Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Carlsbad, CA
My clients desire to gain better self-understanding, feel "stuck” in their current situations, are experiencing significant life transitions, suffer from anxiety or depression, believe that life should be better than it is right now, or want to break generational chains and confront identity-based traumas. As a Black male therapist, my lived experiences allow me to walk with anyone who's experienced marginalization, giving them a safe space to process pain and develop tools to reclaim their dignity. All I need from you is your commitment to the journey!
My clients desire to gain better self-understanding, feel "stuck” in their current situations, are experiencing significant life transitions, suffer from anxiety or depression, believe that life should be better than it is right now, or want to break generational chains and confront identity-based traumas. As a Black male therapist, my lived experiences allow me to walk with anyone who's experienced marginalization, giving them a safe space to process pain and develop tools to reclaim their dignity. All I need from you is your commitment to the journey!
My name is Annissa, my pronouns are she/they, and I am an AMFT with Diaspora Therapy Group. My work centers on affirmation, empowerment, and celebration of intersectionality. Many clients have come into therapy seeking someone who can resonate with the feeling of being forgotten, misunderstood, or told that they are both “too much” and “not enough”. In our work together, clients and I explore all aspects of their identity while navigating and acknowledging challenges faced through systemic issues. Together we can collaborate to foster a safer space to authentically work, talk, and feel without fear of judgment.
My name is Annissa, my pronouns are she/they, and I am an AMFT with Diaspora Therapy Group. My work centers on affirmation, empowerment, and celebration of intersectionality. Many clients have come into therapy seeking someone who can resonate with the feeling of being forgotten, misunderstood, or told that they are both “too much” and “not enough”. In our work together, clients and I explore all aspects of their identity while navigating and acknowledging challenges faced through systemic issues. Together we can collaborate to foster a safer space to authentically work, talk, and feel without fear of judgment.
Congratulations on taking steps toward positive change! I offer a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore the areas of your life that feel stuck, overwhelming, or confusing. My goal is to help you gain clarity, build insight, and make lasting changes.
Congratulations on taking steps toward positive change! I offer a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore the areas of your life that feel stuck, overwhelming, or confusing. My goal is to help you gain clarity, build insight, and make lasting changes.
Therapy can be a very good thing for many. However, no one wants to be in therapy forever. I find many people end up spending way too long with not much gain, and finding themselves needing to go back to the "expert" to navigate their daily circumstances. My goal is to shortcut that process by tackling the source of the symptoms and then making YOU the expert of your own life and experience. Growth can happen. Joy and fulfillment are possible. Congratulations on taking the first step. I am so looking forward to joining you on your journey and helping you be the master of your destiny.
Therapy can be a very good thing for many. However, no one wants to be in therapy forever. I find many people end up spending way too long with not much gain, and finding themselves needing to go back to the "expert" to navigate their daily circumstances. My goal is to shortcut that process by tackling the source of the symptoms and then making YOU the expert of your own life and experience. Growth can happen. Joy and fulfillment are possible. Congratulations on taking the first step. I am so looking forward to joining you on your journey and helping you be the master of your destiny.
Do you find yourself second-guessing yourself, stuck in worry, or wondering if you're ever good enough? Maybe you're navigating a major life transition—such as pregnancy, a career change, relationship challenges, graduation, or another significant shift—and feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of yourself.
You want a space where you feel safe and supported, where you can process difficult emotions and better understand yourself and your relationships.
Do you find yourself second-guessing yourself, stuck in worry, or wondering if you're ever good enough? Maybe you're navigating a major life transition—such as pregnancy, a career change, relationship challenges, graduation, or another significant shift—and feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of yourself.
You want a space where you feel safe and supported, where you can process difficult emotions and better understand yourself and your relationships.
I work with individuals and couples who are interested in healing, growing, and moving forward with greater confidence and clarity in their relationship(s) or personal life. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and person-centered. I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, while providing a safe space for honest conversation and growth. I have helped many couples rekindle and strengthen their relationships and find a way back to each other. I have helped clients manage anxiety, build self-esteem, and set healthy boundaries to approach life with greater confidence.
I work with individuals and couples who are interested in healing, growing, and moving forward with greater confidence and clarity in their relationship(s) or personal life. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and person-centered. I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, while providing a safe space for honest conversation and growth. I have helped many couples rekindle and strengthen their relationships and find a way back to each other. I have helped clients manage anxiety, build self-esteem, and set healthy boundaries to approach life with greater confidence.
I weave together my clinical training including EMDR, BrainSpotting, IFS and Emotionally Focused Therapy, with training in somatic practices, breath work and energy work.
