If you’ve ever said, “Part of me wants to… but another part of me is scared,” you’ve already met the basic idea behind parts work in therapy.
This approach starts from the belief that our minds aren’t one single, unified voice—they’re a community of different “parts,” each with its own perspective, emotions, and job to do.
Models like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and ego state therapy help clients meet these parts with curiosity and compassion, especially when those parts developed in response to past trauma.
A quick note: You don’t have to fully “believe” in the idea of parts for parts work to help you. Some people connect deeply with the metaphor, others see it as a practical framework for understanding conflicting feelings and behaviors. The goal isn’t to force a worldview—it’s to help you make sense of your inner world in a way that works for you.
How Parts Work Helps
1. Understanding Protective Strategies
Some parts work hard to protect you—by avoiding risk, numbing feelings, or keeping you in control.
2. Meeting Exiled Wounds
Other parts carry the pain, shame, or fear from earlier life experiences. They may be hidden away but still influence how you feel today.
3. Developing a Compassionate Self
Therapy helps you connect with a grounded, compassionate “Self” that can listen to all parts without judgment.
What a Parts Work Session Might Look Like
You might:
- Slow down and notice sensations, emotions, or thoughts
- Dialogue with a part to understand what it needs
- Gently revisit past moments that shaped that part’s role in your life
Why This Matters for Healing
When your parts feel seen and understood, they can relax their extreme roles. This can lead to less inner conflict, more emotional flexibility, and a greater sense of self-trust.
If you’ve been feeling stuck in old patterns or at war with yourself, parts work may help you reconnect to a calmer, more compassionate inner world. Contact me to schedule a consultation.
