Question 1

Is the IFS Level 1 ICF accredited?

Accepted Answer

No. The IFS Level 1 is not ICF accredited. It is a proprietary professional training program operated exclusively by the IFS Institute. Completion earns an IFS Institute Certificate of Completion, not ICF coach education hours. Coaches seeking ICF-accredited hours should look at ICF-accredited programs; the IFS Level 1 is relevant for those wanting deep IFS methodology competency regardless of ICF credential status.

Question 2

Can coaches attend the IFS Level 1?

Accepted Answer

The IFS Level 1 is primarily designed for mental health professionals. Coaches, educators, mediators, and other practitioners can apply and participate, but must operate within their professional scope of practice. In 2024, the IFS Institute updated its admissions criteria for North American trainings. Coaches in the US, Canada, and Mexico must submit a General Application and are selected through a randomized lottery process.

Question 3

What is the difference between Level 1 completion and IFS Certification?

Accepted Answer

The Certificate of Completion from IFS Level 1 is a record of completing the foundational training program. It is a prerequisite for the IFS Certification process but does not itself confer any professional credential. IFS Certification — the IFS Certified Therapist or IFS Certified Practitioner designation — is a separate, advanced process with additional requirements including demonstrated IFS skills and supervised practice.

Question 4

What does the IFS Level 1 actually teach?

Accepted Answer

The full IFS unburdening process, the structure of parts (Managers, Firefighters, Exiles), the concept of Self and the 8 Cs of Self-leadership, and direct facilitated practice in both practitioner and client roles. The 3:1 staff-to-participant ratio means participants receive real-time, personalized feedback from experienced IFS trainers throughout.

Question 5

How long is the Level 1 Training?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 90 hours of intensive training. The format varies — some cohorts span several months with live sessions, others are more condensed. Contact the IFS Institute or visit ifs-institute.com/trainings/level-1 for current cohort schedules and formats.

Question 6

How large are the training cohorts?

Accepted Answer

Maximum 36 participants per training, with a 3:1 participant-to-staff ratio. This structure is deliberately maintained to preserve the depth and quality of supervised practice.

Question 7

How much does the IFS Level 1 cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing varies by format (online, in-person, hybrid) and region. The IFS Institute does not publish a single flat price. Contact the Institute directly or visit ifs-institute.com for current cohort listings and fees.

Question 8

How do I register for the Level 1 in North America?

Accepted Answer

North American trainings (US, Canada, Mexico) now use a General Application and randomized lottery selection process. Submit the General Application during open application windows — these are announced on the IFS Institute website. International trainings may have different admissions processes.

Question 9

What comes after Level 1?

Accepted Answer

Completing Level 1 is the prerequisite for Level 2 (advanced specializations) and Level 3 (integration and mastery), and for the full IFS Certification process. It also enables listing in the IFS Institute's publicly searchable practitioner directory.

Question 10

Is there a specific IFS pathway for coaches who don't have a therapy background?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The IFS Institute offers the Self-Led Coach program and IFS Foundations for Coaches as pathways specifically designed for coaches applying the model in non-clinical contexts. These are generally more accessible entry points for coaches who are not licensed mental health professionals. The Level 1 remains available to coaches who want the full depth of the model and meet the admissions requirements.

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