Parts Work Therapy
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Informed Therapy | Ontario-wide virtual therapy, based in Hamilton
What is Parts Work?
Each one of us carries an “internal family” of different parts of us that have learned to show up in specific ways: some parts protect us from failure, some push for us to be heard, others shut things down when life gets overwhelming. Parts work (informed by Internal Family Systems) helps you build a relationship with these inner experiences, so they don’t have to carry so much intensity or take over when things get difficult.
Instead of fighting these parts, we get curious about them. As you listen more closely, you may find that even the parts that feel harsh or reactive are trying to protect something important.
What this looks like in a session:
Your therapist may guide you to imagine what your “inner critic” or “people pleaser part” look like and have a curious conversation with them, discovering their origin story, unmet needs, and what these parts are trying to protect you from (e.g. rejection or criticism from others).
Together, we help these parts of you feel seen and understood, while also creating space for new ways of responding to life that feel less costly and more aligned with who you are at your core.
Parts Work might be right for you if…
You feel pulled in different directions internally (e.g. part of you wants closeness, another part shuts it down)
You notice patterns that feel automatic, like people-pleasing or avoidance
You’re tired of fighting with yourself and want a more compassionate inner relationship
You’re curious about exploring your inner world in a more experiential way
You want to feel more integrated and steady within yourself
You sometimes feel like you “lose yourself” in certain emotional states