Psychodynamic Therapists in M5G

Photo of Laura Moore, MPsy, Registered Psychotherapist
Laura Moore
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
I specialize in transforming pain into pathways for growth, using Adlerian, psychodynamic, and attachment-based therapies.
Imagine someone standing at the edge of change, eager yet uncertain. My ideal client faces life’s transitions—be it trauma, infertility, or personal upheaval—with a brave heart seeking authenticity and deep connection. They desire not just to survive but to thrive, finding balance and fulfillment through a transformative journey of self-discovery and resilience.
I specialize in transforming pain into pathways for growth, using Adlerian, psychodynamic, and attachment-based therapies.
Imagine someone standing at the edge of change, eager yet uncertain. My ideal client faces life’s transitions—be it trauma, infertility, or personal upheaval—with a brave heart seeking authenticity and deep connection. They desire not just to survive but to thrive, finding balance and fulfillment through a transformative journey of self-discovery and resilience.
(647) 952-6865 View (647) 952-6865
Photo of Raha Mirian -Mood And Trauma Specialist, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Raha Mirian -Mood And Trauma Specialist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
My extensive training extends to: psychodynamic, attachment-based, compassion-based, and somatic therapies.
Are you looking to better manage your emotions, shift unhelpful thoughts, patterns & behaviours? Do you feel overwhelmed by current challenges or past pain? Feel disconnected? Want a better relationship with yourself & others? I'm dedicated to helping people gain both the insights & skills that empower them to lead more satisfying lives. Most of my clients face challenges with: depression, anxiety, trauma (Complex & PTSD), substance abuse, self-harm, suicidality, eating & body-image, intense emotions (eg. anger, shame), self-esteem, grief, life transitions, & relationships. Many also have a history of interpersonal trauma.
My extensive training extends to: psychodynamic, attachment-based, compassion-based, and somatic therapies.
Are you looking to better manage your emotions, shift unhelpful thoughts, patterns & behaviours? Do you feel overwhelmed by current challenges or past pain? Feel disconnected? Want a better relationship with yourself & others? I'm dedicated to helping people gain both the insights & skills that empower them to lead more satisfying lives. Most of my clients face challenges with: depression, anxiety, trauma (Complex & PTSD), substance abuse, self-harm, suicidality, eating & body-image, intense emotions (eg. anger, shame), self-esteem, grief, life transitions, & relationships. Many also have a history of interpersonal trauma.
(437) 800-2662 View (437) 800-2662
Photo of Brent Mulrooney, PhD, Psychologist
Brent Mulrooney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G
To help you change and grow, I use clinical modalities that are tailored specifically to your needs and concerns, including relational psychodynamic psychotherapy, existential therapy, family therapies (e.
Since 2012, I have been providing psychological services to individuals (adults, adolescents, and children) and families. In my clinical practice, I help my clients navigate through difficult issues, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions and identity, and work with my clients on a long-term basis to achieve their goals. I support clients from all walks of life (inclusive of all neurodivergences, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, races, cultures, and relationship types) in achieving their own unique vision of success.
To help you change and grow, I use clinical modalities that are tailored specifically to your needs and concerns, including relational psychodynamic psychotherapy, existential therapy, family therapies (e.
Since 2012, I have been providing psychological services to individuals (adults, adolescents, and children) and families. In my clinical practice, I help my clients navigate through difficult issues, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions and identity, and work with my clients on a long-term basis to achieve their goals. I support clients from all walks of life (inclusive of all neurodivergences, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, races, cultures, and relationship types) in achieving their own unique vision of success.
(647) 370-3759 View (647) 370-3759
Photo of Saunia Ahmad, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Saunia Ahmad
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G
My approach integrates evidence-based models I have train in: Cognitive-Behavioural (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural (DBT), Emotion-Focused (EFT), Psychodynamic, Social Constructivist and Family Systems.
I am a registered Clinical and Counseling Psychologist in Ontario with expertise in individual and couple therapy. My approach to psychotherapy is client-centered. Below I list the therapy approaches I have substantial training in. I always start off with getting a good understanding of the issues a client is dealing with and where they are coming from before collaboratively developing a treatment plan. Learn more by visiting me at http://torontopsychology.com
My approach integrates evidence-based models I have train in: Cognitive-Behavioural (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural (DBT), Emotion-Focused (EFT), Psychodynamic, Social Constructivist and Family Systems.
