IFS (Internal Family Systems), an evidenced-based therapeutic modality, was founded by psychologist, researcher, and well-known family systems therapist Richard C. Schwartz, Ph.D.   He developed IFS in response to his clients’ descriptions of experiencing various parts, many of them extreme, within themselves.  He noticed that when these parts felt safe and had their concerns addressed, they were less disruptive and would accede to the wise leadership of what Dr. Schwartz came to call “the Self.” He recognized that, as in family systems therapy, parts (which he named "managers," "firefighters," and "exiles") take on  characteristic roles that help define the inner world of the client. Self, which embodies qualities of compassion, curiosity, confidence, clarity, calm, connectedness, courage, and creativity, acts as a center around which the various parts constellate.  Because IFS locates the source of healing within the client, the therapist is free to focus on guiding and facilitating the client’s access to their true Self in supporting the client in harnessing its wisdom.  This approach makes IFS a non-pathologizing, hopeful framework within which to practice psychotherapy.  In 2000, Dr. Schwartz founded The Center for Self Leadership.  See more about IFS, IFS training, national and international workshops, annual conferences, and training resources and videos on the CSL website selfleadership.org.