These are questions I get asked most often when people inquire about a Christian approach to IFS. ~ Julie
Should Christians pursue training in IFS?
It depends. Not all trainings are taught by people who would welcome a Christian world-view or be aware of where IFS doesn’t line up with a Christian worldview (ie. Legacy burdens). As with any learning experience, one would get the most out of the experience if they take in information and experiences with discernment and discretion putting their faith worldview first.
Is there a Christian IFS training?
No. There is not an official way to be trained in IFS with a Christian perspective. However, there are self-study options, consultation, groups, retreats, books, workshops offered by Christians who are trained in IFS and desire to help Christians see what’s valuable about IFS in soul formation/sanctification journey.
Is IFS a spiritually dangerous method of therapy?
It depends. Would you meet with someone for a healing journey who didn’t share the same world view as you about the source of healing?
It can be. There are some people who practice IFS in ways that do not line up with Christian teachings. This is unique to IFS in some ways since IFS has a built-in spiritual component, unlike most other psychotherapeutic models of therapy.
As with any therapy, Christians are encouraged to ‘test the spirits.’ Therapy can be a soul level exploration so it makes sense to go on that journey with someone who’s like minded in world-view of spirit, mind and body.
Use discernment:
- What does your gut say? Do you have deep, inner peace?
- Does it line up with Scripture and ancient Christian teachings?
- Does it line up with the traditions of ancient Christian practices?
- Lastly, does it line up with your experience of God’s grace, justice, and mercy?
- Does it draw me nearer to my faith or cause me to drift?
