Chronic Pain Therapists in San Diego, CA
I love what I do and I believe that shines through in every interaction I have with my clients. My approach to treatment is collaborative and I work with clients to build a life they want to live through goal identification, skill building and a balanced commitment to the things they care about the most. I have a wide range of training and experience in working with emotional, behavioral and physical health challenges. I am a current Staff Psychologist at the VA San Diego Health System and maintain a small private practice.
I love what I do and I believe that shines through in every interaction I have with my clients. My approach to treatment is collaborative and I work with clients to build a life they want to live through goal identification, skill building and a balanced commitment to the things they care about the most. I have a wide range of training and experience in working with emotional, behavioral and physical health challenges. I am a current Staff Psychologist at the VA San Diego Health System and maintain a small private practice.
Providing Alpha Stim for pain, anxiety and depression.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Specifically, I have expertise in Alpha-Stim treatment for chronic pain, and assessment of military/deployment related PTSD. I am a trauma trained psychotherapist in EMDR, CPT and Prolonged Exposure. I am also a combat experienced Veteran.
Providing Alpha Stim for pain, anxiety and depression.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Specifically, I have expertise in Alpha-Stim treatment for chronic pain, and assessment of military/deployment related PTSD. I am a trauma trained psychotherapist in EMDR, CPT and Prolonged Exposure. I am also a combat experienced Veteran.
I am a licensed MFT, and he founder and clinical director of San Diego Pain and Trauma Institute.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and I employ the latest techniques that help with mood disorders and the effect chronic pain has on mood and quality of life. Our team includes ocean/surf therapists, Somatic Therapists, LCSWs, and acupuncture. We use modalities such as ocean therapy, EMDR, Play Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I am a licensed MFT, and he founder and clinical director of San Diego Pain and Trauma Institute.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and I employ the latest techniques that help with mood disorders and the effect chronic pain has on mood and quality of life. Our team includes ocean/surf therapists, Somatic Therapists, LCSWs, and acupuncture. We use modalities such as ocean therapy, EMDR, Play Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
Seeking treatment for depression, anxiety or chronic pain can be challenging, especially when you are feeling down, with little energy and overwhelmed.
No two people are the same, so no two treatments should be the same either! I am passionate about providing the best possible care and treatment plans that are individualized for each person's unique need. I specialize in helping individuals and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Chronic Pain and General Life Changes.
Seeking treatment for depression, anxiety or chronic pain can be challenging, especially when you are feeling down, with little energy and overwhelmed.
No two people are the same, so no two treatments should be the same either! I am passionate about providing the best possible care and treatment plans that are individualized for each person's unique need. I specialize in helping individuals and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Chronic Pain and General Life Changes.
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.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, or chronic pain, therapy can help you feel more balanced, build healthier coping skills, and regain a sense of control.
I specialize in helping people manage chronic pain and also support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. My approach is practical and evidence-based, using tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and biofeedback. These approaches are often combined and tailored to fit your unique needs.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, or chronic pain, therapy can help you feel more balanced, build healthier coping skills, and regain a sense of control.
I specialize in helping people manage chronic pain and also support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. My approach is practical and evidence-based, using tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and biofeedback. These approaches are often combined and tailored to fit your unique needs.
or suffer from chronic illness/ pain?
As a trauma-trained therapist, I specialize in the treatment of trauma from a developmental and nervous system lens, crafted to meet a client’s unique needs. Patience, curiosity, compassion, autonomy, and intuition are the cornerstone of trauma focused therapy. Inviting clients to reconnect with the intuitive process of their healing is my passion.
or suffer from chronic illness/ pain?
As a trauma-trained therapist, I specialize in the treatment of trauma from a developmental and nervous system lens, crafted to meet a client’s unique needs. Patience, curiosity, compassion, autonomy, and intuition are the cornerstone of trauma focused therapy. Inviting clients to reconnect with the intuitive process of their healing is my passion.
As a strengths-based, patient-centered, and trauma informed therapist, I will work with you to identify and achieve your individual goals for emotional growth and healing.
