We are re-launching our podcast review series! Each month, we showcase a member-suggested podcast episode as part of OSRP’s effort to bring you micro-reviews of insightful content in the field of psychotherapy.

This month, our Connect Chair is offering a podcast review as an example of this feature! If you would like to review your favourite therapy-related podcast episode, please email connect@psychotherapyontario.org. If your suggestion is accepted, you’ll also be compensated for your time. Enjoy, and happy listening!

Episode Review: Decolonizing Self in IFS

From the podcast Brown Girls Don’t Do Therapy with Diviya Lewis

Reviewer: Franklynn Bartol, Connect Chair & Qualifying Member of OSRP

Click here to listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/decolonizing-self-in-ifs/id1567102639?i=1000733926680

Who Will I Hear?

Diviya Lewis (host and OSRP Clinical Member!) & her guest Alexis Kamakanoe Ornellas.

What’s It About?

Two experienced IFS therapists reflect on the concept of Self in IFS therapy from a decolonial lens. They draw on examples from their client work and training experience to break down myths and misconceptions while offering alternative ways to think about the Self, whether with clients or your own decolonial healing journey.

How Can It Help?

If you’re an IFS practitioner, this is a must-listen episode! It addresses core IFS concepts from a lens that is both appreciative of the approach and critically reflective of the ways that it’s taught and used. Rather than simply critique though, they offer a more expansive view of how we can use IFS concepts.

Even though I don’t personally practice IFS, I got a lot out of this discussion! It helped me further deconstruct Western-based ideas of ‘self’. I particularly liked the critical questioning they offer around ideals such as calmness and neutrality, which make their way into all sorts of therapeutic approaches and wellness advice. They each give powerful examples of how we can, however unintentionally, use our therapeutic concepts in harmful ways. As a way to combat this, or notice and repair when it happens, they also discuss how to foster more collaborative relationships with clients.

Why Does This Reviewer Love It?

The insightfulness, humility, and humour Diviya brings to this conversation is reflected throughout her series – I’d highly recommend checking out more episodes from Brown Girls Don’t Do Therapy!

(These podcast recommendations are for inspiration and learning. They don’t replace supervision, instruction, or CRPO regulations, and OSRP doesn’t officially endorse the content. Take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and use your professional judgment in applying what you learn.)