Fred Gracely
Psychology in my Books
I earned an MA in Human Relations with a specialty in Holistic Counseling Techniques from Lesley University. I am an avid student of psychology, and as an author, I often incorporate psychological concepts and theories in my stories, as described on this page.
Internal Family Systems
CHAPTER 32
Parts
In Misfit’s Magic: Shades of Winter, I explain the behavior of a morally gray character (Ben) through parts theory (e.g., Internal Family Systems, IFS). In the chapter entitled Parts, Goff is magically transported into Ben’s inner world and meets the “pristine” version of Ben (his Self), who shows Goff traumatizing events from Ben’s past where exiles and surrounding parts formed. Experiencing these events helps Goff understand Ben better, and this knowledge both elicits some tolerance and helps Goff stop Ben from doing something truly horrific.
(you’ll have to read the book to find out what :).
In Misfit’s Magic: Twisting in Time, there is a chapter that connects with many theories relating to the disclosure of deep feelings–the catharsis concept from Psychodynamic theory, the notion of universality from Yalom’s group therapy theory, and the power of bonding through sharing feelings from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). In this chapter, each member of the core ensemble takes a turn openly disclosing deeply held feelings to Floraleise, tiny flower-like fairies that thrive on human emotional bravery. It’s a scene that deepens the shared bond between ensemble members.
Catharsis and Universality
CHAPTER 25
Full Disclosure
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CHAPTER 11
The Sawleafe Beadle
The notion of reframing self-blame appears in a chapter in Misfit’s Magic: Twisting in Time. Goffren is shown the story of how a floundering, wilting magical Saweleafe Beadle plant becomes riddled with guilt about its leaves being used in poisons that have killed people. Goffren connects deeply with feelings of guilt from many things that have happened in his past, so he intuitively senses that what the flower needs to hear that “It’s not your fault.” This provides the relief the Sawleafe Beadle needs to return to health and start healing others again.
Throughout Misfit’s Magic: Twisting in Time, Goffren frequently has little “therapy sessions” with fairies called Floraleise. Goffren shares deep feelings that have arisen, and the fairies, who thrive on human emotional bravery, listen while swaying gently in encouragement.
Reflective Listening
