Why We Created Collective Self Energy

Collective Self Energy was created by Jaclyn Long, LMFT, founder of Mindful Child & Family Therapy (MCAFT), as a dedicated Internal Family Systems (IFS)–focused website.

Internal Family Systems is such a central part of our clinical work at MCAFT that we created this space to explore the model more deeply and to highlight the clinicians who practice from an IFS lens.

This website shares our depth-oriented approach to parts work and highlights opportunities to engage with IFS through therapy, retreats, and courses — all provided through Mindful Child & Family Therapy.

This website exists to offer a more concentrated lens on Internal Family Systems therapy for those specifically seeking this approach.

Whether you begin through this site or through MCAFT, you will be supported by the same clinicians, systems, and commitment to thoughtful, trauma-informed care.

What is Internal Family Systems?

Internal Family Systems is a therapeutic approach, developed by Richard Schwartz, based on the assumptions that: 1) We are naturally multiple – and that is a good thing. 2) All parts are welcome and carry important information for our system. 3) We all have “Self energy” – the healing essence within us all which can never be damaged – no matter what we go through. You can receive training in IFS through the IFS Institute.

What is Somatic IFS?

Somatic IFS is a therapeutic approach, developed by Susan McConnell, which weaves together five essential practices that can support IFS in any and all stages of the traditional IFS model. Those practices are:

• Somatic Awareness
• Conscious Breath
• Empathic Resonance
• Mindful Movement
• Attuned Touch

What is Somatic IFS-Informed Yoga?

Somatic IFS-Informed Yoga is a gentle style of yoga, beginning to be developed by IFS-I trained therapists & practitioners who have been trained in Somatic IFS with guidance and support from Susan McConnell, which weaves principles of IFS and Somatic IFS into traditional yoga practices. The yoga practice is slow, gentle and inward – creating an inclusive environment while offering participants the invitation and opportunity to access Self and connect with their Parts.

Why Retreat:

Attending an Internal Family Systems (IFS) in-person retreat provides a unique opportunity to connect with others in a safe and supportive environment, as you courageously delve into your inner world and connect with the rich landscape within you. The connections that unfold organically throughout the retreat can be deeply nourishing in and of themselves. As we chat over a warm cup of coffee or tea, as we enjoy our meals together, as we walk to / from the meeting spaces, our connections deepen and our friendships begin to form.

Led by IFS Therapists trained through the IFS Institute, these retreats offer a sacred space for exploring parts of your inner being. Through experiential exercises, guided meditations, paired sharing and group discussions, we’ll be invited to befriend our internal system from a place of curiosity and compassion. By unblending from, getting to know and integrating different parts of ourselves, we’ll experience increased emotional wholeness and authenticity. Ultimately, attending an IFS Retreat empowers us to lead a more fulfilling, harmonious and Self-Led life, both within ourselves and in our relationships with others.

We hope you’ll join us!