Itzel Ballew, LMFT
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS
Gender Pronouns: She/ Her
Clinical Approach
Itzel approaches clients with compassion and understanding, as those entering therapy are doing so in their most vulnerable moments. As each individual and family presents with unique needs she understand that a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach does not support meaningful change or healing. Itzel’s strength-based approach helps individuals and families uncover resources and inner strengths to help achieve therapeutic goals. Itzel is intentional and integrates holistic and evidence-based practices to help people heal and create meaningful change in the present.
Itzel is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) psychotherapy and uses this approach to help individuals heal from distressing life experiences. She also works with couples and parents utilizing the Gottman Method and facilitates the workshop for Bringing Baby Home a workshop series that prepares couples for life with baby.
Specialized Trainings
Itzel received a Masters of Science in Counseling, Marriage, Family and Child Therapy at the University of Phoenix, San Diego Campus in January 2014. She was a proud member of Alpha-Beta Honor Society, Chapter of Tau Upsilon Alpha. Additionally, she received a Bachelors in Psychology at San Diego State University in May 2009.
Star Behavioral Health Providers, Tier 2: Center for Deployment Psychology, 2020
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), EMDR Institute, 2019
The Gottman Institute, Bringing Baby Home, 2018
Professional Maternal Mental Health Certificate, Postpartum Support International & 2020Mom, 2018
UCSD Play Therapy Certificate Program, In Progress
Star Behavioral Health Providers, Tier 1: Civilian Professionals, Military Sensitivity Training, 2015
The Incredible Years Training, Child and Parent Group Leader, 2014
The Gottman Institute, Level 1: Bridging The Couple Chasm, 2014
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 2014
CA State Certified Domestic Violence Counselor, 2013
Motivational Interviewing, Phase 1 and 2, 2013
Payment Options
Itzel currently accepts Cash-pay, sliding scale and the following health insurance plans: Evernorth Behavioral Health (formerly Cigna), Health Net/MHN, Aetna and Tricare insurance.
Her Passions
Itzel is a wife and mama to 2 boys- her 18 year old step-son and 8 year old son. She is a native San Diegan and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. Itzel also enjoys serving the community and has served as a board member for the San Diego Birth Network organization.