DiscoverGoing Inside: Healing Trauma from the Inside OutWhat to Do When IFS Feels Stuck (Protectors, Direct Access & More)
What to Do When IFS Feels Stuck (Protectors, Direct Access & More)

What to Do When IFS Feels Stuck (Protectors, Direct Access & More)

Update: 2025-12-09
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Description

In this solo Going Inside Live episode, John Clarke dives deep into what to do when your IFS sessions hit a wall - when clients feel shut down, protectors won’t budge, and insight isn’t working. Whether you’re facing “I don’t know” responses, feeling stuck as a therapist, or unsure how to use direct access effectively, this episode gives you grounded, real-world strategies to move forward. Plus: John shares how he maps parts in-session, stays in Self, and supports clients (and himself) through stuckness.

Key Takeaways

  • Why insight isn’t always enough and what to do when your client says “I don’t know” or can’t connect with a part
  • How to use Direct Access in a way that doesn’t feel clunky including exact scripts and therapist mindset shifts
  • Parts mapping made simple John’s favorite iPad-based method for tracking systems across sessions

Resources & Offerings

Connect with me

Grab Your Seat for the Free IFS Webinar Here: https://go.johnclarketherapy.com/ifs-webinar-podcast

➡️ Free Training - Learn how to integrate the principles of IFS into your therapy practice: https://go.johnclarketherapy.com/ifs-webinar-podcast

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What to Do When IFS Feels Stuck (Protectors, Direct Access & More)

What to Do When IFS Feels Stuck (Protectors, Direct Access & More)

John Clarke, LPCC