Chronic Pain Therapists in Del Mar, CA

Photo of Robert Miller, PhD, Psychologist
Robert Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
If you're suffering from depression, traumatic memories, anxiety, or OCD, Image Transformation Therapy (ImTT) can restore your effectiveness in the world and the balance in your life. I developed ImTT while working at Camp Pendleton Marine Base because I needed a treatment that could release the most intense pain, terror, and memories without the person having to experience the feelings or relive the memories. The result is that ImTT treatment enables a person to live without self-consciousness and fear -- spending more of their life in the "creative zone."
If you're suffering from depression, traumatic memories, anxiety, or OCD, Image Transformation Therapy (ImTT) can restore your effectiveness in the world and the balance in your life. I developed ImTT while working at Camp Pendleton Marine Base because I needed a treatment that could release the most intense pain, terror, and memories without the person having to experience the feelings or relive the memories. The result is that ImTT treatment enables a person to live without self-consciousness and fear -- spending more of their life in the "creative zone."
(626) 465-3163 View (626) 465-3163
Photo of Brenda Beach Gomez, PsyD, Psychologist
Brenda Beach Gomez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adult populations within a spectrum of life's difficulties, including: anxiety, depression, chronic pain, chronic stress, family dysfunction issues, childhood trauma, self-esteem, and improving confidence or performance. We start with a thorough assessment and build a treatment plan that addresses primary and underlying concerns where you experience "stuckness" and move toward greater joy. I am currently looking for participants for process grief group, adults from dysfunctional families, and chronic pain groups. Please email for more information.
I enjoy working with adult populations within a spectrum of life's difficulties, including: anxiety, depression, chronic pain, chronic stress, family dysfunction issues, childhood trauma, self-esteem, and improving confidence or performance. We start with a thorough assessment and build a treatment plan that addresses primary and underlying concerns where you experience "stuckness" and move toward greater joy. I am currently looking for participants for process grief group, adults from dysfunctional families, and chronic pain groups. Please email for more information.
(619) 432-4955 View (619) 432-4955
Photo of Darena Bailey - Help Therapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Help Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Help Therapy offers therapy for 100+ diagnoses and life challenges, including depression, grief, chronic illness, and PTSD.
Since 1993, Help Therapy has been delivering top-tier mental health services. We offer both in-person and teletherapy options, supported by a team of over 150 licensed Psychologists, LCSW"s, LMFT's and Nurse Practitioner's. We'll match you with a provider who meets your specific needs. Serving adults, seniors, families, couples, and youth (ages 7 and up) across California, and accepting most insurances, we provide a range of services, including psychotherapy and psychological evaluations.
Help Therapy offers therapy for 100+ diagnoses and life challenges, including depression, grief, chronic illness, and PTSD.
Since 1993, Help Therapy has been delivering top-tier mental health services. We offer both in-person and teletherapy options, supported by a team of over 150 licensed Psychologists, LCSW"s, LMFT's and Nurse Practitioner's. We'll match you with a provider who meets your specific needs. Serving adults, seniors, families, couples, and youth (ages 7 and up) across California, and accepting most insurances, we provide a range of services, including psychotherapy and psychological evaluations.
(858) 326-9672 View (858) 326-9672
Photo of Corinna Young Casey, PhD, Psychologist
Corinna Young Casey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Stress can be caused by many things: change, relationships, work, health, or trauma, to name a few. However it develops, it can take its toll on you physically and emotionally when not managed. I will help you cope with the emotional, physical, and social challenges of handling everyday stress, healing from a traumatic event, living with a medical condition (e.g., chronic pain/headaches, illness), or adjusting to a loved one's illness. I know people are resilient, and I will work with you to keep stress a manageable part of your life, instead of your entire identity.
