What if the reason you feel stuck… isn’t because something is wrong with you, but because different parts of you are pulling in different directions?
We all know that feeling: one part of you wants to follow through, while another part resists. And often, one side takes over… leaving you with regret or confusion afterward.
In this episode, Dr. Alison is joined by IFS therapist and best-selling author Jenna Riemersma to explore what’s really happening beneath that inner conflict and how to respond differently.
Because the goal isn’t to fight those parts of you.
It’s to understand them.
Together, they walk through Jenna’s simple, practical framework that helps you move toward yourself with curiosity and compassion instead of shame or control.
You’ll explore:
Why the parts of you that frustrate you most may be trying to help
What keeps you stuck in the same inner battles again and again
The surprising shift that can calm the conflict inside
How to know when to share what’s happening inside you—and when it’s wiser to protect yourself
What real relief can look like when you stop fighting yourself
If you’ve ever felt stuck in cycles of overthinking, self-criticism, or reacting in ways you later regret, this conversation will help you understand why and what to do in the moment.
Want to go deeper?
Get Jenna’s new book, Move Toward.
Get Jenna's free Guided Meditations and Journaling Worksheets here.
Connect further with @dralisoncook on Instagram
Join 80,000+ soul tenders in our email community and receive weekly reflections and gentle practices on parts work here.
Want to hear more like this? Start here:
Episode 160: When You Feel Unwanted—Meeting the Parts of You That Long to Belong with IFS Therapist Tammy Sollenberger
Episode 108: Inside Out—Internal Family Systems, Therapy, and High-Performing Protectors with Jenna Riemersma
📖 Find a full transcript and list of resources from this episode here
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While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.
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