Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Spring Valley, CA

Melissa Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I primarily use Internal Family Systems as my therapeutic framework but nothing about any of my work is ever one-size-fits-all.
Whether you've been in therapy for years or it's your first time dipping your toe in the water, I'm here to meet you right where you're at. There are infinite ways to heal, change, grow and transform. If you're ready to prioritize yourself - even if you don't fully know what that 'means' or looks like yet - you're in the right place.
I primarily use Internal Family Systems as my therapeutic framework but nothing about any of my work is ever one-size-fits-all.
Whether you've been in therapy for years or it's your first time dipping your toe in the water, I'm here to meet you right where you're at. There are infinite ways to heal, change, grow and transform. If you're ready to prioritize yourself - even if you don't fully know what that 'means' or looks like yet - you're in the right place.
(619) 810-5406 View (619) 810-5406
Wellness Growth and Healing
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Online Only
Hello and welcome! I'm Monique, a Mental Health Therapist. My approach to wellness focuses on fostering awareness, growth, and healing. I have extensive experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, identity challenges, and trauma among others. I've also worked in addiction treatment settings alongside military health services and family court systems. I have a wide range regarding therapeutic practice; we can try the 'fit' during consult or session one depending on preference.
Hello and welcome! I'm Monique, a Mental Health Therapist. My approach to wellness focuses on fostering awareness, growth, and healing. I have extensive experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, identity challenges, and trauma among others. I've also worked in addiction treatment settings alongside military health services and family court systems. I have a wide range regarding therapeutic practice; we can try the 'fit' during consult or session one depending on preference.
(619) 853-6966 View (619) 853-6966
Natalia Valdez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
At Curious Paradox the mantra we follow is “when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” I am here to help and lend you a hand in that fight! I specialize working with teens as well as couples seeking change. For those seeking to feel reconnected and rekindle that light that brought them together. And for our teens, seeking a place of understanding and safety from the chaos of the outside world.
At Curious Paradox the mantra we follow is “when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” I am here to help and lend you a hand in that fight! I specialize working with teens as well as couples seeking change. For those seeking to feel reconnected and rekindle that light that brought them together. And for our teens, seeking a place of understanding and safety from the chaos of the outside world.
(408) 351-7925 View (408) 351-7925
Mary Colmenares
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I have much experience with Grief and Loss (Perinatal included), Family Systems, and Couples.
Hi...my name is Mary T. Colmenares, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, as well as a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor. I am located in San Diego, CA, and see clients in person or via teletherapy. I work with children, ages 3-17, as well as adults. I provide Play Therapy and a Client-Centered approach, which allows the client to share their story. I specialize in Grief Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, and the numerous life transitions that we all face. I find that children as well as adults often present with the above.
I have much experience with Grief and Loss (Perinatal included), Family Systems, and Couples.
Hi...my name is Mary T. Colmenares, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, as well as a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor. I am located in San Diego, CA, and see clients in person or via teletherapy. I work with children, ages 3-17, as well as adults. I provide Play Therapy and a Client-Centered approach, which allows the client to share their story. I specialize in Grief Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, and the numerous life transitions that we all face. I find that children as well as adults often present with the above.
(619) 457-6868 View (619) 457-6868
Nahied Rahimi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Nahied! I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in couples therapy and individual counseling. My approach centers on helping couples break out of destructive communication patterns and create space for growth. I work with clients navigating relationship challenges, grief, cross-cultural issues, and the stresses of daily life. As an Afghan American and mother, I bring personal and cultural insight to my practice, creating a compassionate, safe space for all clients to heal and thrive.
Hi there, I'm Nahied! I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in couples therapy and individual counseling. My approach centers on helping couples break out of destructive communication patterns and create space for growth. I work with clients navigating relationship challenges, grief, cross-cultural issues, and the stresses of daily life. As an Afghan American and mother, I bring personal and cultural insight to my practice, creating a compassionate, safe space for all clients to heal and thrive.
(949) 868-8095 View (949) 868-8095
Karla Fernanda Villasenor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
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.
(818) 873-3343 View (818) 873-3343
Cara Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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

More Therapists Nearby

Meg Semler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy using evidence-based treatments, including EMDR, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Ketamine-Assisted Therapy and IFS.
