Psychodynamic Counselling in South Yarra, VIC

Photo of Therese Raulin, MA, Psychotherapist
Therese Raulin
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141  (Online Only)
I specialise in developing an understanding of and treating children, adolescents and adults struggling to cope with challenges related to the past. I treat behavioural difficulties, emotional dysregulation and a broad range of presentations due to complex trauma. I have a particular interest in early life experience and the impact on attachment relationships. I am referred patients through Psychiatrists, Paediatricians, GPs and families seeking an alternative treatment to the usual medication focussed response to ADHD, ODD and ADD presentations and abuse. I undertake psychodynamic assessment and treatment that gets great results.
I specialise in developing an understanding of and treating children, adolescents and adults struggling to cope with challenges related to the past. I treat behavioural difficulties, emotional dysregulation and a broad range of presentations due to complex trauma. I have a particular interest in early life experience and the impact on attachment relationships. I am referred patients through Psychiatrists, Paediatricians, GPs and families seeking an alternative treatment to the usual medication focussed response to ADHD, ODD and ADD presentations and abuse. I undertake psychodynamic assessment and treatment that gets great results.
(02) 4810 0672 View (02) 4810 0672
Photo of Richard Norrish, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Richard Norrish
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Via a psychodynamic framework, he helps clients in understanding how their upbringing and development has shaped them, including how they relate to others and how they understand and perceive themselves.
Richard aims to help clients achieve an improved quality of life, working towards a greater sense of personal control. With more than 10 years’ experience in counselling and clinical settings, he provides a supportive, non-judgmental and confidential space. He works collaboratively with the client in tailoring therapy to their unique set of circumstances. Therapy may range from a few sessions when targeting a specific problem, to medium and longer-term therapy when addressing long-held problematic behaviours, interpersonal patterns and emotion difficulties.
Via a psychodynamic framework, he helps clients in understanding how their upbringing and development has shaped them, including how they relate to others and how they understand and perceive themselves.
Richard aims to help clients achieve an improved quality of life, working towards a greater sense of personal control. With more than 10 years’ experience in counselling and clinical settings, he provides a supportive, non-judgmental and confidential space. He works collaboratively with the client in tailoring therapy to their unique set of circumstances. Therapy may range from a few sessions when targeting a specific problem, to medium and longer-term therapy when addressing long-held problematic behaviours, interpersonal patterns and emotion difficulties.
(03) 9068 5866 View (03) 9068 5866
Photo of Julie Chhouk, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Julie Chhouk
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
I utilise a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural, Acceptance and Commitment, Play Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Hi, my name is Julie and I am Psychologist. I enjoy working with people of all of ages and cultural backgrounds, on a range of mental health concerns. I have an interest in recurrent depression and anxiety, long standing relationship difficulties and self-esteem issues.
I utilise a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural, Acceptance and Commitment, Play Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Hi, my name is Julie and I am Psychologist. I enjoy working with people of all of ages and cultural backgrounds, on a range of mental health concerns. I have an interest in recurrent depression and anxiety, long standing relationship difficulties and self-esteem issues.
(03) 7003 2581 View (03) 7003 2581
Photo of Joanne Dennison - South Yarra Psychology, FAPS, Psychologist
South Yarra Psychology
Psychologist, FAPS
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Treatment approaches include schema therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, mindfulness-based therapy, DBT, motivational interviewing, EMDR, positive psychology, emotion-focused therapy (EFT), and ACT.
South Yarra Psychology sees clients with a wide range of presenting issues. The practice has a team of highly-qualified psychologists. The practice offers a free 10-minute 'psychologist matching appointment' for new clients (via telephone); to discuss their treatment needs and recommend a psychologist who is best suited to these. Appointments (including the free psychologist matching appointment) can be booked through the practice's online booking system (accessible via www.SYP.au). The website also contains profiles on each of the psychologists, with their specific interests and treatment approaches.
Treatment approaches include schema therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, mindfulness-based therapy, DBT, motivational interviewing, EMDR, positive psychology, emotion-focused therapy (EFT), and ACT.
