Clinical Conversation

Guest: Crystal Hines
On-Demand: This conversation was recorded on September 17th, 2025.

In IFS circles, "Self energy" often gets top billing, calm, clarity, compassion… you know the list. But somewhere along the way, the message can morph into: parts are the problem. And for therapists? That can feel like a setup for shame.

This conversation challenges the unspoken hierarchy in IFS that elevates Self over parts. Instead, we’ll explore how parts energy (especially therapist parts) can be welcomed, honored, and even useful in the healing process.

We'll dig into:

• How the "Self or bust" mindset can actually make IFS harder to practice
• Why therapist parts aren't barriers, but valuable co-regulators and allies
• Practical ways to stay present and attuned with your parts, not in spite of them

If you've ever felt like you're doing IFS “wrong” because your own stuff shows up, you’re not alone. And you're not doing it wrong. You're doing it human.

Crystal Hines is a licensed professional counselor based out of Firestone, CO and Founder of Align Therapy and Consultation. Crystal is helping therapists go from Surviving to Thriving through providing tailored services to meet the needs of the burnt-out healer. Crystal and her team provide the following services: EMDR Consultation, IFS Consultation, Private Practice Business Coaching, Intuitive Tarot Card Readings, LPCC Supervision, Therapy for Therapists, Process Groups for Therapists, and Trainings/Workshops. Crystal has a brain-body-heart approach to healing. She is both direct and compassionate in her work with clients and knows the importance of doing her own healing. Crystal is a complex trauma survivor and is passionate about helping others along their healing journeys. She has a gift of connecting with the inner child who lives in all of us.