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Become a Professional Facilitator of Self-Inquiry

​Integrating The Work of Byron Katie ​and Compassionate Inquiry

Transform Lives with Self-Inquiry 

What if your clients left every session feeling deeply understood, transformed, and eager to return?

​This program helps you unlock the full potential of The Work of Byron Katie and Compassionate Inquiry, equipping you with practical tools and strategies to guide deep and meaningful transformations.

In Just 5 months, you’ll develop a strong foundation in inquiry-based facilitation, gaining the skills to adapt The Work to diverse client needs and inspire profound, lasting shifts.

Take this opportunity to elevate your skills, transform your practice, and create a space where clients keep coming back — simply because what you do works.

Become an Accredited Facilitator


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Book a Clarification Call

Let's make it easy!
Schedule a free call to explore your goals, get your questions answered, and find out if this program aligns with your vision.
Book a Call

​​Learn. Practice. Grow.

The program is built on three pillars that integrate foundational learning, hands-on practice, and reflective feedback to ensure you turn knowledge into skillful, intuitive practice.
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Who This Program Is For

Ideal Participants
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Coaches, Therapists, and Helping Professionals
You already work with clients and are looking for powerful tools to create deeper, lasting change.

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Aspiring Facilitators
You’re passionate about self-inquiry and want to professionalize your practice.

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Professionals Integrating Inquiry-Based Work
You work in adjacent fields (e.g., leadership, education, health) and want to incorporate inquiry into your work.

What's Required to Join?
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You’re passionate about making a real difference
You love supporting your clients to discover insights and create meaningful change.

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You welcome your own inner work
You understand that becoming a skilled facilitator requires engaging in your own growth.

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You invest in yourself and your craft
You know that mastering your craft takes time, energy, and dedication. ​

"I now facilitate with much more flexibility and loving presence."
​
— Mads Beck, Denmark ​
"My facilitations have shifted."
​
​— Heidi Gedlaman, Canada
"I highly recommend this course."

— Abby McDowell, USA
"For everybody who is looking to give their clients more value." 

​— Anke Fieles-Kahl, Germany

Your 5-Month Journey

This program offers a rich selection of tools, resources, and experiences to help you become a confident, highly skilled facilitator. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
  • 20 Hours of Live Sessions with Ernest
  • 3 One-for-One Cycles with 8 sessions each
  • 8 Pod Meetings for peer practice and feedback
  • Full Basics Video Course on self-inquiry
  • Weekly Training Videos on facilitation techniques
  • My Book 'How to End the Stories that Screw Up Your Life'
  • Written Guides to support your practice
  • Curated Video Library of facilitation examples
  • Self-Assessment Tools to track your progress
  • Facilitator’s Toolbox with advanced techniques
  • Peer Presentations on key facilitation topics
  • Closed Community Space for collaboration
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Book a Clarification Call

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Let's make it easy!
You probably have questions about the program, and a quick clarification call is the easiest way to get the answers you need. There’s no obligation—just an opportunity to explore your goals, address your questions, and see if this program aligns with what you’re looking for.
Book a Call

Your Journey at a Glance

The program weaves together Self-Study, One-For-One Cycles, Feedback Pods, and Live Sessions to create a rich and transformative learning experience. 

​With flexibility at its core, the program is designed to adapt to your unique schedule and life commitments.
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  A Tailored Roadmap
Here’s a sample of how your journey might unfold, blending self-paced learning with interactive practice and live sessions. 
Month
Week
Self Study
1-4-1
Live Session
Pod
1
1
Onboarding
 
