Reviews

Introduction to the Internal Family Systems Model by Richard C. Schwartz

dreavg's review against another edition

3.0

This is a good introduction to a model by the developer. Some of his explanation were wonderful to read. Even if the model is not for you, this text explains his theory beautifully. The explanation is intelligently written and enjoyable to read.

servemethesky's review against another edition

4.0

This book was helpful and interesting. When I picked it up on the recommendation of my therapist, I thought it was going to be about the roles each person plays in a bizarre, dysfunctional family. That wasn't the case at all. This model is all about how we have different parts inside of us that play different roles- they try to protect us, they're angry, they motivate us, they shame us. By talking to these parts and being curious about their aims, we can create a more whole version of our Self and live life in a more balanced and sustainable way.

This would be hard to implement without a therapist, but it definitely got me thinking and is a good jumping off point. Also noteworthy: [a:Jonathan Van Ness|18259219|Jonathan Van Ness|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1562884567p2/18259219.jpg] starts off his first book [b:Over the Top|41824022|Over the Top|Jonathan Van Ness|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1568302224l/41824022._SX50_.jpg|65274850] with a summary of this therapy model and a discussion of his own parts! Such a fun and fascinating connection.

4raging4fax's review

informative inspiring reflective slow-paced

4.25

lilyrooke's review

challenging informative reflective medium-paced

4.0

 
I found this a very interesting read. I hadn't heard of Internal Family Systems before, but this book offers a detailed and accessible explanation and guide to working with your various 'parts'. As the blurb suggests, the text is written in an empowering and non-pathologising manner, which makes what could be a daunting or shame-inducing task actually seem enjoyable and fulfilling. Any therapeutic approach that encourages curiosity, to my mind, brings with it compassion and hope. I tried out some of the exercises while reading, and got the hang of them alone, but I think you could also work with a professional to make use of the book's teachings. I really liked Schwartz' emphasis on empathy; the spectrum of parts and how to engage them; and bringing the wounded parts into grounded rather than extreme positions through compassionate witnessing. Sometimes I found the writing approach a little too highbrow for my personal tastes, as I prefer something more down to earth and practical, but that's a minor personal complaint.

disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from Sounds True Publishing via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review. 

coffin_flop's review

challenging reflective

5.0

nickvu's review against another edition

5.0

A psychological model that examines the self as a collection of distinct subpersonalities that may be in competition or collaboration. These internal "parts" can be treated much like family therapy.