Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Santee, CA

Rosie Pappas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Santee, CA 92071
I integrate IFS, EMDR, and EFT to support LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and people in larger bodies.
Do you feel your survival strategies are keeping you from truly thriving? Maybe you find yourself scrolling social media for hours avoiding challenging emotions? Maybe you grew up around addiction or dysfunction and struggle to feel safe in relationships. Together, we can explore the protective parts of you that have worked hard to keep you safe. By building compassion for these parts and leading from your authentic Self, you can create more freedom, connection, and fulfillment internally and in your relationships. Your pain is real, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’d be honored to support you on this journey.
I integrate IFS, EMDR, and EFT to support LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and people in larger bodies.
Do you feel your survival strategies are keeping you from truly thriving? Maybe you find yourself scrolling social media for hours avoiding challenging emotions? Maybe you grew up around addiction or dysfunction and struggle to feel safe in relationships. Together, we can explore the protective parts of you that have worked hard to keep you safe. By building compassion for these parts and leading from your authentic Self, you can create more freedom, connection, and fulfillment internally and in your relationships. Your pain is real, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’d be honored to support you on this journey.
(442) 249-8648 View (442) 249-8648
Echo Ridge Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
We offer virtual therapy for any adult struggling with their Mental and Emotional Health. At Echo Ridge Wellness, we understand that life has its seasons and there are plenty of ups and downs. We are also perfect for those who have recently completed a residential or Intensive outpatient program. The flexibility we offer is ideal for the college student, working professional, or busy parent.
We offer virtual therapy for any adult struggling with their Mental and Emotional Health. At Echo Ridge Wellness, we understand that life has its seasons and there are plenty of ups and downs. We are also perfect for those who have recently completed a residential or Intensive outpatient program. The flexibility we offer is ideal for the college student, working professional, or busy parent.
(619) 614-7980 View (619) 614-7980
Breaking the Cycle Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Santee, CA 92071
Breaking the Cycle Counseling Inc. is dedicated to exactly what it's name says, breaking the cycle. We are excited about our mission and look forward to reaching those suffering in the cycle that has consumed their lives; cycle of abuse, cycle of addiction, the many cycles of depression or anxiety, cycle of life and whatever it brings. Breaking the Cycle Counseling also provides free counseling services to communities in San Diego. Our dedicated team of master-level licensed, associate, and practicum therapists help individuals break free from cycles that hold them back, promoting healing and well-being for all.
Breaking the Cycle Counseling Inc. is dedicated to exactly what it's name says, breaking the cycle. We are excited about our mission and look forward to reaching those suffering in the cycle that has consumed their lives; cycle of abuse, cycle of addiction, the many cycles of depression or anxiety, cycle of life and whatever it brings. Breaking the Cycle Counseling also provides free counseling services to communities in San Diego. Our dedicated team of master-level licensed, associate, and practicum therapists help individuals break free from cycles that hold them back, promoting healing and well-being for all.
(619) 304-5548 View (619) 304-5548
Kathryn D Krug
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCM, CCFP
3 Endorsed
Santee, CA 92071
Using Sound Healing & EMDR/ IFS, I help you stop surviving inherited blueprints & design the secure bonds you want.
Thank you for looking for help. The world needs healthy relationships. Our ability to relate to each other, and build community, is the great power of the people. I assist folks with unsatisfactory relationships that cause distress. Reduc frequent arguing and find resolution. Restore the energy of your relationships and manage the distress. Whether it's a partnership in crisis or a fractured familial relationship or friendship. All relationships deserve restoration. All love is worth an attempt to understand.
Using Sound Healing & EMDR/ IFS, I help you stop surviving inherited blueprints & design the secure bonds you want.
Thank you for looking for help. The world needs healthy relationships. Our ability to relate to each other, and build community, is the great power of the people. I assist folks with unsatisfactory relationships that cause distress. Reduc frequent arguing and find resolution. Restore the energy of your relationships and manage the distress. Whether it's a partnership in crisis or a fractured familial relationship or friendship. All relationships deserve restoration. All love is worth an attempt to understand.
