In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nick Brüss to explore the deep, transformative potential of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and psychedelic integration work. We talk about what it really means to connect with the younger parts of ourselves—the ones we’ve exiled, ignored, or tried to outgrow—and why healing doesn’t come from thinking our way out of pain, but from being present with it.

Nick shares powerful insights on how intellectualizing can block true healing, the role intuition plays in both therapy and psychedelic experiences, and what integration actually looks like after expanded states of consciousness. We also dive into the neuroscience behind parts work, how to recognize when you're blended with a part, and what happens when those exiled parts finally feel seen.

Highlights include:
– The surprising role of intuition in clinical work
– What “integration” means and why it’s non-negotiable after any breakthrough
– Why over-intellectualizing your trauma might be your #1 block
– How psychedelic therapy complements IFS for deeper transformation
– Simple practices for identifying and unblending from younger parts
– What true self-awareness feels like—not just what it looks like

This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt stuck in their head, disconnected from their body, or unsure how to turn an insight into lasting change.

Key Highlights | 

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Nick Brüss and His Work
02:53 Exploring Internal Family Systems Therapy
05:47 The Journey of Self-Discovery
09:01 Understanding Parts and Their Roles
12:03 Curiosity and Self-Exploration in Therapy
14:58 The Connection Between Parts and Intuition
17:59 Navigating Emotions and Parts in Relationships
20:59 Recognizing and Engaging with Younger Parts
24:05 The Role of Somatic Awareness in Therapy
26:32 Transitioning from Psychotherapy to Coaching
26:32 The Importance of Attention in Self-Discovery
29:10 Exploring Internal Family Systems Therapy
31:52 The Importance of Feeling Over Intellectualizing
34:47 Childhood Experiences and Their Impact
39:40 Avoidance and Numbing Mechanisms
43:33 Connecting with Our Inner Parts
46:49 Transforming Relationships Through Self-Awareness
51:59 Personal Growth and New Beginnings
56:06 The Power of Psychedelics in Healing
56:35 Integration: The Key to Lasting Change
57:50 Understanding the Process of Growth
58:54 The Journey of Self-Discovery
01:01:29 Navigating Patterns and Habits
01:05:25 The Role of Psychedelics in Therapy
01:07:10 Mechanisms of Psychedelics: How They Work
01:12:02 The Importance of Integration Post-Experience
01:13:25 FDA and the Future of Psychedelic Therapy
01:20:11 The Healing Potential of Psychedelics
01:23:04 Openness and Connection in Healing
01:24:14 The Practice of Freedom and Self-Connection

Guest Resources |

@drnickbruss

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-bruss/

apracticeoffreedom.com

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#psychedelics #psychedelictherapy #intuition #mentalhealth #medication #therapy #medicine #health #internalfamilysystems #mindfulness #healing #personalgrowth #emotionalhealing #integration #ptsd