Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in San Diego, CA
I take a gentle, integrative approach—drawing from IFS ( or parts work ), Polyvagal theory, CBT, DBT, and trained in EMDR—to support your healing.
I’m a California LMFT supporting individuals, Asian American teens, and first-generation immigrant families heal from trauma and move from survival into an abundant, grounded life. My approach is warm, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and faith-integrated for clients who desire it. Whether you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or alone in your story, therapy can be a safe place to rebuild your voice, identity, and hope. I offer Mandarin and English sessions in San Diego and statewide via telehealth. You don’t have to carry this alone—reach out and begin your healing.
I take a gentle, integrative approach—drawing from IFS ( or parts work ), Polyvagal theory, CBT, DBT, and trained in EMDR—to support your healing.
I’m a California LMFT supporting individuals, Asian American teens, and first-generation immigrant families heal from trauma and move from survival into an abundant, grounded life. My approach is warm, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and faith-integrated for clients who desire it. Whether you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or alone in your story, therapy can be a safe place to rebuild your voice, identity, and hope. I offer Mandarin and English sessions in San Diego and statewide via telehealth. You don’t have to carry this alone—reach out and begin your healing.
My hope is that all of my clients will begin to approach both themselves and their world with more gentleness. With so many beautiful moments to capture, do you ever stop and notice what it is that you attend to? These are the things that are filling your life. I believe that small moments are actually opportunities to develop more peaceful encounters with ourselves. Fortunately, we can recreate the way we speak to ourselves. I have over fifteen years of experience and have treated children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety and learning differences.
My hope is that all of my clients will begin to approach both themselves and their world with more gentleness. With so many beautiful moments to capture, do you ever stop and notice what it is that you attend to? These are the things that are filling your life. I believe that small moments are actually opportunities to develop more peaceful encounters with ourselves. Fortunately, we can recreate the way we speak to ourselves. I have over fifteen years of experience and have treated children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety and learning differences.
I am passionate about childhood mental health as I believe intervening early will help your child meet their full potential and grow up to be an emotionally healthy, confident adult. The parent-child relationship is vital, so I aim to include you, the caregiver, as much as is possible and appropriate during treatment. I would love to help you and your child connect in more positive ways through play, as well as support your child learn positive coping skills to support challenging behaviors and big feelings.
I am passionate about childhood mental health as I believe intervening early will help your child meet their full potential and grow up to be an emotionally healthy, confident adult. The parent-child relationship is vital, so I aim to include you, the caregiver, as much as is possible and appropriate during treatment. I would love to help you and your child connect in more positive ways through play, as well as support your child learn positive coping skills to support challenging behaviors and big feelings.
I use a combination of Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in order to explore how different "parts" of you have gotten in the way of you trying to heal as well as address behaviors.
Being human is hard. It's not easy to navigate, especially if you are facing depression, addiction, anxiety, trauma, or any other challenges that might come up for you. That's where I come in. I’m committed to walking alongside you with compassion and respect, creating a safe space that recognizes both the pain you’ve carried and the resilience you bring.
I use a combination of Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in order to explore how different "parts" of you have gotten in the way of you trying to heal as well as address behaviors.
Being human is hard. It's not easy to navigate, especially if you are facing depression, addiction, anxiety, trauma, or any other challenges that might come up for you. That's where I come in. I’m committed to walking alongside you with compassion and respect, creating a safe space that recognizes both the pain you’ve carried and the resilience you bring.
What you'll find in therapy with me is a calm, steady, and genuine presence to help you feel at ease. I invite all of your emotions, worries, self-doubts, and relational patterns you can’t quite break out of. No matter how heavy it feels right now, I’ll meet you with compassion exactly where you are. You won’t get a therapist who simply nods and agrees with everything you say. I'll give honest feedback so you can make real change in your life. Whether you are here for yourself, your teenager, or your relationship, I want to give you hope that growth, healing, and reconnection is possible.
What you'll find in therapy with me is a calm, steady, and genuine presence to help you feel at ease. I invite all of your emotions, worries, self-doubts, and relational patterns you can’t quite break out of. No matter how heavy it feels right now, I’ll meet you with compassion exactly where you are. You won’t get a therapist who simply nods and agrees with everything you say. I'll give honest feedback so you can make real change in your life. Whether you are here for yourself, your teenager, or your relationship, I want to give you hope that growth, healing, and reconnection is possible.