South Yarra Psychology sees clients with a wide range of presenting issues. The practice has a team of highly-qualified psychologists. The practice offers a free 10-minute 'psychologist matching appointment' for new clients (via telephone); to discuss their treatment needs and recommend a psychologist who is best suited to these. Appointments (including the free psychologist matching appointment) can be booked through the practice's online booking system (accessible via www.SYP.au). The website also contains profiles on each of the psychologists, with their specific interests and treatment approaches.
(03) 9070 5676 View (03) 9070 5676
Photo of Patricia Martins, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Patricia Martins
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
That’s why I use a variety of techniques, from psychodynamic to cognitive-behavioural, to suit your needs and goals.
Hi, I’m Patricia Martins, a Portuguese and Spanish speaking psychologist who helps immigrants find their place in Australia. I know how hard it can be to leave your home country and start a new life in a different culture. I’ve been there myself. That’s why I decided to dedicate my career to helping people like you, who are going through a similar journey. Whether you are struggling with emotional distress, anxiety, loneliness, or any other issue, I’m here to support you and help you thrive in your new environment.
That’s why I use a variety of techniques, from psychodynamic to cognitive-behavioural, to suit your needs and goals.
Hi, I’m Patricia Martins, a Portuguese and Spanish speaking psychologist who helps immigrants find their place in Australia. I know how hard it can be to leave your home country and start a new life in a different culture. I’ve been there myself. That’s why I decided to dedicate my career to helping people like you, who are going through a similar journey. Whether you are struggling with emotional distress, anxiety, loneliness, or any other issue, I’m here to support you and help you thrive in your new environment.
(03) 9070 5328 View (03) 9070 5328
Photo of Michelle Sophia Karipidis, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Michelle Sophia Karipidis
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Drawing from my personal journey and professional experience in CBT, Schema and Psychodynamic Therapies, I offer a safe and nurturing space for clients to unravel their challenges, uncover their strengths, and chart a course towards fulfilment.
Life can be hard. I see each individual as a unique story waiting to be explored, understood, and empowered. Together we will navigate the twists of life's narrative, transforming obstacles into opportunities for resilience. I work with children, teens to younger and older adults, understanding that our connection presides over anything else. My work extends across a spectrum of challenges, from Anxiety, Depression and self-esteem issues to navigating relationships, addressing addictions, and exploring sexuality. No matter the issue, my focus is on ensuring you feel comfortable and supported as we unravel your story.
Drawing from my personal journey and professional experience in CBT, Schema and Psychodynamic Therapies, I offer a safe and nurturing space for clients to unravel their challenges, uncover their strengths, and chart a course towards fulfilment.
Life can be hard. I see each individual as a unique story waiting to be explored, understood, and empowered. Together we will navigate the twists of life's narrative, transforming obstacles into opportunities for resilience. I work with children, teens to younger and older adults, understanding that our connection presides over anything else. My work extends across a spectrum of challenges, from Anxiety, Depression and self-esteem issues to navigating relationships, addressing addictions, and exploring sexuality. No matter the issue, my focus is on ensuring you feel comfortable and supported as we unravel your story.
(03) 7003 2394 View (03) 7003 2394
Photo of Marianna Quinones, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Marianna Quinones
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
My primary skills are in psychodynamic psychotherapy, although I value a holistic perspective, implement various therapeutic approaches and techniques to tailor treatment to my clients’ needs.
My interest ranges within various mental health issues, including those mood-related, such as depression and anxiety, and those associated with personality disorders, particularly Borderline and Narcissistic presentations. I encourage my clients to build a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where the client has the central role, and my role is to help them create a life worth living. This process often includes identifying family dynamics/early experiences that lead to unhelpful beliefs and patterns of behavior, accepting what cannot be changed and embracing the process of making changes to commit to a more meaningful life.
My primary skills are in psychodynamic psychotherapy, although I value a holistic perspective, implement various therapeutic approaches and techniques to tailor treatment to my clients’ needs.
My interest ranges within various mental health issues, including those mood-related, such as depression and anxiety, and those associated with personality disorders, particularly Borderline and Narcissistic presentations. I encourage my clients to build a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where the client has the central role, and my role is to help them create a life worth living. This process often includes identifying family dynamics/early experiences that lead to unhelpful beliefs and patterns of behavior, accepting what cannot be changed and embracing the process of making changes to commit to a more meaningful life.