I am a registered Clinical and Counseling Psychologist in Ontario with expertise in individual and couple therapy. My approach to psychotherapy is client-centered. Below I list the therapy approaches I have substantial training in. I always start off with getting a good understanding of the issues a client is dealing with and where they are coming from before collaboratively developing a treatment plan. Learn more by visiting me at http://torontopsychology.com
(647) 696-4973 View (647) 696-4973
Photo of Aaron Thomas Smith, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Aaron Thomas Smith
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
We collaboratively journey in CBT, EFT, psychodynamic explorations, etc.
I appreciate the commonly held belief that one can only fix their problems on their own; but, I applaud you for believing that therapy can help you better understand yourself and your difficulties, and provide the appropriate tools to manage your problems! I have foremost experience in working with couples, anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal ideations, interpersonal, sexual and trauma-related challenges. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with issues in their home environment, be it loneliness, neglect or abuse.
We collaboratively journey in CBT, EFT, psychodynamic explorations, etc.
I appreciate the commonly held belief that one can only fix their problems on their own; but, I applaud you for believing that therapy can help you better understand yourself and your difficulties, and provide the appropriate tools to manage your problems! I have foremost experience in working with couples, anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal ideations, interpersonal, sexual and trauma-related challenges. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with issues in their home environment, be it loneliness, neglect or abuse.
(613) 777-0048 View (613) 777-0048
Photo of Lucy Quach, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lucy Quach
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
As a psychodynamic therapist, my focus is on figuring out what makes you tick, how it got there in the first place, and providing guidance toward creating more peace, joy, and ease in your daily life.
Welcome! As a neurodivergent therapist, I have found that most of my clients seem to struggle with similar issues: feeling different their whole lives, struggling to understand themselves and others, maintaining healthy relationships, and processing past traumas. Maybe you were diagnosed at an early age, late-diagnosed (like I was), simply questioning your neurotype, or suspect that a loved one is neurodivergent and would like some support in that relationship. Maybe you need some support in navigating life's complexities and daily stressors, understanding emotions, or just need a safe space to BE YOU. You are welcome here!
As a psychodynamic therapist, my focus is on figuring out what makes you tick, how it got there in the first place, and providing guidance toward creating more peace, joy, and ease in your daily life.
Welcome! As a neurodivergent therapist, I have found that most of my clients seem to struggle with similar issues: feeling different their whole lives, struggling to understand themselves and others, maintaining healthy relationships, and processing past traumas. Maybe you were diagnosed at an early age, late-diagnosed (like I was), simply questioning your neurotype, or suspect that a loved one is neurodivergent and would like some support in that relationship. Maybe you need some support in navigating life's complexities and daily stressors, understanding emotions, or just need a safe space to BE YOU. You are welcome here!
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Photo of Dr. Peter Egeto, RP, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Peter Egeto
Psychologist, RP, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
I practice primarily with an integrative therapeutic approach, and include cognitive-behavioural, emotion-focused, interpersonal, and psychodynamic to best suit your needs and work towards your treatment goals.
Life can be stressful and overwhelming and in times like these, it can be difficult to know where to turn and how to start, so I commend you for taking this first step for growth. Since 2014, I have been providing therapy and assessment services to adult clients who experience anxiety, stress, depression and other mood disorders, trauma, assertion and boundary setting difficulties, grief and loss, interpersonal problems, and low self-esteem, among others. Together, we will work to identify issues, discuss solutions and implement strategies on your self-improvement journey in a supportive, non-judgmental, and collaborative space.
I practice primarily with an integrative therapeutic approach, and include cognitive-behavioural, emotion-focused, interpersonal, and psychodynamic to best suit your needs and work towards your treatment goals.
Life can be stressful and overwhelming and in times like these, it can be difficult to know where to turn and how to start, so I commend you for taking this first step for growth. Since 2014, I have been providing therapy and assessment services to adult clients who experience anxiety, stress, depression and other mood disorders, trauma, assertion and boundary setting difficulties, grief and loss, interpersonal problems, and low self-esteem, among others. Together, we will work to identify issues, discuss solutions and implement strategies on your self-improvement journey in a supportive, non-judgmental, and collaborative space.
(647) 492-2359 View (647) 492-2359
Photo of Sana Huda, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Sana Huda
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
I aim to work collaboratively and understand my clients by using techniques from CBT, emotion-focused, psychodynamic, and mindfulness based therapies.
