Methods & Attributions
The reflection tools on this site draw on established, peer-reviewed approaches to self-inquiry, somatic regulation, and integration. They are not those methods, and neither Maya Allan nor this site claims certification, affiliation, or training in any of the following. The tools are educational reflection aids, not therapy.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Developed by Dr. Richard C. Schwartz. The Nervous System Reset tool draws on IFS language around parts, the 8 Cs of Self (particularly Curiosity and Compassion), and the 6 Fs protocol for relating to an activated state as a part doing a protective job. “Internal Family Systems” and “IFS” are trademarks of the IFS Institute. Further reading: No Bad Parts (Schwartz, 2021).
Clean Language
Developed by David Grove (1950–2008) and systematized by Penny Tompkins and James Lawley. The Belief Inquiry tool uses Clean Language's two primary questions (“What kind of X is that X?” and “Is there anything else about X?”) to reflect the user's own words back without introducing the facilitator's metaphors or frames. Further reading: Metaphors in Mind (Lawley & Tompkins, 2000).
Coherence Therapy
Developed by Bruce Ecker, Laurel Hulley, and Robin Ticic. The Integration tool draws on Coherence Therapy's juxtaposition experience, linked in published research to the neural process of memory reconsolidation. It does not install replacement beliefs; it helps hold the old pattern alongside a contradictory lived experience. Further reading: Unlocking the Emotional Brain (Ecker, Ticic & Hulley, 2012).
Motivational Interviewing (OARS)
Developed by William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick. Open questions, affirmations, reflections, and summaries (OARS) inform the conversational style of all three tools. The tools do not attempt to evoke change talk in the clinical MI sense. Further reading: Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change (Miller & Rollnick, 4th ed., 2023).
Safety note
These tools do not diagnose, prescribe, or treat. They are not a substitute for licensed mental health care. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). If you are processing trauma, working with a trauma-informed professional will serve you better than any AI tool can.