If you’ve spent any time in healing spaces, you’ve probably heard of “parts work.” You may have also heard it called Internal Family Systems (IFS)—and then tuned out the second it started to sound too clinical.
At MIMO, we believe that healing tools should feel human, not confusing. So let’s break down what “parts work” actually is—no psych degree required.
What Is “Parts Work” in Plain Language?
Parts work is based on one simple truth: We all have different parts of ourselves—and they don’t always agree.
Maybe one part wants to set a boundary… And another part is terrified to upset someone.
Maybe one part feels confident and clear… And another part still believes you’re unworthy.
Parts work doesn’t pathologize this—it normalizes it. It says: of course you feel conflicted. Of course you carry inner voices. Let’s get to know them instead of fighting them.
Types of Parts You Might Meet
These aren’t hard categories—just common archetypes that show up in many of us:
- The Inner Critic — points out your flaws to try to keep you safe or improve
- The Overachiever — gets things done, stays busy, avoids stillness
- The Pleaser — avoids conflict, wants to be liked and needed
- The Protector — shuts things down to avoid overwhelm
- The Exiled Part — carries your deepest hurt, shame, or fear
- The Inner Child — playful, vulnerable, reactive, or wise
Each part formed for a reason. Each one is trying to help—even if their methods are outdated or self-sabotaging.
The Goal Isn’t to Get Rid of Your Parts
In parts work, we don’t try to “fix” or silence parts. We build a relationship with them.
Why? Because as we explored in How to Talk to Your Inner Child Without Cringing, these parts often formed during moments of fear, isolation, or disconnection. They’re carrying unmet needs—not brokenness.
What Does Parts Work Actually Look Like?
1. You Notice a Reaction
Instead of saying “Ugh, why am I like this?” You ask: “What part of me is showing up right now?”
2. You Get Curious, Not Critical
Try:
- “What does this part want me to know?”
- “What is it afraid would happen if it didn’t act this way?”
- “How long has this part been doing this job?”
3. You Introduce the Wise Self
Parts work believes in something called the Self—the calm, clear, compassionate center of you. This isn’t a part—it’s the version of you that can hold space for all your parts without blending into them.
Think of it as your inner anchor. It might speak softly at first. But it’s always there.
Why It Works
Parts work helps with:
- Shame reduction (you are not just your triggers)
- Self-compassion (every part makes sense in context)
- Emotional regulation (parts stop hijacking your responses)
- Trauma integration (you reconnect with exiled parts safely)
It supports internal safety—which is essential for nervous system healing, as we explored in What Is the Window of Tolerance?
You’re Not “Too Much”—You Just Have a Lot of Parts
If you feel chaotic inside, like there are competing voices or needs, you’re not broken. You’re human. And parts work helps you sort through the noise—without shaming any of it.
At MIMO, we believe that healing isn’t about becoming one perfect version of yourself. It’s about making room for all the versions you’ve been—and learning how to lead them with care.