Psychodynamic Counselling in Ringwood East, VIC

Photo of Margaret (Malgorzata) Karafilowska, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Margaret (Malgorzata) Karafilowska
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Ringwood East, VIC 3135
She works in a supportive and client centred way, and her practice is based in cognitive behavioural, schema therapy, and brief psychodynamic approaches.
Margaret helps her clients work through a range of concerns including adjustment/stage of life issues, anxiety disorders, depression, interpersonal problems, low self-esteem, grief and loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and gambling addiction. Margaret works with adults and late adolescents.
She works in a supportive and client centred way, and her practice is based in cognitive behavioural, schema therapy, and brief psychodynamic approaches.
Margaret helps her clients work through a range of concerns including adjustment/stage of life issues, anxiety disorders, depression, interpersonal problems, low self-esteem, grief and loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and gambling addiction. Margaret works with adults and late adolescents.
(03) 8203 5668 View (03) 8203 5668
Photo of Rodney Walsh, Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Rodney Walsh
Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Ringwood East, VIC 3135
Rodney is an experienced Clinical Psychologist who has been providing help to Ringwood and the surrounding community since 2015. He is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), and a Fellow of the APS Clinical College, as well as a member of the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA).
Rodney is an experienced Clinical Psychologist who has been providing help to Ringwood and the surrounding community since 2015. He is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), and a Fellow of the APS Clinical College, as well as a member of the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA).
(03) 6144 6129 View (03) 6144 6129
Photo of Caroline Burrows - Mindful Living Counselling and Psychology, Counsellor, AMHSW
Mindful Living Counselling and Psychology
Counsellor, AMHSW
Serves Area
If you are struggling with the impact of trauma, or are interested in trying EMDR Therapy, we are here to help! We are a psychology and counselling practice located in Croydon, Victoria. We have a special focus on the treatment of PTSD and trauma, with a particular interest in EMDR Therapy. EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based method of trauma treatment that is endorsed by the World Health Organisation and Medicare Australia. Our Practice Director, Caroline Burrows, is a leading accredited EMDR trainer in Australia. We are proud to offer traditional, intensive and group EMDR Therapy.
If you are struggling with the impact of trauma, or are interested in trying EMDR Therapy, we are here to help! We are a psychology and counselling practice located in Croydon, Victoria. We have a special focus on the treatment of PTSD and trauma, with a particular interest in EMDR Therapy. EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based method of trauma treatment that is endorsed by the World Health Organisation and Medicare Australia. Our Practice Director, Caroline Burrows, is a leading accredited EMDR trainer in Australia. We are proud to offer traditional, intensive and group EMDR Therapy.
(03) 6146 3217 View (03) 6146 3217

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daniela Miszkinis - Daniela Miszkinis, Counsellor & Art Therapist., Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Daniela Miszkinis, Counsellor & Art Therapist.
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My areas of expertise include: DBT-informed Art Therapy and Jungian psychodynamic client-centred methods.
Benefits of Art Therapy: boosts self-esteem, affirms dignity and self-worth, provides an emotional outlet, helps to express oneself in a way that is safe and contained, especially when accessing traumatic material. Awakens dormant memories and stimulates senses.
My areas of expertise include: DBT-informed Art Therapy and Jungian psychodynamic client-centred methods.
Benefits of Art Therapy: boosts self-esteem, affirms dignity and self-worth, provides an emotional outlet, helps to express oneself in a way that is safe and contained, especially when accessing traumatic material. Awakens dormant memories and stimulates senses.
(03) 7003 2809 View (03) 7003 2809
Photo of Erika Munton, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Erika Munton
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Ringwood, VIC 3134
My key therapeutic processes include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychodynamic Interpersonal Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment Theory, Family Systems Therapy, Strength-Based and Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy (body-focused healing), Mentalizing and Mindfulness (awareness and mind-body integration)
Welcome to Lifeready, where you are supported and empowered to process life's challenges and embrace a healthier, more fulfilling life. I specialize in supporting individuals through mental, emotional, and relationship difficulties, particularly during the critical stages from preconception to parenting and beyond. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, abuse, grief, relationship conflicts, differing parenting styles, or mismatched needs in intimacy and lifestyle, I am here to help. Gain clarity and self-awareness to understand what matters to you and take meaningful action.
