Psychodynamic Counselling in Newcastle upon Tyne

Photo of Kirsty Lawrenson - Therapy North, Counsellor, MBACP
Therapy North
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
The most common in the UK are Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and Integrative in which the therapist encompasses a variety of ways of working.
Need Support? Let’s get started. Everyone needs support at times and everyone’s needs are unique to them. It’s important to work with a mental health professional who has the qualifications and experience to meet these. We are here to assist you in making the best choice for you. We appreciate the first step is always the hardest. At Therapy North we want you to understand the types of support available and make it flexible, convenient and affordable. You choose whether you prefer face to face, online sessions or a mixture and how often you want them.
The most common in the UK are Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and Integrative in which the therapist encompasses a variety of ways of working.
Need Support? Let’s get started. Everyone needs support at times and everyone’s needs are unique to them. It’s important to work with a mental health professional who has the qualifications and experience to meet these. We are here to assist you in making the best choice for you. We appreciate the first step is always the hardest. At Therapy North we want you to understand the types of support available and make it flexible, convenient and affordable. You choose whether you prefer face to face, online sessions or a mixture and how often you want them.
0191 607 1432 View 0191 607 1432
Photo of Dr Jane MacMillan, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Jane MacMillan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
I have a wealth of clinical experience spanning over 25 years which allows me to draw on a range of models (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Interpersonal Therapy) and adapt treatment to best suit you.
Taking the first step to finding help can be difficult and confusing. I offer a discrete and compassionate service for individuals wishing to seek professional support and advice for a wide range of mental health issues. We start with a comprehensive assessment and devise a plan for treatment based on your individual needs.
I have a wealth of clinical experience spanning over 25 years which allows me to draw on a range of models (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Interpersonal Therapy) and adapt treatment to best suit you.
Taking the first step to finding help can be difficult and confusing. I offer a discrete and compassionate service for individuals wishing to seek professional support and advice for a wide range of mental health issues. We start with a comprehensive assessment and devise a plan for treatment based on your individual needs.
0191 743 7644 View 0191 743 7644
Photo of Sarah Smith, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Sarah Smith
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
My approach is relational, and I draw from psychodynamic and existential theories to provide a framework for our work.
Hi, I’m Sarah. I am an accredited psychotherapist (BACP) with ten years of experience as a therapist, supporting people of different ages and backgrounds in various settings. I have worked with stress, anxiety, trauma, loss, change, identity, belonging, self-confidence and relationship issues. I offer a confidential, non judgemental space to work through issues, to help you understand yourself more deeply and create meaningful change.
My approach is relational, and I draw from psychodynamic and existential theories to provide a framework for our work.
Hi, I’m Sarah. I am an accredited psychotherapist (BACP) with ten years of experience as a therapist, supporting people of different ages and backgrounds in various settings. I have worked with stress, anxiety, trauma, loss, change, identity, belonging, self-confidence and relationship issues. I offer a confidential, non judgemental space to work through issues, to help you understand yourself more deeply and create meaningful change.
0191 743 3588 View 0191 743 3588
Photo of Louise Anne Henderson, Counsellor, MBACP
Louise Anne Henderson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a Counsellor working from a Person Centred approach integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Psychodynamic approaches.
In addition to Counselling adults, children and young people, I provide Outdoor Therapies that combine therapy with the benefits of being surrounded by nature.Held in breath taking forest & coastal locations in Tyne and Wear. I have experience as a school counsellor working with individuals & solution focused workshops, learning difficulties & disabilities
I am a Counsellor working from a Person Centred approach integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Psychodynamic approaches.
In addition to Counselling adults, children and young people, I provide Outdoor Therapies that combine therapy with the benefits of being surrounded by nature.Held in breath taking forest & coastal locations in Tyne and Wear. I have experience as a school counsellor working with individuals & solution focused workshops, learning difficulties & disabilities
07588 702503 View 07588 702503
Photo of Sally Atkinson, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Sally Atkinson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Integrating a range of theoretical and creative approaches into your therapy, including transactional analysis, compassion-focused therapy and psychodynamic therapy, means it can be tailored to your circumstances, personality and preferences.
I work with adults who want to heal and make sense of themselves and their world after going through difficulties, recent or historic. The clients I see come to therapy to deal with stress or sadness associated with issues like bereavement, illness, relational difficulty, family breakdown, professional challenges, persistent anxiety or unhappiness, or just a nagging feeling that something isn't right. Enlisting the support of a skilled and compassionate confidante can help you face and make sense of whatever your life or psyche is bringing you.