Stress can be caused by many things: change, relationships, work, health, or trauma, to name a few. However it develops, it can take its toll on you physically and emotionally when not managed. I will help you cope with the emotional, physical, and social challenges of handling everyday stress, healing from a traumatic event, living with a medical condition (e.g., chronic pain/headaches, illness), or adjusting to a loved one's illness. I know people are resilient, and I will work with you to keep stress a manageable part of your life, instead of your entire identity.
(858) 367-0914 View (858) 367-0914
Photo of Annette M Conway - #1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service, PsyD, PhD, Psychologist
#1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Bariatric Surgery, Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS), Intrathecal Pain Pump, Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS), Spine Surgery, & More), Legal Capacity and Competency Exams, Neuropsychological Testing, Employment screening, Personality Assessments.
Founded in 1993, Help Therapy has a team of over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists who offer a wide range of psychological evaluations. For patients who need extra support, therapy is also offered. Patients are matched to a provider of their choice based on their specific needs and preferences. Clinicians work with seniors, adults and youth (age 7+) all throughout California.
Bariatric Surgery, Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS), Intrathecal Pain Pump, Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS), Spine Surgery, & More), Legal Capacity and Competency Exams, Neuropsychological Testing, Employment screening, Personality Assessments.
Founded in 1993, Help Therapy has a team of over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists who offer a wide range of psychological evaluations. For patients who need extra support, therapy is also offered. Patients are matched to a provider of their choice based on their specific needs and preferences. Clinicians work with seniors, adults and youth (age 7+) all throughout California.
(855) 449-0159 View (855) 449-0159
Photo of Wayne Allen Bardwell, PhD, MBA, F-APOS, Psychologist
Wayne Allen Bardwell
Psychologist, PhD, MBA, F-APOS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I believe the basis of a successful psychotherapy experience is a warm, empathic and non-judgmental connection where clients feel understood, supported and accepted. My clinical work focuses on helping people with depression or anxiety issues, chronic or life-threatening illness, & chronic pain. In addition, I enjoy working with older adolescents and young adults who have been frustrated in trying to capitalize on their strengths & achieve their personal & professional goals. Our work may involve issues related to mood, behaviors, education/career, stage-of-life transitions, relationships, & sexuality or sexual orientation.
I believe the basis of a successful psychotherapy experience is a warm, empathic and non-judgmental connection where clients feel understood, supported and accepted. My clinical work focuses on helping people with depression or anxiety issues, chronic or life-threatening illness, & chronic pain. In addition, I enjoy working with older adolescents and young adults who have been frustrated in trying to capitalize on their strengths & achieve their personal & professional goals. Our work may involve issues related to mood, behaviors, education/career, stage-of-life transitions, relationships, & sexuality or sexual orientation.
(619) 817-8023 View (619) 817-8023
Photo of Jill Silverman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Are you suffering from relationship pain, stress or traumatic memories? Do you find yourself struggling with health, career and financial issues? I have been helping people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and relationship problems for over 20 years. I am an expert in helping my clients get out of emotional distress and into healthy thinking and living. I offer tools to assist in effective communication, boundary setting, stress management and conflict resolution. I help clients to manage difficult emotions, overcome negative thinking, feel more confident, and create loving relationships. I also specialize in EMDR.
Are you suffering from relationship pain, stress or traumatic memories? Do you find yourself struggling with health, career and financial issues? I have been helping people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and relationship problems for over 20 years. I am an expert in helping my clients get out of emotional distress and into healthy thinking and living. I offer tools to assist in effective communication, boundary setting, stress management and conflict resolution. I help clients to manage difficult emotions, overcome negative thinking, feel more confident, and create loving relationships. I also specialize in EMDR.
(858) 793-2400 View (858) 793-2400
Photo of Jennifer Busico, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Busico
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic pain, migraines, ADHD, PMS, sleep disorders, addiction, eating disorders, and stress will experience a difference.
