The Syzygy Model of IFS-Informed EMDR: AN OVERTURE

This course is an introduction and overview of the Syzygy Model of IFS-Informed EMDR developed by Bruce Hersey over the past 20 years. The Syzygy Model endeavors to interlace IFS with EMDR constantly and consistently all the way through the course of therapy with complex clients from beginning to end. It additionally maintains consistency with applications of memory reconsolidation research as viewed by Bruce Ecker's Coherence Therapy.* The alignment of the three perspectives provides improved accuracy and efficiency of processing as all three interlock at the nexus of an underlying natural healing process recognized by each.

It is designed to review some basic IFS tenets, concepts & skills (best to have some initial understanding of IFS through reading* or prior coursework) and discuss how these overlap with the EMDR process. New practical tools and concepts are introduced, including a Presence of Self (PoS) scale, a Level of Urge to Protect (LUP) scale, the Protector Positive Intention (PPI) and a procedure for working with blended protectors called Discovery. An interesting video clip of Bruce Hersey is shown where a therapist, in the context of a consultation group, struggles with her own part which has become activated by a client case. Bruce utilizes much of what is taught in the course and helps her resolve the issue. Some fun experiential exercises are added to facilitate participant learning, support group cohesion and foster new connections.