Demo
 
 
2
Basics Course
 
 
Pod A
 
3
Basics Course
X
Q&R
 
 
4
The Helper
X
 
Pod A
2
5
Hot-Warm-Cold
X
Demo
 
 
6
Holding Space
X
 
Pod A
 
7
Giving Space
 
Q&R
 
 
8
Embodiment
 
 
Pod B
3
9
Trust the Unknown
 
Demo
 
 
10
List of Proof
X
 
Pod B
 
11
And It Means
X
Q&R
 
 
12
Not A Fix
X
 
Pod B
4
13
Choice
X
Demo
 
 
14
Point 6
 
 
Pod C
 
15
Parts
 
Q&R
 
 
16
Underlying Beliefs
 
 
Pod C
5
17
Code of Ethics
X
Demo
 
 
18
By Request
X
 
Pod C
 
19
By Request
X
Q&R 
 
 
20
By Request
X
 
 
Self-Study:
Pre-recorded, video-based lessons covering core topics essential to the art of facilitation. These lessons include specific methods, interventions, and sense-making frameworks that illuminate key aspects of the facilitator's role and dynamics.

One-For-One Practice Sessions (1-4-1):
Participants engage in a structured cycle of 8 sessions, alternating roles as facilitator and client. These focused, intentional sessions include self-evaluation and mutual feedback, providing valuable insights into the facilitation process and its impact.

Live Sessions:
Bi-weekly 2-hour live sessions led by me, alternating between masterclass demonstrations, participant-led facilitation with feedback, peer presentations, and interactive Questions & Response sessions. All sessions are recorded, allowing you to revisit them or catch up at your own convenience if you miss a session.

Pod Meetings (Feedback Pods):
Collaborative peer meetings in dyads or triads for practicing facilitation, offering reflective peer feedback, and exchanging insights. These sessions provide a dynamic space for honing skills, gaining perspectives, and growing through shared learning and support.
  Steps to Accreditation
To earn accreditation, you’ll need to complete the following requirements.
Minimum Requirements
Hours
3 x One-For-Ones
30
Peer Presentation
3
8 x Feedback Pods
12
3 x Live Demos
6
3 x Q&R Sessions
6
Basics Course
3.5
Rubric Assesment
2
Self Study
7.5
Accreditation Assessment Session
1.5
Total in 5 months
71.5
Per Week on Average
3.5
  Opportunities to Dive Deeper
Beyond the core requirements, these optional activities offer additional ways to enrich your skills and deepen your practice.
Optional Activities
Hours
Demo Videos
7.5
2 x Live Demos
4
2 x Q&R Sessions​
4
Guest Facilitators
4
My Book
10
Annotated Demos
6
Podcasts
10
1 x Feedback Pod
1.5
Total in 5 months
47
Per Week on Average
2.5
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Ernest Holm Svendsen

I'm a bestselling author, trainer, Certified Facilitator for The Work of Byron Katie, and student of Dr. Gabor Maté and Compassionate Inquiry.

I founded The Art of Being Human in 2001 and have since been facilitating thousands of one-on-one sessions, group processes, workshops, retreats and training programs.

My comprehensive series of podcasts on self-inquiry has over 350,000 downloads, and my book, "How to End the Stories that Screw Up Your Life," is praised as one of the clearest introductions available to the practical aspects and nuances of doing The Work. 

Frequently Asked Questions About The Program Framework

Who is this program for?
This program is for coaches, therapists, aspiring facilitators, and professionals who want to master the art of inquiry-based facilitation. If you’re passionate about helping others transform their lives, this is for you.
How long does the program take?
The program is designed to be completed in 5 months, with a flexible, rolling enrollment model. You can join at any time and move through the program at your own pace.
What's the time commitment?
Expect to dedicate about 3–5 hours per week to self-study, practice sessions, and live sessions. This manageable schedule is designed to fit well with most routines.
What if I fall behind?
No worries! The program is designed for flexibility. You’ll have access to all materials for 8 months, so you can catch up at your own pace. And if you need more time, you can extend your access for a small fee.
Will I receive Certification or Accreditation?
Yes! Upon completing the program requirements, you’ll be accredited as a Professional Facilitator of Self-Inquiry, recognizing your skills and expertise.
Is this program affiliated with Byron Katie International (BKI)?
No. This program is independently created and offered by Ernest Holm Svendsen. While it incorporates the principles of The Work of Byron Katie and draws on insights from Compassionate Inquiry, it is not affiliated with or endorsed by Byron Katie International, Inc., or Dr. Gabor Maté’s Compassionate Inquiry Organization.
How can I join?
Schedule a free clarification call here. We’ll discuss your goals, answer any questions, and see if this program is the right fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions ​About The Program Content