(03) 9118 9017 View (03) 9118 9017
Photo of Rodrigo Latorre - Clinical Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Rodrigo Latorre - Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Welcome, just a little about me, I practice Clinical Psychology using evidence-based therapeutic approaches and much of my work is from a psychodynamic perspective, with a welcoming and respectful approach. I have nearly 20 years of experience in private practice supporting people from different backgrounds and ages including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, although I now see only individual adults or teenagers in session.
Welcome, just a little about me, I practice Clinical Psychology using evidence-based therapeutic approaches and much of my work is from a psychodynamic perspective, with a welcoming and respectful approach. I have nearly 20 years of experience in private practice supporting people from different backgrounds and ages including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, although I now see only individual adults or teenagers in session.
(03) 7003 2026 View (03) 7003 2026
Photo of Claire Naidoo, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Claire Naidoo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
I integrate an eclectic mix of therapeutic techniques, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, and Psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches, to ensure a tailored experience that honours each person's path.
My approach to working with clients is deeply rooted in empathy and warmth, creating a safe and compassionate space for exploration and growth. I believe in the power of authenticity, adapting my methods to suit each individual's unique needs and preferences. With a person-centered focus, I collaborate closely with clients to understand their story and guide them towards making meaningful changes and living a values-based life.
I integrate an eclectic mix of therapeutic techniques, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, and Psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches, to ensure a tailored experience that honours each person's path.
My approach to working with clients is deeply rooted in empathy and warmth, creating a safe and compassionate space for exploration and growth. I believe in the power of authenticity, adapting my methods to suit each individual's unique needs and preferences. With a person-centered focus, I collaborate closely with clients to understand their story and guide them towards making meaningful changes and living a values-based life.
(03) 9052 4365 View (03) 9052 4365
Photo of Cherie Dalton, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Cherie Dalton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with 27 years experience providing psychotherapy to clients within private practice. I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership between client and therapist, and feel it is paramount for successful outcomes in therapy. My process is to initially identify the problems that you bring and the psychological barriers that have inhibited you from moving forward. My approach is compassionate and insight-oriented whilst incorporating practical strategies that can be utilised in your daily life. I have been trained in CBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT/mindfulness & clinical hypnosis.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with 27 years experience providing psychotherapy to clients within private practice. I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership between client and therapist, and feel it is paramount for successful outcomes in therapy. My process is to initially identify the problems that you bring and the psychological barriers that have inhibited you from moving forward. My approach is compassionate and insight-oriented whilst incorporating practical strategies that can be utilised in your daily life. I have been trained in CBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT/mindfulness & clinical hypnosis.
(03) 9068 6015 View (03) 9068 6015
Photo of Sara Taylor - Melbourne Centre of Psychotherapy and Consultancy, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Melbourne Centre of Psychotherapy and Consultancy
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Our Psychologists and Psychotherapists draw upon Psychoanalytic & Psychodynamic modalities and utilise other evidence based approaches.
The Melbourne Centre of Psychotherapy and Consultancy provides a peaceful environment where you are nurtured & respected. MCPC Psychologists & Psychotherapists work with adults, children & couples to provide therapeutic care for a broad range of mental health and interpersonal issues. Alongside our director Dr Sara Taylor we have 7 practitioners with different areas of expertise. We apply and integrate psychological therapies that best suit your needs, your preferences, and your specific mental health issues.
Our Psychologists and Psychotherapists draw upon Psychoanalytic & Psychodynamic modalities and utilise other evidence based approaches.
The Melbourne Centre of Psychotherapy and Consultancy provides a peaceful environment where you are nurtured & respected. MCPC Psychologists & Psychotherapists work with adults, children & couples to provide therapeutic care for a broad range of mental health and interpersonal issues. Alongside our director Dr Sara Taylor we have 7 practitioners with different areas of expertise. We apply and integrate psychological therapies that best suit your needs, your preferences, and your specific mental health issues.
(03) 7003 2565 View (03) 7003 2565
Photo of Todd Mills, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Todd Mills
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Yarra, VIC 3141
My name is Todd, I am an Integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with individuals and couples in Melbourne, Australia. I believe that psychotherapy is a powerful tool that can be used as a tool to enrich your life and relationships through increasing self-compassion, self-understanding and insight, or to work through specific life challenges. My work draws heavily on attachment theory, psychodynamic and developmental theory, mindfulness, systems thinking & existentialism. I take a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approach and always work collaboratively with my clients to identify their unique needs and goals.