I help individuals, children, families, and couples resolve problems by empowering them to self-regulate, overcome challenges, and create change. I have clinical experience treating trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, and relational distress. I utilize systemic, cognitive-behavioral, and strength-based therapies to uncover the factors reinforcing symptoms, develop alternative ways of processing, and enhance one's quality of life. I take great pride in helping clients through their healing journey. I recognize that each individual and problem is unique and formulate treatment plans accordingly.
Individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic pain, migraines, ADHD, PMS, sleep disorders, addiction, eating disorders, and stress will experience a difference.
I help individuals, children, families, and couples resolve problems by empowering them to self-regulate, overcome challenges, and create change. I have clinical experience treating trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, and relational distress. I utilize systemic, cognitive-behavioral, and strength-based therapies to uncover the factors reinforcing symptoms, develop alternative ways of processing, and enhance one's quality of life. I take great pride in helping clients through their healing journey. I recognize that each individual and problem is unique and formulate treatment plans accordingly.
(858) 430-8698 View (858) 430-8698
Photo of Uri Kugel, PhD, Psychologist
Uri Kugel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
This translates into direct positive and long lasting brain changes that relieve your pain and provide you with the skills you need to succeed in life.
Have you been feeling unhappy, unsatisfied, not good enough, or anxious? Is it hard for you to parent your child or communicate with your partner? Do you feel stuck? I am here to give you the space that you need and help you make a significant and long lasting positive change towards success. Contact me today to get started on a better path for you and your loved ones!
This translates into direct positive and long lasting brain changes that relieve your pain and provide you with the skills you need to succeed in life.
Have you been feeling unhappy, unsatisfied, not good enough, or anxious? Is it hard for you to parent your child or communicate with your partner? Do you feel stuck? I am here to give you the space that you need and help you make a significant and long lasting positive change towards success. Contact me today to get started on a better path for you and your loved ones!
(510) 343-7217 View (510) 343-7217
Photo of Camille Carter, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I have both personal and professional experience with but not limited to Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Grief/Loss and Chronic Pain.
Hello, My name is Camille Carter and I have been supporting and guiding others as a Clinician for 26 years. Seeking therapy is the best gift you can give to yourself and to those around you. Together we create goals, develop ways to better manage day to day life, relationships and stressors. Therapy is a journey towards healing, growing and creating a life with more peace, joy and contentment.
I have both personal and professional experience with but not limited to Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Grief/Loss and Chronic Pain.
Hello, My name is Camille Carter and I have been supporting and guiding others as a Clinician for 26 years. Seeking therapy is the best gift you can give to yourself and to those around you. Together we create goals, develop ways to better manage day to day life, relationships and stressors. Therapy is a journey towards healing, growing and creating a life with more peace, joy and contentment.
(619) 870-1432 View (619) 870-1432
Photo of Dr. Josh Thomas, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Josh Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Hello, I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in substance addiction, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, work stress, relationship problems, grief and loss, and chronic pain. With an emphasis in connecting to and living from personal values, my approach is highly compassionate, culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and evidenced-based. My treatment specialty includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help heal psychological wounds that are blocking you from living an enriched and empowered life.
Hello, I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in substance addiction, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, work stress, relationship problems, grief and loss, and chronic pain. With an emphasis in connecting to and living from personal values, my approach is highly compassionate, culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and evidenced-based. My treatment specialty includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help heal psychological wounds that are blocking you from living an enriched and empowered life.
(858) 413-9160 View (858) 413-9160
Photo of Erin M Grimes, PsyD, Psychologist
Erin M Grimes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I focus on connecting with my clients and their families and appreciate the journey involved in hardship and pain.
I provide therapy for teens, individuals, couples and famiIies. Managing life stress & the impact of social media as well as therapy & assessment of ADHD are specialities of mine. I offer forensic services and therapy services for divorce. I consult with pediatiricans, teachers and lawyers. I work with patients with chronic health problems and drug & alcohol problems and their families. I use CBT and mindfulness and meditation approaches. I focus on wellness and the importance of healthy lifestyles and good support systems at home and socially. I love my work and have been practicing clinically for 14 years.
