Photo of Elaine Skoulas, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Elaine Skoulas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
You've made it this far, but something is holding you back from the life you want to be living. You have learned a lot about yourself and relationships, yet you keep ending up stuck in the same patterns. Past trauma doesn’t have to continue to hurt your present life anymore. You might be someone who always puts others first, and now it's finally time to have a space just for you. You might be navigating a life with chronic pain, anxiety, or depression and need the support to get unstuck. Reaching out is a powerful first step to take care of yourself. I am committed to supporting you with warmth and kindness every step along the way.
You've made it this far, but something is holding you back from the life you want to be living. You have learned a lot about yourself and relationships, yet you keep ending up stuck in the same patterns. Past trauma doesn’t have to continue to hurt your present life anymore. You might be someone who always puts others first, and now it's finally time to have a space just for you. You might be navigating a life with chronic pain, anxiety, or depression and need the support to get unstuck. Reaching out is a powerful first step to take care of yourself. I am committed to supporting you with warmth and kindness every step along the way.
(818) 350-5204 View (818) 350-5204
Photo of Liz Pace, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Liz Pace
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Waitlist for new clients
I also offer evidence based techniques that allow bodies that have experienced trauma and pain to release old patterns and become open to feeling more authentically alive.
I offer long-term and short-term therapy for adults, children, and teens. My approach is direct and compassionate. I believe therapy should be deeply comforting while also inviting you to be genuinely challenged toward real growth and healing. My goal is to create a space of trust and safety, where we can blend humor and lightness with deep, meaningful therapeutic work.
I also offer evidence based techniques that allow bodies that have experienced trauma and pain to release old patterns and become open to feeling more authentically alive.
I offer long-term and short-term therapy for adults, children, and teens. My approach is direct and compassionate. I believe therapy should be deeply comforting while also inviting you to be genuinely challenged toward real growth and healing. My goal is to create a space of trust and safety, where we can blend humor and lightness with deep, meaningful therapeutic work.
(415) 212-4557 View (415) 212-4557
Photo of Haley Hewitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Haley Hewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
(925) 275-5742 View (925) 275-5742
Photo of Rebecca A. Ward, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Rebecca A. Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT, SEP, PCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
Regardless of your suffering, there is a way through it and because we each have our own way of processing emotional wounds, I take an individualized approach to help you transform pain into healing. I specialize in addressing trauma and grief. This includes the loss of a loved one, traumatic loss (event-related, developmental), as well as psychological symptoms associated with chronic and terminal illness. Through an integrated approach, my work is about healing the soul and finding light in the darkness despite facing life-threatening conditions afflicting the body, mind, heart, and spirit.
Regardless of your suffering, there is a way through it and because we each have our own way of processing emotional wounds, I take an individualized approach to help you transform pain into healing. I specialize in addressing trauma and grief. This includes the loss of a loved one, traumatic loss (event-related, developmental), as well as psychological symptoms associated with chronic and terminal illness. Through an integrated approach, my work is about healing the soul and finding light in the darkness despite facing life-threatening conditions afflicting the body, mind, heart, and spirit.
View
Photo of Alison Murphey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Alison Murphey, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
As a therapist specializing in anxiety, chronic health and pain conditions, trauma, and addiction, I have the expertise you need to get on the road to the peace, and fulfillment you deserve.
Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, anger or defeat, as a result of a significant life change or past trauma? Maybe a relationship has ended or a new phase of life has just begun. Perhaps you’re living with the long-term effects of abuse, pain, or other traumatic experience. You may feel out of control & unsafe of your life or emotions, anxious about even the smallest things, or like you just can’t find your footing. Eventually, these things start to overflow into other areas of life: your relationships, work, and decisions about the future. Despite how hard things are right now, you know there’s more to life than this.
As a therapist specializing in anxiety, chronic health and pain conditions, trauma, and addiction, I have the expertise you need to get on the road to the peace, and fulfillment you deserve.
Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, anger or defeat, as a result of a significant life change or past trauma? Maybe a relationship has ended or a new phase of life has just begun. Perhaps you’re living with the long-term effects of abuse, pain, or other traumatic experience. You may feel out of control & unsafe of your life or emotions, anxious about even the smallest things, or like you just can’t find your footing. Eventually, these things start to overflow into other areas of life: your relationships, work, and decisions about the future. Despite how hard things are right now, you know there’s more to life than this.