What is The Work of Byron Katie?
The Work of Byron Katie is a profound method of self-inquiry designed to identify and question stressful or limiting thoughts. Created by Byron Katie, it involves a series of powerful questions and a process called the “turnarounds,” which guide you in exploring your thoughts, beliefs, and assumptions about yourself, others, and the world.
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Through deep reflection, The Work uncovers fresh perspectives and fosters an embodied sense of peace, freedom, and alignment. Practiced worldwide in personal development, therapy, coaching, and professional contexts, it supports meaningful and lasting transformation.
What is Compassionate Inquiry (CI)?
Compassionate Inquiry is a powerful therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Gabor Maté. It is designed to uncover the underlying emotional patterns, unconscious beliefs, and suppressed memories that shape our behaviors and experiences. Through a gentle, client-centered process, it helps individuals gain insight into their inner world, often revealing the root causes of stress, trauma, or limiting perspectives.

This approach emphasizes curiosity, empathy, and presence, creating a safe and supportive space for deep exploration and healing. Compassionate Inquiry is widely used in therapy and coaching to foster self-awareness, emotional release, and meaningful transformation.
How does Compassionate Inquiry (CI) fit into the program?
While the foundation of the program is The Work of Byron Katie, Compassionate Inquiry (CI) adds a complementary, trauma-informed perspective. This integration helps you create a safe, supportive environment for clients, particularly those new to self-inquiry who may need more guidance with the process.

By combining the structured clarity of The Work with the depth and sensitivity of CI, you gain a flexible framework to meet your clients’ unique needs. For example:
  • ​When a client struggles to stay present: CI techniques can gently guide them back into the self-inquiry process without forcing clarity prematurely.
  • When unresolved emotions arise: CI’s focus on somatic awareness and non-verbal cues offers tools to navigate these moments with compassion.
  • When clients feel overwhelmed: CI helps you hold space for them, slowing down the self-inquiry process and creating safety before moving deeper.​
Together, these methods empower you to support your clients in self-inquiry in ways that are attuned, effective, and transformational.
What are One-For-Ones (1-4-1)?
One-For-Ones are structured practice sessions where you partner with a peer to alternate roles as facilitator and client. Over a cycle of 8 sessions, you’ll gain hands-on experience facilitating self-inquiry while also experiencing the process from the client’s perspective.

Each session includes time for self-evaluation and mutual feedback, offering valuable insights to refine your skills, identify your pitfalls as a facilitator, and observe yourself in the facilitator role. This reflective practice helps uncover underlying beliefs that may hinder your flow, supporting both personal and professional growth. These sessions are an essential part of developing confidence and adaptability in real-world scenarios.
What are Feedback Pods?
Feedback Pods are small group sessions in dyads or triads where you practice facilitation, offer reflective peer feedback, and share insights. These meetings provide a collaborative space to refine your facilitation skills through real-world practice and constructive feedback.

In addition to honing your techniques, Feedback Pods help you identify strengths and areas for growth, experiment with new learnings from the program, and observe facilitation styles and approaches different from your own. This process not only sharpens your skills but also helps uncover underlying patterns or beliefs that may influence your facilitation style.

Feedback Pods foster a supportive learning environment where growth is fueled by shared experiences and experimentation.
What Does the Accreditation Assessment Involve?
The Accreditation Assessment is a facilitation session where you work with a volunteer chosen by Ernest. This session is an opportunity to demonstrate your skills in a real-world setting and is recorded for potential review. The volunteer provides detailed feedback through an evaluation form, which includes:
  • A shared section: Feedback shared with you to help you reflect on your facilitation.
  • A confidential section: Feedback visible only to Ernest to ensure the integrity of the accreditation process.
If the feedback or recording indicates that key elements of the facilitation process need further refinement, you’ll receive guidance and support to address these areas. Once you’ve made progress, you’ll have another opportunity to complete the Accreditation Assessment.

