Psychodynamic Counselling in Brisbane, QLD

Photo of Nicole Lawrence, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Nicole Lawrence
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toowong, QLD 4066
I take a client-centred approach and use a range of techniques from CBT, ACT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Feedback-Informed Treatment, Psychodynamic therapies and Solution-Focused therapy.
Special interests: ADHD, Anxiety & Mood Disorders, Disordered eating & body image concerns, Perinatal mental health, Sleep difficulties, Supporting parents with positive parenting and attachment strategies, Supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, Trauma & Work/study related stress & career development.
I take a client-centred approach and use a range of techniques from CBT, ACT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Feedback-Informed Treatment, Psychodynamic therapies and Solution-Focused therapy.
Special interests: ADHD, Anxiety & Mood Disorders, Disordered eating & body image concerns, Perinatal mental health, Sleep difficulties, Supporting parents with positive parenting and attachment strategies, Supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, Trauma & Work/study related stress & career development.
(07) 2100 4926 View (07) 2100 4926
Photo of Renata Webster, Counsellor in Brisbane, QLD
Renata Webster
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenmore, QLD 4069
As a specialist in psychodynamic therapy, I delve deep into the subconscious to uncover patterns shaping behaviours.
You might be someone who feels trapped in a cycle of recurring patterns, struggling with unresolved traumas and complex mental health problems. Perhaps you're navigating relationship challenges, facing life transitions, or wrestling with self-doubt. You could be feeling overwhelmed by the weight of past decisions or anxious about the uncertainty of the future. Each day might seem like a battle, where you're constantly trying to find balance and peace amidst the chaos. You desire clarity, understanding, and a sense of purpose in your life.
As a specialist in psychodynamic therapy, I delve deep into the subconscious to uncover patterns shaping behaviours.
You might be someone who feels trapped in a cycle of recurring patterns, struggling with unresolved traumas and complex mental health problems. Perhaps you're navigating relationship challenges, facing life transitions, or wrestling with self-doubt. You could be feeling overwhelmed by the weight of past decisions or anxious about the uncertainty of the future. Each day might seem like a battle, where you're constantly trying to find balance and peace amidst the chaos. You desire clarity, understanding, and a sense of purpose in your life.
(07) 3062 6831 View (07) 3062 6831
Photo of Andre Longginou, Counsellor in Brisbane, QLD
Andre Longginou
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122
The primary approaches I take in my Counselling sessions are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Reality Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Strengths Based Therapy.
Hi there I'm Andre, a Counsellor/Psychotherapist specialising in treating men with Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Depression who want help to grow in life to become happier and healthier.
The primary approaches I take in my Counselling sessions are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Reality Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Strengths Based Therapy.
Hi there I'm Andre, a Counsellor/Psychotherapist specialising in treating men with Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Depression who want help to grow in life to become happier and healthier.
(07) 2100 4164 View (07) 2100 4164
Photo of Eloise Conrad, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Eloise Conrad
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
My therapeutic practice draws primarily from a psychodynamic framework.
Hello, I'm Eloise. I am a psychologist working with older adolescents (16+) and adults in Brisbane, Queensland. I intend to provide a collaborative and compassionate approach to therapy through rich curiosity, exploration and a sense of "slowing down" so that you may feel more aware of and connected to yourself.
My therapeutic practice draws primarily from a psychodynamic framework.
Hello, I'm Eloise. I am a psychologist working with older adolescents (16+) and adults in Brisbane, Queensland. I intend to provide a collaborative and compassionate approach to therapy through rich curiosity, exploration and a sense of "slowing down" so that you may feel more aware of and connected to yourself.
(07) 3186 9773 View (07) 3186 9773
Photo of Brett Jacobson, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Brett Jacobson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
I practise psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I understand the decision to begin psychotherapy can be daunting and is often prompted by a range of psychological difficulties, questions, and experiences. I offer individual psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults in-person at my Brisbane CBD office and by telehealth (for older adolescents and adults). I can assist young people and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss including non-death losses, relational trauma, sexuality and gender identity concerns, low self-esteem/ chronic life dissatisfaction, relationship difficulties, and drug and alcohol dependence.
