Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Direct Pointing to Awareness
Jesse Schuhlein
Most inner suffering comes from parts of us that believe something is wrong with right now.
They push us to analyze, fix, achieve, or improve—hoping that once we resolve the next issue or achieve the next thing, we will finally be happy.
I help people turn toward those parts with warmth, patience, and curiosity. Together, we help protective systems soften and unburden so you can rest in the natural awareness—or Self—that is already here and already whole.
For 30 years, I worked as an engineer, helping grow Zaber Technologies from three people in a living room to nearly 200. I loved the work and I was fortunate to spend decades building things with my hands and helping shape a company rooted in transparency, trust, and compassion.
Over time, though, I saw that my problem-solving and achieving parts were mainly running the show. They believed that peace wasn't possible right now—that happiness was always waiting at the next achievement or milestone.
Learning to turn toward those parts, rather than letting them drive, opened up a different way of living, where joy and wonder is available now. That shift is the heart of what I share today.
Ways We Can Work Together:
1-on-1 Sessions: IFS Informed Coaching
Individual sessions combining Internal Family Systems with direct pointing to presence. We slow down to meet the parts of you that carry anxiety, self-criticism, or an urgency to fix, allowing your core Self to lead.
Format: 60–75 minutes via Zoom or in person
Rate: $150 / session, sliding scale available
Resting in Self: Non-Dual Direct Pointing (Online)
A regular, free 60-minute gathering focused on coming to know our true nature as open awareness. And getting to know our parts that resist the present moment. An experiential space open to all.
Format: Online group via Zoom (Free / Open)
Small IFS Practice Groups
Intimate cohorts (4–6 people) exploring parts work together in a focused, supportive environment. These 7-week circles are designed to gently help protectors gain trust and allow difficult emotions to be witnessed in Self.
Format: Small online group (Paid 7-week cohorts)
Coming soon
Reviews
“Jesse worked with me during a particularly challenging time in my career—navigating a fast-paced, continuously changing work environment with an undefined scope of responsibilities. His guidance was nothing short of transformative.
Facing a role where expectations shifted constantly, I often felt overwhelmed and unsure about where to focus my energy. Jesse took the time to understand my unique challenges and provided tailored strategies that not only helped me manage the day to day, but also helped me to embrace it as an opportunity for growth. His practical advice helped me identify my strengths, set clear goals, and establish a sense of direction.
What stood out most was his ability to listen empathetically and clearly structure a strategic path to overcoming my challenges and utilize this time for me to explore my professional growth and encouraged me to view change as a chance to learn and improve my skillset. Thanks to Jesse's expertise, I feel better equipped to better handle my role with confidence and clarity.”
“I had reached a place within my own self work where I felt stuck on how to move forward without support. Jesse provided the right amount of presence and curiosity to guide me into my uncomfortable feelings, and I felt very safe the entire time. I came out of the session with a new, healthier perspective and my life has felt positively changed ever since.”
— Chung-Ying Chou
“I received very thoughtful and resourceful support from Jesse, who helped me navigate and persevere through a challenging segment of my personal journey.”
— Janice Cheam
“Jesse is thoughtful, patient, kind, and just the right level of support to help one dive into self reflection and tackle inner questions. I highly recommend!”
— Marsha Goldman
“Jesse is a skilled guide in the IFS Model. I have addressed issues that Jesse has responded to with sensitively and respect. I trust Jesse and have felt a difference in my system after all of our meetings.”
— Nina O’Donnel
— Kenan, Engineer
Find me in Community
Join us at Parts Work Practice (partsworkpractice.com) (Free)
Training
IFS-Trained Coach — Stepping Stones, Stepping Deeper, Advanced Week (IFSCA), continuing training in IFS methods.
ACC Credentialed Coach — International Coaching Federation (ICF)
Leadership and Performance Coaching Certification — Canada Coach Academy
Fundamentals of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy — Numinus
MDMA Therapy Training — for safe online and in-person facilitation
BScE +30 years of engineering leadership experience — scaling teams, building compassionate culture and thriving organization