Integrating a range of theoretical and creative approaches into your therapy, including transactional analysis, compassion-focused therapy and psychodynamic therapy, means it can be tailored to your circumstances, personality and preferences.
I work with adults who want to heal and make sense of themselves and their world after going through difficulties, recent or historic. The clients I see come to therapy to deal with stress or sadness associated with issues like bereavement, illness, relational difficulty, family breakdown, professional challenges, persistent anxiety or unhappiness, or just a nagging feeling that something isn't right. Enlisting the support of a skilled and compassionate confidante can help you face and make sense of whatever your life or psyche is bringing you.
0191 406 3072 View 0191 406 3072
Photo of Louise Margaret Redfern - Louise Redfern Counselling & Psychotherapy Service, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Louise Redfern Counselling & Psychotherapy Service
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
I work in an integrative way, drawing on person-centred, psychodynamic, and CAT-informed approaches.
Many of my clients are struggling with anxiety, trauma, low mood, or emotional overwhelm. Some are processing past abuse or loss, while others feel stuck or disconnected and want to understand themselves better. You may be seeking relief, clarity, or a calmer mind. Whether you have clear goals or just need someone to talk to, I offer a supportive, non-judgemental space where we can work at your pace. I primarily work with adult individuals and couples aged 18 and over. In some cases, I also see young people aged 14 and above, depending on their individual circumstances and presenting needs.
I work in an integrative way, drawing on person-centred, psychodynamic, and CAT-informed approaches.
Many of my clients are struggling with anxiety, trauma, low mood, or emotional overwhelm. Some are processing past abuse or loss, while others feel stuck or disconnected and want to understand themselves better. You may be seeking relief, clarity, or a calmer mind. Whether you have clear goals or just need someone to talk to, I offer a supportive, non-judgemental space where we can work at your pace. I primarily work with adult individuals and couples aged 18 and over. In some cases, I also see young people aged 14 and above, depending on their individual circumstances and presenting needs.
0191 743 4419 View 0191 743 4419
Photo of Gabrielle Landric - Gabrielle Landric Psychotherapeutic Counselling, Counsellor, MUKCP
My training is Relational, an integrative blend of humanistic-existential & psychodynamic approaches.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, feelings of emptiness or meaninglessness? Do your relationships leave you feeling unfulfilled and lonely? Are you troubled by traumatic memories? Wondering where to turn? As a relationally trained therapist, I am skilled in helping people to improve their self-esteem, to have more satisfying relationships with themselves and others and to find meaning in their lives. Perhaps you have never felt like you fit anywhere. Perhaps you were abused, neglected or bullied in childhood. Perhaps a sudden trauma, relationship betrayal or bereavement has derailed you and made you question your whole life.
My training is Relational, an integrative blend of humanistic-existential & psychodynamic approaches.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, feelings of emptiness or meaninglessness? Do your relationships leave you feeling unfulfilled and lonely? Are you troubled by traumatic memories? Wondering where to turn? As a relationally trained therapist, I am skilled in helping people to improve their self-esteem, to have more satisfying relationships with themselves and others and to find meaning in their lives. Perhaps you have never felt like you fit anywhere. Perhaps you were abused, neglected or bullied in childhood. Perhaps a sudden trauma, relationship betrayal or bereavement has derailed you and made you question your whole life.
0191 580 1451 View 0191 580 1451
Photo of Kate Kingsford, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Kate Kingsford
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I’m an integrative relational therapist: that means that my practice is informed by various approaches - including transactional analysis, existential therapy, and the psychodynamic - and that the relationship between client and therapist is central.
I came to psychotherapy through an interest in philosophy, meditation, and Eastern contemplative traditions, as well as through my own experience of loss, life changes, and transformations.
I’m an integrative relational therapist: that means that my practice is informed by various approaches - including transactional analysis, existential therapy, and the psychodynamic - and that the relationship between client and therapist is central.
I came to psychotherapy through an interest in philosophy, meditation, and Eastern contemplative traditions, as well as through my own experience of loss, life changes, and transformations.
0191 743 3714 View 0191 743 3714
Photo of Daniel Saul Crump, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Daniel Saul Crump
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am trained in Relational Integrative Therapy, meaning I place a central amount of importance on the therapeutic relationship over and above individual modalities and approaches. I believe we are all autonomous agents looking to take ownership over own mental wellbeing with a therapist who is able to collaborate with them and offer unconditional support. I look to keep myself informed of a wide variety of approaches, but place a particular emphasis on psychodynamic therapy which explores childhood and early life experiences in order to foster self awareness and freedom from harmful behavioural patterns.
