premise: the mind is naturally multiple. Rather than having one fixed personality, we are made up of distinct “parts” protective parts, wounded parts, striving parts, each carrying its own story, emotions, and intentions. At the core of this system is the Self: calm, curious, compassionate, and capable of leading.

In this foundational conversation, you’ll learn:

• The core principles of Internal Family Systems

• Why symptoms are not pathology, but protection

• The roles of Managers, Firefighters, and Exiles

• What Self-energy is and why it matters

• How IFS reframes trauma, anxiety, and inner conflict

Whether you’re new to IFS or deepening your understanding, this episode offers a clear and thoughtful introduction to the architecture of your inner world.

Disclaimer
This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute psychotherapy, diagnosis, or medical advice.

When we begin trauma therapy, we expect relief, less anxiety, fewer triggers, and more emotional stability. What many people don’t expect is grief. In this episode, we explore one of the most misunderstood parts of trauma healing: the grief that surfaces when survival strategies soften, and the nervous system finally feels safe. We define grief as a uniquely human response to loss, not only the loss of a loved one, but the loss of safety, innocence, protection, and unmet childhood needs. We unpack how avoidance once served as protection, why grief is often delayed in trauma survivors, and why sadness may increase even as trauma symptoms decrease. We briefly explore what research tells us about the natural rhythm of grief and why there is no universal timeline for emotional integration, especially when loss has been postponed by survival. Finally, we share practical, nervous-system-informed ways to gently turn toward grief between therapy sessions without becoming overwhelmed.

If you’ve ever wondered:

• Why do I feel sad now that therapy is helping?

• Is it normal to grieve childhood trauma years later?

• Why does healing sometimes feel heavier before it feels lighter?

This episode will help you understand that grief is not regression, it’s integration.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for

individual therapy, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing

significant distress or thoughts of harming yourself, please seek support from a licensed

mental health professional or contact emergency services in your area.

In part three of our Everything Iron series, we cover treatment including supplementation, nutrition strategies, and why treatment plans need to be individualized. We discuss common reasons iron treatment doesn’t work (or feels intolerable), and how to support the body while rebuilding levels.

We also talk about advocacy: what questions to ask, when to reassess, and how to be taken seriously when symptoms persist.

Disclaimer:

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or mental health care. We are not your doctor or your counsellor. Please seek individualized support from a qualified healthcare or mental health professional.