(619) 350-2485 View (619) 350-2485
Mattilyn Millman - Trauma, EMDR, Empowerment
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
19 Endorsed
Online Only
I am currently being trained in IFS (parts work), and enjoy utilizing a Holistic framework as part of my practice.
You've learned to survive what you should never have endured, yet survival mode won’t turn off. You feel too much and not enough, carrying a quiet belief you're broken. Trauma still lives in your body... it is showing up as anxiety, numbness, or sudden overwhelm. You move through your day holding it all together, caring for others, doing what needs to be done. But then it gets quiet... maybe you’re lying in bed at night, your mind won’t slow down, or you feel that familiar exhaustion settle in your chest. Trust feels distant, even within yourself. In those moments, you don’t just want to cope, you want to feel like you again.
I am currently being trained in IFS (parts work), and enjoy utilizing a Holistic framework as part of my practice.
You've learned to survive what you should never have endured, yet survival mode won’t turn off. You feel too much and not enough, carrying a quiet belief you're broken. Trauma still lives in your body... it is showing up as anxiety, numbness, or sudden overwhelm. You move through your day holding it all together, caring for others, doing what needs to be done. But then it gets quiet... maybe you’re lying in bed at night, your mind won’t slow down, or you feel that familiar exhaustion settle in your chest. Trust feels distant, even within yourself. In those moments, you don’t just want to cope, you want to feel like you again.
(619) 637-3944 View (619) 637-3944
Cara Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My passion is to empower those who have not found their potential. We all have our own stories and experiences, which make us perfect candidates for success when we have the right support. Whether you have lived it, experienced it, or witnessed it, the effects of trauma are devastating. Quit beating yourself up. It is time to heal.
My passion is to empower those who have not found their potential. We all have our own stories and experiences, which make us perfect candidates for success when we have the right support. Whether you have lived it, experienced it, or witnessed it, the effects of trauma are devastating. Quit beating yourself up. It is time to heal.
(619) 313-6138 View (619) 313-6138
Silva Family Therapy, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, APCC, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Santee, CA 92071
Each therapist has their own specialties, including IFS, EMDR, Play therapy, addiction, exposure therapy, and military culture.
SFTi is all about helping others find their potential. Uncertainty might not have ever felt so strong but these last few years has created so much self doubt, instability, mistrust, and chaos. Sadly, for many this is what their whole life has felt like. When dealing with trauma, addiction, Identity, or abuse this is your life. Who can I trust? Where will I go? What can I do? SFTi staffs experienced trauma informed therapists specializing in EMDR, Addiction, LGBTQIA, Body Positive, Domestic Violence, and PTSD.
Each therapist has their own specialties, including IFS, EMDR, Play therapy, addiction, exposure therapy, and military culture.
SFTi is all about helping others find their potential. Uncertainty might not have ever felt so strong but these last few years has created so much self doubt, instability, mistrust, and chaos. Sadly, for many this is what their whole life has felt like. When dealing with trauma, addiction, Identity, or abuse this is your life. Who can I trust? Where will I go? What can I do? SFTi staffs experienced trauma informed therapists specializing in EMDR, Addiction, LGBTQIA, Body Positive, Domestic Violence, and PTSD.
(619) 648-4656 View (619) 648-4656
Tori Maushardt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Santee, CA 92071
I work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, trauma, stress, and substance use. Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns that are impacting their emotions, relationships, or daily functioning, and are looking for a way to better understand and shift these experiences. My approach is supportive and collaborative, with an emphasis on exploring the underlying patterns that contribute to current difficulties. This often includes examining how thoughts, emotions, and relational dynamics interact over time.
I work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, trauma, stress, and substance use. Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns that are impacting their emotions, relationships, or daily functioning, and are looking for a way to better understand and shift these experiences. My approach is supportive and collaborative, with an emphasis on exploring the underlying patterns that contribute to current difficulties. This often includes examining how thoughts, emotions, and relational dynamics interact over time.
