A highly accessible introduction to a therapeutic approach that brings our inner “parts” into harmony and allows our core Self to lead
We’re all familiar with self-talk, self-doubt, self-judgment—yet most of us still view ourselves as if we have one uniform mind. Dr. Richard Schwartz’s breakthrough was recognizing that we each contain an “internal family” of distinct parts—and that treating these parts with curiosity, respect, and empathy vastly expands our capacity to heal.
Over the past two decades, Internal Family Systems (IFS) has transformed the practice of psychotherapy. With Introduction to Internal Family Systems, the creator of IFS presents the ideal layperson’s guide for understanding this empowering, effective, and non-pathologizing approach to self-discovery and healing. Here, Dr. Schwartz shares evidence, case studies, and self-care tools to help you:
• Shift from the limiting “mono-mind” paradigm into an appreciation of your marvelous, multidimensional nature
• Unburden your wounded parts from extreme beliefs, emotions, and addictions
• Demystify the most commonly misunderstood parts—the Exiles, Managers, and Firefighters
• Transform your most challenging parts from inner obstacles to invaluable allies
• Embrace the existence of innate human goodness—in yourself and others
• Connect with the true Self that is greater than the sum of your parts
“The most wonderful discovery I have made is that as you do this work, you release, or liberate, what I call your Self or your True Self—the calm, compassionate essence of who you are,” says Dr. Schwartz. “When the Self becomes the leading intelligence in our lives, we create more harmony—both within ourselves and in our external lives.” For therapists, their clients, and anyone interested in understanding and healing themselves, here is an essential guide to a revolutionary approach to self-realization, mental wellness, and transformation.
14 reviews for Introduction to Internal Family Systems
Rated 5 out of 5
Wendy Petersen (verified owner)–
The idea behind IFS really resonates with me. I think this is a great read, about our different parts and removing our emotions from the grip of our protectors and firefighters.
Rated 5 out of 5
Ky Heinlen (verified owner)–
With the increasing popularity of IFS there are more books to purchase to learn about the theory. There is no better book (and I have several) than this one. This is written by the author of the theory and his in depth understanding and explanation of its development provide the reader with a better vantage point in understanding this deceptively simple and yet deep theory.
Rated 5 out of 5
H.j. (verified owner)–
Excellent concise well written book. Using for course I’m taking. Glad I got it despite the exorbitant price.
Rated 5 out of 5
Don S. Mccarthy (verified owner)–
For me, who is new to it, is a great introduction to the IFS model.
Rated 5 out of 5
Michael W. Smith (verified owner)–
Best process ever
Rated 5 out of 5
AM (verified owner)–
Read this and got a clear concise summary along with other great information on IFS. The history parts of book and all the studies being quoted gets old but understood
Rated 5 out of 5
Magda (verified owner)–
Great, concise explanation of IFS.
Rated 5 out of 5
Ivania Quesada Chaverri (verified owner)–
It feels so natural to my mind and soul. Feel so hopeful to have these strategies for emotional pain releaf.
Rated 5 out of 5
Meg (verified owner)–
This method is amazing! It’s easy to learn, and the book is a quick read. It’s accessible to busy people and immediately useful.
Rated 5 out of 5
Quinn Adams (verified owner)–
Read this if you want to understand the really important concepts behind internal family systems (“Parts”) as a significant therapeutic tool.
Rated 5 out of 5
Kay Crista (verified owner)–
This book rocked my world. The articulate and thorough description of the human inner life is remarkable. I am filled with hope and self-compassion as I sit with this deeper understanding of my inner world and how it shapes my current life. I feel like I have an essential new roadmap for finding my way to a more balanced and freer life.
Rated 5 out of 5
Melissa Rascon (verified owner)–
Clarity.
Rated 5 out of 5
mia (verified owner)–
Quick read but so much great information! The language in the book is not just clinicians but for anyone who wants to learn more about Internal Family Systems
Rated 5 out of 5
Heather R. (verified owner)–
Excellent condition and arrived faster than expected. Thank you!
Wendy Petersen (verified owner) –
The idea behind IFS really resonates with me. I think this is a great read, about our different parts and removing our emotions from the grip of our protectors and firefighters.
Ky Heinlen (verified owner) –
With the increasing popularity of IFS there are more books to purchase to learn about the theory. There is no better book (and I have several) than this one. This is written by the author of the theory and his in depth understanding and explanation of its development provide the reader with a better vantage point in understanding this deceptively simple and yet deep theory.
H.j. (verified owner) –
Excellent concise well written book. Using for course I’m taking. Glad I got it despite the exorbitant price.
Don S. Mccarthy (verified owner) –
For me, who is new to it, is a great introduction to the IFS model.
Michael W. Smith (verified owner) –
Best process ever
AM (verified owner) –
Read this and got a clear concise summary along with other great information on IFS. The history parts of book and all the studies being quoted gets old but understood
Magda (verified owner) –
Great, concise explanation of IFS.
Ivania Quesada Chaverri (verified owner) –
It feels so natural to my mind and soul. Feel so hopeful to have these strategies for emotional pain releaf.
Meg (verified owner) –
This method is amazing! It’s easy to learn, and the book is a quick read. It’s accessible to busy people and immediately useful.
Quinn Adams (verified owner) –
Read this if you want to understand the really important concepts behind internal family systems (“Parts”) as a significant therapeutic tool.
Kay Crista (verified owner) –
This book rocked my world. The articulate and thorough description of the human inner life is remarkable. I am filled with hope and self-compassion as I sit with this deeper understanding of my inner world and how it shapes my current life. I feel like I have an essential new roadmap for finding my way to a more balanced and freer life.
Melissa Rascon (verified owner) –
Clarity.
mia (verified owner) –
Quick read but so much great information! The language in the book is not just clinicians but for anyone who wants to learn more about Internal Family Systems
Heather R. (verified owner) –
Excellent condition and arrived faster than expected. Thank you!