(747) 477-8649 View (747) 477-8649
Photo of Su Jin Feuer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Su Jin Feuer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
Additionally, I work well with clients impacted by illness, grief, loss and traumas.
For over 20 years, I have counseled individuals, couples and families on health, relationships, families, career, and life transitions. Licensed in New York and California, I am a psychotherapist and consultant providing virtual therapy. Rooted in attachment theory, I see adults seeking individual therapy and provide consultations for couples and families. I am a graduate of Columbia University and Ackerman Institute for the Family. I practice relational, psychodynamic therapy and EMDR. My areas of specialty are health psychology, relationships, families, life and career transitions, self esteem and performance.
Additionally, I work well with clients impacted by illness, grief, loss and traumas.
For over 20 years, I have counseled individuals, couples and families on health, relationships, families, career, and life transitions. Licensed in New York and California, I am a psychotherapist and consultant providing virtual therapy. Rooted in attachment theory, I see adults seeking individual therapy and provide consultations for couples and families. I am a graduate of Columbia University and Ackerman Institute for the Family. I practice relational, psychodynamic therapy and EMDR. My areas of specialty are health psychology, relationships, families, life and career transitions, self esteem and performance.
(914) 252-3183 View (914) 252-3183
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 840-3997 View (415) 840-3997
Photo of Mackenzie Studebaker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Mackenzie Studebaker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
Welcome! As a holistic psychotherapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe environment for you to show up just as you are and feel held and supported in your process. In the therapeutic space, all aspects of yourself are welcomed - even the parts that challenge you. I bring humility, curiosity, reverence and a sense of humor to this work. I believe you are the expert of your experience and I am here to support you every step of the way. My clinical approach is enriched and informed by 10+ years of teaching yoga and meditation in private practice.
Welcome! As a holistic psychotherapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe environment for you to show up just as you are and feel held and supported in your process. In the therapeutic space, all aspects of yourself are welcomed - even the parts that challenge you. I bring humility, curiosity, reverence and a sense of humor to this work. I believe you are the expert of your experience and I am here to support you every step of the way. My clinical approach is enriched and informed by 10+ years of teaching yoga and meditation in private practice.
(415) 881-5703 View (415) 881-5703
Photo of Dr. Joanna Renee Fassl, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Joanna Renee Fassl
Marriage & Family Therapist, Joanna Fassl, LMFT, DC, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
My clients are looking for a different type of therapy. They wish for a more enlivened and interactive approach that engages beyond words and captures the heart of one's struggle and yearning to break free. My clients oftentimes feel lost, plagued with chronic anxiety, depression or anger, and stuck in a rigidified experience of themselves. They toggle between a tired set of coping mechanisms; and the fear and distrust of branching out into the new. My work cradles the middle: lovingly chipping away at the hardened barriers while welcoming in steady, free, authentic expression. All held in grace and awe for this precious life.
My clients are looking for a different type of therapy. They wish for a more enlivened and interactive approach that engages beyond words and captures the heart of one's struggle and yearning to break free. My clients oftentimes feel lost, plagued with chronic anxiety, depression or anger, and stuck in a rigidified experience of themselves. They toggle between a tired set of coping mechanisms; and the fear and distrust of branching out into the new. My work cradles the middle: lovingly chipping away at the hardened barriers while welcoming in steady, free, authentic expression. All held in grace and awe for this precious life.
(415) 484-3881 View (415) 484-3881
Photo of Victoria Zurkan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Victoria Zurkan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
I've been licensed since 2006. Much like a process of sharing, therapist and client together learn to pay close attention to aspects of yourself that you may be unable to touch on your own. I look for patterns in either behavior or thoughts. Also, while examining past family dynamics and reaching unconscious behavior, I link that information to how it affects our current lives. My background includes extensive addiction work in inpatient, outpatient and detox units. Currently I am doing telemedicine with couples, individuals and I run CBT and DBT addiction groups.
