Self-Counselling with Parts Work (Sponsored by AVI)

This event is sponsored through AVI where I work as a Counsellor and Health Educator. I'm offering this workshop for free (donations are accepted) to support the spiritual and psychological health of the community.

We will be meeting at Bowen Park Amphitheatre. Drive in to the park through the Wall Street entrance and there is parking across from the river and another small parking lot near the duck pond where the Amphitheatre is. Feel free to text me at 1-250-818-5540 if you're lost.

You may want to bring pen and paper, or be prepared to take some notes on your phone. We'll have an opportunity to begin a map of our parts, and a chance to put the framework into practice with ourselves.

What is Parts Work and Internal Family Systems?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz. It is based on the idea that the human psyche is composed of various parts, each with its own unique qualities, beliefs, and emotions. The goal of IFS therapy is to help individuals understand and harmonize these internal parts to achieve a greater sense of self-awareness, healing, and personal growth.

Parts Work, within the context of Internal Family Systems, refers to the process of identifying, exploring, and working with these internal parts. Here's a brief description of how Parts Work operates within IFS:

Multiplicity of the Mind: IFS posits that each person's mind is made up of a multiplicity of parts, which can be thought of as different aspects of the self. These parts often emerge as a result of experiences, especially those involving trauma or significant life events. Parts can be protective, wounded, creative, or even conflicting with one another.

The Self: Central to IFS is the concept of the Self, which represents the core, unifying aspect of an individual. The Self is characterized by qualities such as curiosity, compassion, and calmness. It is the part of you that can lead the internal system with wisdom and understanding.

Understanding Parts: In Parts Work, the therapist helps the individual explore and identify their various parts. Each part has its own feelings, thoughts, memories, and motivations. It's essential to approach these parts with curiosity and non-judgment to understand their roles and functions in the person's life.

Self-Leadership: The goal of Parts Work is to promote self-leadership. This means that the Self takes on the role of a compassionate and wise leader who can connect with, understand, and help heal the wounded or conflicting parts. Instead of being dominated by these parts, the Self becomes the guide in making decisions and navigating life's challenges.

Integration and Healing: Through dialogue and understanding, the individual works towards integrating and healing their parts. This involves addressing the concerns and wounds of these parts and helping them let go of their extreme roles. As parts become less extreme and more harmonious, individuals experience greater inner balance, self-compassion, and emotional healing.

External and Internal Communication: IFS can also extend beyond individual therapy. It's a valuable tool for improving communication and relationships with others, as it encourages individuals to understand their own parts and recognize the parts in others. This can lead to more empathetic and effective interactions.

Overall, Parts Work in Internal Family Systems is a therapeutic approach that aims to help individuals develop a deeper understanding of their internal dynamics, promote self-compassion, and facilitate healing and personal growth by fostering a harmonious relationship between the various parts of their psyche, all under the wise and compassionate guidance of the Self.