Do you ever feel like "too much," or never quite enough in the relationships that matter most? Maybe you long to feel connected with your partner but keep landing in the same painful cycle: one reaching, the other pulling away. Maybe past trauma left you bracing for disconnection. When pain runs this deep, insight alone rarely shifts it. These patterns formed early, in the body and nervous system, before we had words. I work at that level, somatic and attachment-based, so change holds. I'm non-judgmental, intuitive, and not afraid of deep work or hard truths. Whatever you bring is welcome, all of it.
I weave together my clinical training including EMDR, BrainSpotting, IFS and Emotionally Focused Therapy, with training in somatic practices, breath work and energy work.
Do you ever feel like "too much," or never quite enough in the relationships that matter most? Maybe you long to feel connected with your partner but keep landing in the same painful cycle: one reaching, the other pulling away. Maybe past trauma left you bracing for disconnection. When pain runs this deep, insight alone rarely shifts it. These patterns formed early, in the body and nervous system, before we had words. I work at that level, somatic and attachment-based, so change holds. I'm non-judgmental, intuitive, and not afraid of deep work or hard truths. Whatever you bring is welcome, all of it.
Together we’ll identify what’s keeping you stuck With 26 years of experience, I use Cognitive Behavioral, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Strengths-Based Therapy, Mindfulness, and Self-Compassion techniques to help you gain clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.
I believe healing is possible, no matter what you've been through. With a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master’s in Christian Leadership, I bring both clinical expertise and a faith-based approach to therapy. Using evidence-based methods like CBT, IFS, and Mindfulness, we’ll explore what's holding you back and build resilience together.
Together we’ll identify what’s keeping you stuck With 26 years of experience, I use Cognitive Behavioral, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Strengths-Based Therapy, Mindfulness, and Self-Compassion techniques to help you gain clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.
I believe healing is possible, no matter what you've been through. With a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master’s in Christian Leadership, I bring both clinical expertise and a faith-based approach to therapy. Using evidence-based methods like CBT, IFS, and Mindfulness, we’ll explore what's holding you back and build resilience together.
Whether you are dealing with an unexpected change, trauma, anxiety, health challenge, relationship stress, depression or other mental health issue, having a trusted guide on the path can make all the difference. Over the past 25 years I have found mind body therapies get to the root of where we get stuck and allow for positive change.
Whether you are dealing with an unexpected change, trauma, anxiety, health challenge, relationship stress, depression or other mental health issue, having a trusted guide on the path can make all the difference. Over the past 25 years I have found mind body therapies get to the root of where we get stuck and allow for positive change.
I use evidence based approaches (EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS and others) that can give you powerful tools to train your brain against anxiety, depression, emotional distress, anger issues, and other struggles.
Are you wanting to feel differently or have something change in your life but dont know how to get there? Sometimes we just need help generating the internal and external life we crave. I believe that early relationships in our life affect the way we think, feel, and behave towards the people we care about. It even changes the way our brains develop and personalities express themselves! I use a variety of interventions to support you in uncovering patterns that are causing problems, heal, and learn new ways of being. You have many strengths just waiting to be used. It would be an honor to walk alongside you.
I use evidence based approaches (EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS and others) that can give you powerful tools to train your brain against anxiety, depression, emotional distress, anger issues, and other struggles.
Are you wanting to feel differently or have something change in your life but dont know how to get there? Sometimes we just need help generating the internal and external life we crave. I believe that early relationships in our life affect the way we think, feel, and behave towards the people we care about. It even changes the way our brains develop and personalities express themselves! I use a variety of interventions to support you in uncovering patterns that are causing problems, heal, and learn new ways of being. You have many strengths just waiting to be used. It would be an honor to walk alongside you.
I hold a Master’s in Education and Clinical Counseling from Azusa Pacific University (2017), and I support clients through an integrative approach that draws from CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, SFT, and supportive therapy, always working at a pace that feels right for you.
As someone who also lives with ADHD and has completed specialized training in this area, I understand how these struggles can feel both exhausting and invisible. I help clients untangle patterns of overwhelm, self-criticism, and disconnection, offering both practical tools and space to reconnect with what matters most.
I hold a Master’s in Education and Clinical Counseling from Azusa Pacific University (2017), and I support clients through an integrative approach that draws from CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, SFT, and supportive therapy, always working at a pace that feels right for you.
As someone who also lives with ADHD and has completed specialized training in this area, I understand how these struggles can feel both exhausting and invisible. I help clients untangle patterns of overwhelm, self-criticism, and disconnection, offering both practical tools and space to reconnect with what matters most.
A lot of my work is with people who are used to holding a lot. Maybe you’re a high achiever, the dependable one, or someone who’s spent years doing what you’re “supposed” to do - but lately you’re exhausted, anxious, burned out, or noticing your body carrying the stress too. I also work with parents who are finding that parenthood looks a whole lot different than the blissful version we’re sold in Pampers commercials. Therapy can be a place to slow down, make sense of what you’re carrying, and work through the stuff that’s been hanging around for a long time.