It can be very frustrating to care deeply about your partner while continuing to have the same fight over and over again. Getting stuck in problematic patterns can leave you feeling misunderstood, unappreciated, or alone. I’m an attachment-based therapist which means I believe our early life experiences teach us what to expect from others and what others will expect from us. Understanding how our behavior is influenced by our history builds compassion for ourselves and our partners, gives us greater insight into our relational patterns, and fosters self-awareness and intimacy.
I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy using evidence-based treatments, including EMDR, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Ketamine-Assisted Therapy and IFS.
It can be very frustrating to care deeply about your partner while continuing to have the same fight over and over again. Getting stuck in problematic patterns can leave you feeling misunderstood, unappreciated, or alone. I’m an attachment-based therapist which means I believe our early life experiences teach us what to expect from others and what others will expect from us. Understanding how our behavior is influenced by our history builds compassion for ourselves and our partners, gives us greater insight into our relational patterns, and fosters self-awareness and intimacy.
(619) 268-8266 View (619) 268-8266
Abigail Longpre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I approach individual therapy through an eclectic approach, but I lean toward Internal Family Systems/parts work, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Abigail and I'm a queer, neurodivergent therapist who strives to create a safe and comfortable space for therapy. I work with both adolescents and adults and specialize in working with complex trauma, queer individuals, neurodivergent individuals, those experiencing chronic illness, mood disorders, as well as chronic suicidality. I, like many others, have struggled with being a part of marginalized groups and did not receive adequate care for my needs from providers. I was inspired to become someone whose passion is to consistently grow and learn about how I can do better for my clients.
I approach individual therapy through an eclectic approach, but I lean toward Internal Family Systems/parts work, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Abigail and I'm a queer, neurodivergent therapist who strives to create a safe and comfortable space for therapy. I work with both adolescents and adults and specialize in working with complex trauma, queer individuals, neurodivergent individuals, those experiencing chronic illness, mood disorders, as well as chronic suicidality. I, like many others, have struggled with being a part of marginalized groups and did not receive adequate care for my needs from providers. I was inspired to become someone whose passion is to consistently grow and learn about how I can do better for my clients.
(760) 706-7301 View (760) 706-7301
Joshua Krause
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92108
We will learn to befriend all the messy parts within you with Internal Family Systems ( IFS), we will employ radical acceptance principles to move out of suffering, and EMDR to calm your nervous system.
Are you being pummeled by the waves of life? Is the tsunami of stress, anxiety, depression, change, grief and loss, leaving you feeling seasick, unmoored, and stuck in fear and survival mode? I'm here to help you get out of your head and into your life. Be it the stressors of divorce and custody, intimacy/relationships/sex and family/partner conflict, death of a loved one/loss of a job, feeling stuck, or navigating the overwhelming existential uncertainties of our world: you are not alone. Together, we will explore your values, meaning, & purpose, develop insight and resilience, and inspire and celebrate your unique inner warrior.
We will learn to befriend all the messy parts within you with Internal Family Systems ( IFS), we will employ radical acceptance principles to move out of suffering, and EMDR to calm your nervous system.
Are you being pummeled by the waves of life? Is the tsunami of stress, anxiety, depression, change, grief and loss, leaving you feeling seasick, unmoored, and stuck in fear and survival mode? I'm here to help you get out of your head and into your life. Be it the stressors of divorce and custody, intimacy/relationships/sex and family/partner conflict, death of a loved one/loss of a job, feeling stuck, or navigating the overwhelming existential uncertainties of our world: you are not alone. Together, we will explore your values, meaning, & purpose, develop insight and resilience, and inspire and celebrate your unique inner warrior.
(619) 941-6785 View (619) 941-6785
Jeff K. Larsen: San Diego's "Cool Counselor"
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92105
I am a fun, compassionate, and very easy-to-talk-to counselor. I have helped hundreds of people create better lives for themselves in a short amount of time thanks to good therapy. My work has been featured on FOX5 News, Good Morning San Diego, the CW6, WebMD and The San Diego Union Tribune. I speak both English and some Spanish and have a beautiful office in Mission Valley with lots of free parking to better serve you. Please check out my website...www.coolcounselorsd.com!
I am a fun, compassionate, and very easy-to-talk-to counselor. I have helped hundreds of people create better lives for themselves in a short amount of time thanks to good therapy. My work has been featured on FOX5 News, Good Morning San Diego, the CW6, WebMD and The San Diego Union Tribune. I speak both English and some Spanish and have a beautiful office in Mission Valley with lots of free parking to better serve you. Please check out my website...www.coolcounselorsd.com!
