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SEASON 4 · EPISODE 5 · 48 min 15 seconds

IFS and EMDR: mapping the purpose of parts

David joins Natalie to explore how IFS-informed parts work and EMDR can fit together, including protector consent, the discovery phase and attending to the therapist’s own parts.

With Dr David Polidi · Published 12 March 2026

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ABOUT THE EPISODE

What we cover

David joins Natalie to explore how IFS-informed parts work and EMDR can fit together, including protector consent, the discovery phase and attending to the therapist’s own parts.

  • Blending IFS and EMDR
  • Honouring protectors before reprocessing
  • The discovery phase and therapist parts

SHOW NOTES

In this conversation

00:00Introduction and purpose of blending IFS and EMDR
02:41The “Syzygy model” and holding both maps in session
06:24EMDR’s Phase 2.5/Discovery Phase—what is it, why is it useful?
14:43What to do when protectors hijack reprocessing work
24:24When negotiations with parts fail—what next?
27:13Why blend models at all? And do you have to pick sides?
33:15What happens between sessions? Homework for clients (and therapists)
36:42Getting started: books, trainings, and the value of consultation

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The Mastering Therapy podcast is for informational and educational purposes and is intended for qualified professionals.