Chronic Pain Therapists in San Francisco, CA
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.
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.
On the outside, you’re capable and dependable. On the inside, your mind rarely slows down. You replay conversations, anticipate what’s next, and hold yourself to high standards. By the time your head hits the pillow, your body is exhausted but your brain is “on.” Sleep becomes restless, short, or hard to trust. I work with high-achieving adults navigating sleep difficulties, anxiety, perfectionism, and trauma-related stress. You’re ready to stop "trying" to sleep and start resolving the patterns keeping you awake so you can return to a version of yourself that feels steady, energized, and in control.
On the outside, you’re capable and dependable. On the inside, your mind rarely slows down. You replay conversations, anticipate what’s next, and hold yourself to high standards. By the time your head hits the pillow, your body is exhausted but your brain is “on.” Sleep becomes restless, short, or hard to trust. I work with high-achieving adults navigating sleep difficulties, anxiety, perfectionism, and trauma-related stress. You’re ready to stop "trying" to sleep and start resolving the patterns keeping you awake so you can return to a version of yourself that feels steady, energized, and in control.
I specialize in working with people living with chronic pain, other health conditions, and eating disorders.
I offer culturally informed care for immigrant and multicultural families navigating immigration-related stress, life between cultures, intergenerational differences, and discrimination. I also work with parents/caregivers and families to strengthen communication, reduce conflict and build coping skills.
I specialize in working with people living with chronic pain, other health conditions, and eating disorders.
I offer culturally informed care for immigrant and multicultural families navigating immigration-related stress, life between cultures, intergenerational differences, and discrimination. I also work with parents/caregivers and families to strengthen communication, reduce conflict and build coping skills.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples navigating through heightened stress, challenging interpersonal dynamics, grief, and the complexities of chronic pain or illness.
My approach is relational - I view the therapy relationship and other relationships in your life as being powerful indicators of how your past has shaped your present. Together, we will uncover the complexities of your inner world and identify the relational patterns that feel stuck, in order to help you make meaningful change in your life.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples navigating through heightened stress, challenging interpersonal dynamics, grief, and the complexities of chronic pain or illness.
My approach is relational - I view the therapy relationship and other relationships in your life as being powerful indicators of how your past has shaped your present. Together, we will uncover the complexities of your inner world and identify the relational patterns that feel stuck, in order to help you make meaningful change in your life.
My areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, OCD, behavioral sleep disorders, mind-body struggles (e.g., chronic pain, IBS, fatigue, fibromyalgia, dizziness, migraines, medically unexplained symptoms).
Welcome! Thank you for checking out my page, and more importantly, for taking this step to invest in yourself! You likely are struggling significantly with something and looking for guidance. You may be wondering if I could be the therapist by your side on this journey. Here's a little about me to help you make an informed decision: My style of therapy is thoughtful, warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, highly collaborative, and results-driven. You are the expert on you (your child), and are likely coming to me for expertise in specific therapies to help you get to where you are heading. As a team we can get there quicker!
My areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, OCD, behavioral sleep disorders, mind-body struggles (e.g., chronic pain, IBS, fatigue, fibromyalgia, dizziness, migraines, medically unexplained symptoms).
Welcome! Thank you for checking out my page, and more importantly, for taking this step to invest in yourself! You likely are struggling significantly with something and looking for guidance. You may be wondering if I could be the therapist by your side on this journey. Here's a little about me to help you make an informed decision: My style of therapy is thoughtful, warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, highly collaborative, and results-driven. You are the expert on you (your child), and are likely coming to me for expertise in specific therapies to help you get to where you are heading. As a team we can get there quicker!
I am most experienced in working with people with pain, illness, addictions, anxiety and depression.
I specialize in treating clients with pain and chronic illness management issues. I use cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, EMDR, hypnosis, relaxation and portable biofeedback techniques to assist clients in improving their quality of life while coping with chronic pain/ illness. I also specialize in the treatment of addictions .
I am most experienced in working with people with pain, illness, addictions, anxiety and depression.
I specialize in treating clients with pain and chronic illness management issues. I use cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, EMDR, hypnosis, relaxation and portable biofeedback techniques to assist clients in improving their quality of life while coping with chronic pain/ illness. I also specialize in the treatment of addictions .
As a clinical psychologist, I specialize in helping adults manage the emotional and physical challenges that often come with chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and OCD.
In our work together, we’ll focus on understanding your unique experiences and building on your strengths to create sustainable change. I draw from evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure Therapy, always tailoring treatment to your specific needs and goals.
