Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Rancho Santa Fe, CA

Photo of Michelle York, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Michelle York
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
My experience & client focus includes; trauma & PTSD, religious faith crisis, survivors of abuse, grief & loss, coping w/ injury or neurological disease to include SCI, MS, & ALS, substance use disorders, eating disorders, co-dependency, fractured attachment, relationship / sex & love addiction, mood disorders, personality disorders, teen and family systems.
Why do we feel persistent guilt, shame, sadness, anxiousness, anger or hopelessness? Why do we find ourselves in situations and relationships that are hurtful and unsatisfying? Why do we repeat unhealthy behaviors? Why can't we find the motivation to become who we know we are capable to be? Why are we addicted? Often it is because we are relying on maladaptive coping skills and defense mechanisms to navigate challenging or even traumatic experiences. I whole-heartedly believe in the ability and resiliency of the human spirit and I offer a safe and therapeutic environment in which to process, learn, grow and develop healthier skills.
My experience & client focus includes; trauma & PTSD, religious faith crisis, survivors of abuse, grief & loss, coping w/ injury or neurological disease to include SCI, MS, & ALS, substance use disorders, eating disorders, co-dependency, fractured attachment, relationship / sex & love addiction, mood disorders, personality disorders, teen and family systems.
Why do we feel persistent guilt, shame, sadness, anxiousness, anger or hopelessness? Why do we find ourselves in situations and relationships that are hurtful and unsatisfying? Why do we repeat unhealthy behaviors? Why can't we find the motivation to become who we know we are capable to be? Why are we addicted? Often it is because we are relying on maladaptive coping skills and defense mechanisms to navigate challenging or even traumatic experiences. I whole-heartedly believe in the ability and resiliency of the human spirit and I offer a safe and therapeutic environment in which to process, learn, grow and develop healthier skills.
(442) 275-8676 View (442) 275-8676
Photo of Mae Ana Sefami, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Mae Ana Sefami
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
I use a holistic approach to help you create the changes you seek, integrating insights from mindful self compassion, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt, Hakomi, and Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy.
I assist individuals in overcoming their inner pain, and learning to face the challenges of life from a place of strength, compassion, and connection. As your ally in healing, I can help you process the emotions, memories and experiences that may underly your current suffering, so that you’re free to feel connected with yourself, with others, and with life. Sometimes past traumas become trapped in our bodies and minds, and we need help to feel safe in ourself and our relationships. My approach is based on these principles: Efficacy (I use Evidence Based modalities), collaboration, individualized care, and warm relational connection.
I use a holistic approach to help you create the changes you seek, integrating insights from mindful self compassion, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt, Hakomi, and Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy.
I assist individuals in overcoming their inner pain, and learning to face the challenges of life from a place of strength, compassion, and connection. As your ally in healing, I can help you process the emotions, memories and experiences that may underly your current suffering, so that you’re free to feel connected with yourself, with others, and with life. Sometimes past traumas become trapped in our bodies and minds, and we need help to feel safe in ourself and our relationships. My approach is based on these principles: Efficacy (I use Evidence Based modalities), collaboration, individualized care, and warm relational connection.
(747) 200-8978 View (747) 200-8978
Photo of San Diego Divorce Counseling Center Lynn Waldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
San Diego Divorce Counseling Center Lynn Waldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091
You're disappointed in your marriage and in your partner. Your vows meant something to you. For many years, you sucked it up and hoped things would get better. Now you wonder, why did I stay for so long? If you question how you've been living your life, and how things could have gone so wrong, then you've come to the right place.
You're disappointed in your marriage and in your partner. Your vows meant something to you. For many years, you sucked it up and hoped things would get better. Now you wonder, why did I stay for so long? If you question how you've been living your life, and how things could have gone so wrong, then you've come to the right place.
(619) 796-5927 View (619) 796-5927
Photo of Coherence Associates, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Coherence Associates, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
We are an individual & family counseling corporation. Our mission is to expand human potential through the coherence of mind, body & spirit. With decades of collective experience, we are passionate about helping people grow through life's transitions. We are trained in efficient, evidence-based treatment methods with a holistic mindset. Breakthrough repeating unwanted patterns, improve struggling relationships, family challenges, anxiety, addictions, depression & trauma recovery. We are EMDR trained & practice with professional integrity, compassion, and commitment.
