The Power of Utilizing IFS in a Group Format - with Chris Burris

Group therapy provides a unique, experiential environment for healing that differs significantly from individual sessions by activating dormant internal parts through social interaction. Chris Burris, a senior lead trainer for the Internal Family Systems Institute, explains in his book *Creating Healing Circles* how practitioners can effectively facilitate IFS groups. Unlike individual therapy, which offers greater control, group settings leverage the "universality" of parts to reduce shame and build community resources. Effective group leadership requires active, courageous intervention skills beyond the passive "holding space" often emphasized in individual training. By creating safe containers and utilizing techniques like sculpting, facilitators help participants move from isolated internal work to relational healing, ultimately shifting perceptions of others from potential threats to essential support systems.