The Integrative Focusing Therapy training program

trauma & embodiment

The IFT program is built on an underlying theory of the centrality of interaction and how we integrate experience, under ideal situations as well as traumatic circumstances.

We train therapists to help clients discover their way forward through an embodied experiential process that flows naturally.

This way of working is a departure from traditional talk therapy. It takes advantage of the natural connection between therapist and client. As a therapist, you use your embodied presence as a container and a source of support that helps the client find their own way. It is less about what you say, more about who you are in the room.

The training itself is experiential. It helps you cultivate a quality of presence that allows people to be themselves. This kind of presence provides the safety and support that enable clients to face what might otherwise feel uncomfortable or even unbearable.


This two-year online training program leads to certification as a Focusing-oriented therapist (FOT).

It gives you a solid understanding and practical knowledge of Focusing-oriented therapy and stimulates you to organically develop your own style.

The program consists of four modules:
– You train in three different ways to practice Focusing-oriented therapy (FOT).
– You integrate personal and professional growth in a stimulating process group.

This program offers flexibility. You do not have to commit to the whole training program upfront. You can commit to one course at a time.


The IFT training program was created by Jan Winhall, Leslie Ellis, and Serge Prengel as the result of many deep discussions on Focusing, therapy, and teaching.

We have enough similarities that an integrative dialogue is possible, and enough differences that the dialogue is stimulating. It has been very gratifying to see this carried forward in our training program.

While each of our approaches is grounded in Focusing, we each have other perspectives or areas of emphasis that color how we use Focusing in therapy.

Jan has created a pioneering approach to working with trauma and addiction that combines felt-sensing and the Polyvagal Theory.

Leslie has in-depth expertise in dreamwork and combining Jungian and Focusing approaches.

Serge’s work focuses on how relationality manifests in embodied patterns and how to work with them, mindfully and creatively.


This site tells you about:

Our approach (short videos & articles)

The IFT program’s curriculum

Frequently Asked Questions


This is the home of the IFT blog.