Cyborg_Saskia t1_j8r08xi wrote on February 16, 2023 at 9:26 AM

Reply to comment by themacmeister in Hi, I'm Lucille Aaron-Wayne, MA - Certified IFS therapist (Internal Family Systems therapy). Ask me anything! by LucilleAaronWayne

Can you explain how this seems similar to Scientology?

themacmeister t1_j8r1ryb wrote on February 16, 2023 at 9:48 AM

"These parts are either Exiles (the most vulnerable, wounded parts of us which carry the deepest inner pain) or Protectors (which can be further identified as Managers or Firefighters."

Also

"IFS synthesizes the more traditional scientific psychological approach with a shamanic approach". I would never see a SHAMAN in preference to a psycologist/psychiatrist, ESPECIALLY IF THAT SHAMAN IS MYSELF!!!

Also worried about the fervour with which this is being pushed...

Before long, you too will be OT8 (Operating Thetan Level 8)

"Sidenote: Are you aware that many IFS therapists work online?"

You don't say!!!

LucilleAaronWayne OP t1_j8rdwxi wrote on February 16, 2023 at 12:22 PM

I support being on the lookout for scientology, u/themacmeister! 👏 I think any group can become cult-like, and IFS is no exception - especially, as you say, with the fervor it can arouse. I've noticed, for example, that the admiration for the founder, Dick Schwartz, can veer into reverence. I emphasize respect, not reverence - for the founder and for the model itself.

Thanks for looking out for unhealthy dynamics - the world, and IFS, needs that critical eye.