Photo of Pauline Wakeham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Pauline Wakeham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94127
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.
(510) 377-1082 View (510) 377-1082
Photo of Kimia Mansoor, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Kimia Mansoor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Are you feeling disappointed and dissatisfied with your current circumstances, relationships, work, or the world at large? I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and couples experiencing high levels of stress, interpersonal conflict, difficult family/relationship dynamics, grief, and chronic pain or illness. I often work with people who feel "different" and who may have experienced deep feelings of otherness throughout their lives. This includes children of immigrants, neurodiverse individuals, survivors of complex trauma/abuse, and those who identify with minority status in one or more ways.
Are you feeling disappointed and dissatisfied with your current circumstances, relationships, work, or the world at large? I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and couples experiencing high levels of stress, interpersonal conflict, difficult family/relationship dynamics, grief, and chronic pain or illness. I often work with people who feel "different" and who may have experienced deep feelings of otherness throughout their lives. This includes children of immigrants, neurodiverse individuals, survivors of complex trauma/abuse, and those who identify with minority status in one or more ways.
(415) 423-0335 View (415) 423-0335
Photo of Lucia C Cargill in San Francisco, CA
Lucia C Cargill
PhD, MSN, MA, PHN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
l am a cross-cultural specialist with a PhD in Medical Anthropology & a Family Nurse Practitioner with 15 years in psychiatric, pain & primary care practice.
Greetings! Welcome to our multidisciplinary, holistic, integrative mental health coaching practice. We are open to new ideas from Integrative/Functional Medicine, supportive care for your psychiatric needs, drug free care, and nutritional support. We believe whole body health is the best way to good brain health. Good brain health impacts mental health. We invite you to a different approach to brain health and mental health through coaching and support for referrals to the best functional medicine providers sourcing balance, resolution of inflammation & for all your whole body-mind-spirit healing. We invite you to join us for care.
l am a cross-cultural specialist with a PhD in Medical Anthropology & a Family Nurse Practitioner with 15 years in psychiatric, pain & primary care practice.
Greetings! Welcome to our multidisciplinary, holistic, integrative mental health coaching practice. We are open to new ideas from Integrative/Functional Medicine, supportive care for your psychiatric needs, drug free care, and nutritional support. We believe whole body health is the best way to good brain health. Good brain health impacts mental health. We invite you to a different approach to brain health and mental health through coaching and support for referrals to the best functional medicine providers sourcing balance, resolution of inflammation & for all your whole body-mind-spirit healing. We invite you to join us for care.
View
Photo of Rebecca Stein Mind Body Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Rebecca Stein Mind Body Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Do you consistently experience BURNOUT and/or chronic PAIN? Do you feel like there is a constant pressure to do things and “do them right?” Do you struggle to FOCUS and wonder if you have ADHD? I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, executive function coaching, and customized individual and COUPLES therapy. You will learn coping strategies, reconnect in AWE with yourself, your relationships, and life. I have had the privilege of helping clients at UCLA Medicine, The Pain Psychology Center, and Edward Hallowell ADHD Center. Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), IFS, ISTDP, CBT, DBT
Do you consistently experience BURNOUT and/or chronic PAIN? Do you feel like there is a constant pressure to do things and “do them right?” Do you struggle to FOCUS and wonder if you have ADHD? I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, executive function coaching, and customized individual and COUPLES therapy. You will learn coping strategies, reconnect in AWE with yourself, your relationships, and life. I have had the privilege of helping clients at UCLA Medicine, The Pain Psychology Center, and Edward Hallowell ADHD Center. Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), IFS, ISTDP, CBT, DBT
(470) 450-3277 View (470) 450-3277
Photo of Abbie Endres, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Abbie Endres
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131  (Online Only)
Two guiding intentions support this work: Develop tools, awareness, and self-compassion to transform pain and suffering.
You've begun a courageous search. Take heart, healing is possible. My work is rooted in the body/mind connection, nourished by the imagination, and anchored in the support of our therapy relationship. My style includes both directing and listening. I understand that your timing and willingness to explore your concerns are unique and must be navigated with respect. We work together to take stock, talk about your goals, and gather the tools needed - from your own strengths, the training I bring, and a community of resources - to help you continue your journey of wellbeing.
