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Parts Therapy

Parts therapy, most popular currently, Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, is a therapeutic approach that views the human psyche as consisting of multiple "parts" or subpersonalities, each with its own beliefs, emotions, and motivations.

 

Parts therapy is based on the idea that these inner parts can sometimes conflict with each other, leading to emotional distress and psychological difficulties.

 

Who benefits from Parts work:

  • Trauma

  • Anxiety 

  • Depression 

  • Addictions

  • Relationship Difficulties

  • Chronic Pain

  • Self-Esteem

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Key concepts and principles of parts therapy (IFS) include:

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1. Self: In IFS, the "Self" is considered the core or center of a person's psyche. The Self is characterized by qualities such as calmness, curiosity, compassion, and wisdom. It represents the person's true, authentic self, unburdened by extreme emotions or limiting beliefs.

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2. Parts: Parts are the various subpersonalities or aspects of a person's psyche. Each part has its own unique characteristics, emotions, and protective functions. Some parts may be in conflict with others, and they may emerge in response to specific situations or life experiences.

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3. Protectors: Protectors are parts of the psyche that aim to protect the individual from emotional pain or vulnerability. They often manifest as defensive mechanisms or coping strategies. Common protector roles include being critical, perfectionistic, controlling, or avoidant.

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4. Exiles: Exiles are parts that carry painful memories, emotions, or traumatic experiences from the past. They are often hidden from conscious awareness because they hold intense emotional pain and vulnerability.

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5. Firefighters: Firefighters are parts that activate in response to overwhelming emotions or triggers. They may engage in impulsive or self-destructive behaviors as a way to distract from or extinguish the emotional distress.

The goal of parts therapy (IFS) is to facilitate the integration and harmonization of these inner parts by accessing the Self's qualities of compassion, curiosity, and wisdom.

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