What is the essential self and how do we get in touch with it enough that it becomes a trusted leader for all of our parts? Today we welcome Dr. Alison Cook, therapist and host of the top-ranked podcast, The Best of You, to talk about the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model and how it can help all of us do some important healing work toward integration. We also discuss her new book, I Shouldn't Feel This Way: Name What’s Hard, Tame Your Guilt, and Transform Self-Sabotage into Brave Action. In this episode, we explore: What the 3 distinct parts of the personality are and the role each plays The 8 Cs of the Self  The importance of learning to honor the inner tension of mixed emotions Dr. Cook also shares her 3-step process to reconcile mixed emotions and foster self-acceptance. Tune in for practical insights that can help you integrate your parts and find harmony with your essential self.     About Dr. Alison Cook Dr. Alison Cook is a therapist and host of the top-ranked The Best of You podcast. Originally from Wyoming, Dr. Alison studied at Dartmouth College (BA), Denver Seminary (MA), and the University of Denver (PhD), where she specialized in integrating psychology and theology. Dr. Alison’s doctoral dissertation centered on the relationship between religion and prejudice. She is certified in Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) and is the author of the ECPA bestselling book The Best of You and coauthor of Boundaries for Your Soul, with nearly 100,000 copies sold– based on the popular IFS therapy model. Widely recognized as an expert at the intersection of faith and psychology, Dr. Alison empowers individuals to heal from past wounds, develop a strong sense of self, and forge healthy relationships. Her newest book, I Shouldn't Feel This Way: Name What’s Hard, Tame Your Guilt, and Transform Self-Sabotage into Brave Action released earlier this year.