Welcome! At some point, you may have experienced stress, felt anxious, overwhelmed, sad, or depressed. No one is immune to these common, human conditions. Sometimes, we can work such emotions out on our own by changing our lifestyles, reading books, taking classes, or through talking with friends and family members. Other times, we notice patterns that we haven’t been able to change on our own, or issues start to overwhelm us and negatively affect our lives, relationships, and work. I hope to create a warm and supportive environment where my clients are encouraged to seek positive change and growth.
I aim to work collaboratively and understand my clients by using techniques from CBT, emotion-focused, psychodynamic, and mindfulness based therapies.
Welcome! At some point, you may have experienced stress, felt anxious, overwhelmed, sad, or depressed. No one is immune to these common, human conditions. Sometimes, we can work such emotions out on our own by changing our lifestyles, reading books, taking classes, or through talking with friends and family members. Other times, we notice patterns that we haven’t been able to change on our own, or issues start to overwhelm us and negatively affect our lives, relationships, and work. I hope to create a warm and supportive environment where my clients are encouraged to seek positive change and growth.
(289) 796-8089 View (289) 796-8089
Photo of Jenny Sunny, MSW , RSW, RPQ, Registered Social Worker
Jenny Sunny
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW, RPQ
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G
Deciding to reach for support is a sign of personal strength and I have deep respect for you to have the courage to seek help. My approach is integrative and my scope of practice includes a range of different therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Psychodynamic. I am keen to refine a practice which is anti-oppressive, sex positive and rooted in harm reduction lens of work.
Deciding to reach for support is a sign of personal strength and I have deep respect for you to have the courage to seek help. My approach is integrative and my scope of practice includes a range of different therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Psychodynamic. I am keen to refine a practice which is anti-oppressive, sex positive and rooted in harm reduction lens of work.
(365) 305-0205 View (365) 305-0205
Photo of Dorota Hedzelek, PhD, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Dorota Hedzelek
Counsellor, PhD, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G
My overriding clinical orientation honours the mindbody connection, neurobiology, somatic, experiential, psychodynamic, existential-humanistic approaches, and the bio-psycho-socio-spiritual nature of our lives.
Recovery from pain is possible. Let's start together from understanding YOUR pain and creating a path to wellness that is unique for YOU. I am fascinated by the brain and body connection and the immense possibilities that arise when we open ourselves to learning and understanding how various psychoneurobiological mechanisms work, how our environments and circumstances have shaped us and continue to do so, and how we can harness the power of that understanding towards change. Studies indicate that many chronic pain conditions are often not the result of structural causes, but of psychoneurobiological processes that can be reversed.
My overriding clinical orientation honours the mindbody connection, neurobiology, somatic, experiential, psychodynamic, existential-humanistic approaches, and the bio-psycho-socio-spiritual nature of our lives.
Recovery from pain is possible. Let's start together from understanding YOUR pain and creating a path to wellness that is unique for YOU. I am fascinated by the brain and body connection and the immense possibilities that arise when we open ourselves to learning and understanding how various psychoneurobiological mechanisms work, how our environments and circumstances have shaped us and continue to do so, and how we can harness the power of that understanding towards change. Studies indicate that many chronic pain conditions are often not the result of structural causes, but of psychoneurobiological processes that can be reversed.
(236) 302-2823 View (236) 302-2823
Photo of Melissa White, MA, OCT, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Melissa White
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, OCT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G
I utilize trauma-informed psychodynamic psychotherapy, and support somatic work.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you want to make changes in your life? Explore your relationship to self, identity, or purpose in life? My typical clients experience intergenerational trauma, childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiety, GAD, relationship problems, burn out, midlife crisis and who otherwise are seeking more fulfilling authentic lives. We can explore parts (IFS informed) and how they may help or hinder you, and examine the role of the unconscious and how it can be integrated into your awareness. My role is to journey with you as a fellow traveler to uncover meaning and purpose, radical acceptance and change. Visit my website for more.
I utilize trauma-informed psychodynamic psychotherapy, and support somatic work.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you want to make changes in your life? Explore your relationship to self, identity, or purpose in life? My typical clients experience intergenerational trauma, childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiety, GAD, relationship problems, burn out, midlife crisis and who otherwise are seeking more fulfilling authentic lives. We can explore parts (IFS informed) and how they may help or hinder you, and examine the role of the unconscious and how it can be integrated into your awareness. My role is to journey with you as a fellow traveler to uncover meaning and purpose, radical acceptance and change. Visit my website for more.
