The Best of You

160: When You Feel Unwanted—Meeting the Parts of You That Long to Belong with IFS Therapist Tammy Sollenberger


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What do you do with the ache of not feeling wanted? The part of you that wonders if you’ll ever truly belong?

In this powerful conversation with IFS therapist and author Tammy Sollenberger, we explore how the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model helps you turn toward those tender places inside—rather than pushing them away.

This conversation originally struck a deep chord with listeners—and it feels especially relevant right now. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or tuning in again, it holds fresh insight for your journey.

Tammy shares:

  • Her personal story of feeling unwanted, even though her parents loved her.
  • Why “parts work” is so transformative in healing emotional wounds
  • How self-compassion opens the door to real connection
  • A simple practice to begin befriending the hurting parts within
  • If you’ve ever struggled with feeling left out, overlooked, or not enough—this episode will meet you with kindness, insight, and hope.

    📘 Learn more about Tammy’s book: The One Inside

    💬 Got a question or reflection? Call 307-429-2525 and leave a message for a future episode.

    If you liked this episode, you'll love:

    • Episode 108 Inside Out—Internal Family Systems, Therapy, and High-Performing Protectors with Jenna Riemersma
    • Episodes 39 through 43 —Boundaries For Your Soul series on IFS in 5 parts


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      • Editing by Giulia Hjort

        Sound engineering by Kelly Kramarik

        Music by Andy Luiten

        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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        The Best of YouBy Dr. Alison Cook

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