I've been licensed since 2006. Much like a process of sharing, therapist and client together learn to pay close attention to aspects of yourself that you may be unable to touch on your own. I look for patterns in either behavior or thoughts. Also, while examining past family dynamics and reaching unconscious behavior, I link that information to how it affects our current lives. My background includes extensive addiction work in inpatient, outpatient and detox units. Currently I am doing telemedicine with couples, individuals and I run CBT and DBT addiction groups.
(628) 214-2234 View (628) 214-2234
Photo of Joe Olivo, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Joe Olivo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
in my private practice I see individuals, couples, and families. I work with you to find what is most important for you; what is your best practice. Together we can heal the past and allow you to move forward. My years of life experience and gentle yet direct manner will help you get back on track and get the most from your life and relationships.
in my private practice I see individuals, couples, and families. I work with you to find what is most important for you; what is your best practice. Together we can heal the past and allow you to move forward. My years of life experience and gentle yet direct manner will help you get back on track and get the most from your life and relationships.
(415) 463-1793 View (415) 463-1793
Photo of Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
View
Photo of Nate Hinerman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nate Hinerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
(628) 215-8084 View (628) 215-8084
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Honeycomb Wellness Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Honeycomb Wellness Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
(415) 338-9366 View (415) 338-9366
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 980-8479 View (415) 980-8479
Photo of The Connective (formerly Wellspace SF), Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
The Connective (formerly Wellspace SF)
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Tired of calling around? We have immediate openings! The Connective is an integrative practice of psychotherapists, certified coaches, and holistic health practitioners dedicated to a common goal: guiding, inspiring, and empowering individuals to live more authentic, fulfulling and healthy lives. From navigating personal and professional roadblocks, to achieving optimal health and wellness, our mission is to provide compassionate and strengths-based support centered on the whole person.
Tired of calling around? We have immediate openings! The Connective is an integrative practice of psychotherapists, certified coaches, and holistic health practitioners dedicated to a common goal: guiding, inspiring, and empowering individuals to live more authentic, fulfulling and healthy lives. From navigating personal and professional roadblocks, to achieving optimal health and wellness, our mission is to provide compassionate and strengths-based support centered on the whole person.
(415) 335-7793 View (415) 335-7793
Gaylesta, Psych Assn for Gender & Sexual Diversity
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
Photo of Yotam Heineberg, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Yotam Heineberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
I offer online video sessions as well as in-person psychotherapy sessions. I offer heart and science-based psychotherapy to growth-oriented individuals interested in deepening their capacity for resilience, coping with life’s challenges, care, connection, and meaning. Sessions are offered in person, or online via video chat. Counseling and coaching services are all informed by evidence-based psychotherapy perspectives, emphasizing primarily Compassion-Focused Therapy and related perspectives. Furthermore, I also offer psychotherapy in Hebrew.
I offer online video sessions as well as in-person psychotherapy sessions. I offer heart and science-based psychotherapy to growth-oriented individuals interested in deepening their capacity for resilience, coping with life’s challenges, care, connection, and meaning. Sessions are offered in person, or online via video chat. Counseling and coaching services are all informed by evidence-based psychotherapy perspectives, emphasizing primarily Compassion-Focused Therapy and related perspectives. Furthermore, I also offer psychotherapy in Hebrew.
(415) 901-5764 View (415) 901-5764
Photo of Matthew Engel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Matthew Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94121  (Online Only)
I work with people from many walks of life. Regardless of culture, economics, gender identity, sexual orientation or vocation, one of the common threads is a quest for greater meaning, depth, authenticity & inner peace. I draw upon 25 years of professional experience blending insights and supportive tools from psychology, professional development, social justice and non-denominational spirituality. Whether you're newer to this process or a "seasoned client," I work best with people who are committed to inner growth. I provide psychotherapy as well as life and business coaching.
I work with people from many walks of life. Regardless of culture, economics, gender identity, sexual orientation or vocation, one of the common threads is a quest for greater meaning, depth, authenticity & inner peace. I draw upon 25 years of professional experience blending insights and supportive tools from psychology, professional development, social justice and non-denominational spirituality. Whether you're newer to this process or a "seasoned client," I work best with people who are committed to inner growth. I provide psychotherapy as well as life and business coaching.
(628) 666-0266 View (628) 666-0266

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.