"An insightful and diverse learning journey."

​
​— ​Björm Schultz, Germany
"I experience a significant change in the way I hold space."
​
— Nina Medin, Sweden
"​Ernest's facilitation course is transformative." 

​— Kaeren Lea, United Kingdom
"I notice a new level of freedom to show up fully."

​— Jimmy Lundeen, Brazil

Book a Clarification Call

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Let's make it easy!
Schedule a free call to explore your goals, get your questions answered, and find out if this program aligns with your vision.
Book a Call

What People Say

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I highly recommend this course for those looking to deeply explore themselves as facilitators in the Work. The materials Ernest provides are invaluable, the class content is engaging and interactive, and the partnering homework is wonderfully structured for optimal growth and self discovery as a facilitator. This course is a gem.
Abby McDowell, USA
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This course with Ernest showed me a new dimension of how to facilitate with The Work in a more playful, authentic and relaxed way. He shares his experience openly and gives a lot of references for the facilitation, that are easy to handle. I would recommend everybody the course who wants to have a fresh approach to the facilitation and who is looking to give their clients more value. 
Anke Fieles-Kahl, Germany
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I signed up for the facilitator training with Ernest because I felt stuck in the way I was facilitating. I hoped to have new input and inspiration. What I didn´t expect was to feel so free after this journey. Not only as a facilitator but also sharing other modalities I love such as yoga and massage. I experience a significant change in the way I hold space now. Thank you so much Ernest for an amazing course! 
Nina Medin, Sweden
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This course shed so much light on how my facilitations can be more effective, connecting, and fulfilling for both client and facilitator. The gifts of Ernest's clarity, generosity and deep understanding of The Work will stay with me. In the short time since the course, my facilitations have already shifted into something far more meaningful. Thank you.
Heidi Gedlaman, Canada
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I recommend this course to everyone who wants to work with clients and is looking for their own way to do it. This course really answers my exact questions. Very personal!
Irina Petersone, Latvia
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Honestly, as an experienced facilitator I was doubting whether this course could bring me more than I already 'knew', but I am pleasantly surprised! Ernest and this course have given me new insights in my skills and challenges. They provided me with some very good tools. And mostly, they allowed me to trust myself and my facilitation skills much more, and to feel free to use them. I definitely recommend this course to anyone!
Marijke Tops, The Netherlands
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Besides Ernest’s clear and well-structured explanations, I enjoyed the manifold learning channels offered like e.g. recorded clips, handouts, graphical content presentations, different settings of live demonstrations. It was an insightful and diverse learning journey.
Björn Schulz, Germany 
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This course palpably deepened my level of trust in myself, the client, and in The Work. Through these weeks of exploring ways I've held myself back in facilitation, I've noticed a new level of freedom to show up fully. Even a long-time client seemed to notice a difference, offering "that was the best session ever!" I really recommend this course with Ernest for being a facilitator (vs. doing facilitation).
Jimmy Lundeen, Brazil