We are an individual & family counseling corporation. Our mission is to expand human potential through the coherence of mind, body & spirit. With decades of collective experience, we are passionate about helping people grow through life's transitions. We are trained in efficient, evidence-based treatment methods with a holistic mindset. Breakthrough repeating unwanted patterns, improve struggling relationships, family challenges, anxiety, addictions, depression & trauma recovery. We are EMDR trained & practice with professional integrity, compassion, and commitment.
(760) 933-9336 View (760) 933-9336
Photo of Frances A Welk, Psychologist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Frances A Welk
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Does your life from the outside look amazing, yet you feel lonely, directionless, anxious, depressed, or lost? You live in a beautiful place, have a gorgeous home, great trips, lots of friends, and many social and charitable activities to keep you busy, yet your relationships and your life seem distant and disconnected. Does your partner work too much? Are your children too busy? If you don't have children are you struggling with infertility? Or maybe you are struggling with your health? Don't worry - there is hope! I have seen this condition before and can help.
Does your life from the outside look amazing, yet you feel lonely, directionless, anxious, depressed, or lost? You live in a beautiful place, have a gorgeous home, great trips, lots of friends, and many social and charitable activities to keep you busy, yet your relationships and your life seem distant and disconnected. Does your partner work too much? Are your children too busy? If you don't have children are you struggling with infertility? Or maybe you are struggling with your health? Don't worry - there is hope! I have seen this condition before and can help.
(858) 705-1200 View (858) 705-1200
Photo of Nancy M Beehn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Nancy M Beehn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067  (Online Only)
Is your teen or pre-teen suffering from depression or anxiety? Are they struggling in school or with their peer group? Through the use of cognitive behavioral strategies, your child can learn new ways of thinking and coping. Children and teens don't always have the ability, or the words, to share how they are really feeling. Instead it comes out in their behaviors, which often times ends up creating conflict, disharmony and upset. It doesn't have to be this way. Your child and your family can enjoy being together. It is possible to see your child or teen be their best self!
Is your teen or pre-teen suffering from depression or anxiety? Are they struggling in school or with their peer group? Through the use of cognitive behavioral strategies, your child can learn new ways of thinking and coping. Children and teens don't always have the ability, or the words, to share how they are really feeling. Instead it comes out in their behaviors, which often times ends up creating conflict, disharmony and upset. It doesn't have to be this way. Your child and your family can enjoy being together. It is possible to see your child or teen be their best self!
(760) 642-5267 View (760) 642-5267
Photo of AAMI Mental Health Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
AAMI Mental Health Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stress? Struggling with depression? Is your anxiety preventing you from enjoying your life? Life can be difficult and sometimes we just need someone to listen and guide us or offer fresh ideas that could help us reach a level of satisfaction and improve our quality of life. Ideally, someone with motivation, an open mind and eager to invest in their wellbeing and work on themselves to improve their life and experience joy. I understand the difficulties of maintaining a work-life balance so I offer early morning, late evening and weekend appointments. I accept Aetna, Oxford, Oscar, and United Health Care and Cigna.
Are you feeling stress? Struggling with depression? Is your anxiety preventing you from enjoying your life? Life can be difficult and sometimes we just need someone to listen and guide us or offer fresh ideas that could help us reach a level of satisfaction and improve our quality of life. Ideally, someone with motivation, an open mind and eager to invest in their wellbeing and work on themselves to improve their life and experience joy. I understand the difficulties of maintaining a work-life balance so I offer early morning, late evening and weekend appointments. I accept Aetna, Oxford, Oscar, and United Health Care and Cigna.
(951) 349-4518 View (951) 349-4518
Photo of Eunice Lee No, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Eunice Lee No
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling, stuck, or feeling anxious with life's challenges? Whether you’re experiencing life transitions, processing a difficult experience, experiencing a relationship distress, or even want to better understand yourself, therapy can be a powerful way to tackle these needs and break unhelpful patterns of interactions or thinking. My goal is to help my clients discover their inner voice, self-compassion, strength and empower them.
Do you find yourself struggling, stuck, or feeling anxious with life's challenges? Whether you’re experiencing life transitions, processing a difficult experience, experiencing a relationship distress, or even want to better understand yourself, therapy can be a powerful way to tackle these needs and break unhelpful patterns of interactions or thinking. My goal is to help my clients discover their inner voice, self-compassion, strength and empower them.