I practise psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I understand the decision to begin psychotherapy can be daunting and is often prompted by a range of psychological difficulties, questions, and experiences. I offer individual psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults in-person at my Brisbane CBD office and by telehealth (for older adolescents and adults). I can assist young people and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss including non-death losses, relational trauma, sexuality and gender identity concerns, low self-esteem/ chronic life dissatisfaction, relationship difficulties, and drug and alcohol dependence.
(07) 3186 8672 View (07) 3186 8672
Photo of Kristy Chamberlain, Psychotherapist in Brisbane, QLD
Kristy Chamberlain
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Annerley, QLD 4103
My specialised formal training in psychodynamic psychotherapy means I am uniquely positioned to address the depth of your individual experience, promoting deep and authentic changes that last.
Having trouble with relationships (intimate, friends and/or family)? Holding down a job? It’s hard to feel relaxed? Or getting out of bed feels like a monstrous task? Contact me so we can have a chat over the phone to ensure the type of therapy I provide will meet your needs. If you feel comfortable at this stage, we will make an initial assessment appointment so we can meet to discuss things in more detail. This is your opportunity to get a feel for therapy and if you feel comfortable with me.
My specialised formal training in psychodynamic psychotherapy means I am uniquely positioned to address the depth of your individual experience, promoting deep and authentic changes that last.
Having trouble with relationships (intimate, friends and/or family)? Holding down a job? It’s hard to feel relaxed? Or getting out of bed feels like a monstrous task? Contact me so we can have a chat over the phone to ensure the type of therapy I provide will meet your needs. If you feel comfortable at this stage, we will make an initial assessment appointment so we can meet to discuss things in more detail. This is your opportunity to get a feel for therapy and if you feel comfortable with me.
(07) 2100 4848 View (07) 2100 4848
Photo of Sarah Moore, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Sarah Moore
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
My therapeutic style is informed by relational psychodynamic theory.
Hello, I'm Sarah – I work with individuals who experience feelings of depression, loneliness, & emptiness, or anxiety, panic, & existential dread; have difficulty making or keeping relationships, or are in relationships that they find unsatisfying or destructive; struggle with eating, body image, or self esteem; struggle day-to-day but don’t quite understand why.
My therapeutic style is informed by relational psychodynamic theory.
Hello, I'm Sarah – I work with individuals who experience feelings of depression, loneliness, & emptiness, or anxiety, panic, & existential dread; have difficulty making or keeping relationships, or are in relationships that they find unsatisfying or destructive; struggle with eating, body image, or self esteem; struggle day-to-day but don’t quite understand why.
(07) 3113 9831 View (07) 3113 9831
Photo of Courtney Bailey, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Courtney Bailey
Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Milton, QLD 4064
Here you will be positioned to build resilience, generate insights into relevant psychodynamic relational patterns, improve emotional and self regulation, and restore your wellbeing and coping to desired levels.
Courtney designs and implements bespoke psychological solutions that address the unique needs and circumstances of individuals and organisations. She operates at the level of attending to collective and generational forces and how they shape individual experiences and psychology. She often works with curious, creative, and sensitive individuals who seek meaningful development of their identity, resilience, and purpose across the lifespan as they navigate varied developmental terrain.
Here you will be positioned to build resilience, generate insights into relevant psychodynamic relational patterns, improve emotional and self regulation, and restore your wellbeing and coping to desired levels.
Courtney designs and implements bespoke psychological solutions that address the unique needs and circumstances of individuals and organisations. She operates at the level of attending to collective and generational forces and how they shape individual experiences and psychology. She often works with curious, creative, and sensitive individuals who seek meaningful development of their identity, resilience, and purpose across the lifespan as they navigate varied developmental terrain.
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Photo of Axis Clinic, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Axis Clinic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
New Farm, QLD 4005
Our treatment plans draw upon various evidenced based psychological approaches including Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, as well as Motivational Interviewing & Psychodynamic Ideas.
Axis Clinic is an experienced team Psychologists, Mental Health Social Workers, Dietitians and Psychiatrists, working together in a collaborative approach to mental health care. We are focused on delivering continuity of care for individuals and their extended support network of family, carers, friends.
Our treatment plans draw upon various evidenced based psychological approaches including Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, as well as Motivational Interviewing & Psychodynamic Ideas.
Axis Clinic is an experienced team Psychologists, Mental Health Social Workers, Dietitians and Psychiatrists, working together in a collaborative approach to mental health care. We are focused on delivering continuity of care for individuals and their extended support network of family, carers, friends.
