Psychodynamic Therapists in Vancouver, BC

Photo of Lucia Pecnikova, Counsellor, BA, MEd, RCC
Lucia Pecnikova
Counsellor, BA, MEd, RCC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Z
Are you craving more meaningful connections with yourself and others? If you're feeling disconnected, grappling with trust issues, or dealing with past losses, you're not alone. You might be stuck in unhelpful patterns, haunted by painful memories, or turning to distractions for comfort. If you want to understand your inner self more deeply and live in a way that feels true to who you are, I can support you. Together, we can explore your challenges and create a path toward greater self-discovery and authentic, fulfilling relationships.
Are you craving more meaningful connections with yourself and others? If you're feeling disconnected, grappling with trust issues, or dealing with past losses, you're not alone. You might be stuck in unhelpful patterns, haunted by painful memories, or turning to distractions for comfort. If you want to understand your inner self more deeply and live in a way that feels true to who you are, I can support you. Together, we can explore your challenges and create a path toward greater self-discovery and authentic, fulfilling relationships.
(365) 398-5111 View (365) 398-5111
Photo of Chelsea Kingzett, Counsellor, MACP
Chelsea Kingzett
Counsellor, MACP
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5N
Hello, and welcome! My name is Chelsea (she/her), and I’m honoured to support you on your journey.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Chelsea (she/her), and I’m honoured to support you on your journey.
(782) 812-2903 View (782) 812-2903
Photo of Dr. Maryam Amiri, Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Dr. Maryam Amiri
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Online Only
I use psychodynamic psychotherapy.
As a doctor of clinical psychology and a licensed psychologist, I specialize in treating depression, relationship difficulties, childhood trauma, family conflict, grief, and gender identity concerns. I also work with adult children of emotionally unavailable or narcissistic parents, women caught in overfunctioning-underfunctioning relationship dynamics, and individuals working through childhood neglect or abuse. Despite outward success, you may feel emotionally exhausted, disconnected, or stuck in painful patterns. Therapy can help foster insight, resilience, and more fulfilling ways of relating to yourself and others.
I use psychodynamic psychotherapy.
As a doctor of clinical psychology and a licensed psychologist, I specialize in treating depression, relationship difficulties, childhood trauma, family conflict, grief, and gender identity concerns. I also work with adult children of emotionally unavailable or narcissistic parents, women caught in overfunctioning-underfunctioning relationship dynamics, and individuals working through childhood neglect or abuse. Despite outward success, you may feel emotionally exhausted, disconnected, or stuck in painful patterns. Therapy can help foster insight, resilience, and more fulfilling ways of relating to yourself and others.
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Photo of Dr. Taravat Ostovar, Psychologist, R Psych
Dr. Taravat Ostovar
Psychologist, R Psych
Vancouver, BC V5R
I provide scientifically supported assessment and treatments to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, and have 20 years experience with a wide range of concerns and psychosocial conditions including anxiety and panic attacks/reactions, attachment patterns, stress and trauma related conditions including PTSD, nervous system dysregulation, chronic pain and illness, mood problems including depression, parenting difficulties, relationship and marital problems, problematic personality patterns, self-harm behaviours, suicidal ideation, self-worth, grief and bereavement, life transitions, and adjustment issues.
I provide scientifically supported assessment and treatments to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, and have 20 years experience with a wide range of concerns and psychosocial conditions including anxiety and panic attacks/reactions, attachment patterns, stress and trauma related conditions including PTSD, nervous system dysregulation, chronic pain and illness, mood problems including depression, parenting difficulties, relationship and marital problems, problematic personality patterns, self-harm behaviours, suicidal ideation, self-worth, grief and bereavement, life transitions, and adjustment issues.
(249) 504-1988 View (249) 504-1988
Photo of Joseph Eliezer - Joseph Eliezer Psychotherapy and Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCS, MPCC-S
Joseph Eliezer Psychotherapy and Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCS, MPCC-S
7 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6H
Waitlist for new clients
Conflicts. Heartache. Angst. Chronic worry. Fear. Prolonged Sadness. Anger. You probably tried to deal with your struggles on your own, but you are not meant to suffer alone. Most of us reach out for help to family and friends. But sometimes you need more. You need someone who knows how to help you through your difficulties. You need someone who will hear, understand and help you find your way out of darkness. You need someone who can help you develop the courage to say no to toxic choices and yes to life-affirming decisions.
Conflicts. Heartache. Angst. Chronic worry. Fear. Prolonged Sadness. Anger. You probably tried to deal with your struggles on your own, but you are not meant to suffer alone. Most of us reach out for help to family and friends. But sometimes you need more. You need someone who knows how to help you through your difficulties. You need someone who will hear, understand and help you find your way out of darkness. You need someone who can help you develop the courage to say no to toxic choices and yes to life-affirming decisions.
