Parts Work Therapy (IFS-Informed)
(Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing)
Understanding and Healing All Parts of Yourself
We all have many different “parts” within us—different feelings, voices, or ways of coping that show up in different situations. Sometimes these parts work together in harmony. Other times, especially after trauma or stress, they may feel in conflict: one part wants to avoid, another pushes forward; one part is critical, another feels small or hurt.
Parts work therapy (informed by Internal Family Systems, or IFS) helps you gently get to know these parts of yourself with curiosity and compassion—so that healing and balance can take place.
What Makes Parts Work Different?
Unlike traditional therapy that may focus on symptoms or behavior alone, parts work sees each “part” as carrying wisdom, purpose, and good intentions—even if its methods are painful or unhelpful.
Key features of parts work:
Every part is welcome – No part of you is “bad” or “broken.” Even critical or reactive parts are trying to protect you.
Self-leadership – The goal isn’t to get rid of parts, but to help you connect with your calm, compassionate core “Self,” which can guide healing.
Curiosity, not judgment – Instead of fighting against yourself, you’ll learn to approach parts with understanding.
Integration, not elimination – Parts don’t disappear; they relax, heal, and take on healthier roles when supported.
Trauma-informed approach – Recognizes how protective parts form in response to past experiences and ensures safety at every step.
Who Can Benefit from Parts Work?
Parts work therapy may be especially helpful if you:
Struggle with inner conflict or self-criticism
Feel like “different sides” of you are pulling in opposite directions
Experience intense emotional reactions that feel hard to control
Notice patterns of numbing, avoidance, or self-sabotage
Carry trauma, shame, or beliefs of being “not enough”
Want to cultivate more self-compassion and inner harmony
Parts work can be used on its own or combined with other approaches like EMDR, CBT, or mindfulness.
How It Works in Counselling
A typical session may include:
Creating safety – Grounding and ensuring you feel supported before exploring inner parts.
Identifying parts – Noticing thoughts, feelings, or body sensations that represent different aspects of you.
Getting curious – Exploring what each part needs, fears, or is trying to protect.
Accessing the Self – Cultivating your calm, compassionate core to connect with parts.
Healing and integration – Supporting parts so they can release burdens and take on healthier roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have multiple personalities to do parts work?
No. Everyone has “parts”—like the part that wants to rest and the part that feels guilty for not working. Parts work is for anyone who feels inner conflict.
Will I lose parts of myself?
No. Parts aren’t eliminated. Instead, they shift into healthier roles once their fears and burdens are addressed.
Is parts work evidence-based?
Yes. Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a well-established, research-supported model of therapy used worldwide.
Can parts work help with trauma?
Absolutely. Many protective parts form as a response to trauma. Working gently with them creates lasting healing.
Ready To Take The Next Step?
Parts work offers a compassionate way to understand yourself and heal from within. By connecting with and supporting all of your parts, you can cultivate greater peace, clarity, and self-compassion.
If you’d like to learn more about parts work therapy, or explore whether it’s right for you, please reach out:
Phone: (778)715-0112
Email: info@willowbarkwellness.com
Or book a complimentary 15 minute consultation with any of our counsellors to see if they’re the right fit for you.