Working with Parts

Have you ever noticed how sometimes there are different voices inside your head wanting different things. For example you may say “A part of me wants to quit this job, yet a part really likes it”. We all have many different parts of ourselves that have different needs and wants. Some other examples of parts are inner critic, people pleaser, inner child, selfish one, logical one, emotional one. Often these inner selves are in conflict with each other. Some of them are outside our awareness, yet still influencing our behaviour. This may cause us stress, confusion, anxiety or becoming stuck and unable to make any decisions.

The modality of Working with Parts is based on other well known techniques like Psychodrama, Ego State Therapy, Voice Dialogue and Gestalt Empty Chair. This includes identifying and getting to know many parts of self; negotiating through inner conflict to find some cooperation, alliance and balance within. As well as developing a core part of yourself that can observe, and manage these different selves. This is often called the observing or aware ego, or witness.

With this work, inner conflicts are resolved and more choice and freedom is available. More self acceptance is also a common result. Working with parts may also be helpful for depression, relationship difficulties, stress, trauma, anger, addictions, low self-esteem, difficult decisions or life transitions. This modality is also great for developing a new or enhancing an existing positive resource, capacity or skill for example the creative part of you that always wanted to paint or write.