Becoming a Member of the International Focusing Institute
The International Focusing Institute (TIFI) is an international, cross-cultural organization dedicated to supporting individuals and groups world-wide who are teaching, developing and practicing Focusing and its underlying philosophy.
What the Institute does:
TIFI is committed to advancing the work of Focusing’s founder, Eugene Gendlin, and those who have built on his legacy.
TIFI promotes Focusing and encourages its application in a wide variety of settings.
TIFI is a hub for information and education about Focusing and Gendlin’s philosophy, as well as a catalyst for research on Focusing.
TIFI provides many opportunities for connection, dialogue and interaction among Focusers around the globe.
A personal note
When I became a member of the International Focusing Institute (TIFI) it was partly to support it’s work in promoting Focusing, but mostly because it was a requirement for certification as a Focusing Trainer. And then the pandemic happened….
Like everyone else, I was at home, restrictions were severe – remember when we could only travel 2 kilometres from home? For a while it was actually fun to explore what was within that limit. And I enjoyed finding creative ways around what was (or was not) available in the shops. But the limitations were trying too.
Then two things happened…
Mary Jennings suggested that we invite Focusers to gather online, and you all know how that story unfolded.
And I discovered TIFI “highlights” and “roundtables”! Suddenly, membership of TIFI was about a whole lot more than fulfilling a requirement for certification!
During that first year of the pandemic, I took part in the first online “weeklong” – an opportunity that I could not have availed of in person. I learned more about Gendlin’s philosophy, I developed a new interest in strands of Focusing that were new to me, and I met Focusers from all over the world! Now, I can’t imagine not having that connection to the world of Focusing. Membership of TIFI has opened doors, offered opportunities and created connections I could not have imagined in pre-covid days.
If you would like to support the Institute, here’s some information from the website:
Who Can Join?
Both Focusing Professionals and others who want to support Focusing are warmly welcome to join our vibrant global community. “Professional” membership categories are for those who are training or certified by TIFI to share Focusing with others as teachers, trainers, or therapists. Others may join in the “Affiliate” categories of Friend, Supporter, or Associate.
Benefits of TIFI Membership
TIFI members enjoy a wide array of benefits and opportunities, including:
- Discounts on TIFI-sponsored workshops.
- Free member-only events and online gatherings with Focusers around the world.
- Increased visibility with your profile in TIFI’s online Directory and “Find a Focusing Professional” search engine. (Professional members only).
- Publicize your Focusing workshops or Changes groups on TIFI’s website. (Professional members only)
- Free and low cost Focusing-related educational opportunities.
- Connect with other Focusers through TIFI’s email discussion lists and our website's new member-to-member search.
- Find a Focusing partner through TIFI’s Partnership Network (for qualified members only).
A full listing of the many benefits of TIFI membership is available at www.focusing.org/membership
Cost for membership can be found at https://focusing.org/membership/schedule-prices-membership-certification-and-pfp-award-effect-january-1-2022
Above all, your membership of the Institute is a way of promoting Focusing through education, research and community building.
by Margaret Quinn
