Therapists in San Diego, CA
For specific disorders, I may use other validated treatments, such as ACT or CBT-Chronic Pain, CBT-Insomnia or CPT for PTSD.
Life has a way of handing us what feels like more than we can bear at times, and we can find ourselves stuck when our resources are thin and our tools seem inadequate. This is where I thrive – helping my clients get in touch with their strengths, build confidence and skills to get the life they want, all while exploring where they learned the unhelpful patterns to begin with. My goal is to help my clients learn to be defined not by their current or past circumstances, thoughts or feelings, but by the choices they commit to. My clients report they know themselves better and are more confident in their ability to handle stressors.
For specific disorders, I may use other validated treatments, such as ACT or CBT-Chronic Pain, CBT-Insomnia or CPT for PTSD.
Life has a way of handing us what feels like more than we can bear at times, and we can find ourselves stuck when our resources are thin and our tools seem inadequate. This is where I thrive – helping my clients get in touch with their strengths, build confidence and skills to get the life they want, all while exploring where they learned the unhelpful patterns to begin with. My goal is to help my clients learn to be defined not by their current or past circumstances, thoughts or feelings, but by the choices they commit to. My clients report they know themselves better and are more confident in their ability to handle stressors.
As Founder and Clinical Director of Phillips Medstone, we are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain or psychological distress such as depression, anxiety, PTSD and more. We have excellent providers who specialize in quality care using empirically validated treatment plans. Treatment options may include CBT, DBT, Biofeedback, EMDR and trauma focused care. We look forward to helping you establish care with a therapist who is 'the best fit for your needs.' Languages include English, Spanish and Italian.
As Founder and Clinical Director of Phillips Medstone, we are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain or psychological distress such as depression, anxiety, PTSD and more. We have excellent providers who specialize in quality care using empirically validated treatment plans. Treatment options may include CBT, DBT, Biofeedback, EMDR and trauma focused care. We look forward to helping you establish care with a therapist who is 'the best fit for your needs.' Languages include English, Spanish and Italian.
Tracey L Chester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed MFT, and he founder and clinical director of San Diego Pain and Trauma Institute. I primarily work with patients who suffer from chronic pain or chronic illness. Simply put, patients need extra attention their loved ones may be unable to provide.The mission of this clinic is to provide an integrated approach, with primary care doctors, and doctors from different specialties, trauma-informed care, from physical therapy techniques to the most up to date evidence based practices. I am amongst a small group of professionals studying the relationship between trauma, grief and chronic pain.
I am a licensed MFT, and he founder and clinical director of San Diego Pain and Trauma Institute. I primarily work with patients who suffer from chronic pain or chronic illness. Simply put, patients need extra attention their loved ones may be unable to provide.The mission of this clinic is to provide an integrated approach, with primary care doctors, and doctors from different specialties, trauma-informed care, from physical therapy techniques to the most up to date evidence based practices. I am amongst a small group of professionals studying the relationship between trauma, grief and chronic pain.
Patricia C Kantzavelos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MLIS, MSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
As a chronic illness warrior/ spoonie, I completely understand what it feels like to sit on the other side of the couch (or, screen), and how important it is to chat with someone who 'gets it.
I specialize in chronic health conditions and trauma, which I understand first hand. Chronic medical conditions (i.e. dysautonomia POTS, EDS, Lyme disease, Bartonella, IBS, fibro, fatigue CFS, Hashimoto’s, mast cell MCAS, sickle cell disease, mold illness CIRS, etc.) often come with significant challenges, like fear, anxiety, grief, medical PTSD, and may interfere with relationships and daily function. I utilize various holistic evidence-based treatment modalities and practice-based evidence, contingent on each person’s needs and goals, with an added focus on mindfulness techniques, positive psychology, and strengths-based therapy.
As a chronic illness warrior/ spoonie, I completely understand what it feels like to sit on the other side of the couch (or, screen), and how important it is to chat with someone who 'gets it.