Two guiding intentions support this work: Develop tools, awareness, and self-compassion to transform pain and suffering.
You've begun a courageous search. Take heart, healing is possible. My work is rooted in the body/mind connection, nourished by the imagination, and anchored in the support of our therapy relationship. My style includes both directing and listening. I understand that your timing and willingness to explore your concerns are unique and must be navigated with respect. We work together to take stock, talk about your goals, and gather the tools needed - from your own strengths, the training I bring, and a community of resources - to help you continue your journey of wellbeing.
(415) 322-3318 View (415) 322-3318
Photo of Ilene Rich-Holtzberg Ph.D., Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Ilene Rich-Holtzberg Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
My specialty areas are substance abuse, couples issues, eating disorders, life coaching, bariatric surgery issues, infertility/adoption, helping caregivers cope with dealing with a loved one's chronic illness.
My focus is to develop a relationship with the client. This is called the two person model which is different than the old fashion practice where the doctor is one up and the client is one down. Rather, the two person model attempts to understand the client through questions and mutual discussion. I am not a silent therapist. I give feedback and remain fully engaged with the patient. Together we build a rapport. I adhere to a humanistic approach.
My specialty areas are substance abuse, couples issues, eating disorders, life coaching, bariatric surgery issues, infertility/adoption, helping caregivers cope with dealing with a loved one's chronic illness.
My focus is to develop a relationship with the client. This is called the two person model which is different than the old fashion practice where the doctor is one up and the client is one down. Rather, the two person model attempts to understand the client through questions and mutual discussion. I am not a silent therapist. I give feedback and remain fully engaged with the patient. Together we build a rapport. I adhere to a humanistic approach.
(415) 366-8999 View (415) 366-8999
Photo of Lisa Twilling, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lisa Twilling
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Having a medical illness can be challenging.
I am a Psychologist with over 25yrs. experience working with individuals in psychotherapy. I help people who seek relief from dealing with life's challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression, stress, stress management, relationship difficulties, etc.) and life transitions. I also specialize in Medical Psychology and work with people who are coping with health issues (e.g., adjusting to a medical diagnosis, managing an illness or chronic pain, coping with a loved one who suffers with an illness). Please contact me for a free phone consultation to discuss your specific situation and goals.
Having a medical illness can be challenging.
I am a Psychologist with over 25yrs. experience working with individuals in psychotherapy. I help people who seek relief from dealing with life's challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression, stress, stress management, relationship difficulties, etc.) and life transitions. I also specialize in Medical Psychology and work with people who are coping with health issues (e.g., adjusting to a medical diagnosis, managing an illness or chronic pain, coping with a loved one who suffers with an illness). Please contact me for a free phone consultation to discuss your specific situation and goals.
(415) 659-9212 View (415) 659-9212
Photo of Bahar Yaghoubian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Bahar Yaghoubian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
My name is Bahar, and I provide counseling for Anxiety, Trauma, and Pain virtually to anyone living in San Francisco, Bay Area, & Los Angeles, CA.
Before your day starts, your heart and mind are already racing, your back and neck feel tense, and your stomach feels queasy. You have this feeling that you are stuck and not sure how to get out of this situation. You think to yourself, “What is happening to my life? Why do I feel this way?” Worry, fear, avoidance, racing heart and negative thoughts. In other words, Anxiety!!! It’s taking up all your energy and controlling your thoughts, emotions, and body. It feels like the anxiety is running your life.
My name is Bahar, and I provide counseling for Anxiety, Trauma, and Pain virtually to anyone living in San Francisco, Bay Area, & Los Angeles, CA.
Before your day starts, your heart and mind are already racing, your back and neck feel tense, and your stomach feels queasy. You have this feeling that you are stuck and not sure how to get out of this situation. You think to yourself, “What is happening to my life? Why do I feel this way?” Worry, fear, avoidance, racing heart and negative thoughts. In other words, Anxiety!!! It’s taking up all your energy and controlling your thoughts, emotions, and body. It feels like the anxiety is running your life.
