Worldview As Medicine: Traditional Kituwah (Cherokee), IFS (Internal Family Systems) and Kinship Worldviews

ABSTRACT In this study, seven articles published between 2010 and 2023 that describe the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model's interrelatedness with Indigenous healing concepts were analysed for narrative content. Findings included the need to invite Indigenous language speakers into deeper dialogue in order to bridge worldview‐informed praxis; the use of small steps to include Indigenous language in IFS healthcare programming; and the centrality of Love in healing/therapy practice emerging across Kituwah worldview, Kinship Worldview and IFS worldview. A new translation of an IFS mnemonic, the 7 Bs of Indigenous‐Inspired IFS, also emerged in the traditional Kituwah language. This translation may be transferrable to IFS healthcare programming incorporating other Indigenous languages. This study underscores the need to explore the use of IFS by both Indigenous language speakers who know their traditional worldview and by seasoned IFS practitioners with interest in Indigenous healing. It also demonstrates the need for further IFS research to develop and cultivate a shared language that centres an ethic of Love and can be used across Western and Indigenous healing concepts and practices.