Why people are craving a different kind of therapy right now
Vox
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy has gained immense popularity in recent years, despite its lack of robust scientific backing. Developed by Richard Schwartz in the 1980s, IFS posits that individuals are composed of multiple "parts," such as exiles, managers, and firefighters, which interact to protect or harm us. While some mental health professionals like Carl Erik Fisher credit IFS with personal benefits, others remain skeptical due to its limited evidence base. Fisher, a bioethicist and psychiatrist at Columbia University, initially dismissed IFS but found it effective for his own struggles with addiction, though he acknowledges its potential risks, especially for those with severe conditions.
The rise of IFS can be attributed to the broader shift toward experiential therapies like EMDR, somatic therapy, and mindfulness. These modalities emphasize direct experience over analytical insight, resonating with individuals seeking a more compassionate, holistic approach to mental health. Fisher attributes its appeal to the growing secular spiritual landscape, where people yearn for transcendence without traditional religious frameworks. This shift is particularly evident post-COVID, as many face isolation and disconnection from meaningful human interaction.
However, concerns persist about IFS's overuse, especially in treating severe psychiatric conditions. While randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are often seen as the "gold standard," critics argue they may not capture the complexity of psychotherapy. Fisher highlights potential harms for vulnerable individuals, such as those with unstable identities or substance use disorders, who might experience symptom worsening or fragmented self-concepts. He emphasizes the need for caution when applying IFS to high-risk patients.
Ultimately, the popularity of IFS reflects broader cultural and political trends in mental health care. Its success underscores a demand for more flexible, client-centered approaches that address the growing need for accessible and meaningful therapeutic options. While IFS may not be suitable for everyone, its rise challenges traditional hierarchies in psychotherapy and invites critical dialogue about balancing evidence-based practices with innovative, experiential modalities.
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Originally published on Vox on 2/22/2026