As a strengths-based, patient-centered, and trauma informed therapist, I will work with you to identify and achieve your individual goals for emotional growth and healing.
I’m an LCSW with a decade of experience working with adults and a special interest in supporting young adults.
My approach blends ACT, IFS, CBT, Narrative Therapy and is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and curiosity.
I work with adults who feel stuck — whether they’re navigating health issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, career challenges, or relationship struggles. Many of my clients feel like they “should” be doing more to care for themselves, but something keeps getting in the way. Others are doing everything they’re supposed to, yet still carry a nagging sense that something's missing.
I’m an LCSW with a decade of experience working with adults and a special interest in supporting young adults.
My approach blends ACT, IFS, CBT, Narrative Therapy and is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and curiosity.
I work with adults who feel stuck — whether they’re navigating health issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, career challenges, or relationship struggles. Many of my clients feel like they “should” be doing more to care for themselves, but something keeps getting in the way. Others are doing everything they’re supposed to, yet still carry a nagging sense that something's missing.
Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92102
Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing?
I work with individuals and couples/families around these issues and work specifically with couples and families around the changing in roles, caregiving/care partners, and marital or family issues/dynamics around illness or pain. I work in-person or virtually and can provide in-home sessions for those struggling with mobility, fatigue or pain.
Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing?
I work with individuals and couples/families around these issues and work specifically with couples and families around the changing in roles, caregiving/care partners, and marital or family issues/dynamics around illness or pain. I work in-person or virtually and can provide in-home sessions for those struggling with mobility, fatigue or pain.
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.
As the Clinical Director and founder, my specific services include bariatric/weight loss surgery clearance, surgical device clearance such as SCS or PNS and opioid risk assessments. With over 15 years experience I understand the healthcare system and the importance of providing same day consult reports in order to avoid unnecessary treatment delays.
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.
As the Clinical Director and founder, my specific services include bariatric/weight loss surgery clearance, surgical device clearance such as SCS or PNS and opioid risk assessments. With over 15 years experience I understand the healthcare system and the importance of providing same day consult reports in order to avoid unnecessary treatment delays.
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.
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.' We will work together to co-create a safe space and find the root cause of your dis-ease, and invite wellness and joy. From chronic illness to chronic wellness.
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.
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.' We will work together to co-create a safe space and find the root cause of your dis-ease, and invite wellness and joy. From chronic illness to chronic wellness.
With particular expertise in chronic illness support, relationship issues, and life transitions, I create a therapeutic environment where clients feel genuinely heard while working toward their personal goals.
I can help by providing psycho-education, compassionate support, a safe space to process difficult emotions, and understanding from multiple cultural backgrounds. Together we can build skills for creating the experience you want in life.
With particular expertise in chronic illness support, relationship issues, and life transitions, I create a therapeutic environment where clients feel genuinely heard while working toward their personal goals.
I can help by providing psycho-education, compassionate support, a safe space to process difficult emotions, and understanding from multiple cultural backgrounds. Together we can build skills for creating the experience you want in life.
Seeking support takes enormous courage. My approach is a balance of candidness and tenderness to meet your needs. I welcome feedback throughout our work to ensure we are on the right track and will continue to check in to support you in the best way possible. I use a trauma-focused lens- incorporating biological, social and psychological perspectives. As a certified Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, I work primarily from the EMDR modality and integrate parts work and somatic techniques as well as mind-body medicine approaches when it feels appropriate in our work together.
Seeking support takes enormous courage. My approach is a balance of candidness and tenderness to meet your needs. I welcome feedback throughout our work to ensure we are on the right track and will continue to check in to support you in the best way possible. I use a trauma-focused lens- incorporating biological, social and psychological perspectives. As a certified Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, I work primarily from the EMDR modality and integrate parts work and somatic techniques as well as mind-body medicine approaches when it feels appropriate in our work together.
Many people come to therapy feeling like something isn’t quite right in their mind or body, even when medical tests say everything is fine. You may feel anxious, exhausted, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Using somatic therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation, I help clients calm stress, reconnect with their bodies, process emotions, and build greater balance, resilience, and presence in daily life.