I specialize in chronic health conditions and trauma, which I understand first hand. Chronic medical conditions (i.e. dysautonomia POTS, EDS, Lyme disease, Bartonella, IBS, fibro, fatigue CFS, Hashimoto’s, mast cell MCAS, sickle cell disease, mold illness CIRS, etc.) often come with significant challenges, like fear, anxiety, grief, medical PTSD, and may interfere with relationships and daily function. I utilize various holistic evidence-based treatment modalities and practice-based evidence, contingent on each person’s needs and goals, with an added focus on mindfulness techniques, positive psychology, and strengths-based therapy.
Kelly Hutton, Grief Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92102
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92102
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
Marilisa Raju, PhD Psychologist, A Professional Co
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105 (Online Only)
Are the stresses of navigating life or chronic medical issues getting you down? Nobody prepares you for dealing with being in constant physical pain and it can be an isolating and invalidating journey. Ever have difficulty understanding or making sense of who you are? Trying to understand who you are and where you belong can also be hard. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community I’ve had first-hand experience having to come to terms with holding multiple minority identities.
Are the stresses of navigating life or chronic medical issues getting you down? Nobody prepares you for dealing with being in constant physical pain and it can be an isolating and invalidating journey. Ever have difficulty understanding or making sense of who you are? Trying to understand who you are and where you belong can also be hard. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community I’ve had first-hand experience having to come to terms with holding multiple minority identities.
Seeking treatment for depression, anxiety or chronic pain can be challenging, especially when you are feeling down, with little energy and overwhelmed. Because you are here, you are on the right track! I'm a clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience helping people like you improve mood, energy, self- empowerment and quality of life. I like to work with a mind-body approach, looking at your whole body's experience of your mood...like pain, anxiety, breath.... I use both cognitive treatments, breathwork and ketamine assisted psychotherapy to help you reach your best overall health.
Seeking treatment for depression, anxiety or chronic pain can be challenging, especially when you are feeling down, with little energy and overwhelmed. Because you are here, you are on the right track! I'm a clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience helping people like you improve mood, energy, self- empowerment and quality of life. I like to work with a mind-body approach, looking at your whole body's experience of your mood...like pain, anxiety, breath.... I use both cognitive treatments, breathwork and ketamine assisted psychotherapy to help you reach your best overall health.
Dani Weinstock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a LCSW trauma-informed therapist and chronic pain coach specializing in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotional Expression and Awareness Therapy (EAET). My practice works with those experiencing psychological distress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. Having experienced and successfully recovered from my own chronic pain, I offer empathy and understanding to my clients. I also prioritize customizing therapy work for each client’s specific needs and goals. My mission is to guide clients towards emotional, psychological and physical pain relief.
Welcome! I am a LCSW trauma-informed therapist and chronic pain coach specializing in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotional Expression and Awareness Therapy (EAET). My practice works with those experiencing psychological distress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. Having experienced and successfully recovered from my own chronic pain, I offer empathy and understanding to my clients. I also prioritize customizing therapy work for each client’s specific needs and goals. My mission is to guide clients towards emotional, psychological and physical pain relief.
My goal in therapy is to assist you in cultivating balance in your internal and external worlds. Whether that is through focusing on emotion or thought, rebalancing your relationships, finding stability in managing the psychological symptoms of chronic pain or cultivating internal safety and calm to combat memories of pain and trauma.
My goal in therapy is to assist you in cultivating balance in your internal and external worlds. Whether that is through focusing on emotion or thought, rebalancing your relationships, finding stability in managing the psychological symptoms of chronic pain or cultivating internal safety and calm to combat memories of pain and trauma.
I have extensive experience in pain coping, stress management, adjustment to major life changes, and insomnia therapy.