(289) 312-4946 View (289) 312-4946
Photo of Taryn Zeger, BA, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Taryn Zeger
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MEd
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
My theoretical orientation can be described as an integrative approach that combines aspects of therapeutic modalities including CBT, psychodynamic models, and DBT, among others.
I have extensive experience working with adolescent and adult populations transitioning through life stages. I support individuals and families experiencing a range of mental health challenges as I provide a unique perspective on coping with anxiety, navigating relationships, and building resiliency. Using a realistic and non-judgemental approach, I help my clients overcome obstacles and rewrite their own narratives. Making effective change isn't easy but it's never motivated by shame or criticism. I feel this is crucial when working to reduce anxiety, build self-esteem, and overcome addiction.
My theoretical orientation can be described as an integrative approach that combines aspects of therapeutic modalities including CBT, psychodynamic models, and DBT, among others.
I have extensive experience working with adolescent and adult populations transitioning through life stages. I support individuals and families experiencing a range of mental health challenges as I provide a unique perspective on coping with anxiety, navigating relationships, and building resiliency. Using a realistic and non-judgemental approach, I help my clients overcome obstacles and rewrite their own narratives. Making effective change isn't easy but it's never motivated by shame or criticism. I feel this is crucial when working to reduce anxiety, build self-esteem, and overcome addiction.
(437) 747-6886 View (437) 747-6886
Photo of Amin Mohammadi, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Amin Mohammadi
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
My areas of speciality include emotional disturbances, addictive behaviors, substance use, anxiety, depression, life transitions and coaching, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, stress, trauma and spirituality. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families from a diverse range of cultural, ethnic, socio-economic and educational backgrounds. More specifically, my previous clinical experiences have afforded me the unique experiences of working with troubled teenagers suffering from addictive behaviors, refugees who have experienced significant trauma, couples pursuing international adoption.
My areas of speciality include emotional disturbances, addictive behaviors, substance use, anxiety, depression, life transitions and coaching, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, stress, trauma and spirituality. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families from a diverse range of cultural, ethnic, socio-economic and educational backgrounds. More specifically, my previous clinical experiences have afforded me the unique experiences of working with troubled teenagers suffering from addictive behaviors, refugees who have experienced significant trauma, couples pursuing international adoption.
(647) 277-9587 View (647) 277-9587
Photo of Jeffrey Ly Quitting Porn Specialization, AMFT, LPHA, MA
Jeffrey Ly Quitting Porn Specialization
AMFT, LPHA, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
Pornography addiction can significantly impact your life and relationships but there is hope for recovery. I’m not just a mental health professional, I’ve been “you” for many years. I understand firsthand the personal struggles in your life and committed relationships that come with uncontrollable pornography use. The endless stream of attractive women a few clicks away on Pornhub, Onlyfan or Social Media is hard to quit even with all your willpower and promise to quit for the sake of your relationship
Pornography addiction can significantly impact your life and relationships but there is hope for recovery. I’m not just a mental health professional, I’ve been “you” for many years. I understand firsthand the personal struggles in your life and committed relationships that come with uncontrollable pornography use. The endless stream of attractive women a few clicks away on Pornhub, Onlyfan or Social Media is hard to quit even with all your willpower and promise to quit for the sake of your relationship
(437) 371-8936 View (437) 371-8936
Photo of Cherisse Doobay, BA, MSc, CLC, Counsellor
Cherisse Doobay
Counsellor, BA, MSc, CLC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
I am an integrative therapist who has passionately worked to help people overcome mental health challenges for over 15 years. I give my clients the skills, tools and confidence to take control of situations they feel they cannot control. My clients leave the room feeling happier and more self-assured. I use many modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to support individuals, couples, families and groups through the struggles of life. These include, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, psychosis/schizophrenia, addiction, concurrent disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders and bereavement.
I am an integrative therapist who has passionately worked to help people overcome mental health challenges for over 15 years. I give my clients the skills, tools and confidence to take control of situations they feel they cannot control. My clients leave the room feeling happier and more self-assured. I use many modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to support individuals, couples, families and groups through the struggles of life. These include, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, psychosis/schizophrenia, addiction, concurrent disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders and bereavement.
