Parts Work for Inner Conflict

Understanding Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Parts Work

Are you struggling with inner conflict?

Past trauma?

Just understanding yourself?

Parts Work can help!

What is IFS Parts Work?

Are you struggling with inner conflict, past trauma, or just understanding yourself? Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help! It is a therapeutic approach developed by Richard Schwartz. It centers around the idea that everyone has a system made up of different parts, each with its own role and purpose. According to Schwartz, "No Bad Parts" means that every part, even those that cause us trouble, is trying to help in its own way. Parts Work can help resolve inner conflict. By identifying, understanding, and healing these parts, we can create inner peace and harmony. For more information on IFS and Parts Work, visit the IFS Institute. 

When to Use Parts WorkInner conflict looking like two people fighting

Parts Work can be particularly helpful when you experience inner conflict. This might look like:

  • - Shame
  • - Guilt
  • - Self-sabotage
  • - Frustration
  • - Judgment towards yourself or others
  • - Excessive anger
  • - Feeling 'stuck'
If you’ve ever said, “A part of me feels this way, but another part feels that way,” you’ve experienced inner conflict. Parts Work is designed to help resolve these conflicts and can be a powerful tool for self-discovery.

Basic Concepts of IFS Parts Work

  1. Multiple Parts: Everyone has multiple parts, with no limit to the number.
  2. The Self: When the internal system is healthy, the Self acts as a compassionate and effective leader.
  3. No Bad Parts: All parts have good intentions, even if their actions are problematic.
  4. Internal and External Systems: The way our parts interact reflects how we relate to others.

Understanding Your Internal System

Your internal system consists of sub-personalities or parts, along with the core Self. Parts can fall into three main categories:
  1. Exiles: Wounded child parts that carry past pain.
  2. Managers: Protectors that try to control everything to keep the system safe.
  3. Firefighters: Protectors that act out to distract from pain.
These parts can develop extreme beliefs and behaviors due to past experiences. When these parts try to lead the system instead of working together, it causes inner conflict, or a "part hijacking the system."

The Role of the Self

The Self is the core of who you are, untainted by other parts or past trauma. For a healthy system, the Self needs to be trusted and allowed to lead. When the Self is in charge, it brings balance and compassion to the internal system.

Why do Parts Work for Inner Conflict?

IFS Parts Work helps you understand and heal your parts, allowing them to work together under the leadership of the Self. This process can resolve inner conflicts and foster a greater sense of inner peace and self-discovery.

Begin Parts Work for Inner Conflict in Katy, TX!

  If you are ready to start working personal growth or dealing with trauma, Janelle Schlueter, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch can help! Janelle facilitates Intensive Workshops utilizing IFS and Parts Work. In this workshop, you will gain insight into the your different parts, resolve inner conflict, and feel healthier! To join the Intensive, follow these steps:
  • Contact our office to learn more information
  • Meet with Janelle and watch this video:[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rh90Bd3_XM4[/embed]
  • Find ways to thrive through Parts Work today!

Other Therapy Services We Offer: 

Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch, we offer counseling services for people of all ages in areas including counseling for kidscounseling for young adultsteen counselingcouples counselingeating disorder treatmentmen’s issueswomen’s issuesanxiety treatmentdepression therapytrauma counselingfamily therapy, and group counseling. Our therapists strive to post blogs regularly. We provide helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. To learn more about our therapists and our counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!