(619) 648-3618 View (619) 648-3618
Cara Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Santee, CA 92071
Pulling from CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, EMDR, IFS, or Motivational Interviewing
My passion is to empower those that have not found their potential. We all have our own stories and experiences which makes us perfect candidates for success when we have the right support. Whether you have lived it, experienced it or witnessed it, the effects of trauma are devastating. Quit beating yourself up. It is time to heal. With 20 years experience in addiction and over 10 working with trauma, it is time to recover from the past, survive the present, and flourish into the future. It all starts with you.
Pulling from CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, EMDR, IFS, or Motivational Interviewing
My passion is to empower those that have not found their potential. We all have our own stories and experiences which makes us perfect candidates for success when we have the right support. Whether you have lived it, experienced it or witnessed it, the effects of trauma are devastating. Quit beating yourself up. It is time to heal. With 20 years experience in addiction and over 10 working with trauma, it is time to recover from the past, survive the present, and flourish into the future. It all starts with you.
(619) 535-8709 View (619) 535-8709
Samantha Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
At The Therapy Innovation, we believe every person’s journey is unique. We begin by truly listening—understanding where you are and the challenges you’re facing. From there, we walk alongside you to create a plan that feels right for your journey, celebrating every step forward—no matter how small. In our welcoming and safe space, whether in-person or virtual, you’ll find understanding, support, and flexibility that fits your life and your needs, including evening and weekend appointments.
At The Therapy Innovation, we believe every person’s journey is unique. We begin by truly listening—understanding where you are and the challenges you’re facing. From there, we walk alongside you to create a plan that feels right for your journey, celebrating every step forward—no matter how small. In our welcoming and safe space, whether in-person or virtual, you’ll find understanding, support, and flexibility that fits your life and your needs, including evening and weekend appointments.
(619) 768-2911 View (619) 768-2911
Jessica Millanponce EMDR&Brainspotting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
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.
(619) 332-4161 View (619) 332-4161
Adam Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
(619) 345-5939 View (619) 345-5939
Steve Lim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Steve! Therapy can be scary. You never know what you'll learn about yourself and your life. I know I was scared when I started... So, congratulations on taking the big first step to becoming the best version of yourself. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals.
Hi there, I'm Steve! Therapy can be scary. You never know what you'll learn about yourself and your life. I know I was scared when I started... So, congratulations on taking the big first step to becoming the best version of yourself. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals.
(818) 877-4349 View (818) 877-4349
Stephanie Fierro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, my name is Stephanie Fierro-Haldorson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with couples, LGBTQIA+ community, adolescents, foster youth, trauma, addiction, and children ages 5-17. I have worked with so many different persons. I am comfortable working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community (adults and children), trauma, foster youth, couples, those with addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Hello, my name is Stephanie Fierro-Haldorson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with couples, LGBTQIA+ community, adolescents, foster youth, trauma, addiction, and children ages 5-17. I have worked with so many different persons. I am comfortable working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community (adults and children), trauma, foster youth, couples, those with addiction, anxiety, and depression.
(424) 677-2630 View (424) 677-2630
Nancy North
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with high-achieving individuals and couples navigating the complexities of trauma, high-conflict parenting, and relational fractures. My clients often feel "stuck" in reactive patterns, where chronic stress overshadows their professional and personal success. With 25 years of experience, I provide a sophisticated, trauma-informed space to move beyond mere coping. By understanding how the body and brain process distress, I help you shift from a state of survival to one of clarity and agency, restoring health to your most important relationships.
I work with high-achieving individuals and couples navigating the complexities of trauma, high-conflict parenting, and relational fractures. My clients often feel "stuck" in reactive patterns, where chronic stress overshadows their professional and personal success. With 25 years of experience, I provide a sophisticated, trauma-informed space to move beyond mere coping. By understanding how the body and brain process distress, I help you shift from a state of survival to one of clarity and agency, restoring health to your most important relationships.
