What is the Internal Family Systems Model by Richard Schwartz
The Internal Family Systems Model was developed by family therapist Richard Schwartz, PhD, to explain the inner conflicts and resulting problems that his clients had when recovering from past hurts or abusive life events. I like the model because it normalizes the idea that all persons develop parts within themselves as they develop and the difficulties with this only happen when parts are pushed into extreme roles as a result of abusive or other neglectful experiences. I have found the model very helpful in working with adults and children who have been traumatized and I use it also in explaining relationship dynamics between family members. I also appreciate that the strategies of the model are very affirming in that the model proposes that every individual has a compassionate and caring Self that can be strengthened and taught to engage in self healing and empowerment. You can learn more about all the aspects of this model by clicking on the links below.