Hello!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of experience. I work with individuals ages 3 and up, as well as couples. I am trauma informed and a Certified Clinical Supervisor. I have owned my private practice for 10 years, offering in person and telehealth services.
My therapy style is to meet clients where they are and provide a safe, confidential
space. My approach is both collaborative and curious, designed to meet specific needs while utilizing your strengths and develop essential tools you need in order to gain a sense of control and maintain balance in your life. You deserve to be heard and validated.
Hello!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of experience. I work with individuals ages 3 and up, as well as couples. I am trauma informed and a Certified Clinical Supervisor. I have owned my private practice for 10 years, offering in person and telehealth services.
My therapy style is to meet clients where they are and provide a safe, confidential
space. My approach is both collaborative and curious, designed to meet specific needs while utilizing your strengths and develop essential tools you need in order to gain a sense of control and maintain balance in your life. You deserve to be heard and validated.
Shelby Banks, Autism Affirming Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92102
I integrate neurodiversity affirming therapy, attachment focused work, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), ACT, DBT, and EFT.
Hi, I’m Shelby (she/her). I’m an Autistic, neurodivergent affirming therapist, and I’m passionate about helping people feel more understood, connected, and safe enough to fully be themselves. I work with teens, adults and couples navigating things like anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment wounds, relationship struggles, burnout, identity exploration, chronic masking, and feeling overwhelmed by life. I especially enjoy working late-diagnosed neurodivergent clients, LGBTQ+ clients and neurodivergent couples trying to better understand themselves and each other.
I integrate neurodiversity affirming therapy, attachment focused work, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), ACT, DBT, and EFT.
Hi, I’m Shelby (she/her). I’m an Autistic, neurodivergent affirming therapist, and I’m passionate about helping people feel more understood, connected, and safe enough to fully be themselves. I work with teens, adults and couples navigating things like anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment wounds, relationship struggles, burnout, identity exploration, chronic masking, and feeling overwhelmed by life. I especially enjoy working late-diagnosed neurodivergent clients, LGBTQ+ clients and neurodivergent couples trying to better understand themselves and each other.
Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92102
I am EMDR certified and utilize an IFS lens in trauma work.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
I am EMDR certified and utilize an IFS lens in trauma work.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
While I utilize Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, and other modalities, I am eclectic in my approach.
If you’re ready to take ownership of your life through curiosity, insight, and action- we will be a good fit. I’ll challenge you to take accountability for your thoughts and behaviors while also helping you build self-compassion and trust. The things keeping you stuck aren’t signs of failure, they’re invitations to explore. Together, we’ll take a closer look at the patterns, emotions, and beliefs that have been holding you back, not to judge them, but to understand them in a way that actually helps you move forward.
While I utilize Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, and other modalities, I am eclectic in my approach.
If you’re ready to take ownership of your life through curiosity, insight, and action- we will be a good fit. I’ll challenge you to take accountability for your thoughts and behaviors while also helping you build self-compassion and trust. The things keeping you stuck aren’t signs of failure, they’re invitations to explore. Together, we’ll take a closer look at the patterns, emotions, and beliefs that have been holding you back, not to judge them, but to understand them in a way that actually helps you move forward.
I specialize in eclectic and holistic therapy integrating various modalities including but not limited to EMDR, IFS, Sex Therapy, therapy for celebrities, high-profile, public figures and those experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, eating disorders and more.
We’re all doing the best we can with what we have to work with. Sometimes we can use some extra tools in our toolbox to support us in managing when life occurrences seem to pile up and we just need a break. Amber has experience in treating a range of symptoms, including those related to PTSD, anxiety and depression.
Amber is an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist and consultant, a Gottman Institute Certified Gottman Therapist, and a Certified Sex Therapist. She provides therapy to both the general population and high-profile, public-facing and celebrity clients. Amber is licensed in California, Iowa and Oregon.
I specialize in eclectic and holistic therapy integrating various modalities including but not limited to EMDR, IFS, Sex Therapy, therapy for celebrities, high-profile, public figures and those experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, eating disorders and more.
We’re all doing the best we can with what we have to work with. Sometimes we can use some extra tools in our toolbox to support us in managing when life occurrences seem to pile up and we just need a break. Amber has experience in treating a range of symptoms, including those related to PTSD, anxiety and depression.
Amber is an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist and consultant, a Gottman Institute Certified Gottman Therapist, and a Certified Sex Therapist. She provides therapy to both the general population and high-profile, public-facing and celebrity clients. Amber is licensed in California, Iowa and Oregon.
EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapy for trauma/PTSD, anxiety and relationship issues.
We utilize a blend of evidence-based therapies, trauma-informed practices, and mindfulness techniques to address the specific challenges our clients face. Our therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy and a deep understanding of the human experience. We aim to empower our clients, helping them build resilience and achieve a greater sense of well-being.
EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapy for trauma/PTSD, anxiety and relationship issues.
We utilize a blend of evidence-based therapies, trauma-informed practices, and mindfulness techniques to address the specific challenges our clients face. Our therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy and a deep understanding of the human experience. We aim to empower our clients, helping them build resilience and achieve a greater sense of well-being.
The trauma-informed techniques are based on your individual needs and readiness which may include EMDR, IFS, Brain-spotting, Flash Technique, Mind/body work, Grounding and tapping.
Hello and welcome! My name is Jessica Millanponce and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.I want to start by saying how honored I am that you took the time to learn a little bit about me and my clinical care approach. It is my belief and experience that complex-relationship trauma and attachment injuries show up in our lives and are the catalyst for symptoms that resemble anxiety, depression, dissociation, hyperactivity and various mood disorders. My approach to care is and has to be gentle, self-guided and compassionate as we explore the inner parts of Self that need attention, unburdening and healing.
The trauma-informed techniques are based on your individual needs and readiness which may include EMDR, IFS, Brain-spotting, Flash Technique, Mind/body work, Grounding and tapping.
Hello and welcome! My name is Jessica Millanponce and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.I want to start by saying how honored I am that you took the time to learn a little bit about me and my clinical care approach. It is my belief and experience that complex-relationship trauma and attachment injuries show up in our lives and are the catalyst for symptoms that resemble anxiety, depression, dissociation, hyperactivity and various mood disorders. My approach to care is and has to be gentle, self-guided and compassionate as we explore the inner parts of Self that need attention, unburdening and healing.
Julie Lynn Paavola
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, ATR-BC
San Diego, CA 92121
Waitlist for new clients
Other professional training: EMDR, IFS, MBSR, and Attachment based therapy.
Welcome to Creative Endeavors! I am here to support you in finding the healing potential within yourself. Just as our bodies heal from a cut, under the right conditions our psyche/soul can heal and thrive. It requires us to work together to foster meaning, purpose and new life through therapy which I call a "creative endeavor." Together we can form a compassionate partnership to explore who you are, your goals, hopes and dreams, in a safe, non-judgmental space.
Other professional training: EMDR, IFS, MBSR, and Attachment based therapy.
Welcome to Creative Endeavors! I am here to support you in finding the healing potential within yourself. Just as our bodies heal from a cut, under the right conditions our psyche/soul can heal and thrive. It requires us to work together to foster meaning, purpose and new life through therapy which I call a "creative endeavor." Together we can form a compassionate partnership to explore who you are, your goals, hopes and dreams, in a safe, non-judgmental space.
Narrative therapy and Internal Family Systems are my key modalities.
My name is Rachelle Ramos (LMFT149942) I have a Master of Science degree in Counseling Marriage and Family Therapy from San Diego State University. I belong to the LGBTQIA+ community as a queer genderqueer they/them femme individual. I am an active advocate for those who belong to sex and gender-marginalized communities in my social justice work outside of therapy. I have worked in sex education for over 7 years.
Narrative therapy and Internal Family Systems are my key modalities.
My name is Rachelle Ramos (LMFT149942) I have a Master of Science degree in Counseling Marriage and Family Therapy from San Diego State University. I belong to the LGBTQIA+ community as a queer genderqueer they/them femme individual. I am an active advocate for those who belong to sex and gender-marginalized communities in my social justice work outside of therapy. I have worked in sex education for over 7 years.
My approach blends Person-Centered therapy, Mindfulness, IFS, and ACT, allowing us to stay compassionate and practical while inviting meaningful change.
It can take time to find someone you feel comfortable opening up to. Therapy often asks for the same things that healing requires: vulnerability, curiosity, and space to explore at your own pace. My role is to help you reconnect with that inner clarity, notice patterns that no longer serve you, and support you as you try new ways of being. I support adults navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, trauma, and life transitions. Before becoming a therapist, I spent over a decade as an engineer in the medical device field, and I bring a perspective that honors both emotional experience and the systems that shape it.
My approach blends Person-Centered therapy, Mindfulness, IFS, and ACT, allowing us to stay compassionate and practical while inviting meaningful change.