I am trained in Relational Integrative Therapy, meaning I place a central amount of importance on the therapeutic relationship over and above individual modalities and approaches. I believe we are all autonomous agents looking to take ownership over own mental wellbeing with a therapist who is able to collaborate with them and offer unconditional support. I look to keep myself informed of a wide variety of approaches, but place a particular emphasis on psychodynamic therapy which explores childhood and early life experiences in order to foster self awareness and freedom from harmful behavioural patterns.
0191 743 4524 View 0191 743 4524
Photo of Scott Carter-Dowding, Counsellor, MBACP
Scott Carter-Dowding
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
My practice encompasses an integrative approach, embodying theoretical interventions from Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Behavioural models.
My belief is that by providing a safe, accepting, and compassionate environment for my clients, they can explore their deepest personal experiences, and confront their challenging thoughts, emotions, and behaviours with courage and support.
My practice encompasses an integrative approach, embodying theoretical interventions from Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Behavioural models.
My belief is that by providing a safe, accepting, and compassionate environment for my clients, they can explore their deepest personal experiences, and confront their challenging thoughts, emotions, and behaviours with courage and support.
0191 743 1975 View 0191 743 1975
Photo of Paul Douthwaite, Counsellor, MBACP
Paul Douthwaite
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I use the Integrative counselling model allowing me the flexibility to use aspects of various theories including Person-Centred, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Transactional Analysis and others.
I use the integrative model of counselling which gives me the flexibility to apply different aspects of various models and theories if they can be of therapeutic value to you. I am also a hypnotherapist and Thought Field Therapy (TFT) practitioner, aspects of which, can sometimes be blended into the therapy. I am here as your counsellor to offer support and stability in times of hardship and self exploration. I am also tasked with helping you to develop the skills, techniques and self understanding in order to gain a level of independence and strength outside of the therapeutic relationship and moving forward in life.
I use the Integrative counselling model allowing me the flexibility to use aspects of various theories including Person-Centred, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Transactional Analysis and others.
I use the integrative model of counselling which gives me the flexibility to apply different aspects of various models and theories if they can be of therapeutic value to you. I am also a hypnotherapist and Thought Field Therapy (TFT) practitioner, aspects of which, can sometimes be blended into the therapy. I am here as your counsellor to offer support and stability in times of hardship and self exploration. I am also tasked with helping you to develop the skills, techniques and self understanding in order to gain a level of independence and strength outside of the therapeutic relationship and moving forward in life.
07531 425854 View 07531 425854
Photo of Ellen Houston, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Ellen Houston
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My therapy practice draws from psychodynamic, existential and humanistic principles.
If you are here, you may be experiencing emotional difficulties that are leaving you feeling anxious, stuck or confused. Perhaps you are questioning aspects of your life, trying to solve the puzzle of why you are who you are. Or maybe you wish to feel happier, free'er and more settled in yourself, your choices and your relationships. You may not be able to put your finger on why you’re here, and that's okay too. I believe that to change, we must feel truly seen and listened to. I support my clients by providing a healing space to reflect and begin to address the difficulties and deeper questions they are facing in their lives.
My therapy practice draws from psychodynamic, existential and humanistic principles.
If you are here, you may be experiencing emotional difficulties that are leaving you feeling anxious, stuck or confused. Perhaps you are questioning aspects of your life, trying to solve the puzzle of why you are who you are. Or maybe you wish to feel happier, free'er and more settled in yourself, your choices and your relationships. You may not be able to put your finger on why you’re here, and that's okay too. I believe that to change, we must feel truly seen and listened to. I support my clients by providing a healing space to reflect and begin to address the difficulties and deeper questions they are facing in their lives.
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Photo of Emily Esinam Abonie, Counsellor, MBACP
Emily Esinam Abonie
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
This includes psychodynamic, existential, and person-centred approaches, enabling us to explore your strengths and potential alongside the challenges you’re facing.
Therapy offers a safe and supportive space for individuals, couples, or families to be themselves, discuss the challenges they face, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. It’s a space where you can express yourself securely, confidentially, and without judgment. I work at your pace, creating a safe and confidential environment where we can explore and address the issues affecting your life. Together, we’ll work through the areas you find difficult, gaining clarity and understanding of how these challenges impact you. With support, you can move forward and find your direction in life.
