Selfing With A Part (Parts Work)

While somewhat influenced by Internal Family Systems, this exercise is derived primarily from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Despite certain theoretical differences, ACT and IFS can be seen as mostly compatible approaches to working with the psychological dimension of Self. The exercise is designed to get to know a part of ourselves that may either push us around or that we tend to hide from ourselves or others. A part can be any emotion, set of beliefs, self-story, such as the inner critic, motivational drive, or behavioral pattern. By listening to and learning of a part's conditioning, intentions, and functions, we may be able to forge a more flexible and workable relationship with it.