“I Really Want to be a Good Client”: A Letter From Your Psychologist to Your High-Achieving Parts

Dear High-Achieving Parts,

I see you—and I know you well. In my own therapy work, I remember the deep desire to do therapy “right,” the effort to prepare, perform, and somehow ace the session. I remember the panic and disappointment that can arise when unblending from an extreme part doesn’t feel possible, despite earnest attempts. I also remember the quiet embarrassment of knowing—but not saying—how important it is to me that my therapist like me… really like me.

And I appreciate you. While I may not yet know your full story (and I genuinely want to), I know this much: you are working very hard to protect your person. You have likely learned that achievement, effort, and competence help keep them safe, connected, or valued—and that’s not small potatoes.

I want you to know that you do not need to show up in any particular way to be worthy of care here. You do not need to convince me, impress me, or prove anything. You are invited to arrive exactly as you are—blended or unblended, energized or depleted, motivated or completely tapped out. Every version of you is welcome.

With gratitude,
Amanda