Avoiding Protector Bypass in IFS Therapy

Have a question or takeaway? Send us a message, we read every one. In this episode of Going Inside Live, John Clarke answers therapist questions about some of the most common challenges in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, including working with protectors, accessing exiles, recognizing self-like parts, and navigating storytelling in sessions. John explores why rushing toward exiles can undermine safety, how therapists can deepen client work without forcing the process, and what it truly means to practice from self-energy. 🌿 Key takeaways: 1. Why "getting to the exile" is often the wrong goal and how protector bypass can create risks in IFS therapy 2. How to recognize when clients are talking about parts versus genuinely being with their parts. 3. Practical guidance for interrupting stories, deepening internal focus, and helping clients move toward meaningful healing work. Resources & Offerings: 📚 Watch my free IFS training for clinicians - https://go.johnclarketherapy.com/ifs-webinar-podcast 🧠 1-Month Grace Period with Jane – Use code JOHN or visit: https://meet.jane.app/john-clarke-ambassador 🌱 10% Off at Grounding Well – Use code GWJOHNCLARKE or visit: https://www.groundingwell.com/GWJOHNCLARKE 🧠 10% Off at Dharma Dr. – Use code JOHN or visit: https://dharmadr.com/JOHN Connect with me: https://www.johnclarketherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/johnclarketherapy/ https://www.tiktok.com/@johnclarketherapy https://www.youtube.com/@johnclarketherapy ➡️ Free Training - Learn how to integrate the principles of IFS into your therapy practice: https://go.johnclarketherapy.com/ifs-webinar-podcast