Sometimes life throws obstacles at you that are out of your control, but that does not mean you cannot live your optimally healthy life. Being truly healthy includes emotional, social, mental and physical well-being. When these aspects of life are out of balance due to health problems, work stress, or personal issues, it can feel like your whole world is falling apart. Working through these challenges and learning the best coping tools can help you put it back together. I strive to help you move through challenges in achieving a healthy mind and body using practical, evidence-based strategies and compassionate tailored care.
I have extensive experience in pain coping, stress management, adjustment to major life changes, and insomnia therapy.
Sometimes life throws obstacles at you that are out of your control, but that does not mean you cannot live your optimally healthy life. Being truly healthy includes emotional, social, mental and physical well-being. When these aspects of life are out of balance due to health problems, work stress, or personal issues, it can feel like your whole world is falling apart. Working through these challenges and learning the best coping tools can help you put it back together. I strive to help you move through challenges in achieving a healthy mind and body using practical, evidence-based strategies and compassionate tailored care.
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Dr. Jen Bachtold
Psychologist, PhD, CADC-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92154 (Online Only)
Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to stop by! I work with those suffering from chronic pain, addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, mental and emotional disturbances, change of life transitions, relationship concerns, work stress/burnout, personality disorders, intra and interpersonal issues, trauma, anger, and just every day stresses! I have experience delivering evidenced-based therapies in individual and group therapy, including providing individual short-term and long-term psychotherapy. Providers in my office are allies of Racial-Justiced and LGBTQIA+.
Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to stop by! I work with those suffering from chronic pain, addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, mental and emotional disturbances, change of life transitions, relationship concerns, work stress/burnout, personality disorders, intra and interpersonal issues, trauma, anger, and just every day stresses! I have experience delivering evidenced-based therapies in individual and group therapy, including providing individual short-term and long-term psychotherapy. Providers in my office are allies of Racial-Justiced and LGBTQIA+.
Do you struggle with emotion regulation, relationship problems, body image, negative thoughts? Unprocessed trauma causes a lot of pain and can be confusing to navigate. It colors every aspect of our lives. I specialize in treating disordered eating, eating disorders, body image, anxiety and other women's health issues.
Do you struggle with emotion regulation, relationship problems, body image, negative thoughts? Unprocessed trauma causes a lot of pain and can be confusing to navigate. It colors every aspect of our lives. I specialize in treating disordered eating, eating disorders, body image, anxiety and other women's health issues.
Veronica Cardenas - Cancer Care Specialist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92128 (Online Only)
Everything is different now. Since your cancer diagnosis, your entire life has been turned upside down. The future that once felt so bright and full of potential now seems dark and frightening. Not long ago, your schedule was packed with dinners, dates, and vacations. Now, your calendar is all doctor appointments and hospital visits. The physical exhaustion and side effects of treatment pale in comparison to the emotional toll. You’re constantly wracked with fear over your illness. Loved ones offer support, but they don’t understand what you’re going through. You wonder if you’re going to feel this scared and lost forever.
Everything is different now. Since your cancer diagnosis, your entire life has been turned upside down. The future that once felt so bright and full of potential now seems dark and frightening. Not long ago, your schedule was packed with dinners, dates, and vacations. Now, your calendar is all doctor appointments and hospital visits. The physical exhaustion and side effects of treatment pale in comparison to the emotional toll. You’re constantly wracked with fear over your illness. Loved ones offer support, but they don’t understand what you’re going through. You wonder if you’re going to feel this scared and lost forever.
- for chronic pain, mindfulness).
I find that the counseling process requires authenticity from both yourself and the counselor that you choose to work with. My approach is affirming and gentle, but also honest so that we can confront any stressors or obstacles in your life. I believe that mental health and physical well-being go hand in hand. I have experience working with survivors of brain injury, as well as clients managing chronic, acute, or terminal illness. I've worked with underserved populations, and a wide range of adults from diverse backgrounds. I aim to offer culturally sensitive and affirming care, and offer services in Farsi, in addition to English.
- for chronic pain, mindfulness).
