1. A multi-directional deflectable catheter apparatus for thermally modulating renal nerves from within a renal artery of a patient, the catheter apparatus comprising: an elongated tubular shaft extending along an axis, the elongated tubular shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; a handle proximal to the proximal end of the elongated tubular shaft; a flexible tubular structure distal from the distal end of the elongated tubular shaft, the flexible tubular structure adapted to make a transitional bend from the aorta of the patient to the renal artery; a multi-directional deflectable assembly distal from the flexible tubular structure; a flexure control element coupled to the multi-directional deflectable assembly; a flexure controller carried by the handle and coupled to the flexure control element, the flexure controller adapted to apply a force via the flexure control element to the multi-directional deflectable assembly; and a thermal element carried by or distal from the multi-directional deflectable assembly; wherein the multi-directional deflectable assembly is adapted for flexure in at least two radial directions in a common plane through the axis of the elongated tubular shaft upon application of force via the flexure control element; wherein the multi-directional deflectable assembly is adapted upon flexure to position the thermal element in contact with an inner wall of the renal artery.