NAVIGATING THE DEPTHS OF THE SELF: The Power of the Satir Iceberg Model

We often move through life responding to what’s visible—the actions, words, and behaviors we see in ourselves and others. But what if I told you that these visible aspects are just the tip of the iceberg? Beneath every reaction, every choice, lies a vast, hidden landscape of emotions, beliefs, and desires that shape who we are. This is the essence of the Satir Personal Iceberg Model—a powerful tool for self-discovery, growth, and transformation. Virginia Satir, often called the “Mother of Family Therapy,” introduced the iceberg model to illustrate how much of our internal world lies beneath the surface. While we might focus on what’s immediately visible (our behaviors), the real drivers—our feelings, perceptions, expectations, and yearnings—are submerged. By exploring these deeper layers, we gain the ability to understand ourselves and others more fully, leading to more compassionate, intentional interactions. Overview: This self-paced course integrates Virginia Satir’s foundational insights with systems thinking, offering a guided exploration of your inner world. Using the Personal Iceberg Model as a lens, you’ll uncover the layers beneath your behaviors and can help participants recognize and transform hidden patterns, fostering congruence, authenticity, and connection. Structure: Each module begins with a provocative question to spark curiosity, followed by a concise lecture on a specific layer of the Iceberg Model. You'll then engage with reflection prompts, each designed to progressively deepen your exploration. This is offered from a spirit of generosity. We believe in creating spaces where value flows freely, guided by trust & shared purpose. Instead of a fixed fee, we invite you to contribute an amount that feels meaningful and generous to you—reflecting the value you received, the impact you believe this work can have in the world, and your unique circumstances. You can donate in our Ways to Give page. https://www.refugia.world/ways-to-gi