This includes psychodynamic, existential, and person-centred approaches, enabling us to explore your strengths and potential alongside the challenges you’re facing.
Therapy offers a safe and supportive space for individuals, couples, or families to be themselves, discuss the challenges they face, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. It’s a space where you can express yourself securely, confidentially, and without judgment. I work at your pace, creating a safe and confidential environment where we can explore and address the issues affecting your life. Together, we’ll work through the areas you find difficult, gaining clarity and understanding of how these challenges impact you. With support, you can move forward and find your direction in life.
020 3838 0726 View 020 3838 0726
Photo of Rachel Spence, Counsellor, MBACP
Rachel Spence
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I trained with Relate and use an integrative approach using elements of Transactional analysis, psychodynamic theory, some solution focussed ideas and elements from Gottman however I have taken many Cpd courses and incorporate these trainings wherever useful to help you have tools and a framework to change .
I am a Relate trained counsellor experienced at working with both couples and individuals. I offer a down-to-earth, forward thinking, non-directive approach. I endeavour to create a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship where we can focus on you and your situation. I will work with you to understand your concerns, your deeper needs and how they are affecting your life and relationships.I see my role as supportive of your change, offering change to explore feelings and experiences in a safe, confidential space. I have worked with clients from the LGBT community and from diverse backgrounds.
I trained with Relate and use an integrative approach using elements of Transactional analysis, psychodynamic theory, some solution focussed ideas and elements from Gottman however I have taken many Cpd courses and incorporate these trainings wherever useful to help you have tools and a framework to change .
I am a Relate trained counsellor experienced at working with both couples and individuals. I offer a down-to-earth, forward thinking, non-directive approach. I endeavour to create a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship where we can focus on you and your situation. I will work with you to understand your concerns, your deeper needs and how they are affecting your life and relationships.I see my role as supportive of your change, offering change to explore feelings and experiences in a safe, confidential space. I have worked with clients from the LGBT community and from diverse backgrounds.
0113 467 9116 View 0113 467 9116
Photo of Caroline Jones, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Caroline Jones
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am an Integrated Therapist using a Person Centred approach, Psychodynamic theory with Cognitive Behavioural Techniques (CBT).
I am passionate about supporting you to heal, identify solutions and make changes, to create a happier, healthier and peaceful life. Using a solution orientated approach to remove old emotional blocks. I specialise in Childhood Trauma, Relationship Difficulties, Ill Health, ADHD/ASD, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Anxiety and Depression.
I am an Integrated Therapist using a Person Centred approach, Psychodynamic theory with Cognitive Behavioural Techniques (CBT).
I am passionate about supporting you to heal, identify solutions and make changes, to create a happier, healthier and peaceful life. Using a solution orientated approach to remove old emotional blocks. I specialise in Childhood Trauma, Relationship Difficulties, Ill Health, ADHD/ASD, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Anxiety and Depression.
0191 743 6405 View 0191 743 6405
Photo of Dr Laura Taylor-Gray, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Laura Taylor-Gray
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am also specifically trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Person-Centred Therapy and will tailor the approach to your needs.
As a Highly Specialist Practitioner Psychologist, I have worked mainly with individuals who have suffered some kind of childhood trauma and I also offer assessments for ADHD & ASD. As a result I have found that individuals with personality issues, CPTSD, mood disorders and neurodiversity feel that I am the best fit for them. The types of clients who are drawn to me tend to have difficulties with rejection, abandonment, being judged and not accepted. I provide the space to counteract that, to develop self-empathy and self-compassion and to simply accept and learn to love who we truly are.
I am also specifically trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Person-Centred Therapy and will tailor the approach to your needs.
As a Highly Specialist Practitioner Psychologist, I have worked mainly with individuals who have suffered some kind of childhood trauma and I also offer assessments for ADHD & ASD. As a result I have found that individuals with personality issues, CPTSD, mood disorders and neurodiversity feel that I am the best fit for them. The types of clients who are drawn to me tend to have difficulties with rejection, abandonment, being judged and not accepted. I provide the space to counteract that, to develop self-empathy and self-compassion and to simply accept and learn to love who we truly are.
0191 743 9148 View 0191 743 9148
Photo of Nicola Gauld, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Nicola Gauld
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer an integrative approach to counselling including humanistic approaches, psychodynamic counselling, CBT and creative counselling techniques.