My name is Todd, I am an Integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with individuals and couples in Melbourne, Australia. I believe that psychotherapy is a powerful tool that can be used as a tool to enrich your life and relationships through increasing self-compassion, self-understanding and insight, or to work through specific life challenges. My work draws heavily on attachment theory, psychodynamic and developmental theory, mindfulness, systems thinking & existentialism. I take a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approach and always work collaboratively with my clients to identify their unique needs and goals.
(03) 7003 2100 View (03) 7003 2100
Photo of Chris Bolton, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Chris Bolton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Yarra, VIC 3141
My practice is informed by the psychodynamic model of Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), while also incorporating aspects of CBT and mindfulness.
I place an emphasis on a respectful relationship where thoughts and feelings are treated with sensitivity and honesty. I provide a supportive and relaxed environment, and believe that no thought or feeling deserves judgment in therapy. I enjoy helping people with anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, trauma, problems with assertiveness, anger, behavioural problems, and relationship issues. I hope to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential.
My practice is informed by the psychodynamic model of Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), while also incorporating aspects of CBT and mindfulness.
I place an emphasis on a respectful relationship where thoughts and feelings are treated with sensitivity and honesty. I provide a supportive and relaxed environment, and believe that no thought or feeling deserves judgment in therapy. I enjoy helping people with anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, trauma, problems with assertiveness, anger, behavioural problems, and relationship issues. I hope to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential.
(03) 7003 2703 View (03) 7003 2703
Photo of Shiva Chouhan, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Shiva Chouhan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
My extensive training has roots in psychoanalytic and psychodynamic methods, which I've integrated with techniques such as CBT, ACT, and EMDR as needed for your therapeutic journey.
Individuals who find my approach particularly beneficial often experience mood-related challenges, such as depression and anxiety, or seek to embark on a therapeutic journey aimed at personal growth and development. In either case, every person brings their unique set of aspirations, and I can assist you in identifying and defining your specific goals. Therapy objectives often encompass relieving symptoms and acquiring effective mood management techniques. On a broader scale, these objectives often involve cultivating positive changes in one's lifestyle to enhance overall quality of life.
My extensive training has roots in psychoanalytic and psychodynamic methods, which I've integrated with techniques such as CBT, ACT, and EMDR as needed for your therapeutic journey.
Individuals who find my approach particularly beneficial often experience mood-related challenges, such as depression and anxiety, or seek to embark on a therapeutic journey aimed at personal growth and development. In either case, every person brings their unique set of aspirations, and I can assist you in identifying and defining your specific goals. Therapy objectives often encompass relieving symptoms and acquiring effective mood management techniques. On a broader scale, these objectives often involve cultivating positive changes in one's lifestyle to enhance overall quality of life.
(03) 7003 2544 View (03) 7003 2544
Photo of Susie Kim, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Susie Kim
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
I have a compassionate, relational approach that is informed by psychodynamic, attachment, trauma, embodiment, and inter-cultural theories.
I work within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive framework offering support for those who are struggling with the effects of anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult family dynamics, grief and loss. I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for people of all lifestyles, cultures, bodies, and gender identities.
I have a compassionate, relational approach that is informed by psychodynamic, attachment, trauma, embodiment, and inter-cultural theories.
I work within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive framework offering support for those who are struggling with the effects of anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult family dynamics, grief and loss. I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for people of all lifestyles, cultures, bodies, and gender identities.
(03) 7003 2774 View (03) 7003 2774
Photo of Ashley White, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Ashley White
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Yarra, VIC 3141
It gets full-on at times. Life feels demanding, people seem harsh or confusing, the hurt feels overwhelming, and the answers seem so far away. Other times, you’re left wondering what the point of it all is, and whether there is more to life. I want to help however I can. Helping people to understand themselves, navigate relationships, perceive the world more clearly, and discover meaning in life brings me great joy. Even better is helping people find their own innate resources to cope and to heal.
