This work demonstrates how therapists can apply systems thinking to understand better clients' individual psyches. The Internal Family Systems model (IFS) uses family system concepts to draw a map of the network of subpersonlities that exist within each individual. Step by step details are combined with clinical examples to illustrate how therapists and clients can enhance their understanding fo intrapsychic processes and set a clear line of direction for positive change. The author also extends IFS concepts to our culture and the families within it to produce a form of couples and family therapy.

Author Biography

Richard C. Schwartz, PhD, is on the faculty of the Family Institute at Northwestern University. Coeditor of Handbook of Family Therapy Training and Supervision, he is coauthor of three books and author of over 40 articles on a variety of topics in psychotherapy. He serves on the editorial boards of five professional journals and is a fellow of the American Association of Marital and Family Therapists.