My key therapeutic processes include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychodynamic Interpersonal Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment Theory, Family Systems Therapy, Strength-Based and Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy (body-focused healing), Mentalizing and Mindfulness (awareness and mind-body integration)
Welcome to Lifeready, where you are supported and empowered to process life's challenges and embrace a healthier, more fulfilling life. I specialize in supporting individuals through mental, emotional, and relationship difficulties, particularly during the critical stages from preconception to parenting and beyond. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, abuse, grief, relationship conflicts, differing parenting styles, or mismatched needs in intimacy and lifestyle, I am here to help. Gain clarity and self-awareness to understand what matters to you and take meaningful action.
(03) 8203 5172 View (03) 8203 5172
Photo of Kimberley Kifun, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kimberley Kifun
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
As an integrative psychotherapist, I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Attachment, Trauma, Psychodynamic, Somatic, Internal Family Systems, and Transpersonal models.
I work with trauma, self esteem, relationship issues, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, as well as spiritual and existential concerns. I utilise an integrative approach using many different modalities such as somatic, attachment and internal family systems and we collaboratively sculpt a treatment plan that suits you. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming space where you can explore all aspects of yourself. Your autonomy is paramount, and I work collaboratively with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
As an integrative psychotherapist, I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Attachment, Trauma, Psychodynamic, Somatic, Internal Family Systems, and Transpersonal models.
I work with trauma, self esteem, relationship issues, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, as well as spiritual and existential concerns. I utilise an integrative approach using many different modalities such as somatic, attachment and internal family systems and we collaboratively sculpt a treatment plan that suits you. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming space where you can explore all aspects of yourself. Your autonomy is paramount, and I work collaboratively with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
(03) 4427 7030 View (03) 4427 7030
Photo of Omer Hadas, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Omer Hadas
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Tecoma, VIC 3160
I provide personalised psychological treatment and assessment, using a psychodynamic approach that integrates elements of cognitive-behavioural and solution-focused therapy.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist with over 14 years of experience helping children, adolescents, and adults improve their mental health and well-being. I have worked in diverse settings, including community mental health services, outpatient clinics, schools, and private practice, both locally and abroad. I offer compassionate, personalised support for a wide range of concerns and also help parents and couples navigate parenting and relationship challenges. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with children and offer limited hours of play therapy for children 3 and up.
I provide personalised psychological treatment and assessment, using a psychodynamic approach that integrates elements of cognitive-behavioural and solution-focused therapy.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist with over 14 years of experience helping children, adolescents, and adults improve their mental health and well-being. I have worked in diverse settings, including community mental health services, outpatient clinics, schools, and private practice, both locally and abroad. I offer compassionate, personalised support for a wide range of concerns and also help parents and couples navigate parenting and relationship challenges. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with children and offer limited hours of play therapy for children 3 and up.
(03) 5910 7525 View (03) 5910 7525
Photo of Shuwana Shiraze - Whole-Hearted Relationships, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Whole-Hearted Relationships
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I offer an integrative blend informed by attachment theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, parts work, and psychodynamic exploration.
Are you and your partner feeling more like housemates than lovers, struggling to connect, or caught in the same arguments without resolution? Maybe things look fine from the outside, but inside, there's a quiet distance growing. Or perhaps you've been moving from one relationship to the next, always chasing closeness but never quite feeling safe. If you’re starting to wonder whether it’s too late to repair—don’t wait. Whether you’re in a relationship or navigating relational patterns on your own, I’m here to support your process. Seeking help is an act of courage—and you deserve support in creating the love you long for.
I offer an integrative blend informed by attachment theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, parts work, and psychodynamic exploration.