(07) 2100 4775 View (07) 2100 4775
Photo of Chelsea Perks Brisbane Psychologist, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Chelsea Perks Brisbane Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
My approach is informed by psychodynamic therapy, and I draw upon other schools (CBT, ACT, Narrative therapy) when appropriate to tailor to your individual needs.
At times we find ourselves feeling low, worried, anxious and stressed by life, it's many changes, and the relationships we have with others. Perhaps this isn't new, and you find yourself in the same pattern, over and over, fighting the same battles with the same types of people. Or perhaps this is new, and a profoundly disruptive event has occurred and altered your very reality and identity. I hope that we can work together to gain a deepened understanding of who you are, what you've been up against, and find real ways to invoke changes in your life.
My approach is informed by psychodynamic therapy, and I draw upon other schools (CBT, ACT, Narrative therapy) when appropriate to tailor to your individual needs.
At times we find ourselves feeling low, worried, anxious and stressed by life, it's many changes, and the relationships we have with others. Perhaps this isn't new, and you find yourself in the same pattern, over and over, fighting the same battles with the same types of people. Or perhaps this is new, and a profoundly disruptive event has occurred and altered your very reality and identity. I hope that we can work together to gain a deepened understanding of who you are, what you've been up against, and find real ways to invoke changes in your life.
(07) 3132 2848 View (07) 3132 2848
Photo of Michelle Engel, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Michelle Engel
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
It may include Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT), mindfulness, psychodynamic therapy, ACT, CBT, DBT, Solution-focused therapy, and self-compassion.
Hi, I'm Michelle. I am a caring and compassionate psychologist dedicated to creating a calm and healing space for women (18 years+) where they can feel safe, heard and understood. I can help with depression and low mood, anxiety, stress and burnout, life transitions and changes, trauma and loss, relationship difficulties, perinatal mental health, self-esteem and confidence, and eating disorders. I am a holistic psychologist believing in the connection of mind and body. Without this connection we can feel out of balance, stuck or as if something is missing.
It may include Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT), mindfulness, psychodynamic therapy, ACT, CBT, DBT, Solution-focused therapy, and self-compassion.
Hi, I'm Michelle. I am a caring and compassionate psychologist dedicated to creating a calm and healing space for women (18 years+) where they can feel safe, heard and understood. I can help with depression and low mood, anxiety, stress and burnout, life transitions and changes, trauma and loss, relationship difficulties, perinatal mental health, self-esteem and confidence, and eating disorders. I am a holistic psychologist believing in the connection of mind and body. Without this connection we can feel out of balance, stuck or as if something is missing.
(07) 3130 0513 View (07) 3130 0513
Photo of Dr Si Jing Tan, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Dr Si Jing Tan
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
SJ's approach is influenced by psychodynamic psychotherapy. From this framework, treatment is centred on illuminating the unconscious narratives that we all carry within ourselves, impressed upon us by our early experiences. We may find ourselves feeling stuck, indifferent, or overwhelmed, despite immense efforts to change, unaware of the repeating patterns within ourselves, and in our interactions with others. Through the exploration of the past and paying close attention to what arises in the present moment-to-moment interactions, we can come to embrace the entirety of our experience and transformation begins anew.
SJ's approach is influenced by psychodynamic psychotherapy. From this framework, treatment is centred on illuminating the unconscious narratives that we all carry within ourselves, impressed upon us by our early experiences. We may find ourselves feeling stuck, indifferent, or overwhelmed, despite immense efforts to change, unaware of the repeating patterns within ourselves, and in our interactions with others. Through the exploration of the past and paying close attention to what arises in the present moment-to-moment interactions, we can come to embrace the entirety of our experience and transformation begins anew.
(07) 3132 1122 View (07) 3132 1122
Photo of Aaron Ryan, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Aaron Ryan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
Through psychodynamic therapy, Aaron can help you gain a deeper understanding of your relationship with yourself and others, develop an improved sense of self-esteem, and experience growth that is meaningful to you.
Aaron is a warm, empathic and collaborative clinical psychologist who prioritises creating a safe space to explore and work with you through your difficulties. He understands that mental health requires more than the reduction of distress but also the development of feelings of emotional and mental wellbeing through an improved sense of self, a sense of belonging, meaningful relationships and purpose in life. Aaron has experience providing individual and group therapy in private practice and hospitals. He has helped people with anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions & relationship difficulties.
