Parts Work and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy at The Gaia Center

The concept of internal parts in IFS or other types of parts work is different from Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID, formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder). It could be said that we all have internal parts, which can be seen in common experiences like feeling internally conflicted (“a part of me wants _____, but another part of me wants _____”). Many people relate to the concepts of the “inner critic” or the “inner child,” and when these parts are explored and better understood in therapy, it can help to achieve therapeutic goals including greater self-compassion and behavior that is more congruent with one’s true desires and goals.

Nonetheless, individuals with DID can also benefit tremendously from Parks Work, although this is not a specialty of ours. There are several practices in Nashville that are excellent working with DID, and we’d be happy to refer you to them if you suspect that may be your experience.

Parts Work including IFS can be highly effective for addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, eating disorders, and can also be applicable to practically any type of psychological distress. The goal is to uncover and heal wounded parts, reduce internal conflicts, and help clients connect with their true essence, or “Self,” which is the core of their innate goodness and wisdom.

IFS was developed by Dr. Richard C. Schwartz in the 1980s. Schwartz, a family therapist, observed that individuals possess multiple subpersonalities or parts, each with distinct roles and traits. He integrated this understanding into a cohesive therapeutic approach that emphasizes healing the wounded parts and restoring balance within the internal system.

Well before Richard Schwartz developed IFS, the concept of internal parts was influenced by earlier psychological theories. Pioneers like Carl Jung with his concept of archetypes and subpersonalities, and Virginia Satir with her family systems therapy, laid the groundwork for understanding the multiplicity of the mind. These foundational ideas helped shape the development of modern parts work.

Research shows that IFS/Parts Work can be more effective than traditional talk therapy for a variety of issues. We believe this is because the approach is rooted in a systemic lens, embraces dialectical thinking (two opposing things can be true at once), assumes positive intent behind even the most frustrating or destructive behaviors / patterns, and affirms the innate goodness within each person.