Are you and your partner feeling more like housemates than lovers, struggling to connect, or caught in the same arguments without resolution? Maybe things look fine from the outside, but inside, there's a quiet distance growing. Or perhaps you've been moving from one relationship to the next, always chasing closeness but never quite feeling safe. If you’re starting to wonder whether it’s too late to repair—don’t wait. Whether you’re in a relationship or navigating relational patterns on your own, I’m here to support your process. Seeking help is an act of courage—and you deserve support in creating the love you long for.
(03) 8797 2621 View (03) 8797 2621
Photo of Laura Hvala - Mandala Health: Counselling Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
Mandala Health: Counselling Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
Serves Area
My therapeutic approach is guided by depth- psychodynamic and analytical principles (est. by Carl Jung).
I understands how long term stress & trauma (i.e., carer exhaustion; violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse/neglect; drug/alcohol misuse; personality disorders & other mental health issues) can impact victims, partners and family members in profound ways. I work with individuals: children, adults, & couples, to resolve the affects & live life beyond trauma.
My therapeutic approach is guided by depth- psychodynamic and analytical principles (est. by Carl Jung).
I understands how long term stress & trauma (i.e., carer exhaustion; violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse/neglect; drug/alcohol misuse; personality disorders & other mental health issues) can impact victims, partners and family members in profound ways. I work with individuals: children, adults, & couples, to resolve the affects & live life beyond trauma.
(03) 4427 7446 View (03) 4427 7446
Photo of Dr Hana Guo, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Dr Hana Guo
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Essendon, VIC 3040
My name is Dr Hana Guo, and I am an EMDR, CBT and psychodynamic psychotherapist who is dedicated to helping my clients break free from unhealthy patterns that keep on repeating.
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist, I specialise in managing anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), grief and perinatal struggles. My focus on psychodynamic therapy means I work with my clients to explore the root causes of their emotional challenges and develop strategies accordingly. I can also provide therapy in Madnarin Chinese.
My name is Dr Hana Guo, and I am an EMDR, CBT and psychodynamic psychotherapist who is dedicated to helping my clients break free from unhealthy patterns that keep on repeating.
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist, I specialise in managing anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), grief and perinatal struggles. My focus on psychodynamic therapy means I work with my clients to explore the root causes of their emotional challenges and develop strategies accordingly. I can also provide therapy in Madnarin Chinese.
0401 649 365 View 0401 649 365
Photo of Daliya Greenfeld - Daliya Greenfeld Psychology and assessment service, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Daliya Greenfeld Psychology and assessment service
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Seaford, VIC 3198
Therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Psychodynamic approach and Schema Therapy.
I work from a neuro-affirmative approach and believe in establishing and maintaining rapport with my clients. I am experienced in providing psychological support to clients across the lifespan. Specifically, I am experienced in working with children and adults presenting with ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, and depression and supporting adjustments to life changes and transitions. Assessments: Adult Autism, child, and adult ADHD assessments, including detailed reports, recommendations and management options.
Therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Psychodynamic approach and Schema Therapy.
I work from a neuro-affirmative approach and believe in establishing and maintaining rapport with my clients. I am experienced in providing psychological support to clients across the lifespan. Specifically, I am experienced in working with children and adults presenting with ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, and depression and supporting adjustments to life changes and transitions. Assessments: Adult Autism, child, and adult ADHD assessments, including detailed reports, recommendations and management options.
(03) 5905 9270 View (03) 5905 9270
Photo of Maree Nekich, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Maree Nekich
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Williamstown, VIC 3016
Depending on the client Maree utilises developmentally appropriate and evidenced based approaches such as interpersonal, psychodynamic, behavioural and play therapy as required.
As a Clinical Psychologist with additional specialist training in Family Therapy Maree has undergone extensive training to help her understand, prevent and relieve distress. She has over 15yrs experience in the private & public mental health care industry where she has provided individual, couple and family therapy to clients aged 6–80yrs. Her approach respects that the needs of each client will be unique and can't be simplified by a generic diagnosis or treated in a generic way. Therefore, every client will be afforded the opportunity to be listened to deeply at their own pace and following an assessment offered tailored treatment.