I focus on connecting with my clients and their families and appreciate the journey involved in hardship and pain.
I provide therapy for teens, individuals, couples and famiIies. Managing life stress & the impact of social media as well as therapy & assessment of ADHD are specialities of mine. I offer forensic services and therapy services for divorce. I consult with pediatiricans, teachers and lawyers. I work with patients with chronic health problems and drug & alcohol problems and their families. I use CBT and mindfulness and meditation approaches. I focus on wellness and the importance of healthy lifestyles and good support systems at home and socially. I love my work and have been practicing clinically for 14 years.
(619) 202-0935 View (619) 202-0935
Photo of Rachael Polokoff, Psychologist
Rachael Polokoff
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I am also well versed in treating chronic pain and health issues.
Many of us feel overwhelmed with demands of work, health issues, family life, financial pressures and ask- "Where is the space for self-care? " Maladaptive coping skills (addictive behaviors, substance use issues, avoidance of activities) can easily take the place of healthy self-care techniques. However, there is a healthier path to walk down, which I can help you to master. I have spent my career helping teenagers and adults cope with difficult behavior patterns, and I can attest that once the source is uncovered, these behaviors can be changed to more accurately reflect your authentic self (artistic, creative, social, etc).
I am also well versed in treating chronic pain and health issues.
Many of us feel overwhelmed with demands of work, health issues, family life, financial pressures and ask- "Where is the space for self-care? " Maladaptive coping skills (addictive behaviors, substance use issues, avoidance of activities) can easily take the place of healthy self-care techniques. However, there is a healthier path to walk down, which I can help you to master. I have spent my career helping teenagers and adults cope with difficult behavior patterns, and I can attest that once the source is uncovered, these behaviors can be changed to more accurately reflect your authentic self (artistic, creative, social, etc).
(858) 331-8189 View (858) 331-8189
Photo of Thomas Brooks Paulus - Thomas Paulus Therapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Thomas Paulus Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
We all have suffering in our lives-- it's part of human experience. Too often, however, there is a layer of unnecessary psychological pain caused by unconscious defenses. We often resist painful feelings and the realities they point to. When we get stuck in our resistance we get emotionally sick and our suffering increases. I work together with patients to honestly and compassionately untangle, face, and accept the truths they've tended avoid on their own.
We all have suffering in our lives-- it's part of human experience. Too often, however, there is a layer of unnecessary psychological pain caused by unconscious defenses. We often resist painful feelings and the realities they point to. When we get stuck in our resistance we get emotionally sick and our suffering increases. I work together with patients to honestly and compassionately untangle, face, and accept the truths they've tended avoid on their own.
(760) 652-8365 View (760) 652-8365
Photo of Jessica Blair Sturgill - Mental Health First Counseling Services, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mental Health First Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Jessica Sturgill, LMFT is a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I believe in creating goals and assisting my clients to meet those goals. We address negative thoughts, address negative beliefs all while addressing life's complicated ups and downs . My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness). We work together as I help guide my clients of all ages in creating the healthy and happy life they envision for themselves.
Jessica Sturgill, LMFT is a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I believe in creating goals and assisting my clients to meet those goals. We address negative thoughts, address negative beliefs all while addressing life's complicated ups and downs . My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness). We work together as I help guide my clients of all ages in creating the healthy and happy life they envision for themselves.
(858) 358-7587 View (858) 358-7587
Photo of Jamie Young, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
We can work together as you build a life that has meaning for you. I will teach you techniques to change your self-talk so you can build your self-confidence and feel good about yourself and your relationships.
We can work together as you build a life that has meaning for you. I will teach you techniques to change your self-talk so you can build your self-confidence and feel good about yourself and your relationships.
