Parts Work

What is Structural Dissociation Theory or "Parts Work"?

For many, EMDR moves along with few hiccups and clients report great relief, renewed hope, and improved relationships. For others, more assistance is needed to help with “blocks” to the processing. With Structural Dissociation Theory (SDT), we will get to know your internal experience by identifying and working with parts of "self". These parts may have different traits, perspectives, and even different time orientations. Working with parts allows us to get to know one’s internal experience and begin to create an internal dialogue to increase self-compassion and resolve conflicts.

By resolving these inner conflicts, clients become “unstuck” and are able to make informed, whole-person decisions about their lives. The work is nothing short of transformative.

I tell my clients the process may be difficult but ultimately worth it. It is incredibly powerful work: learning to separate the past from the present; and learning to live life as it is, not as we may like it to be.

"Parts work" may also be involved in the preparation phase of EMDR to ready the client for processing traumatic material.