Parts
All therapists use a theory to conceptualize and guide the work we do with our clients. Throughout our careers, we will often shift theories as we evolved and are exposed to new concepts. In my practice, I have always been drawn to parts theories. Jung was my first favorite theorist and I spend a good amount of time in school studying his concept of Archetypes. Around this time, I was also heavily engaged in work using Dialectical Behavior Therapy that spoke of parts positing an idea of three “States of Mind”, the Emotional Mind, Rational Mind, and Wise Mind.
As I continued my practice, I noticed this theme emerged over and over again and I realized that many theories have tried to explain this idea throughout human history. Even religion and pop culture explore the concept of the plural self across cultures. If so many people point to this concept, there must be some validity to it. However, many people I meet have yet to find a model that helps them understand what his happening inside their own mind. As a result, they feel conflicted, lost, and in an inner state of chaos all too frequently. Understanding the idea that we are made up of parts and then learning what do to with those parts often brings calm and clarity. This is at the core of the work I do wtih my clients. Typically within the first few sessions, clients are introduced to this concept and spend months deepening their understanding of their parts as well as their ability to interface effectively with their parts.
The goal of parts work is to understand your own parts and their needs. I guide clients to learn the language of parts and to discern the various parts. We work to name them and learn who is present and what they need. From there, we learn to unblend from parts and allow the core self to gain control of the system. Many people don’t have a concept of the core self initially, which is perfectly normal. Together, we can learn to contact the core self and strengthen that relationship. In time, the system learns to feel safe and trust the core self as the self emerges as a stable, compassionate leader for the system.
I know this may sound complicated, and it certainly is complex. Each human I work with is complex and the work is certainly can be complicated., however, most find this information to be intuitive and true. It rarely takes much effort for this concept to take footing for clients and most find comfort instantly. Patience is required as mastering parts work takes time and effort.
For those wanting to explore this topic further, I’ve created a handout with resources for exploring parts and include that here.