(858) 377-6971 View (858) 377-6971
Photo of Dr. Lindsay O'Shea, Psychologist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Dr. Lindsay O'Shea
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091
WELCOME! Many of my clients are looking to heal from past painful experiences whether it be family, friendships or romantic relationships - I work to help you improve self-esteem, build resiliency, manage anxiety/ADHD symptoms for teens & adults in their 20's, 30's, & 40’s. It be really tough to get a handle on these things on your own. Don't worry, I can help. I believe that we have ways of being in the world that were once helpful but may no longer serve us in building the life you want. My clients say that I'm relatable, easy to connect with, and empathically and honestly provide feedback to challenge their ways of thinking.
WELCOME! Many of my clients are looking to heal from past painful experiences whether it be family, friendships or romantic relationships - I work to help you improve self-esteem, build resiliency, manage anxiety/ADHD symptoms for teens & adults in their 20's, 30's, & 40’s. It be really tough to get a handle on these things on your own. Don't worry, I can help. I believe that we have ways of being in the world that were once helpful but may no longer serve us in building the life you want. My clients say that I'm relatable, easy to connect with, and empathically and honestly provide feedback to challenge their ways of thinking.
(619) 268-5874 View (619) 268-5874
Photo of Amy Duckwall, Psychologist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Amy Duckwall
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Are you stressed out and overwhelmed? Is setting boundaries with people scary or even impossible? Are you anxious, self-doubting, or feeling lost? Maybe you're stuck on mistakes from the past or fixating on fear of your future. Or you struggle to say no to people because you're afraid of rejection or criticism or abandonment. Perhaps you're just exhausted with all of it, balancing everything nonstop for everyone else and yourself. Maybe you've forgotten how to be..you? You try to do it all but your confidence is lacking and you're feeling guilty over everything. You just need it to be...easier. Life wasn't supposed to be this hard.
Are you stressed out and overwhelmed? Is setting boundaries with people scary or even impossible? Are you anxious, self-doubting, or feeling lost? Maybe you're stuck on mistakes from the past or fixating on fear of your future. Or you struggle to say no to people because you're afraid of rejection or criticism or abandonment. Perhaps you're just exhausted with all of it, balancing everything nonstop for everyone else and yourself. Maybe you've forgotten how to be..you? You try to do it all but your confidence is lacking and you're feeling guilty over everything. You just need it to be...easier. Life wasn't supposed to be this hard.
(949) 806-4771 View (949) 806-4771
Photo of Tendril Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Tendril Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Plants can grow in some of the most unexpected places. On sidewalks, through concrete, on buildings. Even when the odds seem stacked against it, the desire to thrive can find a way. When a person comes to therapy, they are choosing to find their own way to grow, no matter where they’ve been planted. One of the tools of plants are tendrils; those delicate, sensitive shoots of courage that reach out for support and connection. With some nurturance and guidance, we here at Tendril Therapy welcome you to break the barriers of what seems improbable, to grow, to thrive, to climb.
Plants can grow in some of the most unexpected places. On sidewalks, through concrete, on buildings. Even when the odds seem stacked against it, the desire to thrive can find a way. When a person comes to therapy, they are choosing to find their own way to grow, no matter where they’ve been planted. One of the tools of plants are tendrils; those delicate, sensitive shoots of courage that reach out for support and connection. With some nurturance and guidance, we here at Tendril Therapy welcome you to break the barriers of what seems improbable, to grow, to thrive, to climb.
(760) 652-9680 View (760) 652-9680
Photo of Stacy Costopoulos Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Stacy Costopoulos Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Not accepting new clients
With my formal training in IFS and EMDR, and the safe environment I create, my clients move through their unhealed emotional wounds to a place of healing so they don't need old protective behaviors any more.
Do you feel stuck in a sense that you are not good enough? Imagine no longer feeling patterns that hurt, or no longer being paralyzed by beliefs that block you from being the person you want to be. My goal is to walk alongside you helping you identify what's holding you back from the life you want, and to gently but profoundly help you heal those wounds so you can grow. I love working with people to reprocess old traumatic life experiences that get in the way, when they really just want to be healthy.
