Psychodynamic Psychiatrists in Lincoln, MA

Photo of Benjamin Brent, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Benjamin Brent
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, FABP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
I take a psychoanalytically-informed approach to helping individuals with symptom relief, emotional pain, and interpersonal growth. This involves a focus on the role of emotions in a person's mental life, a consideration of how psychological defenses may complicate achieving greater personal fulfillment, and exploration of how the relationship that unfolds between me and the patient may shed light on problematic interpersonal patterns. I integrate psychiatric medications in the therapeutic work whenever appropriate for the purpose of reducing emotional suffering, enhancing the capacity for reflection on painful experiences, and to facilitate relational understanding.
I take a psychoanalytically-informed approach to helping individuals with symptom relief, emotional pain, and interpersonal growth. This involves a focus on the role of emotions in a person's mental life, a consideration of how psychological defenses may complicate achieving greater personal fulfillment, and exploration of how the relationship that unfolds between me and the patient may shed light on problematic interpersonal patterns. I integrate psychiatric medications in the therapeutic work whenever appropriate for the purpose of reducing emotional suffering, enhancing the capacity for reflection on painful experiences, and to facilitate relational understanding.
(617) 401-0712 View (617) 401-0712
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(339) 900-8497 View (339) 900-8497
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(339) 233-4493 View (339) 233-4493
Photo of Margaret Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lincoln, MA
Margaret Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lincoln, MA 01773  (Online Only)
Margaret Hughes, CPNP, PMHNP is a dual-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and pediatric nurse practitioner. After completing a Master's in Nursing (pediatrics) from Yale University, she provided medical care to children and adolescents at Mattapan Community Health Center and subsequently to college students at Northeastern University Health Center. Her passion for mental health has led her to obtain an additional degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Margaret Hughes, CPNP, PMHNP is a dual-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and pediatric nurse practitioner. After completing a Master's in Nursing (pediatrics) from Yale University, she provided medical care to children and adolescents at Mattapan Community Health Center and subsequently to college students at Northeastern University Health Center. Her passion for mental health has led her to obtain an additional degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
(617) 712-2391 View (617) 712-2391

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Deborah M Moran, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Deborah M Moran
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
I integrate a biological and psychodynamic perspective in my work.
It's hard to see a psychiatrist! I see people in distress due to a crisis,a loss, a trauma or a major life change. This distress manifests as depression,mood swings,anxiety, racing thoughts,paranoia,insomnia etc.People are complicated. I do a comprehensive evaluation listening for various psychological, emotional and biologic "clues". This is an interactive and iterative process. "Our" formulation guides the treatment. I practice both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I often consult for colleagues in psychology and social work regarding the use of medications.I then manage the medications as part of the treatment team.
I integrate a biological and psychodynamic perspective in my work.
It's hard to see a psychiatrist! I see people in distress due to a crisis,a loss, a trauma or a major life change. This distress manifests as depression,mood swings,anxiety, racing thoughts,paranoia,insomnia etc.People are complicated. I do a comprehensive evaluation listening for various psychological, emotional and biologic "clues". This is an interactive and iterative process. "Our" formulation guides the treatment. I practice both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I often consult for colleagues in psychology and social work regarding the use of medications.I then manage the medications as part of the treatment team.
(617) 300-0452 View (617) 300-0452
Photo of Samuel Sheffield, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Samuel Sheffield
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02467
I work with a broad range of adults but have special expertise in psychopharmacology, psychodynamic psychotherapy, college mental health, and LGBTQ populations.
If your mental health challenges are hindering your personal, academic, or professional life, and you are ready to ask for help, you have taken a significant step by starting your search. I would like to help you find a path to greater well-being. My approach begins with a consultation to discuss your concerns and treatment options.
I work with a broad range of adults but have special expertise in psychopharmacology, psychodynamic psychotherapy, college mental health, and LGBTQ populations.