A lot of my work is with people who are used to holding a lot. Maybe you’re a high achiever, the dependable one, or someone who’s spent years doing what you’re “supposed” to do - but lately you’re exhausted, anxious, burned out, or noticing your body carrying the stress too. I also work with parents who are finding that parenthood looks a whole lot different than the blissful version we’re sold in Pampers commercials. Therapy can be a place to slow down, make sense of what you’re carrying, and work through the stuff that’s been hanging around for a long time.
Using specialized training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I work with clients to ease distressing symptoms, move beyond patterns that no longer serve them, and build a renewed sense of safety, clarity, and purpose.
In-Person Therapy for Adults – Healing, Growth, and Connection
I offer compassionate, collaborative therapy for adults seeking support through life’s challenges. My work focuses on issues such as anxiety, major life transitions, post-divorce identity repair, complex trauma, PTSD, addiction, codependency, experiences growing up in dysfunctional families or as an adult child of alcoholics, physical and sexual abuse, self-esteem, parenting challenges, divorce, grief, loss, and depression. I take a holistic approach, prioritizing the connection between physical, mental, and emotional health.
Using specialized training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I work with clients to ease distressing symptoms, move beyond patterns that no longer serve them, and build a renewed sense of safety, clarity, and purpose.
In-Person Therapy for Adults – Healing, Growth, and Connection
I offer compassionate, collaborative therapy for adults seeking support through life’s challenges. My work focuses on issues such as anxiety, major life transitions, post-divorce identity repair, complex trauma, PTSD, addiction, codependency, experiences growing up in dysfunctional families or as an adult child of alcoholics, physical and sexual abuse, self-esteem, parenting challenges, divorce, grief, loss, and depression. I take a holistic approach, prioritizing the connection between physical, mental, and emotional health.
Hi, my name is Bill Middleton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in California and Illinois, I am also an ordained Christian minister. I am currently based in Carlsbad, California via tele-heath and have spent the last 30 years counseling Marines, sailors, and military families around the world. I work with all ages dealing with stress, grief, family communication, and faith issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and other modes to assist in life's challenges. I possess decades of experience working with young adults, married couples, and individuals working in high-stress environments.
Hi, my name is Bill Middleton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in California and Illinois, I am also an ordained Christian minister. I am currently based in Carlsbad, California via tele-heath and have spent the last 30 years counseling Marines, sailors, and military families around the world. I work with all ages dealing with stress, grief, family communication, and faith issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and other modes to assist in life's challenges. I possess decades of experience working with young adults, married couples, and individuals working in high-stress environments.
I'll help you find empowerment in your life, using EMDR, mindfulness, IFS and other evidence based approaches.
You want to feel content and self-assured but inside you are struggling with second guessing yourself or feeling stuck, feeling out of control and powerless. Maybe you are feeling that something, deep down, could be wrong with you. Or maybe you are frustrated, resentful and angry at being misunderstood or unappreciated. Do you feel like no matter how hard you try to be the person you are “supposed to be” it’s never enough? You might feel like giving up because you are tired of trying to improve your life, but keep repeating the patterns that make you feel like you will never measure up.
I'll help you find empowerment in your life, using EMDR, mindfulness, IFS and other evidence based approaches.
You want to feel content and self-assured but inside you are struggling with second guessing yourself or feeling stuck, feeling out of control and powerless. Maybe you are feeling that something, deep down, could be wrong with you. Or maybe you are frustrated, resentful and angry at being misunderstood or unappreciated. Do you feel like no matter how hard you try to be the person you are “supposed to be” it’s never enough? You might feel like giving up because you are tired of trying to improve your life, but keep repeating the patterns that make you feel like you will never measure up.
I use research-backed methods, including DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR and art therapy, tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs.
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) remotely. Our wounds and traumas are not just scars—they can be powerful catalysts for transformation when acknowledged and worked through. We often look for ways to “fix” ourselves, but the truth is e are not broken. While we may never return to who we were before, therapy can help you rebuild and emerge even wiser and
I use research-backed methods, including DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Internal Family Systems ( IFS), EMDR and art therapy, tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs.
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) remotely. Our wounds and traumas are not just scars—they can be powerful catalysts for transformation when acknowledged and worked through. We often look for ways to “fix” ourselves, but the truth is e are not broken. While we may never return to who we were before, therapy can help you rebuild and emerge even wiser and
Melissa Collins-Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
3 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I most often use Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, and ACT, but tailor treatment to the client's needs and preferences.
I’m passionate about helping people feel more at peace with themselves and the world around them. Life can be messy and complicated, and therapy is a place where we can make sense of it together. Before becoming a therapist, I spent many years teaching film studies. I’ve always been fascinated by stories—the ones told on screen and the ones we carry inside.