(647) 493-4841 View (647) 493-4841
Photo of Ashwin Mehra, CPsych, Psychologist
Ashwin Mehra
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
To grow and to heal. This is a choice we can make. If you are reading this, you have already taken a step in that direction. Perhaps you are wondering if therapy can help you take some more steps. These steps can be in many directions – doing better, achieving goals, reducing distress, managing difficult emotions, understanding unhelpful patterns, dealing with relationship issues, coming to terms with the issues of the past, or seeking answers to life’s challenging questions. We arrive in therapy with our own unique expectations. My goal is to help you take the steps towards meeting those expectations.
To grow and to heal. This is a choice we can make. If you are reading this, you have already taken a step in that direction. Perhaps you are wondering if therapy can help you take some more steps. These steps can be in many directions – doing better, achieving goals, reducing distress, managing difficult emotions, understanding unhelpful patterns, dealing with relationship issues, coming to terms with the issues of the past, or seeking answers to life’s challenging questions. We arrive in therapy with our own unique expectations. My goal is to help you take the steps towards meeting those expectations.
(647) 503-5093 View (647) 503-5093
Photo of Banupriya Balachandra, MPhil, Psychological Associate
Banupriya Balachandra
Psychological Associate, MPhil
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G
My approach to psychotherapy is integrative and is rooted in the belief that longstanding difficulties in our relationships with ourselves and others have their origins in our early developmental experiences. I specialize in addressing a spectrum of issues including abandonment anxiety, perfectionism, conflicts about dependency, difficulty in opening up to others, boundary-setting dilemmas, feeling stuck in unsatisfying relationship patterns, and excessive self-criticism. I will work in collaboration with you towards co-constructing a coherent narrative of your past, present experiences, and fears and aspirations for your future.
My approach to psychotherapy is integrative and is rooted in the belief that longstanding difficulties in our relationships with ourselves and others have their origins in our early developmental experiences. I specialize in addressing a spectrum of issues including abandonment anxiety, perfectionism, conflicts about dependency, difficulty in opening up to others, boundary-setting dilemmas, feeling stuck in unsatisfying relationship patterns, and excessive self-criticism. I will work in collaboration with you towards co-constructing a coherent narrative of your past, present experiences, and fears and aspirations for your future.
(437) 524-0386 x2 View (437) 524-0386 x2
Photo of Sara Gharibi, MPsy, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sara Gharibi
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G
I am passionate about working with you to achieve your goals. We will work in collaboration to decide what treatment plan suits your life, and to help you feel more empowered. My approach is trauma-informed, which means I will work with you to understand the roots of your difficulties, challenges, and struggles for you to be able to design and create a better future for yourself, and your family.
I am passionate about working with you to achieve your goals. We will work in collaboration to decide what treatment plan suits your life, and to help you feel more empowered. My approach is trauma-informed, which means I will work with you to understand the roots of your difficulties, challenges, and struggles for you to be able to design and create a better future for yourself, and your family.
(289) 216-5788 View (289) 216-5788
Photo of Rae Massop - Aworie Health, RSW, PhD, MSW
Aworie Health
RSW, PhD, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G
Sliding scale fees for counselling can be hard to come by in today's economy. Aworie is a professional counseling and therapy organization that provides counselling on a sliding scale without the hassle of lengthy waitlists.
Sliding scale fees for counselling can be hard to come by in today's economy. Aworie is a professional counseling and therapy organization that provides counselling on a sliding scale without the hassle of lengthy waitlists.
(437) 292-3055 x403 View (437) 292-3055 x403
Photo of Jean Kim, PhD, Psychologist
Jean Kim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G
When life stressors become overwhelming, we can turn to familiar ways of coping. We can become stuck in a cycle as though we are playing a scene on repeat. It takes courage to interrupt this cycle and I commend you for taking the initial step toward meaningful change. Since 2017, I have supported individuals who struggle with a wide range of concerns: anxiety, depression, interpersonal trauma, shame, relationship issues, emotion regulation and loss/grief. I also have extensive experience working with people who struggle with eating disorders/body image, and those who are enduring the challenges of integrating their cultural identity
When life stressors become overwhelming, we can turn to familiar ways of coping. We can become stuck in a cycle as though we are playing a scene on repeat. It takes courage to interrupt this cycle and I commend you for taking the initial step toward meaningful change. Since 2017, I have supported individuals who struggle with a wide range of concerns: anxiety, depression, interpersonal trauma, shame, relationship issues, emotion regulation and loss/grief. I also have extensive experience working with people who struggle with eating disorders/body image, and those who are enduring the challenges of integrating their cultural identity
(647) 372-2267 View (647) 372-2267
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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.