(855) 717-9088 View (855) 717-9088
Photo of Shoshana Hain - Shoshana Hain Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MA, MEd, RCC
Shoshana Hain Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, MEd, RCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use evidence-based CBT, psychodynamic, person-centred, attachment, EMDR and mindfulness based stress reduction.
Areas of expertise include anxiety/panic, depression/low mood, relationship-communication strengthening, post relationship conflict & patterns, adjustments in life/work, grief/loss, eating disorders, trauma, assertiveness, self-esteem, imposter syndrome, family conflict, self-criticism & self-worth, stress-management, loneliness/isolation, & personal growth.
I use evidence-based CBT, psychodynamic, person-centred, attachment, EMDR and mindfulness based stress reduction.
Areas of expertise include anxiety/panic, depression/low mood, relationship-communication strengthening, post relationship conflict & patterns, adjustments in life/work, grief/loss, eating disorders, trauma, assertiveness, self-esteem, imposter syndrome, family conflict, self-criticism & self-worth, stress-management, loneliness/isolation, & personal growth.
(778) 770-1406 View (778) 770-1406
Photo of Hilary Ison, Registered Social Worker, RCC, RSW
Hilary Ison
Registered Social Worker, RCC, RSW
Online Only
Hello! I am an authentic and compassionate therapist informed by neuroscience, trauma research, attachment theory, social justice values, and much more. I aim to go beyond talking and support you to have healing relational and emotional experiences in therapy that allow you to move forward with more freedom, connection, and wholeness. I prioritize creating a safe, respectful, and connected relationship with you so that you can take risks - to be present with your experience (including your body and feelings), to try new things, process difficult material, and reveal parts of yourself that have been hidden and protected.
Hello! I am an authentic and compassionate therapist informed by neuroscience, trauma research, attachment theory, social justice values, and much more. I aim to go beyond talking and support you to have healing relational and emotional experiences in therapy that allow you to move forward with more freedom, connection, and wholeness. I prioritize creating a safe, respectful, and connected relationship with you so that you can take risks - to be present with your experience (including your body and feelings), to try new things, process difficult material, and reveal parts of yourself that have been hidden and protected.
(709) 700-3442 View (709) 700-3442
Photo of Anna Nabuco Bell, Counsellor, DCP, MACP, RCC
Anna Nabuco Bell
Counsellor, DCP, MACP, RCC
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
Olá! I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in British Columbia with a doctoral degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and I previously worked as a psychologist in Brazil. With over 23 years of clinical experience, I support clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship challenges, and major life transitions such as immigration, separation, career changes, and midlife crises. As an immigrant myself, I understand how important it is to feel seen, culturally understood, and supported by a sense of belonging in the healing process.
Olá! I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in British Columbia with a doctoral degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and I previously worked as a psychologist in Brazil. With over 23 years of clinical experience, I support clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship challenges, and major life transitions such as immigration, separation, career changes, and midlife crises. As an immigrant myself, I understand how important it is to feel seen, culturally understood, and supported by a sense of belonging in the healing process.
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Photo of Kristen McCarthy - Kristen McCarthy Counselling & Somatic Therapy, Counsellor, MPCC-P
Kristen McCarthy Counselling & Somatic Therapy
Counsellor, MPCC-P
5 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5N
This somatic approach is naturally integrated with mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
Do you notice emotional stress showing up in your body - through tension, pain, or exhaustion? Maybe you're navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, chronic stress, or major life transitions, but feel stuck or unsure how to move forward. As a trauma-informed clinical counsellor and yoga teacher with 17 years of experience supporting mind-body healing, I help people reconnect with their whole selves.
This somatic approach is naturally integrated with mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
Do you notice emotional stress showing up in your body - through tension, pain, or exhaustion? Maybe you're navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, chronic stress, or major life transitions, but feel stuck or unsure how to move forward. As a trauma-informed clinical counsellor and yoga teacher with 17 years of experience supporting mind-body healing, I help people reconnect with their whole selves.