(818) 616-8916 View (818) 616-8916
Photo of Jonathan Moss, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jonathan Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
It's hard to be a person. Nobody goes through life without pain and struggle. We carry our experiences, whether difficult or traumatic, in ways that shape how we relate to ourselves, to our thoughts and feelings, our hopes and fears, and to the other people in our lives. We are often unaware of how these internal structures shape our lives in the present moment. Psychotherapy offers an environment, a method, and a therapeutic relationship with which to understand and transform how we experience ourselves and the world around us.
It's hard to be a person. Nobody goes through life without pain and struggle. We carry our experiences, whether difficult or traumatic, in ways that shape how we relate to ourselves, to our thoughts and feelings, our hopes and fears, and to the other people in our lives. We are often unaware of how these internal structures shape our lives in the present moment. Psychotherapy offers an environment, a method, and a therapeutic relationship with which to understand and transform how we experience ourselves and the world around us.
(415) 799-4539 View (415) 799-4539
Photo of Hilary Rosenberg, Registered Psychological Assistant in San Francisco, CA
Hilary Rosenberg
Registered Psychological Assistant, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
My adult and couples clients seek me out for many reasons. Some want to make changes in their lives. Others feel weighed down by difficult emotions, relationships, or past experiences. Some just want to better understand themselves and how to find meaning. My work is a collaborative process, rooted in theory and research, that creates meaningful, lasting change. I've helped clients with professional stress, challenging relationships, mood difficulties (anxiety, depression), challenges adjusting to new life stages/change, medical illness, substance use, a desire to build mindfulness skills, or simply feeling “stuck” and uncreative.
My adult and couples clients seek me out for many reasons. Some want to make changes in their lives. Others feel weighed down by difficult emotions, relationships, or past experiences. Some just want to better understand themselves and how to find meaning. My work is a collaborative process, rooted in theory and research, that creates meaningful, lasting change. I've helped clients with professional stress, challenging relationships, mood difficulties (anxiety, depression), challenges adjusting to new life stages/change, medical illness, substance use, a desire to build mindfulness skills, or simply feeling “stuck” and uncreative.
(415) 612-6424 View (415) 612-6424
Photo of Denise Stilwell, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Denise Stilwell
Psychologist, RN, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Dr. Denise Stilwell is a licensed clinical psychologist with seven years of experience providing psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings. She worked as a nurse for sixteen years before she became a psychotherapist and brings that rich experience into her practice. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, identity issues, interpersonal issues, grief, managing chronic illness, and somatic symptom disorder. Dr. Stilwell collaborates with her clients to ensure they feel seen and heard in their sessions while utilizing evidence-based therapy approaches that are culturally sensitive and individually focused.
Dr. Denise Stilwell is a licensed clinical psychologist with seven years of experience providing psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings. She worked as a nurse for sixteen years before she became a psychotherapist and brings that rich experience into her practice. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, identity issues, interpersonal issues, grief, managing chronic illness, and somatic symptom disorder. Dr. Stilwell collaborates with her clients to ensure they feel seen and heard in their sessions while utilizing evidence-based therapy approaches that are culturally sensitive and individually focused.
(415) 306-8574 View (415) 306-8574
Photo of Lusa Hung, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lusa Hung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Turning pain and loss into wisdom, guilt into gratitude, and shifting from avoidance to awareness are ways that can be helpful.
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
Turning pain and loss into wisdom, guilt into gratitude, and shifting from avoidance to awareness are ways that can be helpful.
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
(415) 825-3514 View (415) 825-3514
Photo of Maeve Odile Jackson-Dufault, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Maeve Odile Jackson-Dufault
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
My approach to therapy is integral; I work from an attachment and trauma informed lens with a deep grounding in relational psychoanalytic theory. I have experience with treating depression and anxiety, low self-esteem, questions of gender and sexuality, complex family dynamics, relationship issues, chronic pain, and grief work. My wish it to foster a therapeutic space that feels both challenging as well as safe so that we can work together to meet your treatment goals. In our work together I may bring in mindfulness techniques, parts work, attachment theory, dream work, movement, and myth.
