[Summary] “Self-Therapy (Vol. 1): Creating Wholeness and Healing Your Inner Child Using IFS” by Jay Earley introduces and explains Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), a new way of understanding the human psyche and working with problematic emotions and desires. IFS views the psyche as comprised of ‘parts,’  like subpersonalities with their own unique feelings, motivations, and worldviews. These parts are categorized as either ‘exiles’ or ‘protectors.’ Exiles are parts that hold pain and trauma from the past, often stemming from childhood experiences. Protectors, on the other hand, work to shield the individual from experiencing the pain of these exiles. The book provides a step-by-step guide on how to do IFS sessions, which involve: 1) accessing and befriending protectors, 2) getting permission from protectors to work with exiles, 3) accessing and unblending from exiles' pain, 4) witnessing the childhood origins of exiles' burdens, 5) reparenting exiles, 6) unburdening exiles through a ritualistic release, and 7) transforming protectors' roles. Throughout, the book emphasizes the importance of connecting with the ‘Self,’ a core of wisdom, compassion, and strength, which guides the healing and integration of these parts. The goal of IFS is to achieve internal harmony and wholeness by healing exiles and transforming protectors so they can cooperate and support a fulfilling life.