In this first podcast episode, Jude and I introduce the concept of Queering IFS.
Core Points:
This podcast introduces Alessio and Jude, two IFS therapists specialising in queer and neurodiverse clients. They discuss their personal experiences with neurodiversity and queer identities.
The podcast aims to provide accessible information on IFS therapy for queer and neurodiverse individuals and those supporting them. It addresses the lack of readily available, non-paywalled resources.
They discuss the importance of therapists being knowledgeable and affirming of diverse identities, including self-diagnosis.
IFS, Internal Family Systems, is explained as a therapeutic model viewing individuals as being a system of parts. The concept of “parts” and the “Self” within this system is explored.
The podcast will explore the “queering” of IFS, questioning how heteronormative and neuronormative assumptions might be embedded within the model and its application.
Neuroqueering, the simultaneous queering of neuronormativity and heteronormativity, will be a recurring theme.
00:00 Welcome to the Queering IFS Podcast
Jude and Alessio kick off their first podcast episode, setting the tone for an engaging conversation about their backgrounds and the focus of the podcast. They express excitement about sharing their experiences within the IFS community.
01:15 Meet Alessio
Alessio introduces himself, sharing his journey as a queer therapist and his experiences with neurodivergence. He highlights his work within the IFS community and his passion for supporting queer and neurodiverse individuals.
03:40 Meet Jude
Jude shares his own background as an IFS therapist, discussing his ADHD diagnosis and self-identification as autistic. He emphasises the importance of self-diagnosis in the neurodivergent community and the value of lived experiences.
06:07 Our Journey to Neuroqueering
Alessio and Jude reflect on their journeys into neuroqueering and how their professional paths intersected. They discuss their shared experiences in the LGBTQIA community and the importance of representation in therapy.
10:00 The Importance of Sharing Identity
The hosts delve into the significance of sharing their identities in professional settings, highlighting how this fosters connection and understanding. They discuss the impact of representation on both therapists and clients.
14:31 Barriers to Accessing Therapy
Jude and Alessio address the barriers that queer and neurodivergent individuals face when seeking therapy. They highlight the need for accessible information and the importance of therapists being knowledgeable and competent.
18:24 Creating a Safe Space in Therapy
The conversation shifts to the challenges faced by clients in therapy, particularly those with marginalised identities. They discuss the need for therapists to create a non-judgmental space where clients feel safe to share their experiences.
22:31 Understanding Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Jude and Alessio introduce the Internal Family Systems model of therapy, explaining its core concepts and the idea of ‘parts’ within individuals. They discuss how IFS can be a valuable tool for understanding oneself and healing trauma.
27:00 The Intersection of Trauma, Queerness, and Neurodiversity
The hosts explore the relationship between trauma and the experiences of queer and neurodivergent individuals. They emphasise the importance of recognising how societal norms can impact mental health and well-being.
30:01 Defining Queering
In this chapter, Jude provides an academic perspective on queering, explaining its roots in questioning heteronormativity and cultural norms. The discussion highlights how queering serves as a lens to challenge established truths and assumptions in society.
32:05 Exploring Queerness
Alessio elaborates on the concept of queerness as an umbrella term encompassing diverse identities that deviate from heterosexuality. This chapter delves into the various dimensions of gender and sexuality, showcasing the rich tapestry of identities within the queer community.
34:31 The Political Roots of Queering
The conversation shifts to the historical context of the term ‘queer’, discussing its reclamation from a slur to a proud identity. This chapter emphasises the importance of understanding the political movements that shaped the meaning of queering and queerness.
36:12 Neuroqueering and IFS
Alessio and Jude introduce the concept of neuroqueering, exploring how Internal Family Systems (IFS) can be influenced by heteronormative and neuronormative frameworks. This chapter focuses on the need to question these norms within therapeutic practices.
38:02 The Liberating Aspects of IFS
The discussion highlights how IFS offers a liberating approach to therapy by recognising the multiplicity of the mind. Jude and Alessio explore how IFS challenges traditional psychotherapy models and promotes a compassionate understanding of the self.
40:03 Wrapping Up
In the final chapter, Jude and Alessio provide information on where listeners can find more about their work and the podcast. They reflect on the conversation and express gratitude to the audience, setting the stage for future discussions.