Book a Clarification Call

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Why Wait?
​
A free call is the easiest way to clarify your questions, and decide if this program is the next step for you. It’s quick, easy, and commitment-free! 
Book a Call
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Ernest has a lot of practice and it's a gift to learn from his experience. I feel grateful he wants to give courses and build them from his journey. I experience him as honest, kind, open to show up as a facilitator, open to receive critics and at ease to give feedback that is very helpful. He gives space and time for our questions which support me in my practice.​
Murèle Lasserre, Schwitzerland
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Oh my! So happy and grateful to have been offered this train-the-trainer-course! Ernest was guiding us through the art of facilitating a client. I love the mix Ernest is offering to support you in your own style of facilitating and still help you to improve it and work on it. He has tons to give out of his experience of being a faciliator. He has found his own style of faciliating and is supporting us in doing so as well. Thank you, Ernest!​​
Verena Conzett, The Netherlands
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What an inspiring, in-depth inquiry on inquiry! In a gentle and loving, yet firm and structured way, I was guided towards what to look for, and how, facilitating The Work for others. Lots of insights along the way, and answers to my questions and doubts. I continue, after having done this course, with my facilitating The Work with much more confidence, flexibility and loving presence. Thank you!​
Mads Beck, Danmark ​
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I found the course very useful. Every detail seems to have been thought out very carefully: chosen topics, tasks, groups in triads, information on the website, information in the online group, the Facilitator's Toolbox and other additional material that were very useful. I have gained more peace of mind and confidence in the unknown and trust a client more than my control. Ernest shares not only his wisdom and experience but his inner peace and trust as well. I found it extremely effective. Thank you very much for the course and for your peaceful energy.​
Nomeda Sabeckiene, Lithuania
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Ernest's facilitation course is transformative. I have learnt a new and expansive way of using The Work's core teachings to facilitate deeper and swifter insights and discovery. It is remarkable. Thank you, Ernest.​
Kaeren Lea, UK
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I highly recommend to attend the profound course that Ernest teaches. As part of classes with people from all over the world, you have an immediate opportunity to practice and deepen the use of this amazing tool. The platform that is being suggested, gives you a 24\7 access to answering questions, sharing thoughts and experiences with the kind, serious and warm help of Ernest. 

I enjoyed very much attending Ernests course. It was very meaninful for me to work with people from all over the world. We brought questions, shared experiences, facilitated one another and observed. All with Ernest's kind, serious and warm guidance. I loved it !!!!​
Liora Ben Simhon, Israel 
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I loved this course! Ernest is very generous in his sharings, and I've had a wonderful playground to try new ways of facilitating. 
Cendrine Pasquier, France 
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Ernest's Facilitator Training Course gave me extra tools for my facilitator's toolbox and great insights about how to facilitate which has helped me enormously. I highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to sharpen their facilitator skills.
Annette Birkman, Denmark
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This course invites you to trust the process, the client and yourself thus widening the spaciousness and depth of any facilitation. The tools are clear and to the point and come in a variety of support: reading material and videos.
Nanou Anne Evrard, Belgium
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A generous exploration to fully include myself as part of the facilitation equation. This opportunity attuned me to the subtle nuances of my internal in real time as facilitator, with a newly tested freedom to share what was alive in me with the client. This attunement and freedom carried over into my experience of being the client as well. A wonderful romp of self-discovery in a well held space. You da man, Ernest. 
Dale Steele, USA
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Ernests facilitator course has been inspiring and has given me tools and confidence to continue practicing The Work on my own and as a facilitator.
Jasmine Chouri, Sweden
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Immense gratitude to you Ernest!
​I knew the course would be good, but I did not expect it to so profoundly meet needs I wasn't even aware I had. 
I can already feel a shift in the way I facilitate, and even in the way I do my own work. I had lost quite a lot of confidence in myself as a facilitator, and this experience has reignited something in me. 
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Heidi Gedlaman, Canada

Book a Clarification Call

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Let's make it easy!
A clarification call is the simplest way to find out if this program is right for you.
On the call, we’ll explore your vision, discuss your questions, and see how this program aligns with your goals. There’s no obligation—just an opportunity to discover if this is the next step on your journey. 
Book a Call
​Disclaimer: This program is independently created and offered by Ernest Holm Svendsen. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by Byron Katie International, Inc. or Dr. Gabor Maté's Compassionate Inquiry Organization.
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© The Art of Being Human 2001-2025
  • My Books
    • End The Stories
    • How to Live in the Now
    • Resources
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    • The Work Online Basics Course (free)
    • Going Deeper With The Work
    • Professional Facilitator Program
    • Retreat in the Sahara, 2026
    • All Public Events
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  • The Work
    • Free Online Course
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    • Book
    • Facilitator Program
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  • Testimonials
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    • About me
    • Contact
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