Are you curious to learn more about yourself? Maybe you are feeling the pressure of meeting everyone else’s expectations and would like to explore what you need to live a life where you can be authentically be you and prioritise your own needs? Are you are experiencing grief after bereavement, a life transition or life loss? Perhaps you have experienced a relationship breakdown and would like some support to understand and make sense of how you are feeling? Maybe you would like to understand more about what is fuelling your anxiety, work on self-worth or set boundaries and be able to say no when you need to?
I offer an integrative approach to counselling including humanistic approaches, psychodynamic counselling, CBT and creative counselling techniques.
Are you curious to learn more about yourself? Maybe you are feeling the pressure of meeting everyone else’s expectations and would like to explore what you need to live a life where you can be authentically be you and prioritise your own needs? Are you are experiencing grief after bereavement, a life transition or life loss? Perhaps you have experienced a relationship breakdown and would like some support to understand and make sense of how you are feeling? Maybe you would like to understand more about what is fuelling your anxiety, work on self-worth or set boundaries and be able to say no when you need to?
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Photo of Joshua Carter, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Joshua Carter
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The integrative part is the modalities I use some of which are a combination of CBT, Psychodynamic, compassion and Trauma focused.
Hi, I'm Joshua, a professional psychotherapist and registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I know how daunting it can be to look for a counsellor, or finding who will match your needs and expectations. So I will talk you through how I work and what I can offer you, to hopefully take away any confusion and make your search a little easier. I am located at Nostell Priory in Wakefield.
The integrative part is the modalities I use some of which are a combination of CBT, Psychodynamic, compassion and Trauma focused.
Hi, I'm Joshua, a professional psychotherapist and registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I know how daunting it can be to look for a counsellor, or finding who will match your needs and expectations. So I will talk you through how I work and what I can offer you, to hopefully take away any confusion and make your search a little easier. I am located at Nostell Priory in Wakefield.
01924 950697 View 01924 950697
Photo of Kevin Talbott, Counsellor, MBACP
Kevin Talbott
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
While my foundation is person-centred therapy, I also integrate psychodynamic, solution-focused, brief therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Hello and welcome. I hold advanced certifications and training in male psychology, ADHD, and GSRD (Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity). Together, we can navigate any challenges and discover effective strategies for managing emotions and handling life’s demands. My approach to psychotherapy is integrative, meaning I incorporate multiple therapeutic modalities to align with each individual's unique sense of self. My background provides a firm, concerned, passionate, personal, experienced, and academic understanding of the current male mental health (suicide) problem and the challenges that men face.
While my foundation is person-centred therapy, I also integrate psychodynamic, solution-focused, brief therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Hello and welcome. I hold advanced certifications and training in male psychology, ADHD, and GSRD (Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity). Together, we can navigate any challenges and discover effective strategies for managing emotions and handling life’s demands. My approach to psychotherapy is integrative, meaning I incorporate multiple therapeutic modalities to align with each individual's unique sense of self. My background provides a firm, concerned, passionate, personal, experienced, and academic understanding of the current male mental health (suicide) problem and the challenges that men face.
07404 366602 View 07404 366602
Photo of Gillian Barton, Counsellor, MBACP
Gillian Barton
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Through experience, I now integrate Psychodynamic Theory as this acknowledges a client's life experiences that have influences on who they are & decisions that have been made.
Hello and welcome to my page, please allow me to introduce myself as Gill. I am a very experienced integrative counsellor/therapist who works with children from the age of 4-years, young people and adults. Areas I work with include: anxiety and depression, low mood, low self-esteem and confidence issues, mental wellbeing and childhood issues, stress and workplace stress, bereavement and loss, anger, bullying and school related issues, family issues, relationship difficulties, life’s transitions and suicidal ideation. My experience also includes working with clients looking for empowerment in their quest to overcome abusive and/or
Through experience, I now integrate Psychodynamic Theory as this acknowledges a client's life experiences that have influences on who they are & decisions that have been made.
Hello and welcome to my page, please allow me to introduce myself as Gill. I am a very experienced integrative counsellor/therapist who works with children from the age of 4-years, young people and adults. Areas I work with include: anxiety and depression, low mood, low self-esteem and confidence issues, mental wellbeing and childhood issues, stress and workplace stress, bereavement and loss, anger, bullying and school related issues, family issues, relationship difficulties, life’s transitions and suicidal ideation. My experience also includes working with clients looking for empowerment in their quest to overcome abusive and/or
0191 743 0536 View 0191 743 0536
1

See more therapy options for Newcastle upon Tyne

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.