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Photo of Rolf Schrader, Counsellor, MA, RCC, MNLP, CHT
Rolf Schrader
Counsellor, MA, RCC, MNLP, CHT
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with life or facing a difficult challenge? Do you have an inner critic who is just tearing you down? As your psychotherapist, I can help you eliminate those patterns or parts that have been impeding your progress, stopping you from having the life you want, you deserve. Together in a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space you can:
Are you struggling with life or facing a difficult challenge? Do you have an inner critic who is just tearing you down? As your psychotherapist, I can help you eliminate those patterns or parts that have been impeding your progress, stopping you from having the life you want, you deserve. Together in a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space you can:
(855) 338-0576 View (855) 338-0576
Photo of Rhett Mohajer, Registered Psychotherapist, PsyD, RP, RCC
Rhett Mohajer
Registered Psychotherapist, PsyD, RP, RCC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Deep wounds need "Depth" work to heal! Psychoanalytic therapy is a journey we undertake together! As you share your life story and struggles, we will look at the unconscious and conscious patterns that emerge in your life in a non-judgmental way. The aim of psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis is for you to find yourself!
Deep wounds need "Depth" work to heal! Psychoanalytic therapy is a journey we undertake together! As you share your life story and struggles, we will look at the unconscious and conscious patterns that emerge in your life in a non-judgmental way. The aim of psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis is for you to find yourself!
(778) 769-0105 View (778) 769-0105
Photo of Danielle Senior, Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Danielle Senior
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Vancouver, BC V6G
You may be holding things together on the outside while feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in the same emotional or relational patterns underneath. This can show up as overthinking, feeling disconnected in your relationship, recurring conflict, shutting down, or people-pleasing in ways that don’t fully make sense. I work with individuals and couples who want more than understanding—they want meaningful, lasting change in how they feel, respond, and relate.
You may be holding things together on the outside while feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in the same emotional or relational patterns underneath. This can show up as overthinking, feeling disconnected in your relationship, recurring conflict, shutting down, or people-pleasing in ways that don’t fully make sense. I work with individuals and couples who want more than understanding—they want meaningful, lasting change in how they feel, respond, and relate.
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Photo of Lina Lee, Counsellor, RCC, CCC
Lina Lee
Counsellor, RCC, CCC
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
My journey has shaped a strong commitment to supporting individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and family trauma. As a first-generation South Korean immigrant with over 20 years of life in Canada, I have a deep understanding of the emotional and cultural challenges international students and workers often face - such as navigating homesickness, long-distance relationships, and the complexities of the immigration process.
My journey has shaped a strong commitment to supporting individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and family trauma. As a first-generation South Korean immigrant with over 20 years of life in Canada, I have a deep understanding of the emotional and cultural challenges international students and workers often face - such as navigating homesickness, long-distance relationships, and the complexities of the immigration process.
(807) 697-9764 View (807) 697-9764
Photo of Xavier Williams, Counsellor, BA, MCP, CCC
Xavier Williams
Counsellor, BA, MCP, CCC
Vancouver, BC V6C
I take an existential-phenomenological view when working with clients-which means that I seek to be open to whatever issues you bring to our sessions, without judgement or applying my interpretation. Together we enter into a conversation that examines your experiences, emotions, and thoughts, from which you can make decisions that enable you to respond and react to life and its challenges. Issues are treated according to your experiences of them using a variety of techniques. How we go about things is always personalized and always within your control. Consider me a guide, rather than a guru.
I take an existential-phenomenological view when working with clients-which means that I seek to be open to whatever issues you bring to our sessions, without judgement or applying my interpretation. Together we enter into a conversation that examines your experiences, emotions, and thoughts, from which you can make decisions that enable you to respond and react to life and its challenges. Issues are treated according to your experiences of them using a variety of techniques. How we go about things is always personalized and always within your control. Consider me a guide, rather than a guru.
(604) 243-1486 View (604) 243-1486
Photo of Golie Shamloo, Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Golie Shamloo
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face them alone. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, or major life transitions, we will navigate these challenges together with care and understanding. I offer a welcoming space where you can find support, healing, and growth at your own pace. My approach centers on helping you uncover your unique strengths and build the confidence to share them meaningfully with the world. In our work together, you'll find a compassionate environment where you can process difficult emotions, communicate openly, and work through life's complexities.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face them alone. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, or major life transitions, we will navigate these challenges together with care and understanding. I offer a welcoming space where you can find support, healing, and growth at your own pace. My approach centers on helping you uncover your unique strengths and build the confidence to share them meaningfully with the world. In our work together, you'll find a compassionate environment where you can process difficult emotions, communicate openly, and work through life's complexities.
(236) 506-8981 View (236) 506-8981
Photo of Mary Jia, Psychologist, PhD
Mary Jia
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
People are not their diagnoses even though these labels can sometimes be informative. I prefer to get to know you. Specifically, what do you want out of therapy? What is currently working for you, not working? What brings you in to see me in this moment? I believe that therapy is not only about reducing our suffering, but also finding meaning and fulfillment in our lives. It is about getting to know ourselves, parts that we love, parts that we are afraid of, parts that we don't yet understand. People are also not things that need to be "fixed", instead, this is a place for healing, self-compassion, and growth.