With my formal training in IFS and EMDR, and the safe environment I create, my clients move through their unhealed emotional wounds to a place of healing so they don't need old protective behaviors any more.
Do you feel stuck in a sense that you are not good enough? Imagine no longer feeling patterns that hurt, or no longer being paralyzed by beliefs that block you from being the person you want to be. My goal is to walk alongside you helping you identify what's holding you back from the life you want, and to gently but profoundly help you heal those wounds so you can grow. I love working with people to reprocess old traumatic life experiences that get in the way, when they really just want to be healthy.
(442) 200-2115 View (442) 200-2115
Photo of Cristina Antonucci, Psychologist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Cristina Antonucci
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Not accepting new clients
I hold a trauma-informed approach, drawing upon neuroscience, attachment theory, humanistic, multicultural, internal family systems (IFS) and existential models of healing.
Life can leave us feeling stuck and disconnected from ourselves and our communities. Often, symptoms are natural reactions to painful circumstances and foreclose access to our innate wisdom and ability to navigate tough situations. I believe in the unique healing journey of each individual and work with you to open space and reconnect with your authentic ways of being. I help folks get curious about their life, get unstuck from difficult patterns, make meaning of life experiences, and ultimately create more choice and freedom.
I hold a trauma-informed approach, drawing upon neuroscience, attachment theory, humanistic, multicultural, internal family systems (IFS) and existential models of healing.
Life can leave us feeling stuck and disconnected from ourselves and our communities. Often, symptoms are natural reactions to painful circumstances and foreclose access to our innate wisdom and ability to navigate tough situations. I believe in the unique healing journey of each individual and work with you to open space and reconnect with your authentic ways of being. I help folks get curious about their life, get unstuck from difficult patterns, make meaning of life experiences, and ultimately create more choice and freedom.
(760) 304-1907 View (760) 304-1907
Photo of Erika Kao, Psychologist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Erika Kao
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you struggle with anxiety? Does your motivation seem blocked in terms of advancing your career? Would you like to improve your relationships? Are there difficult people in your life that overwhelm you? What patterns would you like to change? Gain insight on what keeps you from feeling calm and happiness. I provide evidence based therapeutic interventions individualized to you. A licensed psychologist since 2001, I am experienced in helping individuals cope with major life changes and every day stress in their busy lives.
Do you struggle with anxiety? Does your motivation seem blocked in terms of advancing your career? Would you like to improve your relationships? Are there difficult people in your life that overwhelm you? What patterns would you like to change? Gain insight on what keeps you from feeling calm and happiness. I provide evidence based therapeutic interventions individualized to you. A licensed psychologist since 2001, I am experienced in helping individuals cope with major life changes and every day stress in their busy lives.
(858) 225-4616 View (858) 225-4616

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kim F Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Kim F Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. My therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic and person-centered perspectives, which means that we may explore the past and patterns of relationships to help you gain personal insight and healing. To facilitate this process, I integrate EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
Hello and welcome. My therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic and person-centered perspectives, which means that we may explore the past and patterns of relationships to help you gain personal insight and healing. To facilitate this process, I integrate EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
(858) 780-4092 View (858) 780-4092
Photo of Janel Cullen, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Janel Cullen
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
My therapeutic lens is trauma-informed, grounded in attachment theory, drawing from models such as Emotion Focused Therapy, IFS, and at times, a touch dark humor.
Therapy, at its core, is a journey of shared humanity. You are not a diagnosis, but a human being, with really good reasons for how you got to this point in life. Honoring the ways you have survived your pain cultivates your self-acceptance which is essential to my approach to transformative therapy. Whether you're caught in negative relationship patterns, repetitive self criticism, or trapped cycles of procrastination and overwhelm; together we can work to uncover the roots of your struggles, transform negative patterns, and foster your resilience.
My therapeutic lens is trauma-informed, grounded in attachment theory, drawing from models such as Emotion Focused Therapy, IFS, and at times, a touch dark humor.
Therapy, at its core, is a journey of shared humanity. You are not a diagnosis, but a human being, with really good reasons for how you got to this point in life. Honoring the ways you have survived your pain cultivates your self-acceptance which is essential to my approach to transformative therapy. Whether you're caught in negative relationship patterns, repetitive self criticism, or trapped cycles of procrastination and overwhelm; together we can work to uncover the roots of your struggles, transform negative patterns, and foster your resilience.