My approach to therapy is integral; I work from an attachment and trauma informed lens with a deep grounding in relational psychoanalytic theory. I have experience with treating depression and anxiety, low self-esteem, questions of gender and sexuality, complex family dynamics, relationship issues, chronic pain, and grief work. My wish it to foster a therapeutic space that feels both challenging as well as safe so that we can work together to meet your treatment goals. In our work together I may bring in mindfulness techniques, parts work, attachment theory, dream work, movement, and myth.
(510) 513-4604 View (510) 513-4604
Photo of Leah R Finn, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Leah R Finn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
I've successfully treated many people who have experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness/ pain and other issues.
As your therapist, I create an environment for you to feel safe to explore fears, challenges and your deepest desires. I'm here to empower you! I'll offer a variety of techniques and collaborate with you in developing goals to co-create a therapeutic experience, facilitating healing and personal growth. I use an anti-oppression, disability justice framework and consider how ethnicity, class, gender, age, ability and sexuality intersect. My background as a community organizer for social justice informs my practice. I will tailor our work together to address your unique and specific needs and preferences.
I've successfully treated many people who have experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness/ pain and other issues.
As your therapist, I create an environment for you to feel safe to explore fears, challenges and your deepest desires. I'm here to empower you! I'll offer a variety of techniques and collaborate with you in developing goals to co-create a therapeutic experience, facilitating healing and personal growth. I use an anti-oppression, disability justice framework and consider how ethnicity, class, gender, age, ability and sexuality intersect. My background as a community organizer for social justice informs my practice. I will tailor our work together to address your unique and specific needs and preferences.
(510) 560-7164 View (510) 560-7164
Photo of Sandrah Susan Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sandrah Susan Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have extensive experience working chronic and life-threatening illness and will do home based psychotherapy if possible.
I have over 40 years of experience helping people face challenges in their lives including loss, adoption related issues, addiction, relationships/couples, life threatening illness, chronic pain, anxiety, mood and bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, divorce, and other life transitions. I am a warm and caring therapist who is also able to be direct when needed. From the moment you enter my office I do all I can to provide a safe and comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively with whatever issues you are facing in your life today. You will always be treated with respect and compassion throughout our work together.
I have extensive experience working chronic and life-threatening illness and will do home based psychotherapy if possible.
I have over 40 years of experience helping people face challenges in their lives including loss, adoption related issues, addiction, relationships/couples, life threatening illness, chronic pain, anxiety, mood and bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, divorce, and other life transitions. I am a warm and caring therapist who is also able to be direct when needed. From the moment you enter my office I do all I can to provide a safe and comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively with whatever issues you are facing in your life today. You will always be treated with respect and compassion throughout our work together.
(415) 687-0429 View (415) 687-0429
Photo of Shira Appell, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Shira Appell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
So much of our pain occurs in relationship to others, and I believe it can be helpful to find healing in relationship as well.
Do you feel like you aren't good enough? Do you struggle with issues of self esteem or self worth? Do you want to explore mind-body connection & the way stress or emotional pain lives in our bodies? If these are themes for you or in your relationships, then perhaps we might work well together. I center my work around self compassion. Only from a place of self kindness can we feel grounded within ourselves to develop a compassionate relationship with others around us. I use mindfulness and somatic body oriented work in order to help us connect deeper with our self, our inner knowing and to be able to cultivate trust with ourselves.
So much of our pain occurs in relationship to others, and I believe it can be helpful to find healing in relationship as well.
Do you feel like you aren't good enough? Do you struggle with issues of self esteem or self worth? Do you want to explore mind-body connection & the way stress or emotional pain lives in our bodies? If these are themes for you or in your relationships, then perhaps we might work well together. I center my work around self compassion. Only from a place of self kindness can we feel grounded within ourselves to develop a compassionate relationship with others around us. I use mindfulness and somatic body oriented work in order to help us connect deeper with our self, our inner knowing and to be able to cultivate trust with ourselves.
