Richard Schwartz, Ph.D.
Understanding Internal Family Systems (IFS)
In No Bad Parts, Dr. Richard Schwartz, founder of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, invites readers to see themselves in a radically different way. Rather than labeling traits or emotions as “good” or “bad,” Schwartz teaches that our minds are made up of many inner “parts,” each with its own perspective and purpose, even the ones we try to hide or suppress.
For clients, this book offers a gentle and empowering approach: instead of battling against unwanted feelings or behaviours, you learn to understand them, listen to them, and integrate them into a more whole and compassionate self.
Why This Book is Helpful in Therapy
From a therapeutic perspective, No Bad Parts is powerful because it:
-
Validates all aspects of yourself. No feelings or traits are inherently wrong.
-
Reduces inner conflict. Helps you understand why certain “parts” behave the way they do.
-
Encourages self-compassion. Moves away from shame and toward acceptance.
-
Provides practical IFS tools. Guides you in dialogue with your inner world to promote healing.
When paired with psychotherapy, these insights can deepen work on trauma recovery, self-worth, and emotional resilience by creating a safe inner environment for change.