Izzy Favela, Psy.D

Izzy Favela’s Approach to Therapy

Dr. Izzy believes that all children are naturally hardwired for growth and self-actualization. This means that when given the right space, tools, and therapeutic relationship, children will naturally move toward becoming the best version of themselves. She understands that no child wants to stay stuck in distress or dysfunction and that deep down, every child wants to be able to regulate, solve their own problems, and connect with others in meaningful ways.

She creates a therapeutic environment that is warm, safe, playful, and accepting. She believes children grow and heal best when they feel truly seen, heard, and valued for who they are. Even when a child is angry, withdrawn, resistant, or defiant, she meets them with unconditional presence and compassion. Through thrown toys, tears, slammed doors, testing limits, and all, Dr. Izzy stays compassionate and present, knowing it’s often in those toughest moments that children are communicating the most with their behavior.

She trusts that when children feel deeply accepted, they become more able and willing to work through life’s challenges. Her therapeutic stance communicates: I see you, I hear you, I care, and I like you for who you are, even when things are hard.

About Izzy Favela

Dr. Izzy Favela earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adler University and specializes in supporting children and their families through Child-Centered Play Therapy. This research-supported modality allows children to express, explore, and work through their emotions and experiences through play, their natural language. She is passionate about helping children and their families grow, heal, and thrive.

She helps children navigate challenges related to behavioral concerns, emotion regulation, self-esteem, social and relational difficulties, life transitions, trauma, and much more.

In addition to her work with children, Dr. Izzy is passionate about working closely with parents and improving parent-child relationships. She believes caregivers are their child’s most important anchor and healing partner. In therapy, she supports caregivers in better understanding what their child is communicating through behavior, and teaches practical, relationship-based tools to build connection, reduce power struggles, and strengthen emotional resilience in the home.

Outside of her work, Dr. Izzy finds joy in spending time with her two fluffy dogs, traveling to new countries, being in nature, crafting, reading, and connecting with friends and family.