It gets full-on at times. Life feels demanding, people seem harsh or confusing, the hurt feels overwhelming, and the answers seem so far away. Other times, you’re left wondering what the point of it all is, and whether there is more to life. I want to help however I can. Helping people to understand themselves, navigate relationships, perceive the world more clearly, and discover meaning in life brings me great joy. Even better is helping people find their own innate resources to cope and to heal.
(03) 9068 5872 View (03) 9068 5872
Photo of Jake Glanc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jake Glanc
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141  (Online Only)
Jake (He/Him) aims to work collaboratively and compassionately with his clients, believing that a strong and honest therapeutic relationship is the best predictor of success in therapy. While making the choice to engage in therapy can sometimes feel confronting, Jake always works to create a safe and comfortable space for his clients to better connect with their authentic selves. Jake has a particular interest in working with adults and youth experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and difficulties with self-worth/self-esteem.
Jake (He/Him) aims to work collaboratively and compassionately with his clients, believing that a strong and honest therapeutic relationship is the best predictor of success in therapy. While making the choice to engage in therapy can sometimes feel confronting, Jake always works to create a safe and comfortable space for his clients to better connect with their authentic selves. Jake has a particular interest in working with adults and youth experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and difficulties with self-worth/self-esteem.
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Photo of Karen Sri Thomas, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Karen Sri Thomas
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Yarra, VIC 3141
You might be experiencing anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, or grieving a loss. Perhaps you feel pressured or stuck and unable to be your true self, impacting your relationships with your partner, colleagues, classmates, or family members. Sometimes memories of family violence or childhood abuse can further complicate your situation, making you feel isolated and disconnected from others. It's important to know that you don't have to be with these challenges alone. Support for your emotional or psychological wellbeing and healing is available. Please contact me to see how I can help.
You might be experiencing anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, or grieving a loss. Perhaps you feel pressured or stuck and unable to be your true self, impacting your relationships with your partner, colleagues, classmates, or family members. Sometimes memories of family violence or childhood abuse can further complicate your situation, making you feel isolated and disconnected from others. It's important to know that you don't have to be with these challenges alone. Support for your emotional or psychological wellbeing and healing is available. Please contact me to see how I can help.
(03) 7500 5598 View (03) 7500 5598
Photo of Sleiman Abou-Hamdan - Holistic Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Holistic Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
People often tell me that the reason why they choose to work with me is because they can see that they can be challenged and guided to be the empowered version of themselves, while at the same time feeling safe in the knowledge they are being cared for and supported by a qualified clinical psychologist. I have been a Clinical Psychologist since 2013 and a leadership and life coach since 2009. I am passionate about working with people who are ready to change their unhelpful stories to more empowering and authentic ones.
People often tell me that the reason why they choose to work with me is because they can see that they can be challenged and guided to be the empowered version of themselves, while at the same time feeling safe in the knowledge they are being cared for and supported by a qualified clinical psychologist. I have been a Clinical Psychologist since 2013 and a leadership and life coach since 2009. I am passionate about working with people who are ready to change their unhelpful stories to more empowering and authentic ones.
(03) 8592 7028 View (03) 8592 7028
Photo of Dr Jarrod White, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Jarrod White
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
I am a clinical psychologist and have worked for the past decade exploring meaning in life, the balance between change and acceptance, the unconscious, and patterns leading us to want to destroy or hurt ourselves and each other. Who really knows anything about what we're doing here? In the psychology practice I offer knowing isn't as prized as wondering and exploring. I see people who experience stress, anxiety, loneliness, trauma, depression, relationship difficulties, loss, addiction, low self-confidence, ADHD, and a lack of direction/purpose
I am a clinical psychologist and have worked for the past decade exploring meaning in life, the balance between change and acceptance, the unconscious, and patterns leading us to want to destroy or hurt ourselves and each other. Who really knows anything about what we're doing here? In the psychology practice I offer knowing isn't as prized as wondering and exploring. I see people who experience stress, anxiety, loneliness, trauma, depression, relationship difficulties, loss, addiction, low self-confidence, ADHD, and a lack of direction/purpose
(03) 7003 2575 View (03) 7003 2575
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Psychodynamic Counsellors

Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?

Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?

Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?

Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?

Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.