I most often use Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, and ACT, but tailor treatment to the client's needs and preferences.
I’m passionate about helping people feel more at peace with themselves and the world around them. Life can be messy and complicated, and therapy is a place where we can make sense of it together. Before becoming a therapist, I spent many years teaching film studies. I’ve always been fascinated by stories—the ones told on screen and the ones we carry inside.
These are certainly challenging times. Difficult emotions like loneliness, fear, anger, shame and disillusionment can take over, and you may feel like your life is out of control. Maybe things look good on the outside, but you feel uncertain on the inside. Maybe you have been avoiding things by “self-medicating” with alcohol, food, substances, TV, or the internet? Maybe you are having conflict with someone you love. Maybe “old stuff” is bubbling up? No matter what, you have arrived at this moment for a reason- you are ready to really look deeply at some things and make some changes! Therapy is a great place to do that.
These are certainly challenging times. Difficult emotions like loneliness, fear, anger, shame and disillusionment can take over, and you may feel like your life is out of control. Maybe things look good on the outside, but you feel uncertain on the inside. Maybe you have been avoiding things by “self-medicating” with alcohol, food, substances, TV, or the internet? Maybe you are having conflict with someone you love. Maybe “old stuff” is bubbling up? No matter what, you have arrived at this moment for a reason- you are ready to really look deeply at some things and make some changes! Therapy is a great place to do that.
Ariel Klassen : Anxiety & Trauma
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
10 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Do you feel like the one everyone else leans on — while no one's checking in on you? If burnout, overwhelm, and difficulty setting boundaries have become your normal, it might be time to put yourself back on the list. Together, we'll explore where these patterns come from, build tools to navigate stress and hard emotions, and — maybe most importantly — help you trust yourself again. My goal is to create a space where you can show up honestly, without performing or over-explaining, as you build a life that actually feels like yours.
Do you feel like the one everyone else leans on — while no one's checking in on you? If burnout, overwhelm, and difficulty setting boundaries have become your normal, it might be time to put yourself back on the list. Together, we'll explore where these patterns come from, build tools to navigate stress and hard emotions, and — maybe most importantly — help you trust yourself again. My goal is to create a space where you can show up honestly, without performing or over-explaining, as you build a life that actually feels like yours.
I use Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help you understand and support parts of yourself—like the inner critic or overwhelmed achiever.
You deserve success at work and at home - without losing yourself.
If you’re a high-achieving woman feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or lost in early motherhood, you’re not alone. I specialize in maternal mental health, supporting ambitious women including founders, executives, and career-driven professionals, as they navigate the emotional challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, and identity shifts in motherhood. In our sessions, we’ll calm anxious thoughts, strengthen your self-connection, and help you show up fully—at work, at home, and as the mom you want to be.
I use Internal Family Systems ( IFS) to help you understand and support parts of yourself—like the inner critic or overwhelmed achiever.
You deserve success at work and at home - without losing yourself.
If you’re a high-achieving woman feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or lost in early motherhood, you’re not alone. I specialize in maternal mental health, supporting ambitious women including founders, executives, and career-driven professionals, as they navigate the emotional challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, and identity shifts in motherhood. In our sessions, we’ll calm anxious thoughts, strengthen your self-connection, and help you show up fully—at work, at home, and as the mom you want to be.
See more therapy options for Carlsbad
Nearby Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists Searches for Carlsbad
- Dana Point
- Fallbrook
- Lake Elsinore
- Menifee
- Murrieta
- Oceanside
- Rancho Santa Margarita
- San Clemente
- Temecula
- Trabuco Canyon
- Vista
- Winchester
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists
What is Internal Family Systems therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on sub-personalities, or “families,” within a person, which may be made up of wounded parts and unpleasant emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities can come into conflict with each other and with an individual’s core Self, leaving the person feeling detached from positive traits such as the “8 C’s” of confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. By healing a patient’s wounded parts, a therapist aims to restore balance and bring on positive change.
How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
An IFS therapist will work with a patient to identify their particular sub-personalities, recognize the emotions powering them, and release them. By doing so, the patient should become more able to address any underlying problems their sub-personalities may have been trying to protect them from. Ultimately, a patient discovers ways to manage internal and external conflicts on their own, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, journaling, and making charts depicting the relationships between their core Self and their distinct parts.
Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
IFS therapy has been shown to help people address conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, fears and phobias, trauma, and substance use disorders. Some research has also found that it can help individuals deal with symptoms of physical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, everyday functioning, depressive feelings, and low self-compassion. There are some conditions for which IFS treatment, specifically discussions of one’s “parts,” may be less appropriate, such as schizophrenia or other states that involve psychosis or paranoia.
How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for IFS therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core concepts of IFS, some patients quickly make progress. While experiences vary, most will find that it is a relatively longer-term therapy, involving months and sometimes years of sessions.