(619) 396-2219 View (619) 396-2219
Jareny Castillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My counseling style is non-judgmental, compassionate, and warm. I enjoy working with individuals and couples adjusting to different seasons of life. I want to meet you where you are. You are the expert in your life and I am here to support you and help you explore what is getting in the way of you living out your fullest potential. My goal for you is to feel like you've found your safe space, a place of understanding and free of judgment.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My counseling style is non-judgmental, compassionate, and warm. I enjoy working with individuals and couples adjusting to different seasons of life. I want to meet you where you are. You are the expert in your life and I am here to support you and help you explore what is getting in the way of you living out your fullest potential. My goal for you is to feel like you've found your safe space, a place of understanding and free of judgment.
(619) 359-0797 View (619) 359-0797
Balanced Life Therapy Center, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Just being human can be hard, and with all that is expected of us in this life, it can seem almost impossible at times. The external world can feel overwhelming and unsafe and our internal world can feel chaotic and just as unsafe. At the heart of any therapeutic approach is the attempt to find peace within so we can learn to be at peace with what is beyond our control. At Balanced Life Therapy Center, our clinicians are trained, each in their own preferred approach to healing, to support the inner world of their clients and help them get connected to the power they hold to move towards the life they desire.
Just being human can be hard, and with all that is expected of us in this life, it can seem almost impossible at times. The external world can feel overwhelming and unsafe and our internal world can feel chaotic and just as unsafe. At the heart of any therapeutic approach is the attempt to find peace within so we can learn to be at peace with what is beyond our control. At Balanced Life Therapy Center, our clinicians are trained, each in their own preferred approach to healing, to support the inner world of their clients and help them get connected to the power they hold to move towards the life they desire.
(619) 382-2873 View (619) 382-2873
Henry Cuellar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I'm originally from Honduras and have been in the U.S. since I was 11 years old. I've been in the mental health field for over 10 years and I'm passionate about helping individuals in their healing journey. I have extensive experience working in addiction medicine and treating various mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. I enjoy working with clients who are wanting to explore themselves and heal parts of themselves that need healing.
I'm originally from Honduras and have been in the U.S. since I was 11 years old. I've been in the mental health field for over 10 years and I'm passionate about helping individuals in their healing journey. I have extensive experience working in addiction medicine and treating various mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. I enjoy working with clients who are wanting to explore themselves and heal parts of themselves that need healing.
(760) 512-8805 View (760) 512-8805
Chelsea Conrady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I draw from cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems work to help you explore what's working in your life—and what isn't.
Starting therapy can feel both hopeful and uncertain, whether you’re navigating a major life transition, adjusting to parenthood, or just feeling “off” without knowing exactly why. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, overwhelm, or relational patterns they’re ready to understand and shift. I especially enjoy supporting new and expecting parents as they move through the emotional changes and identity shifts that often come with growing a family. I also believe in creating space for conversations around boundaries, self-worth, and the stories we’ve carried about ourselves and our relationships.
I draw from cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems work to help you explore what's working in your life—and what isn't.
Starting therapy can feel both hopeful and uncertain, whether you’re navigating a major life transition, adjusting to parenthood, or just feeling “off” without knowing exactly why. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, overwhelm, or relational patterns they’re ready to understand and shift. I especially enjoy supporting new and expecting parents as they move through the emotional changes and identity shifts that often come with growing a family. I also believe in creating space for conversations around boundaries, self-worth, and the stories we’ve carried about ourselves and our relationships.
(510) 529-3578 View (510) 529-3578

More Therapists Nearby

Jacqueline Tejada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach blends ACT, CBT, and IFS and is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and curiosity.
Together, we explore and untangle the emotional blocks that keep you feeling stuck. We shift from self-judgment to acceptance, and build sustainable habits rooted in your values. I help clients regulate emotions, reconnect with what matters most, and take small, meaningful steps — even when life feels hard.
My approach blends ACT, CBT, and IFS and is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and curiosity.
Together, we explore and untangle the emotional blocks that keep you feeling stuck. We shift from self-judgment to acceptance, and build sustainable habits rooted in your values. I help clients regulate emotions, reconnect with what matters most, and take small, meaningful steps — even when life feels hard.
(858) 727-5401 View (858) 727-5401

See more therapy options for Santee

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.