I find that the counseling process requires authenticity from both yourself and the counselor that you choose to work with. My approach is affirming and gentle, but also honest so that we can confront any stressors or obstacles in your life. I believe that mental health and physical well-being go hand in hand. I have experience working with survivors of brain injury, as well as clients managing chronic, acute, or terminal illness. I've worked with underserved populations, and a wide range of adults from diverse backgrounds. I aim to offer culturally sensitive and affirming care, and offer services in Farsi, in addition to English.
#1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
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.
If I had to choose the conditions I enjoy treating the most it would be High functioning Mood/Anxiety, Behavioral problems, Chronic pain, Family conflict, Life Transitions, School issues, Men/Women issues, Trauma, Stress, and Grief.
Welcome to my Profile! My name is Ruth Her and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm happy you made the choice to find what I hope may be a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings. Not knowing what to expect from therapy can sometimes make us feel some sense of anxiety. This feeling is normal and understandable. Especially now, it is very important to take care of our mind and body. There is so much happening around us and to us. It is so important to take time to look after our mental health and well-being. During our first therapy session, it is my intent to set your heart at ease and introduce myself to you.
If I had to choose the conditions I enjoy treating the most it would be High functioning Mood/Anxiety, Behavioral problems, Chronic pain, Family conflict, Life Transitions, School issues, Men/Women issues, Trauma, Stress, and Grief.
Welcome to my Profile! My name is Ruth Her and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm happy you made the choice to find what I hope may be a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings. Not knowing what to expect from therapy can sometimes make us feel some sense of anxiety. This feeling is normal and understandable. Especially now, it is very important to take care of our mind and body. There is so much happening around us and to us. It is so important to take time to look after our mental health and well-being. During our first therapy session, it is my intent to set your heart at ease and introduce myself to you.
Are you struggling with your relationships, sexual orientation, gender identity, cultural identity, guilt, shame, anxiety, panic symptoms, trauma, unresolved abuse, self-hate, suicidal thoughts, hopelessness, grief and loss, chronic pain, or autoimmune disorders? Schedule a session today.
Lauren treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. She works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, she strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.
Are you struggling with your relationships, sexual orientation, gender identity, cultural identity, guilt, shame, anxiety, panic symptoms, trauma, unresolved abuse, self-hate, suicidal thoughts, hopelessness, grief and loss, chronic pain, or autoimmune disorders? Schedule a session today.
Lauren treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. She works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, she strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.
Courtney Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Courtney Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering behavioral health services to adults. She has over 11 years of experience as a social worker in home health, hospice, skilled nursing homes, hospitals, private practice, medical managed care and foster family agency settings. She treats a full list of problems; however; her specialties include anxiety disorders, stress disorders, trauma, depression, chronic pain/health, grief, trauma or abuse and career/school issues.She utilizes evidenced based practices such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Grief Therapy and
Courtney Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering behavioral health services to adults. She has over 11 years of experience as a social worker in home health, hospice, skilled nursing homes, hospitals, private practice, medical managed care and foster family agency settings. She treats a full list of problems; however; her specialties include anxiety disorders, stress disorders, trauma, depression, chronic pain/health, grief, trauma or abuse and career/school issues.She utilizes evidenced based practices such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Grief Therapy and
Hi, my name is Julie Flores. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). My approach is client-focused and tailored to meet individual needs. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, issues of the aging and elderly, and life changes. I have practiced social work and therapy for many years and look forward to providing services and helping clients improve their lives. My focus is primarily on providing services to adults with a variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment-type issues. I focus on those with mild to moderate mental health concerns and would be happy to evaluate any other concerns.
Hi, my name is Julie Flores. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). My approach is client-focused and tailored to meet individual needs. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, issues of the aging and elderly, and life changes. I have practiced social work and therapy for many years and look forward to providing services and helping clients improve their lives. My focus is primarily on providing services to adults with a variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment-type issues. I focus on those with mild to moderate mental health concerns and would be happy to evaluate any other concerns.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Chula Vista
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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.