"I spent some time in study and meditation and discovered some exciting parallels between Taoism and IFS. Insight gained from Taoism has not only increased my understanding of IFS but also helped deepen my spirituality."

"authentic movement is a remarkably effective tool to access the inner voices of our parts through physical expression... When a nonverbal relationship is developed between the Self and parts, parts are more likely to trust and accept the presence, power, and leadership of the Self"

"In IFS and in other models for working with altered states, with the energy body and with the physical body, we find glimpses of antidotes for these recurring reactions to trauma, and healthy ways of preventing further harm."

Susan here describes bringing the IFS model to an ongoing group of people in recovery using the 12 steps model. "The biggest challenge of the weekly group’s “storming” stage seemed to be triggering around members experiences and expectations lingering from former treatments and self help groups."

Dick Schwartz, 1999: "I believe this work can change society, change the way people understand and relate to one another, both as individuals and as groups."

Erich describes his journey to becoming a more Self-led therapist. "I caught the first few glimpses of this Self-like manager I named the striver/therapist when I heard mixed reviews as part of my feedback during the practice sessions. This striver part was definitely in charge and focused all of his/my energy on creating a breakthrough for my practice clients, no matter what."

"With IFS, there is the understanding that if one part changes, it will inevitably affect other parts within the system. Likewise, the concept of interbeing in mindfulness suggests a profound level of connection between all things."

"Whether an impasse or vicious cycle is triggered by therapist or client, the onus is on us as therapists—not to always remain Self-led because that’s impossible—but to return to Self-leadership when we’ve lost it and nip vicious cycles in the bud."

"Parts have bodies, parts are located in the body, and parts may use the body to perform their protective or reactive functions. Weight gain may be an attempt to protect the tender core from repeated boundary violations, or to prevent unwanted sexual interest; weight loss may be an effort to provide a sense of control."

"The main problem is to distinguish a manager part that is posing as a guide, from real guides. Parts that function as “spiritual managers” look and sound like guides."

"Once you have learned how to love your underrecognized, under-developed and under-favored parts and made them part of your self system, it is time to look at the relationship that was meant to be a catalyst for your wholeness."

"This is for you, as a therapist who wonders how exactly to proceed through the barrage of (protecting or protected) parts to your client’s Self (how was it that Dick did that so effortlessly?)."