(858) 330-3034 View (858) 330-3034
Photo of Lesley Ivy Dorfman, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Lesley Ivy Dorfman
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
With over 20 years experience working as a Clinical Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist, I will work collaboratively with you to identify, plan, and accurately help you develop a clear path towards the high quality life you desire. My expertise In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with training from the Beck Institute, allows me to offer you a way to learn skills and tools necessary for you to use now, and in your future. Working with adolescents/young adults, adults, families, and couples, CBT is the gold standard, evidenced based therapy that will help you to achieve and continue to move forward in your life.
With over 20 years experience working as a Clinical Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist, I will work collaboratively with you to identify, plan, and accurately help you develop a clear path towards the high quality life you desire. My expertise In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with training from the Beck Institute, allows me to offer you a way to learn skills and tools necessary for you to use now, and in your future. Working with adolescents/young adults, adults, families, and couples, CBT is the gold standard, evidenced based therapy that will help you to achieve and continue to move forward in your life.
(858) 567-2134 View (858) 567-2134
Photo of Katy Joy Freeman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katy Joy Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
I began my journey of self-discovery & healing by doing my own work in therapy. With patience, guidance, practice, and education, I have come to love and accept my own challenges and strengths. This informs and motivates me daily. My journey and helping others find their own positive trajectory is a very important component of my life. Balance in life is essential, and so I continue to pursue my love of nature, health and creativity – and where it intersects with my profession, it informs our therapeutic process.
I began my journey of self-discovery & healing by doing my own work in therapy. With patience, guidance, practice, and education, I have come to love and accept my own challenges and strengths. This informs and motivates me daily. My journey and helping others find their own positive trajectory is a very important component of my life. Balance in life is essential, and so I continue to pursue my love of nature, health and creativity – and where it intersects with my profession, it informs our therapeutic process.
(858) 330-3501 View (858) 330-3501
Photo of Dunya Ellen Holland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dunya Ellen Holland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Are you ready to talk about it? I’m an experienced Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for helping individuals, couples, teens (and their parents!) find the path to peace of mind. If you are not sure about therapy but sensing that something is in the way of you feeling ok, or maybe you know what the problem is but can't seem to find your way, I‘m ready with kindness, compassion and evidence-based practices to help you transform your life and relationships. I invite you to my cozy, judgment free office by the ocean (with parking!) or if you like, we can even talk as we walk along the beautiful Del Mar beach.
Are you ready to talk about it? I’m an experienced Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for helping individuals, couples, teens (and their parents!) find the path to peace of mind. If you are not sure about therapy but sensing that something is in the way of you feeling ok, or maybe you know what the problem is but can't seem to find your way, I‘m ready with kindness, compassion and evidence-based practices to help you transform your life and relationships. I invite you to my cozy, judgment free office by the ocean (with parking!) or if you like, we can even talk as we walk along the beautiful Del Mar beach.
(858) 703-5288 View (858) 703-5288
Photo of Gayle R. Lewis, PhD, ABPP, MSCS, Psychologist
Gayle R. Lewis
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, MSCS
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Let me begin my saying I am Accepting new patients! I warmly welcome working with individuals and couples struggling with a variety of emotional and relational conflicts. My areas of specialty are the following: Those currently dealing with present or past sexual harassment issues, Trauma (survivors of domestic/sexual abuse, those in ongoing abusive relationships), Eating Disorders and Chronic disease, with particular experience working with patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Practice accepting new patients in New York and California. If you reside in a state other than those two, please reach out anyway; I likely can work with you.
Let me begin my saying I am Accepting new patients! I warmly welcome working with individuals and couples struggling with a variety of emotional and relational conflicts. My areas of specialty are the following: Those currently dealing with present or past sexual harassment issues, Trauma (survivors of domestic/sexual abuse, those in ongoing abusive relationships), Eating Disorders and Chronic disease, with particular experience working with patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Practice accepting new patients in New York and California. If you reside in a state other than those two, please reach out anyway; I likely can work with you.
(646) 553-4047 View (646) 553-4047
1
Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.