Through psychodynamic therapy, Aaron can help you gain a deeper understanding of your relationship with yourself and others, develop an improved sense of self-esteem, and experience growth that is meaningful to you.
Aaron is a warm, empathic and collaborative clinical psychologist who prioritises creating a safe space to explore and work with you through your difficulties. He understands that mental health requires more than the reduction of distress but also the development of feelings of emotional and mental wellbeing through an improved sense of self, a sense of belonging, meaningful relationships and purpose in life. Aaron has experience providing individual and group therapy in private practice and hospitals. He has helped people with anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions & relationship difficulties.
(07) 3113 9006 View (07) 3113 9006
Photo of Malan van der Walt, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Malan van der Walt
Psychologist, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Taringa, QLD 4068
I use EMDR (Eye Movement Densitisation Reprocessing Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy.
Life can be challenging, especially when you're an adult dealing with ADHD, trauma, or exploring your identity within the LGBT+ community. I'm here to help you navigate these challenges in a thoughtful, empathetic and compassionate way. If you're managing ADHD, you might grapple with racing thoughts, daily distractions, or difficulty focusing. As an LGBT+ individual, you might face identity issues or discrimination. Trauma can lead to nightmares, flashbacks, and severe anxiety that holds you back. Together, we can determine if we're a good match and equip you with tools to manage these challenges.
I use EMDR (Eye Movement Densitisation Reprocessing Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy.
Life can be challenging, especially when you're an adult dealing with ADHD, trauma, or exploring your identity within the LGBT+ community. I'm here to help you navigate these challenges in a thoughtful, empathetic and compassionate way. If you're managing ADHD, you might grapple with racing thoughts, daily distractions, or difficulty focusing. As an LGBT+ individual, you might face identity issues or discrimination. Trauma can lead to nightmares, flashbacks, and severe anxiety that holds you back. Together, we can determine if we're a good match and equip you with tools to manage these challenges.
(07) 3132 3921 View (07) 3132 3921
Photo of Lachlan Murray Psychology, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Lachlan Murray Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
I practice psychodynamic psychotherapy - an approach to therapy which encourages growth in awareness and deep seated change.
I work with adult individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, or who are seeking to explore complicated life matters. People often seek my services in order to: understand themselves better; explore issues of the self (including self-acceptance and self-esteem); or stop feeling like they go out of their way to please everyone else.
I practice psychodynamic psychotherapy - an approach to therapy which encourages growth in awareness and deep seated change.
I work with adult individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, or who are seeking to explore complicated life matters. People often seek my services in order to: understand themselves better; explore issues of the self (including self-acceptance and self-esteem); or stop feeling like they go out of their way to please everyone else.
(07) 3132 2898 View (07) 3132 2898
Photo of Dr Anasha Kumar, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Dr Anasha Kumar
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
Do you seem to be repeating similar uncomfortable or difficult patterns in romantic relationships, friendships or work? Repetition compulsions are unconscious and inevitable, but inner depth work can change your trajectory. Using a combination of Psychodynamic Therapy and Eastern philosophy, I provide a safe and non-judgemental space to begin to explore, feel and understand your Self. My approach to your experience will aim to help you nurture your ability to love, work and enjoy life well beyond your course of psychotherapy as you begin to experience deep structural shifts that will reverberate throughout all realms of your life.
Do you seem to be repeating similar uncomfortable or difficult patterns in romantic relationships, friendships or work? Repetition compulsions are unconscious and inevitable, but inner depth work can change your trajectory. Using a combination of Psychodynamic Therapy and Eastern philosophy, I provide a safe and non-judgemental space to begin to explore, feel and understand your Self. My approach to your experience will aim to help you nurture your ability to love, work and enjoy life well beyond your course of psychotherapy as you begin to experience deep structural shifts that will reverberate throughout all realms of your life.
(07) 4847 6787 View (07) 4847 6787
Photo of Jess Halloran, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Jess Halloran
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
My therapeutic approach is heavily influenced by psychodynamic psychotherapy, specifically self psychology.