(619) 361-8027 View (619) 361-8027
Photo of Jessica Lamb, Counselor in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Jessica Lamb
Counselor, MEd, PPS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
I also lean into various therapy modalities (CBT, IFS) to help individuals struggling with; depression/anxiety, eating habits, impulse control, low self-esteem, and trauma.
My passion lies in collaborating with young adults, families, and women in a transition of life. Clients often turn to me for support and guidance during periods of heightened stress, or at point of overwhelm for ongoing challenges. They want new coping skills and effective communication strategies to acquire sustained peace. Together, we set goals, and gradually integrate aligned supportive behaviors into their life, or view of self. We do so at the pace needed to ensure these new strategies become familiar and effective tools of change for the client.
I also lean into various therapy modalities (CBT, IFS) to help individuals struggling with; depression/anxiety, eating habits, impulse control, low self-esteem, and trauma.
My passion lies in collaborating with young adults, families, and women in a transition of life. Clients often turn to me for support and guidance during periods of heightened stress, or at point of overwhelm for ongoing challenges. They want new coping skills and effective communication strategies to acquire sustained peace. Together, we set goals, and gradually integrate aligned supportive behaviors into their life, or view of self. We do so at the pace needed to ensure these new strategies become familiar and effective tools of change for the client.
(415) 301-6772 View (415) 301-6772
Photo of John Brandeis Boesky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
John Brandeis Boesky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
My specialties include individual psychotherapy, marriage and family therapy, NLP, IFS ( Internal Family Systems), Hypnotherapy, Sports Performance Coaching, and Group Therapy.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Master NLP Practitioner, IFS Practitioner, Dharma Life Coach, and Sports Psychology Consultant, I LOVE my profession; my work is my passion! I feel deeply fulfilled when my support and guidance empowers my clients to achieve their goals and desired outcomes. I offer my clients my engaged presence, insights, intuition, knowledge, transformative tools and techniques, and resources to generate lots of momentum as they endeavor to grow and live their best lives. So if you’re seeking out a seasoned guide with a warm lantern to walk beside you on your heroic journey, please give me a call!!
My specialties include individual psychotherapy, marriage and family therapy, NLP, IFS ( Internal Family Systems), Hypnotherapy, Sports Performance Coaching, and Group Therapy.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Master NLP Practitioner, IFS Practitioner, Dharma Life Coach, and Sports Psychology Consultant, I LOVE my profession; my work is my passion! I feel deeply fulfilled when my support and guidance empowers my clients to achieve their goals and desired outcomes. I offer my clients my engaged presence, insights, intuition, knowledge, transformative tools and techniques, and resources to generate lots of momentum as they endeavor to grow and live their best lives. So if you’re seeking out a seasoned guide with a warm lantern to walk beside you on your heroic journey, please give me a call!!
(619) 378-4512 View (619) 378-4512
Photo of Angeline Baucom, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Angeline Baucom
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, SUDCC, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I use various research-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Motivational Interviewing, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Family Systems.
Clients that have experienced trauma, substance abuse and family issues. Struggling with depression and anxiety.
I use various research-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Motivational Interviewing, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Family Systems.
Clients that have experienced trauma, substance abuse and family issues. Struggling with depression and anxiety.
(760) 227-5274 View (760) 227-5274
Photo of Caitlin E. Mikulicich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Caitlin E. Mikulicich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, KAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
It’s been found that the most important factor for creating change in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions and transmute pain into growth. I consider all aspects of an individual and implement a biopsychosocial-spiritual, culturally-sensitive and client-centered approach with individuals, couples, families and groups. I’ve used various research-based modalities including DBT, EFT, Internal Family Systems/parts work, EMDR, and art therapy. Additionally, I am now offering KAP (Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy) remotely.
It’s been found that the most important factor for creating change in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions and transmute pain into growth. I consider all aspects of an individual and implement a biopsychosocial-spiritual, culturally-sensitive and client-centered approach with individuals, couples, families and groups. I’ve used various research-based modalities including DBT, EFT, Internal Family Systems/parts work, EMDR, and art therapy. Additionally, I am now offering KAP (Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy) remotely.
(619) 363-0325 View (619) 363-0325

See more therapy options for Rancho Santa Fe


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.