What is ‘parts work’ or IFS
Parts work, also known as internal family systems (IFS), is a form of psychotherapy that involves exploring and understanding the different parts or sub-personalities that make up a person's psyche.
In parts work, a therapist helps a person identify and become aware of their internal parts or sub-personalities, which can range from positive and helpful parts (e.g., a compassionate self) to negative and unhelpful parts (e.g., a critical self). The therapist then works with the person to understand the roles and motivations of each part, as well as how they interact with one another.
The goal of parts work is to help a person develop a more harmonious relationship with their internal parts, so that they can achieve greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, and emotional healing. Through this process, a person can learn to manage their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts in a more balanced and effective way.
Parts work is often used in the treatment of a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. It is based on the premise that all people have the capacity to heal themselves and that internal parts can be transformed through self-awareness, compassion, and self-acceptance.
In our view, parts work is part of shadow work and the different parts in Jungian Psychology are for example the anima, animus and the complexes. These are energies that can be split off from the ego. In our work we use the technique called voice dialogue to start a dialogue with these different parts.
Here are some Voice Dialogue exercises that you can try:
Self-observation exercise: Take a few minutes to observe yourself and identify which different voices or inner selves you hear. Which of these selves are the most dominant or active in your life? Write these selves down and try to understand them.
Inner dialogue exercise: Choose one of your inner selves and imagine that you are having a conversation with this part of yourself. Write down the questions and answers and try to understand the dialogue. Repeat this exercise with other inner selves.
Role-playing exercise: Choose two inner selves that have opposing interests, such as your "pleaser" and your "rebel." Play the roles of both selves and switch between the roles. How does it feel to step into the shoes of each self?
Integration exercise: Choose an inner self that you want to integrate into your daily life. Write down what you can do to embrace this self and how you can allow it to play a positive role in your life.
It can be helpful to do these exercises with a qualified Voice Dialogue therapist who can help you gain deeper insights into your inner selves and how they influence your behavior. We are happy to help you connecting to these inner parts.
An introduction session is only € 45,-