Hi, I'm Jess. I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist working with people aged 16+ in Brisbane and via Telehealth. I can offer short-term therapy to relieve a specific area of concern, or long-term psychotherapy to work through difficulties that are complex and/or longstanding. I am particularly passionate about working with young adults. In addition to psychotherapy, I am able to offer clinical supervision to psychologists and other allied health professionals. My interest areas include anxiety, depression, substance use, relational trauma, relationship difficulties, identity, self-esteem, and existential concerns.
My therapeutic approach is heavily influenced by psychodynamic psychotherapy, specifically self psychology.
Hi, I'm Jess. I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist working with people aged 16+ in Brisbane and via Telehealth. I can offer short-term therapy to relieve a specific area of concern, or long-term psychotherapy to work through difficulties that are complex and/or longstanding. I am particularly passionate about working with young adults. In addition to psychotherapy, I am able to offer clinical supervision to psychologists and other allied health professionals. My interest areas include anxiety, depression, substance use, relational trauma, relationship difficulties, identity, self-esteem, and existential concerns.
(07) 3130 0730 View (07) 3130 0730
Photo of Alana Vining, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Alana Vining
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
I draw inspiration from a blend of modalities, including Psychodynamic Therapy, Attachment Theory, trauma-informed therapies and mindfulness-based practices.
Hello, I'm Alana - I work with individuals experiencing low mood, depression, anxiety & panic; issues in their interpersonal relationships & sexual dysfunction (e.g., painful sex, vaginismus, low desire, erectile difficulties); low self-esteem; women's health problems; gender diversity, and difficulty coping with life transitions.
I draw inspiration from a blend of modalities, including Psychodynamic Therapy, Attachment Theory, trauma-informed therapies and mindfulness-based practices.
Hello, I'm Alana - I work with individuals experiencing low mood, depression, anxiety & panic; issues in their interpersonal relationships & sexual dysfunction (e.g., painful sex, vaginismus, low desire, erectile difficulties); low self-esteem; women's health problems; gender diversity, and difficulty coping with life transitions.
(07) 3184 4935 View (07) 3184 4935
Photo of PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
East Ipswich, QLD 4305
The psychologists draw from psychodynamic principles to deepen their understanding and ability to help each client.
PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health is an Ipswich based multidisciplinary mental health and well-being clinic. The PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health clinicians highly consider the association between mental health (well-being) and mental illness and work collaboratively with their clients to reduces symptoms of mental illness and increase their clients’ emotional, psychological and social well-being. Our clinicians use evidence-based treatment approaches and are committed to tracking progress during therapy and utilise a range of outcome measures to monitor changes in our clients’ symptomatology over time.
The psychologists draw from psychodynamic principles to deepen their understanding and ability to help each client.
PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health is an Ipswich based multidisciplinary mental health and well-being clinic. The PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health clinicians highly consider the association between mental health (well-being) and mental illness and work collaboratively with their clients to reduces symptoms of mental illness and increase their clients’ emotional, psychological and social well-being. Our clinicians use evidence-based treatment approaches and are committed to tracking progress during therapy and utilise a range of outcome measures to monitor changes in our clients’ symptomatology over time.
(07) 2801 5072 View (07) 2801 5072
Photo of Gladys Koh, Psychologist in Brisbane, QLD
Gladys Koh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
I work from a predominantly psychodynamic and attachment-based approach, and adopt a trauma-informed framework in my work.
I am a registered psychologist who offers brief and long-term psychological therapy for adults and adolescents (16+), who not only wish to address specific mental health concerns, but also to deepen their self-understanding and make sense of their inner world. My areas of interest and experience include working with individuals experiencing a diverse range of difficulties (who may or may not have a clinical diagnosis), including low mood/depression, anxiety, difficulties with adjustment/life transitions, trauma-related difficulties, self-esteem issues, difficulties in relationships, and chronic dissatisfaction with their lives.
I work from a predominantly psychodynamic and attachment-based approach, and adopt a trauma-informed framework in my work.
I am a registered psychologist who offers brief and long-term psychological therapy for adults and adolescents (16+), who not only wish to address specific mental health concerns, but also to deepen their self-understanding and make sense of their inner world. My areas of interest and experience include working with individuals experiencing a diverse range of difficulties (who may or may not have a clinical diagnosis), including low mood/depression, anxiety, difficulties with adjustment/life transitions, trauma-related difficulties, self-esteem issues, difficulties in relationships, and chronic dissatisfaction with their lives.
(07) 3132 2942 View (07) 3132 2942

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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.