Unblending and Direct Access with Mel Galbraith | Internal Family Systems Therapy

Have a question or takeaway? Send us a message, we read every one.In this episode of the Going Inside Podcast, I sit down with Mel Galbraith, a Level 3 IFS therapist and COO of IFSCA, to dive into the practical side of unblending and direct access in Internal Family Systems therapy. We explore what to do when clients struggle to "drop in" or when protectors resist stepping back, and Mel shares how to approach these situations with curiosity, patience, and flexibility. We also touch on the role of self-energy in creating safety, how to avoid bypassing protectors, and the balance between sticking to the model and meeting clients where they are.Key Takeaways:Protectors resist unblending for a reason—curiosity and validation are key to earning their trust.Direct access can feel intimidating but is a natural and effective way to engage parts when insight work stalls.Prioritizing client safety and flexibility over rigidly following the model leads to deeper, more authentic healing.Learn more about Mel:https://www.youtube.com/@IFSCA https://www.youtube.com/@mel.galbraith https://www.facebook.com/p/ifsca-61563584521442/---Resources: Free IFS Training for Therapists: From Burnout to Balance: https://go.johnclarketherapy.com/ifs-webinar-podcastUse code: JOHN for a 1 month grace period with Jane or click HERE to get started!Receive 10% off a grounding product at Grounding Well with code GWJOHNCLARKEJoin Pathways to Self - An IFS basics course for therapists and practitioners:Download my Free IFS MeditationConnect with me:https://www.johnclarketherapy.com/https://www.instagram.com/johnclarketherapy/https://www.tiktok.com/@johnclarketherapyhttps://www.youtube.com/@johnclarketherapyGrab 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