The Whole Self

Do you ever feel extremes within yourself that feels like it shouldn’t co-exist?

One moment you're confident, the next you're full of self-doubt. You might crave connection, then push others away. You promise to quit a habit, only to find yourself right back in the same old pattern. You want to be kind but end up throwing out hurtful words and criticism.

This idea of an “integrated self” composed of interconnected parts has been explored in the realms of philosophy, psychology, and theology for centuries. When these parts are in conflict or malfunctioning, the whole self can feel disconnected and dysfunctional.

In difficult situations, different parts of us may take over or withdraw to protect us. Examples include pushing away or avoiding the parts of us that hold painful emotions in order to protect ourselves; the impulsive parts of us may want to grab for the chocolate bar, the drink or that TV show in order to distract, soothe or numb; the critical over-controlling parts of our brain may step in when we feel uncertain or anxious about life and we crave to feel in control.

Despite how it feels in the present, every part of us at some point or another in your life, served a helpful purpose. It may have acted to protect or to help you to cope and survive through a testing time. The same parts that cause us suffering now might have helped us to survive in other times.

When parts of ourselves become disconnected or ignored, it affects our overall well-being. Psychological therapy helps individuals explore all parts of themselves, fostering a more integrated and connected sense of self, leading to greater well-being.

All parts are welcome!