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Internal Family Systems (IFS), developed by Schwartz (1995), has moved family therapy into a new realm-the internal system. As this theory develops, therapists will find new ways of working within Schwartz's model and are likely to integrate their own style and interventions with Schwartz's theory. In this paper, we present sculpting, solution-focused questioning, and internalized-other interviewing as interventions that we have found helpful in broadening the scope and utility of IFS theory and therapy.
Family therapists typically work with clients in relation to their family systems and the larger systems in which they participate. However, some therapists find it helpful to also work with clients' intrapsychic or internal systems-those smaller systems of interacting psychodynamics within us (Schwartz, 1995). Schwartz (1995) developed Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory as a model for working with clients intrapsychically within the family therapy framework.
IFS theory provides a good metaframework for integrative endeavors because it is firmly grounded in systems theory yet sufficiently detailed to provide the pragmatic therapist with practical suggestions (Breunlin, Schwartz, & Mac Kune-Karrer, 1992). Schwartz (1995) encourages others to use the IFS model with various techniques. Schwartz (1995) says that "others are expanding the model, particularly in the area of technique, in ways that I never imagined. I am heartened and delighted by these contributions and look forward to seeing where they lead" (p. 223). However, Schwartz does caution that new techniques must be approached carefully because of the complexity of work with the inner systems of clients.
Because this is a new model, few have yet to publish articles on it, and much writing is in process. Thus, our own understanding of the model is primarily limited to Goulding's and Schwartz's (1995) book, The Mosaic Mind, and Schwartz's (1995) publication, Internal Family Systems Therapy. Still, the comprehensive scope and flexibility of Schwartz's IFS model allows therapists to use IFS with many different techniques. Our purpose is to broaden the utility of IFS theory by exploring various techniques that therapists can integrate in such therapy. We present the use of sculpting, solution-focused questioning, and internalized-other interviewing as examples of using technical eclecticism to strengthen the scope of IFS theory.
Although we believe it is necessary for therapists to remain theoretically grounded while applying techniques, it...