Depending on the client Maree utilises developmentally appropriate and evidenced based approaches such as interpersonal, psychodynamic, behavioural and play therapy as required.
As a Clinical Psychologist with additional specialist training in Family Therapy Maree has undergone extensive training to help her understand, prevent and relieve distress. She has over 15yrs experience in the private & public mental health care industry where she has provided individual, couple and family therapy to clients aged 6–80yrs. Her approach respects that the needs of each client will be unique and can't be simplified by a generic diagnosis or treated in a generic way. Therefore, every client will be afforded the opportunity to be listened to deeply at their own pace and following an assessment offered tailored treatment.
(03) 9111 2650 View (03) 9111 2650
Photo of Catherine Hluchanic, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Catherine Hluchanic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
My therapeutic approach is in line with Schema Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am a registered clinical psychologist with experience working with a wide range of mental health conditions. I work primarily with concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, shame, guilt, and many other mental health issues. I have a special interest in supporting and empowering women with their mental health, in particular perinatal mental health support. I also support many of my clients with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, early life attachment trauma, and anxiety disorders.
My therapeutic approach is in line with Schema Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am a registered clinical psychologist with experience working with a wide range of mental health conditions. I work primarily with concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, shame, guilt, and many other mental health issues. I have a special interest in supporting and empowering women with their mental health, in particular perinatal mental health support. I also support many of my clients with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, early life attachment trauma, and anxiety disorders.
(02) 4504 0393 View (02) 4504 0393
Photo of Leah Compagnino, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Leah Compagnino
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
She draws from a diverse toolkit of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Leah is a registered psychologist. With extensive experience working across diverse age groups, from children to adolescents and adults, Leah has made a positive impact in both community and private settings. Leah's journey in the field has included invaluable roles within the out-of-home care sector and family services organisations. Her expertise extends to facilitating transformative parent and adolescent groups, where she emphasizes emotion coaching and mindfulness-based practices. A focal point of Leah's practice is providing guidance and support to individuals who have faced traumatic and challenging life experiences.
She draws from a diverse toolkit of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Leah is a registered psychologist. With extensive experience working across diverse age groups, from children to adolescents and adults, Leah has made a positive impact in both community and private settings. Leah's journey in the field has included invaluable roles within the out-of-home care sector and family services organisations. Her expertise extends to facilitating transformative parent and adolescent groups, where she emphasizes emotion coaching and mindfulness-based practices. A focal point of Leah's practice is providing guidance and support to individuals who have faced traumatic and challenging life experiences.
(03) 4422 4382 View (03) 4422 4382
Photo of Dr Xavier Chiang, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Xavier Chiang
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
He uses a psychodynamic and strengths based approach in his sessions.
He works with issues including low or unstable moods; feelings of low self-worth, helplessness; sadness; lack of motivation; mental injury, or grief and loss. I am also experienced in managing social anxiety; generalized anxiety; health anxiety; perfectionistic thinking; chronic depression and panic attacks.
He uses a psychodynamic and strengths based approach in his sessions.
He works with issues including low or unstable moods; feelings of low self-worth, helplessness; sadness; lack of motivation; mental injury, or grief and loss. I am also experienced in managing social anxiety; generalized anxiety; health anxiety; perfectionistic thinking; chronic depression and panic attacks.
(03) 7303 3159 View (03) 7303 3159
Photo of Felicity Sayers, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Felicity Sayers
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Braeside, VIC 3195
I use a range of evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, psychodynamic therapy, schema therapy, somatic therapy, and trauma-informed practice, to provide comprehensive support to clients.
I provide therapy to individuals throughout the lifespan, supporting them through life's challenges. I support people with anxiety, depression, trauma, and neurodivergence.
I use a range of evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, psychodynamic therapy, schema therapy, somatic therapy, and trauma-informed practice, to provide comprehensive support to clients.