(628) 229-2098 View (628) 229-2098
Photo of Beyond Coping, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Beyond Coping
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Are you living with or have you recently been diagnosed with a major medical condition? Caring for someone who is ill or dying? Are you having difficulties coping with a chronic or newly diagnosed illness? Are your children struggling with the loss of a loved one? Are you dealing with the impact of illness on body image? Are you considering end of life options or dealing with issues such as loss and grief? We help patients, their loved ones, and caregivers coping with cancer, life-altering illness, chronic pain, neurological conditions, infertility, complex pregnancy, and end of life issues.
Are you living with or have you recently been diagnosed with a major medical condition? Caring for someone who is ill or dying? Are you having difficulties coping with a chronic or newly diagnosed illness? Are your children struggling with the loss of a loved one? Are you dealing with the impact of illness on body image? Are you considering end of life options or dealing with issues such as loss and grief? We help patients, their loved ones, and caregivers coping with cancer, life-altering illness, chronic pain, neurological conditions, infertility, complex pregnancy, and end of life issues.
(844) 382-8410 x701 View (844) 382-8410 x701
Photo of Gillian Nathan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Gillian Nathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Are you ready to invite ease, joy and connection into your life? To let go of old pain and live more fully in the present? My office is a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration, healing, and change. Together we address challenges by identifying current strengths and resources and adding new tools and resources. By developing more balance in your emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of self, this holistic approach helps you find greater peace and fulfillment in your life and relationships.
Are you ready to invite ease, joy and connection into your life? To let go of old pain and live more fully in the present? My office is a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration, healing, and change. Together we address challenges by identifying current strengths and resources and adding new tools and resources. By developing more balance in your emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of self, this holistic approach helps you find greater peace and fulfillment in your life and relationships.
(415) 726-2811 View (415) 726-2811
Photo of Roger J. Kuhn, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Roger J. Kuhn
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I focus on issues such as out of control sexual behavior, sexual dysfunctions such as erectile issues, premature and delayed ejaculation, pelvic pain, intimacy with partner issues, and sexuality exploration including behavior and gender.
I am a certified sex therapist and work with clients experiencing issues related to sexuality including performance anxiety, sexual dysfunction, or problematic sexual behavior. We will examine the triggers in your life and find resources to help you manage your challenges when they arise. My work is informed from a social and sexual justice perspective. In addition to my work as a sex therapist, I also work with anxiety, depression, and grief. I am currently seeing clients online via video conference.
I focus on issues such as out of control sexual behavior, sexual dysfunctions such as erectile issues, premature and delayed ejaculation, pelvic pain, intimacy with partner issues, and sexuality exploration including behavior and gender.
I am a certified sex therapist and work with clients experiencing issues related to sexuality including performance anxiety, sexual dysfunction, or problematic sexual behavior. We will examine the triggers in your life and find resources to help you manage your challenges when they arise. My work is informed from a social and sexual justice perspective. In addition to my work as a sex therapist, I also work with anxiety, depression, and grief. I am currently seeing clients online via video conference.
(415) 630-5758 View (415) 630-5758
Photo of Samuel Khanukayev, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Samuel Khanukayev
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Prospective clients can anticipate the collaborative work of deconstructing, analyzing, and working through psychological pain.
I strive to facilitate a reflective and explorative environment where the unbearable can be held and truth can be spoken. Multicultural and bilingual elements of my identity, and a history of enduring ethnic discrimination and immigration, significantly inform how I listen to my clients, think through trauma and fragmentation with them. Unconscious repetitions of aversion, clinging, and reenactments of familiar/familial ways of being bind us in suffering. Through psychotherapy, rigid frames of being can be deconstructed and psychological space can be reclaimed for creativity, desire and becoming.
Prospective clients can anticipate the collaborative work of deconstructing, analyzing, and working through psychological pain.
I strive to facilitate a reflective and explorative environment where the unbearable can be held and truth can be spoken. Multicultural and bilingual elements of my identity, and a history of enduring ethnic discrimination and immigration, significantly inform how I listen to my clients, think through trauma and fragmentation with them. Unconscious repetitions of aversion, clinging, and reenactments of familiar/familial ways of being bind us in suffering. Through psychotherapy, rigid frames of being can be deconstructed and psychological space can be reclaimed for creativity, desire and becoming.
(510) 982-6497 View (510) 982-6497

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.