IFS-Informed Therapy in Long Beach
Part of you wants things to change. Another part feels afraid, protective, or stuck. You do not have to keep fighting yourself to understand what is happening.
I offer Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed therapy in person in Long Beach and through telehealth across California. Together, we can explore the patterns beneath your struggles and work toward greater self-understanding, connection, and a more meaningful life.
Understanding your inner system
Internal Family Systems is a therapy model that describes our inner experience in terms of parts and a core Self. A part of you might criticize, overthink, shut down, or reach for a familiar habit. In the IFS model, these responses can be understood as attempts to protect you, even when they create difficulties in the present.
We approach these experiences with curiosity and compassion. Instead of treating a part of you as an enemy, we ask what it is trying to do, what it fears, and what it needs. This gives us another way to understand internal conflict and explore how you want to respond.
What sessions can look like
Our work is collaborative and shaped around your goals. We slow down enough to notice what happens inside you when you feel anxious, angry, ashamed, or disconnected. We may explore the different feelings or impulses that show up and how they relate to your experiences.
There is no need to force a particular experience or move faster than feels workable. We can use everyday language if talking about parts feels unfamiliar. The goal is to develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself and more choice in how you relate to others.
Trauma, relationships, and unwanted patterns
My practice focuses on complex trauma, relationship issues and couples counseling, and unwanted sexual behaviors. IFS-informed work is one way I explore the internal patterns connected with these concerns. We discuss the approach that fits your needs; outcomes and the pace of therapy vary.
Optional faith integration
If faith is important to you, we can make space for it in our work. As a Catholic, I welcome conversations about your spiritual life, while keeping therapy shaped around your goals and values. People of all beliefs and no religious belief are welcome. Learn about faith-integrated therapy.
About your therapist
I am Luis Andrew Lopez, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, AMFT #147456. I am employed by Metanoia Family Services and supervised by Andrea Connor, LMFT #133757. My approach is IFS-informed; my IFS Level 1 training is scheduled for January–March 2027. Read more about my background and training.
Questions about starting therapy
Where can we meet?
I offer in-person services in Long Beach, California, and telehealth for clients located in California.
Does therapy have to include religion?
No. Faith integration is optional. Our work is shaped around your goals and values, whether faith is central to your life or not part of it.
How do I know whether this approach fits?
We can discuss your concerns, goals, and questions in a free phone or Zoom consultation. This helps us consider fit and next steps together.