IFS, or Internal Family Systems therapy, is one of the fastest-growing therapeutic modalities today—and for good reason, too. It is an evidence-based modality with a proven track record in being able to heal the most severe complex trauma, it is compassionate (no victim blaming), and it's even fun. The IFS Institute, the official IFS training and certification body, cannot deliver trainings fast enough to meet the demand for IFS therapists, coaches, and practitioners.

Many of you may not know that I am a survivor of profound complex trauma. This trauma has led to a persistent inability to support myself financially, one of the classic symptoms of complex trauma, severe abuse, and failure to thrive. I work incredibly hard at my own healing, but until recently, the trauma had been compounding. One of the primary factors that has begun to turn that trajectory around has been IFS. Because IFS has been so extraordinarily beneficial in my life and the lives of others I know, I have developed an overwhelming desire to get trained in this modality and offer it to others so they can heal, as well.

Up until this spring, the official IFS training had been open to everyone, therapist and non-therapist alike. This ecumenical, democratic approach has been enshrined in the words, philosophy, and teachings of IFS's founder, Dick Schwartz. However, in February (?) of this year, the IFS Institute made the (in the opinions of many) poorly-considered decision to restrict its Level 1 training—the only route to certification and to being listed in the IFS Institute's directory—to licensed therapists. All other types of professionals, including teachers, clergy and pastoral counselors, coaches, and allied health professionals, have been shut out. As I am not a licensed therapist, I have been forced to turn to other avenues to get trained.

One of the best, most comprehensive, and least expensive alternatives to Level 1 I've found is at www.coachingwithspirit.com. It targets coaches and similar professions—really anyone who has some skill and/or experience working one-on-one with clients. My experience and training in traditional Chinese medicine and various energy healing and cognitive/emotional-releasing modalities qualify me. However, due to my own livelihood struggles from trauma, I cannot afford the training.

The full training is USD$2950. I have been awarded a $500 scholarship and another early-bird discount of $500 if I pay in full by May 14, bringing my total to USD$1950. So I am asking for your support and generosity to attend this training so that I can bring this life-changing modality to more people who need it, especially those for whom IFS therapy is inaccessible. I am confident that I'll be able to practice this modality after the training because it's been so instrumental in my own recovery.

Also, as a bonus, all those who support me with donations of USD$50 or more will be eligible to book one or more IFS sessions (or sessions in one of my other modalities) with me once the training is over—one half-hour session per multiple of $50 donated. If you prefer, you may receive a session in one of my other modalities (energy healing, the Compassion Key, the Sedona Method, The Work of Byron Katie, or mixed sessions) prior to the end of the training. (Other bonuses for contributions of <USD$50 to be determined.)