(619) 900-6802 View (619) 900-6802
Martina Nittra Savedra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My approach is relational and trauma-informed, grounded in Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and somatic therapy.
Many of the adults and couples I work with feel stuck in recurring relationship patterns, family dynamics, or life transitions that continue to create distress despite years of self-reflection. They are thoughtful, capable, and self-aware, yet find themselves repeating familiar relational patterns or carrying responsibilities that no longer fit. Insight alone hasn’t created lasting change, and they are seeking steadier relationships, greater clarity, and a deeper sense of self-trust, often as part of a broader commitment to intentional living and holistic well-being.
My approach is relational and trauma-informed, grounded in Internal Family Systems ( IFS) and somatic therapy.
Many of the adults and couples I work with feel stuck in recurring relationship patterns, family dynamics, or life transitions that continue to create distress despite years of self-reflection. They are thoughtful, capable, and self-aware, yet find themselves repeating familiar relational patterns or carrying responsibilities that no longer fit. Insight alone hasn’t created lasting change, and they are seeking steadier relationships, greater clarity, and a deeper sense of self-trust, often as part of a broader commitment to intentional living and holistic well-being.
(808) 755-2771 View (808) 755-2771
Ally Ransdell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Do you feel like you're always in your head, second-guessing yourself, procrastinating, or getting stuck in anxiety spirals that won’t shut off? Are you juggling a lot and feeling like no matter how hard you try, it’s never quite enough? From the outside, you may look capable and put-together, but underneath you feel scattered, exhausted, or emotionally worn down. You might be navigating ADHD, anxiety, people pleasing, self criticism or a major life transition, or feeling burned out from work or chronic stress. You’re functioning, but it’s costing you. You want to feel more regulated, more present, and more like yourself again.
Do you feel like you're always in your head, second-guessing yourself, procrastinating, or getting stuck in anxiety spirals that won’t shut off? Are you juggling a lot and feeling like no matter how hard you try, it’s never quite enough? From the outside, you may look capable and put-together, but underneath you feel scattered, exhausted, or emotionally worn down. You might be navigating ADHD, anxiety, people pleasing, self criticism or a major life transition, or feeling burned out from work or chronic stress. You’re functioning, but it’s costing you. You want to feel more regulated, more present, and more like yourself again.
(916) 885-5234 View (916) 885-5234
Kate Custodio
Marriage & Family Therapist, M.A., LMFT
Online Only
I use IFS, EMDR, Compassionate Inquiry, and Person-Centered therapy to explore the deeper roots of your experiences.
Even being here is a step toward caring for yourself. By choosing to show up, you’re already investing in your healing in a meaningful way. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can explore your experiences with gentleness, curiosity, and support. My work centers on helping you understand the deeper roots of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship patterns, identity, and life transitions so you can feel more grounded, clear, and connected to who you truly are.
I use IFS, EMDR, Compassionate Inquiry, and Person-Centered therapy to explore the deeper roots of your experiences.
Even being here is a step toward caring for yourself. By choosing to show up, you’re already investing in your healing in a meaningful way. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can explore your experiences with gentleness, curiosity, and support. My work centers on helping you understand the deeper roots of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship patterns, identity, and life transitions so you can feel more grounded, clear, and connected to who you truly are.
(714) 790-9353 View (714) 790-9353
Jeanette Shepherd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92131
Hi there! My name is Jeanette, and I genuinely love what I do. I love creating a space for the fighters. The "keep it all together" people. The ones who've always felt a little different but have learned to make it work. The ones who are exhausted, even if no one else can tell. The ones who've been taking care of everyone else for so long that they've forgotten what it feels like to pause. My goal is to offer a space where you can be honest about what's hard without feeling like you need to protect, reassure, or take care of anyone else.
Hi there! My name is Jeanette, and I genuinely love what I do. I love creating a space for the fighters. The "keep it all together" people. The ones who've always felt a little different but have learned to make it work. The ones who are exhausted, even if no one else can tell. The ones who've been taking care of everyone else for so long that they've forgotten what it feels like to pause. My goal is to offer a space where you can be honest about what's hard without feeling like you need to protect, reassure, or take care of anyone else.
(858) 365-6647 View (858) 365-6647
Dr. Kathryn Wiens
Psychologist, Psy.D.
