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Episode #57 - IFS and Attachment Theory: How Early Relationships Shape Our Parts with Alyce Messer, LCSW-S

Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button.

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Course Information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAG6RMxBArE/68btywE2DPvr8nnoE_j8uA/view?utm_content=DAG6RMxBArE&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=he417b57f34

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Episode Summary: Today we explore how Internal Family Systems (IFS) and attachment theory intersect—and why this integration offers such powerful clinical clarity. We discuss how early attachment experiences shape protectors, how authenticity gets exiled in favor of connection, and what it looks like to build a secure internal attachment between Self and parts.

If you’d like an IFS foundation first, listen to Episode #35 with Kendall Hart.

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Topics Discussed:

  • How attachment adaptations form protectors
  • Why certain relational patterns repeat in adulthood
  • What internal secure attachment actually means
  • The role of Self-energy as an internal secure base
  • How IFS + attachment deepens trauma work, parenting, and self-leadership

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About Our Guest: Alyce Messer, LCSW-S, is an EMDRIA-Approved Consultant and IFS Level 2-trained therapist specializing in complex trauma and therapist wellness. She integrates EMDR and IFS to help clinicians, clients, and humans cultivate Self-leadership and healing through differentiation

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Connect with Alyce: 

  • Website: https://alycemesser.com
  • Instagram:    @alycerachel
  • Trainings, retreats & consultation: See offerings on her website
  • Newsletter: Sign up via her homepage for updates on IFS + attachment trainings

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Upcoming Workshop with Our Guest

Introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy: Foundations for Clinicians

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Resources Mentioned

  • Episode #35: Kendall Hart on IFS Foundations
  • Book: No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz
  • IFS Institute: https://ifs-institute.com
  • Attachment theory basics: Bowlby & Ainsworth foundational work

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Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional.

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