Our guest is Paul Neustadt, a clinical social worker and IFS Senior Co-lead Trainer. Paul has worked in community mental health and the counseling program of a working-class state university as well as having been the director of a community-based counseling and prevention program. Paul sees himself as a spiritual being in a human body, on a healing journey, in this life to learn lessons, to connect with his soul, and to live in accordance with his life purpose. Part of his life purpose has been to share the gift of IFS with others. In this episode, we discuss the qualities and virtues of Self-like parts, and how to welcome, honor, and genuinely validate them in a non-shaming way that allows more Self energy to emerge.

Today we welcome Catia Vinnik. Catia Vinnik is a neuroscientist and science communicator who has dedicated over 20 years to understanding the brain—from sensory processing and memory to molecular mechanisms underlying complex behaviors.

Recently, she has translated this extensive research into practical psychoeducation tools and interactive games for therapists.

Catia graduated from medical school and earned her PhD in cognitive neuroscience in Italy, during which she discovered a novel auditory illusion.

She founded the "Behaving Brain" project to bridge neuroscience and psychotherapy, creating accessible tools such as Brain Coping Cards that therapists can use with their clients.

Her belief that learning should be active, shapes workshops on the neuroscience of addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other therapy-related topics by using interactive educational games that clarify complex neural interactions in the client's brain and how therapy taps into these processes.

Dr. Vinnik is trained in Internal Family Systems, a model she values highly for its insightful perspective on the human mind.

This episode is a recording of an open Q&A session with Martha Sweezy.
All questions were submitted by participants and focused primarily on Martha’s area of expertise: shame and guilt.
We hope you enjoy Martha’s wisdom.