As a clinical psychologist, I specialize in helping adults manage the emotional and physical challenges that often come with chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and OCD.
In our work together, we’ll focus on understanding your unique experiences and building on your strengths to create sustainable change. I draw from evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure Therapy, always tailoring treatment to your specific needs and goals.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over thirty-five years of psychotherapy experience. I've come to view what I do as a unique and specialized form of education. I "teach" not so much by telling people what to do (although good advice can sometimes be very useful), but by offering supportive, empathic and honest feedback. Individuals and problems are unique; sometimes solution oriented approaches are warranted, and other times insight and exploration help to provide clarification and relief.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over thirty-five years of psychotherapy experience. I've come to view what I do as a unique and specialized form of education. I "teach" not so much by telling people what to do (although good advice can sometimes be very useful), but by offering supportive, empathic and honest feedback. Individuals and problems are unique; sometimes solution oriented approaches are warranted, and other times insight and exploration help to provide clarification and relief.
I have had extensive experience in: child abuse, sexual abuse, trauma, divorce, adoption, fertility, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety, families with special needs, learning differences, school adjustments, career changes, sexual intimacy.
After over 35 years of clinical practice I realize that getting into therapy takes great strength, endurance, and commitment. I am always willing to offer clients a safe environment with my own strength and commitment to do the work that needs to be done. My work with children has helped me work more effectively with adults. I am currently conducting sessions both in person and on a Hippa approved video therapy network.
I have had extensive experience in: child abuse, sexual abuse, trauma, divorce, adoption, fertility, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety, families with special needs, learning differences, school adjustments, career changes, sexual intimacy.
After over 35 years of clinical practice I realize that getting into therapy takes great strength, endurance, and commitment. I am always willing to offer clients a safe environment with my own strength and commitment to do the work that needs to be done. My work with children has helped me work more effectively with adults. I am currently conducting sessions both in person and on a Hippa approved video therapy network.
I create a safe and comfortable environment where you can learn how to decrease stress and anxiety, sleep better, reduce or eliminate pain, live well with chronic illness, resolve past trauma and stop self-limiting behaviors.
I have training in Clinical Hypnosis, EMDR, Imagery and Mindfulness. I have led trainings at businesses, universities and professional conferences on stress management, wellness and chronic illness. I am Chair of California Psychological Association's CARE Program, have led workshops on stress and pain management and authored a book on Multiple Sclerosis.
I create a safe and comfortable environment where you can learn how to decrease stress and anxiety, sleep better, reduce or eliminate pain, live well with chronic illness, resolve past trauma and stop self-limiting behaviors.
I have training in Clinical Hypnosis, EMDR, Imagery and Mindfulness. I have led trainings at businesses, universities and professional conferences on stress management, wellness and chronic illness. I am Chair of California Psychological Association's CARE Program, have led workshops on stress and pain management and authored a book on Multiple Sclerosis.
They're dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or relationship patterns that keep repeating, and they're looking for something different.
I practice depth-oriented psychotherapy — less focused on strategies to manage symptoms and more on making room for what's actually going on. A lot of what keeps people stuck isn't something to be solved. It's something that needs to be felt and held, with someone who can stay with you in it.
They're dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or relationship patterns that keep repeating, and they're looking for something different.
I practice depth-oriented psychotherapy — less focused on strategies to manage symptoms and more on making room for what's actually going on. A lot of what keeps people stuck isn't something to be solved. It's something that needs to be felt and held, with someone who can stay with you in it.
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.
I help people to heal that pain.
Are you having trouble getting over a past shock or trauma?
Are you frequently in overwhelm/collapse?
Are you constantly bracing against danger, ready to fight or run away?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help.
I specialize in working with people who have experienced being overwhelmed by events and experiences that have shaken their very foundations.
I take time to assess your personal stress/trauma history and provide guidance and support to assist you in your recovery.
I also help couples create sustained improvement in their relationship, creating more effective communication and fulfilling relationships.
I help people to heal that pain.
Are you having trouble getting over a past shock or trauma?
Are you frequently in overwhelm/collapse?
Are you constantly bracing against danger, ready to fight or run away?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help.
I specialize in working with people who have experienced being overwhelmed by events and experiences that have shaken their very foundations.
I take time to assess your personal stress/trauma history and provide guidance and support to assist you in your recovery.
I also help couples create sustained improvement in their relationship, creating more effective communication and fulfilling relationships.