I provide therapy to individuals throughout the lifespan, supporting them through life's challenges. I support people with anxiety, depression, trauma, and neurodivergence.
(03) 8771 5898 View (03) 8771 5898
Photo of Owen Weatherley, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Owen Weatherley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ivanhoe East, VIC 3079
Owen’s therapeutic approach has a psychodynamic emphasis, while also drawing on other evidence-based approaches to ensure therapy fits the needs and goals of patients.
Owen has over 3 years experience working in youth and adult mental health and has completed a Masters in Clinical Psychology. Owen's approach is collaborative, non-judgmental and insight-driven with a focus on building strong therapeutic relationships with people based on trust.
Owen’s therapeutic approach has a psychodynamic emphasis, while also drawing on other evidence-based approaches to ensure therapy fits the needs and goals of patients.
Owen has over 3 years experience working in youth and adult mental health and has completed a Masters in Clinical Psychology. Owen's approach is collaborative, non-judgmental and insight-driven with a focus on building strong therapeutic relationships with people based on trust.
(03) 7003 2704 View (03) 7003 2704
Photo of Rebecca Reale - Wholehearted Psychology, Psychologist, MAPS
Wholehearted Psychology
Psychologist, MAPS
Healesville, VIC 3777
Psychodynamic Therapy is my primary mode of therapy.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
Psychodynamic Therapy is my primary mode of therapy.
We can focus on a specific problem area you bring to therapy, and delve to a deeper level of understanding of the issue/s so as to resolve it, or we can work in a more fluid, open-ended manner, with self-discovery in mind. While I am not resistant to diagnosis and working within a pathological lens, I like to see people outside of narrow diagnostic labels. In the first instance, my first approach is to understand a client’s suffering by learning about them as unique individuals with complex histories and adaptive coping strategies. As I engage wholeheartedly with clients, my ask is that clients attempt to engage wholeheartedly too.
(03) 8338 1979 View (03) 8338 1979
Photo of Soorah Albatat - Arabic Speaking Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Soorah Albatat - Arabic Speaking Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Roxburgh Park, VIC 3064
Her therapeutic approach integrates a range of evidence-based techniques, including psychodynamic therapy, family systems therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Soorah is a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience in both the public and private mental health sectors. She is passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges by providing a safe and non-judgmental space for personal growth and healing. Soorah adopts a person-centered approach, ensuring that therapy is customized to meet each individual's unique needs. She prioritizes building a strong therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change in their lives.
Her therapeutic approach integrates a range of evidence-based techniques, including psychodynamic therapy, family systems therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Soorah is a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience in both the public and private mental health sectors. She is passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges by providing a safe and non-judgmental space for personal growth and healing. Soorah adopts a person-centered approach, ensuring that therapy is customized to meet each individual's unique needs. She prioritizes building a strong therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change in their lives.
(03) 7302 8861 View (03) 7302 8861
Photo of Tim Nolan - Tim Nolan Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Tim Nolan Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
2 Endorsed
Eltham, VIC 3095
Tim is trained in Schema Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy and Gottman Method Counselling (for couples), and practice CBT, emotional regulation and psychodynamic therapies.
Tim's areas of speciality include: Chronic depression and anxiety, self harm/suicidal ideation, self esteem/confidence issues, complex trauma (PTSD), Imagery & ‘chair’ work (Schema Therapy) Exposure for phobias, mental health (including Axis I disorders) & Personality Disorders Couples and Relationship counselling, substance abuse, workplace bullying
Tim is trained in Schema Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy and Gottman Method Counselling (for couples), and practice CBT, emotional regulation and psychodynamic therapies.
Tim's areas of speciality include: Chronic depression and anxiety, self harm/suicidal ideation, self esteem/confidence issues, complex trauma (PTSD), Imagery & ‘chair’ work (Schema Therapy) Exposure for phobias, mental health (including Axis I disorders) & Personality Disorders Couples and Relationship counselling, substance abuse, workplace bullying
(03) 8400 0062 View (03) 8400 0062
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.