Many people come to therapy feeling like something isn’t quite right in their mind or body, even when medical tests say everything is fine. You may feel anxious, exhausted, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Using somatic therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation, I help clients calm stress, reconnect with their bodies, process emotions, and build greater balance, resilience, and presence in daily life.
I help adults manage chronic pain, anxiety, depression, bariatric and health-related challenges by combining proven tools like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and a strength-based approach — all in a supportive, goal-focused space.
With advanced training in integrated care and health psychology, I work with clients who want to improve their well-being, make sustainable behavior changes, and feel more in control of their lives. Together, we’ll focus on what matters most to you — whether that’s building resilience, finding balance, or navigating complex health conditions.
I help adults manage chronic pain, anxiety, depression, bariatric and health-related challenges by combining proven tools like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and a strength-based approach — all in a supportive, goal-focused space.
With advanced training in integrated care and health psychology, I work with clients who want to improve their well-being, make sustainable behavior changes, and feel more in control of their lives. Together, we’ll focus on what matters most to you — whether that’s building resilience, finding balance, or navigating complex health conditions.
To me, all symptoms that we experience whether it be chronic pain, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, etc can be explained by trauma.
I specialize in treating chronic pain and dissociation. I primarily work in a somatic and relational way which means that I deal with what is happening in the moment in the nervous system between us. My work is informed by the idea that we all have different parts of ourselves that are trying to express themselves in the best way that they know how,
To me, all symptoms that we experience whether it be chronic pain, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, etc can be explained by trauma.
I specialize in treating chronic pain and dissociation. I primarily work in a somatic and relational way which means that I deal with what is happening in the moment in the nervous system between us. My work is informed by the idea that we all have different parts of ourselves that are trying to express themselves in the best way that they know how,
Reclaim your life from chronic pain: Chronic pain can feel isolating, overwhelming, and endless—disconnecting you from the life you once knew.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience helping thousands manage chronic pain from injuries and illness. I take a collaborative, personalized approach—honoring your unique history while guiding you toward a functional, fulfilling life. Together, we’ll create practical strategies to help you regain control and build resilience.
Reclaim your life from chronic pain: Chronic pain can feel isolating, overwhelming, and endless—disconnecting you from the life you once knew.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience helping thousands manage chronic pain from injuries and illness. I take a collaborative, personalized approach—honoring your unique history while guiding you toward a functional, fulfilling life. Together, we’ll create practical strategies to help you regain control and build resilience.
You may notice patterns of overwhelm, shutdown, relationship pain, chronic stress, or stress-related physical symptoms that persist even when you understand where they come from.
I specialize in trauma therapy for highly sensitive nervous systems experiencing chronic stress, trauma responses, and mind-body symptoms. My work helps the nervous system process patterns that insight alone may not resolve. I integrate EMDR, Brainspotting, and somatic, nervous-system-informed therapy, and offer therapy intensives for deeper trauma work.
You may notice patterns of overwhelm, shutdown, relationship pain, chronic stress, or stress-related physical symptoms that persist even when you understand where they come from.
I specialize in trauma therapy for highly sensitive nervous systems experiencing chronic stress, trauma responses, and mind-body symptoms. My work helps the nervous system process patterns that insight alone may not resolve. I integrate EMDR, Brainspotting, and somatic, nervous-system-informed therapy, and offer therapy intensives for deeper trauma work.
Natasha Smolkin is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with patients who struggle with chronic pain, stress and anxiety, addiction, interpersonal challenges, depression, self-esteem issues, and many more of life’s mental wellness obstacles.
Dr. Smolkin enjoys working with adults of all ages in San Francisco, and via telehealth throughout the state of California.
Natasha Smolkin is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with patients who struggle with chronic pain, stress and anxiety, addiction, interpersonal challenges, depression, self-esteem issues, and many more of life’s mental wellness obstacles.
Dr. Smolkin enjoys working with adults of all ages in San Francisco, and via telehealth throughout the state of California.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lakeside
- Lemon Grove
- Santee
- Spring Valley
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.