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
We understand how heavy life can feel when anxiety, loss, or old patterns make it hard to move forward. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back and help you reconnect with clarity, confidence, and calm. Our therapy process is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in science, helping you build lasting change, one meaningful conversation at a time.
We understand how heavy life can feel when anxiety, loss, or old patterns make it hard to move forward. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back and help you reconnect with clarity, confidence, and calm. Our therapy process is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in science, helping you build lasting change, one meaningful conversation at a time.
(619) 304-0787 View (619) 304-0787
Joshua Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Joshua draws from Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Inner Child Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Restoration Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
At Ebb & Flow Psychotherapy, we believe in supporting each person with compassion and care as they navigate life's challenges. In our work together, I strive to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. Using a collaborative, insight-oriented approach, we'll explore the underlying patterns shaping your thoughts, emotions, and relationships while building the tools needed for lasting healing and meaningful change.
Joshua draws from Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems ( IFS), Inner Child Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Restoration Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
At Ebb & Flow Psychotherapy, we believe in supporting each person with compassion and care as they navigate life's challenges. In our work together, I strive to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. Using a collaborative, insight-oriented approach, we'll explore the underlying patterns shaping your thoughts, emotions, and relationships while building the tools needed for lasting healing and meaningful change.
(619) 848-3629 View (619) 848-3629
Miok Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My approach prioritizes mutual respect, empathy, and partnership with my clients. Clients often gain insight, resilience, and practical tools necessary to navigate life's complexities with confidence and authenticity. I work alongside each individual, honoring their unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths. Together, we explore negative challenges, identify goals, and develop effective strategies for growth. Clients are met with compassion and provided a safe, non-judgmental environment where they can freely explore their emotions and experiences. This space fosters a sense of understanding, acceptance, and empowerment.
My approach prioritizes mutual respect, empathy, and partnership with my clients. Clients often gain insight, resilience, and practical tools necessary to navigate life's complexities with confidence and authenticity. I work alongside each individual, honoring their unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths. Together, we explore negative challenges, identify goals, and develop effective strategies for growth. Clients are met with compassion and provided a safe, non-judgmental environment where they can freely explore their emotions and experiences. This space fosters a sense of understanding, acceptance, and empowerment.
(858) 544-1252 View (858) 544-1252
Dr. Brenda Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MDiv, DMin, EMDR
Encinitas, CA 92024
Life can feel overwhelming—marriages strained, relationships disconnected, anxiety constant, or transitions leaving you uncertain and unsure of your next step. I walk with individuals and couples with compassion and faith, using a Christian approach carefully tailored to your unique needs and goals. By blending biblical truth with proven therapy, we work together toward healing, restored hope, and deeper connection, helping you experience the lasting peace, joy, and wholeness God longs for in your life. I look forward to meeting you soon!
Life can feel overwhelming—marriages strained, relationships disconnected, anxiety constant, or transitions leaving you uncertain and unsure of your next step. I walk with individuals and couples with compassion and faith, using a Christian approach carefully tailored to your unique needs and goals. By blending biblical truth with proven therapy, we work together toward healing, restored hope, and deeper connection, helping you experience the lasting peace, joy, and wholeness God longs for in your life. I look forward to meeting you soon!
(669) 338-5865 View (669) 338-5865
Laura Fish
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
From there, I offer experiential practices such as Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR that get the root of the issues.
Are you struggling to find the right therapist? Let me help. The key is finding someone you feel comfortable with, but how to know in advance? Reading profiles can help you get a feel for the therapist. I am a tools therapist, not a talk therapist. I listen with openness and compassion, then teach you how to shift patterns in your brain, body, and relationships. Using evidence-based approaches, I help you reduce anxiety, heal trauma, optimize communication, and restore balance. As a trauma-informed, neurobiology-based therapist, I work with individuals, couples, children, and families ready for real transformation.
From there, I offer experiential practices such as Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR that get the root of the issues.
Are you struggling to find the right therapist? Let me help. The key is finding someone you feel comfortable with, but how to know in advance? Reading profiles can help you get a feel for the therapist. I am a tools therapist, not a talk therapist. I listen with openness and compassion, then teach you how to shift patterns in your brain, body, and relationships. Using evidence-based approaches, I help you reduce anxiety, heal trauma, optimize communication, and restore balance. As a trauma-informed, neurobiology-based therapist, I work with individuals, couples, children, and families ready for real transformation.
(760) 712-4002 View (760) 712-4002

See more therapy options for Spring Valley

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.