A Letter to a Younger Part
An IFS-informed writing exercise in which the adult Self writes to a younger part, imagines its reply and rates connection afterwards.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Internal Family Systems
- Approach / concern
- IFS / Parts Work
- Technique
- Internal Family Systems
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the A Letter to a Younger Part?
Younger parts (often exiles) carry painful emotions from earlier experiences. Compassionate connection from Self is central to healing in IFS, and writing can support this between sessions.
Why it works
IFS holds that all parts have positive intentions and that Self can lead the internal system with curiosity and compassion (Schwartz & Sweezy, 2020; Schwartz, 2021).
When to use it
- IFS and parts-informed therapy
- Self-criticism and inner conflict
- Trauma (with pacing)
- Between-session practice
How to use it in session
- Check protectors are okay with it.
- Identify the younger part.
- Write from Self.
- Imagine its reply.
- Ground afterwards.
Clinician tips
- Get protector permission first.
- Keep intense exile work in session.
- Have a grounding plan.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as inner child work?
It overlaps; IFS frames these as younger parts, with Self as the healer.
What if it’s overwhelming?
Stop, ground yourself, and bring it to your next session.
References
Schwartz, R. C., & Sweezy, M. (2020). Internal family systems therapy (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
Schwartz, R. C. (2021). No bad parts: Healing trauma and restoring wholeness with the internal family systems model. Sounds True.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
