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

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.