Questions
Frequently asked questions.
About the Training
What is UnfoldingSelf?
UnfoldingSelf offers IFS-informed professional training, workshops and therapeutic learning for practitioners who want to deepen both their personal development and their clinical practice. The emphasis is on experiential learning, compassionate inquiry and developing confidence from Self-leadership.
What does “IFS-informed” mean?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) forms the central inspiration for the training. Alongside this, the courses draw on many years of clinical experience, somatic awareness, systems thinking and other therapeutic influences. The teaching is not an official IFS Institute training.
Do I need to have studied IFS before attending?
That depends on the course. The Foundation Training welcomes people who are new to IFS as well as those with some previous experience. The advanced training, Building on Our Foundations, is designed for practitioners who already have a grounding in IFS or an equivalent IFS-informed training.
Is this an official IFS Institute training?
No. The courses are independently designed and delivered by Christiane Churchill-Ley and are IFS-informed rather than official IFS Institute programmes.
What makes these trainings different?
The emphasis is not simply on learning techniques. The training supports practitioners in developing their own Self-leadership, therapeutic presence and confidence so that interventions arise naturally from a grounded relationship rather than from trying to “do therapy correctly.”
Who the Training Is For
Who is the Foundation Training suitable for?
The Foundation is designed for therapists, counsellors, coaches, healthcare professionals and others who hold space for people in their work. Applicants without formal therapeutic qualifications may also be considered where there is relevant experience.
Who is the Advanced Training suitable for?
The advanced training is intended for practitioners who already have experience with IFS or IFS-informed work and wish to deepen their practice.
Is the training only for therapists?
No. Many participants come from counselling or psychotherapy backgrounds, but practitioners from other helping professions are equally welcome where the training is appropriate.
I’m nervous that I won’t know enough.
Many people feel that way. Participants arrive with different levels of experience. The teaching is designed to meet people where they are, helping everyone build from their own current understanding and experience.
Learning Experience
Is the training mainly theoretical?
No. While there is teaching throughout, the emphasis is on experiential learning, live demonstrations, supervised practice, reflection and personal inquiry.
Will I be expected to share personal experiences?
Only to the extent that feels appropriate for you. Personal exploration naturally supports learning, but participants are always encouraged to work within their own capacity and boundaries.
Will I get to practise?
Yes. Practice forms a significant part of every training, with opportunities to work in pairs, small groups and supervised exercises.
What if difficult emotions arise?
This is entirely normal. The courses are designed to create a supportive environment where emotional material can be approached safely and compassionately. Appropriate support structures are in place throughout the training.
What is the group size?
Groups are intentionally kept small to allow individual attention, meaningful discussion and supervised practice.
Will there be individual feedback?
Yes. There are opportunities throughout the training for questions, discussion and individual guidance from Christiane and the assisting team.
Practical Information
Where is the training held?
The in-person trainings take place in a beautiful countryside venue near Bath, creating a calm and supportive learning environment.
Are refreshments provided?
Tea, coffee and light refreshments are provided throughout the day. Participants bring or arrange their own lunch unless otherwise stated.
Is accommodation available?
Some accommodation is available at the venue. Information about nearby accommodation options is also provided after booking.
How many people are on each course?
Places are intentionally limited to maintain the quality of the learning experience and individual support.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. Participants who complete the training receive a Certificate of Completion from UnfoldingSelf.
Does this training count as CPD?
Yes. The training is designed as professional continuing development for therapists and helping professionals. Participants receive a certificate of completion and may use this as evidence of CPD where appropriate. Individual participants should check the requirements of their own professional body.
Booking
How do I apply?
The first step is completing the enquiry form. If the training appears to be a good fit, you’ll be invited to complete a fuller application before arranging a conversation with Christiane.
Why is there an application process?
The aim is to ensure that participants will benefit from the training and that the group is well supported. It is not an examination or assessment.
Can I speak to Christiane before booking?
Yes. Many applicants find it helpful to have a conversation before making their decision, and this forms part of the application process.
What if I’m unsure whether the course is right for me?
You’re very welcome to get in touch. A conversation can help explore your experience, your hopes for the training and whether it feels like the right next step.
What happens after I submit my enquiry?
You’ll receive further information about the course, followed by the application process and an invitation to arrange a conversation if appropriate.