It can take time to find someone you feel comfortable opening up to. Therapy often asks for the same things that healing requires: vulnerability, curiosity, and space to explore at your own pace. My role is to help you reconnect with that inner clarity, notice patterns that no longer serve you, and support you as you try new ways of being. I support adults navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, trauma, and life transitions. Before becoming a therapist, I spent over a decade as an engineer in the medical device field, and I bring a perspective that honors both emotional experience and the systems that shape it.
I use a handful of different modalities with the primary two being EMDR and parts work ( IFS).
I work with women who have recently experienced a traumatic event and help them return to a sense of normal. I also work with women who have experienced traumas in the distant past but who have been feeling chronically anxious, depressed, out of control and/or hopeless. Perhaps you cannot remember the last time you did not feel anxious or depressed. Or perhaps your body being in stress for so many years has created health issues. Or perhaps you have turned to compulsive behaviors to escape or numb the pain such as over drinking, over eating, perfectionism, codependency, dieting, binge watching TV and more.
I use a handful of different modalities with the primary two being EMDR and parts work ( IFS).
I work with women who have recently experienced a traumatic event and help them return to a sense of normal. I also work with women who have experienced traumas in the distant past but who have been feeling chronically anxious, depressed, out of control and/or hopeless. Perhaps you cannot remember the last time you did not feel anxious or depressed. Or perhaps your body being in stress for so many years has created health issues. Or perhaps you have turned to compulsive behaviors to escape or numb the pain such as over drinking, over eating, perfectionism, codependency, dieting, binge watching TV and more.
Hello, my name is Kassandra Estrella and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in supporting children, teens, young adults, and families through life’s challenges. I am also experienced and enjoy working with military/veteran and first responder families. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma, where I aim to provide effective strategies to help my clients regain balance and peace of mind. My approach is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), both of which are powerful tools for managing stressors and cultivating a meaningful life.
Hello, my name is Kassandra Estrella and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in supporting children, teens, young adults, and families through life’s challenges. I am also experienced and enjoy working with military/veteran and first responder families. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma, where I aim to provide effective strategies to help my clients regain balance and peace of mind. My approach is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), both of which are powerful tools for managing stressors and cultivating a meaningful life.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, my practice is open to a diverse population ranging in ages and ethnicities. I feel privileged to walk with clients as they take on unhealthy patterns and crutches which create feelings of being stuck, defeated and helpless. In therapy, clients will work towards centering a stronger, more confident and independent self. Treatment goals targeting symptoms of anxiety, depression and addressing conflictual relational patterns will ensure a happy and healthy life. My goal is that all of my clients feel 100% supported and confident that they are reaching their goals.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, my practice is open to a diverse population ranging in ages and ethnicities. I feel privileged to walk with clients as they take on unhealthy patterns and crutches which create feelings of being stuck, defeated and helpless. In therapy, clients will work towards centering a stronger, more confident and independent self. Treatment goals targeting symptoms of anxiety, depression and addressing conflictual relational patterns will ensure a happy and healthy life. My goal is that all of my clients feel 100% supported and confident that they are reaching their goals.
Are you interested in exploring yourself and your relationships? If you are feeling lonely, sad, worried, or just that your current life isn't meeting your potential, I would love to speak to you and explore how I might best be able to support you.
Regardless of my expertise and experience, you are the expert on your own life and it's critical to me that our work together is collaborative and that you feel consistently heard and supported in our sessions.
Are you interested in exploring yourself and your relationships? If you are feeling lonely, sad, worried, or just that your current life isn't meeting your potential, I would love to speak to you and explore how I might best be able to support you.
Regardless of my expertise and experience, you are the expert on your own life and it's critical to me that our work together is collaborative and that you feel consistently heard and supported in our sessions.
We, as humans, are wired for relationship and connection. Often challenges in life bring about difficulties that are deeply troubling and painful and get in the way of our relationship with our self and others. My desire is to help you navigate these challenges to help restore hope and healing in your life and relationships with others. I approach our time together as an honor and privilege, and want our time to be safe and transformational.
We, as humans, are wired for relationship and connection. Often challenges in life bring about difficulties that are deeply troubling and painful and get in the way of our relationship with our self and others. My desire is to help you navigate these challenges to help restore hope and healing in your life and relationships with others. I approach our time together as an honor and privilege, and want our time to be safe and transformational.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lakeside
- National City
- Poway
- Santee
- Spring Valley