People are not their diagnoses even though these labels can sometimes be informative. I prefer to get to know you. Specifically, what do you want out of therapy? What is currently working for you, not working? What brings you in to see me in this moment? I believe that therapy is not only about reducing our suffering, but also finding meaning and fulfillment in our lives. It is about getting to know ourselves, parts that we love, parts that we are afraid of, parts that we don't yet understand. People are also not things that need to be "fixed", instead, this is a place for healing, self-compassion, and growth.
(226) 602-4720 View (226) 602-4720
Photo of Lyn Firth - Lyn Firth Counselling, Counsellor, MPCC-S, QCS, CCPCPr
Lyn Firth Counselling
Counsellor, MPCC-S, QCS, CCPCPr
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I work with adults struggling with sleep, anxiety, or the impact of past experiences. If you’re feeling stuck or like what you’ve been doing isn’t working anymore, you’re not alone. Often, they’re looking for more than just a space to talk. They want to understand what’s going on and have clear, practical ways to start feeling better. My approach is collaborative and structured, helping clients make sense of their experiences while building tools they can use in daily life—so they can begin to feel more grounded, rested, and in control.
I work with adults struggling with sleep, anxiety, or the impact of past experiences. If you’re feeling stuck or like what you’ve been doing isn’t working anymore, you’re not alone. Often, they’re looking for more than just a space to talk. They want to understand what’s going on and have clear, practical ways to start feeling better. My approach is collaborative and structured, helping clients make sense of their experiences while building tools they can use in daily life—so they can begin to feel more grounded, rested, and in control.
(866) 225-8290 View (866) 225-8290
Photo of Heidi Kwok - Innerverse Therapy, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Innerverse Therapy
Counsellor, MA, RCC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
We are spiritual beings experiencing life in human form, but the challenges of our human condition can often overwhelm us. Spirituality involves reconnecting with our true nature as spiritual beings and pure awareness. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, helps us heal and release the burdens we carry throughout life, while also fully embracing our human nature. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, career changes, life transitions, or struggles in relationships, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions. Together, we will uncover your inner wisdom and resilience.
We are spiritual beings experiencing life in human form, but the challenges of our human condition can often overwhelm us. Spirituality involves reconnecting with our true nature as spiritual beings and pure awareness. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, helps us heal and release the burdens we carry throughout life, while also fully embracing our human nature. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, career changes, life transitions, or struggles in relationships, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions. Together, we will uncover your inner wisdom and resilience.
(438) 800-3402 View (438) 800-3402
Photo of Anne Siegenberg, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Anne Siegenberg
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Vancouver, BC V5V
Journey with Anne to discover and appreciate your own unique self. With Anne as your counsellor you will have the opportunity to identify and transform some of the internalized negative self-talk you may have unknowingly been repeatedly messaging to yourself for some time. Through a collaborative approach, Anne will assist you in expressing the freeing experience of self-permission to speak more kindly and gently to that vulnerable part of you that requires encouragement and support to overcome your present challenges in order to move on with your life with newly-found courage and self-esteem.
Journey with Anne to discover and appreciate your own unique self. With Anne as your counsellor you will have the opportunity to identify and transform some of the internalized negative self-talk you may have unknowingly been repeatedly messaging to yourself for some time. Through a collaborative approach, Anne will assist you in expressing the freeing experience of self-permission to speak more kindly and gently to that vulnerable part of you that requires encouragement and support to overcome your present challenges in order to move on with your life with newly-found courage and self-esteem.
(548) 900-5847 View (548) 900-5847
Photo of Sharleen Queen Uy - Light Body Therapy, Counsellor, BSN, MA
Light Body Therapy
Counsellor, BSN, MA
Vancouver, BC V6K
First session free! Counselling together can support your journey towards becoming a heart-empowered individual by expressing the unexpressed & by shedding layers covering the truth of who you are. Slowing down + listening to the wisdom of the heart + interpreting our body signals as it speaks to us is vital to bringing balance in our lives. When we align with our heart’s intuitive guidance, we lighten our being and manifest a bridge to infinite possibilities.
First session free! Counselling together can support your journey towards becoming a heart-empowered individual by expressing the unexpressed & by shedding layers covering the truth of who you are. Slowing down + listening to the wisdom of the heart + interpreting our body signals as it speaks to us is vital to bringing balance in our lives. When we align with our heart’s intuitive guidance, we lighten our being and manifest a bridge to infinite possibilities.
(226) 640-5313 View (226) 640-5313

See more therapy options for Vancouver

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.