The journal article, Moving from Acceptance Toward Transformation with Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), references Carl Rogers famous quote: “the curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” Like Rogers, this article purports that self-acceptance is a prerequisite to change; it is proposed that IFS is a powerful, mindfulness-based method to engender this necessary self-approval. Through new perspective and embracement of “parts” of themselves that they hate or are ashamed of, clients gain inner peace and reduced judgement of self and of others. The article demonstrates, through engaging description, case stories, and interpretation of sessions, the utilization of IFS.
Why does this article resonate so strongly with me? Although the clients I see in private practice struggle with a variety of issues such as cutting, OCD, depression, suicidal ideation, and anxiety, almost all seem to concurrently struggle with an underlying presence of self-judgement. When asked to list goals, almost all clients include ‘to increase self-esteem’ among the top few. I am always looking for new tools to combat this most fundamental struggle and, not only is IFS a tool I have enjoyed exploring, the discovery of this article and this approach reminds me and inspires me to be a lifelong learner in order to be the most effective and engaged therapist possible.
Here is the article information and a link: Schwartz, R. C. (2013). Moving from Acceptance Toward Transformation With Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). Journal of Clinical Psychology, 69(8), 805–816. https://doi-org.go.libproxy.wakehealth.edu/10.1002/jclp.22016