I specialize in perinatal mental health (pregnancy, postpartum, early parenting), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and chronic pain conditions, including pelvic pain such as endometriosis, painful sex, vulvodynia, and vaginismus.
By understanding and reflecting on your experiences together, we can open the door to new perspectives, healing and growth.
I specialize in perinatal mental health (pregnancy, postpartum, early parenting), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and chronic pain conditions, including pelvic pain such as endometriosis, painful sex, vulvodynia, and vaginismus.
By understanding and reflecting on your experiences together, we can open the door to new perspectives, healing and growth.
Do you struggle with life changes that have shifted your sense of self — or left you wondering who you are now? Do you find yourself navigating shame, frustration, or overwhelm when you think about what comes next? You are not alone, and you do not have to figure it out by yourself.
Have you been told or think you have Borderline Personality Disorder? Do you feel like others dismiss your health concerns?
Do you struggle with life changes that have shifted your sense of self — or left you wondering who you are now? Do you find yourself navigating shame, frustration, or overwhelm when you think about what comes next? You are not alone, and you do not have to figure it out by yourself.
Have you been told or think you have Borderline Personality Disorder? Do you feel like others dismiss your health concerns?
Is a relationship causing you pain?
I offer individual and couples therapy, combining the best traditions of talk-therapy with body centered (somatic) psychotherapy, EMDR, and IFT-informed parts-work, and also EFT for couples. I ground my work with insights from research on the brain, emotions, and mindful self-compassion. Therapy with me is gentle and focused, supportive and challenging.
Is a relationship causing you pain?
I offer individual and couples therapy, combining the best traditions of talk-therapy with body centered (somatic) psychotherapy, EMDR, and IFT-informed parts-work, and also EFT for couples. I ground my work with insights from research on the brain, emotions, and mindful self-compassion. Therapy with me is gentle and focused, supportive and challenging.
I am a clinical health psychologist with advanced training at Harvard Medical School and UCSF offering evidence-based treatments to alleviate distress and increase quality of life across the lifespan. I work in collaboration with adults, adolescents, and children on issues ranging from anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and ADHD, to medical issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, combining elements from Solution Focused Therapy, Relaxation Therapy, and ACT depending on particular client needs. I want LGBTQ clients to know that I have an affirming practice: I will support couples, families, and transgender people with the dignity and respect they deserve.
I am a clinical health psychologist with advanced training at Harvard Medical School and UCSF offering evidence-based treatments to alleviate distress and increase quality of life across the lifespan. I work in collaboration with adults, adolescents, and children on issues ranging from anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and ADHD, to medical issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, combining elements from Solution Focused Therapy, Relaxation Therapy, and ACT depending on particular client needs. I want LGBTQ clients to know that I have an affirming practice: I will support couples, families, and transgender people with the dignity and respect they deserve.
My therapeutic style leans into psychoeducation and is focused on helping you develop the self-confidence and skills that you need to face the suffering and pain we all experience in life.
I offer therapy to all clients on a sliding scale because I believe that all people deserve access to mental health care, regardless of income. My fees range from $40-$250 for each 50 minute individual session. If you come from a higher income bracket, your fee will be supporting high-quality mental care for those who struggle to afford it.
My therapeutic style leans into psychoeducation and is focused on helping you develop the self-confidence and skills that you need to face the suffering and pain we all experience in life.
I offer therapy to all clients on a sliding scale because I believe that all people deserve access to mental health care, regardless of income. My fees range from $40-$250 for each 50 minute individual session. If you come from a higher income bracket, your fee will be supporting high-quality mental care for those who struggle to afford it.
You can reduce your emotional or physical pain, improve your physical functioning, reduce your psychological distress, and regain your quality of life.
I'm a licensed psychologist, formerly with Kaiser Permanente and Veterans Administration, and most recently faculty at UCSF Department of Family and Community Medicine, teaching health professionals such as psychiatrists, medical doctors, and psychologists about chronic pain management. I also have experience providing individual, couple, and group therapy.
You can reduce your emotional or physical pain, improve your physical functioning, reduce your psychological distress, and regain your quality of life.
I'm a licensed psychologist, formerly with Kaiser Permanente and Veterans Administration, and most recently faculty at UCSF Department of Family and Community Medicine, teaching health professionals such as psychiatrists, medical doctors, and psychologists about chronic pain management. I also have experience providing individual, couple, and group therapy.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Albany
- Belvedere Tiburon
- Daly City
- Emeryville
- Mill Valley
- Oakland
- Piedmont
- San Bruno
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco
- Tiburon
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.