If your mental health challenges are hindering your personal, academic, or professional life, and you are ready to ask for help, you have taken a significant step by starting your search. I would like to help you find a path to greater well-being. My approach begins with a consultation to discuss your concerns and treatment options.
(617) 440-3579 View (617) 440-3579
Photo of Laura Warren, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Laura Warren
Psychiatrist, M D
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
My style is holistic and draws from mindfulness, psychodynamic, self-compassion, CBT, and mind-body approaches.
Life can be intensely challenging, with great suffering and pain. It can be overwhelming to figure out how to jumpstart the healing process. It takes courage to pursue psychotherapy. Often if you trust the process and stay curious, therapy can facilitate powerful insight and personal growth. I help create an environment that is safe and supportive so you can develop reflective self-awareness and positive coping skills. This can help you live more fully and with resilience, catalyzing your healing. Currently I am also a part-time lecturer at Harvard, and senior faculty at the CHA Center for Mindfulness and Compassion.
My style is holistic and draws from mindfulness, psychodynamic, self-compassion, CBT, and mind-body approaches.
Life can be intensely challenging, with great suffering and pain. It can be overwhelming to figure out how to jumpstart the healing process. It takes courage to pursue psychotherapy. Often if you trust the process and stay curious, therapy can facilitate powerful insight and personal growth. I help create an environment that is safe and supportive so you can develop reflective self-awareness and positive coping skills. This can help you live more fully and with resilience, catalyzing your healing. Currently I am also a part-time lecturer at Harvard, and senior faculty at the CHA Center for Mindfulness and Compassion.
(617) 944-5562 View (617) 944-5562
Photo of Dr. Lana G Elhalabi, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Dr. Lana G Elhalabi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist practicing on the East Side of Providence RI and remotely in MA and NY. I am extensively trained in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. Psychotherapy (psychodynamic and psychoanalytic) is an integral part of the clinical approach I rely on when treating psychiatric conditions and symptoms impeding daily functioning, interpersonal relationships, and quality of life.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist practicing on the East Side of Providence RI and remotely in MA and NY. I am extensively trained in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. Psychotherapy (psychodynamic and psychoanalytic) is an integral part of the clinical approach I rely on when treating psychiatric conditions and symptoms impeding daily functioning, interpersonal relationships, and quality of life.
(401) 648-7864 View (401) 648-7864
Photo of Menekse Alpay, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Menekse Alpay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02421
I am well-versed in different psychotherapies including psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy and interpersonal therapy.
I work with individuals who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, relationship problems, trauma history, medical illness, neurological illness, and/or individuals who are helping family members with these problems. My experience over the last 25 years in psychiatry has shown that medications are helpful but do not take care of all problems in life. I offer combined psychiatric treatment. I received my psychiatric residency training from Georgetown University Hospital and fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine from Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
I am well-versed in different psychotherapies including psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy and interpersonal therapy.
I work with individuals who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, relationship problems, trauma history, medical illness, neurological illness, and/or individuals who are helping family members with these problems. My experience over the last 25 years in psychiatry has shown that medications are helpful but do not take care of all problems in life. I offer combined psychiatric treatment. I received my psychiatric residency training from Georgetown University Hospital and fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine from Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
(617) 231-9618 View (617) 231-9618
Photo of Arthi Kumaravel, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Arthi Kumaravel
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
I am a Harvard trained psychiatrist with a background in psychopharmacological (medication) approaches as well as a variety of therapy modalities, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, couples and group therapy.
Reaching out for help is one of the hardest yet crucial steps in improving your psychological well-being, and one which I commend you for doing. It can be difficult to find a psychiatrist that feels right for you. But once a strong connection is formed, that relationship can be a life changing experience for you. You deserve a safe space to explore the psychological, social, cultural, relationship and biological contributors to your mental health. I aim to provide you with this safe space using both therapy and medications tailored to address your specific mental health needs.
I am a Harvard trained psychiatrist with a background in psychopharmacological (medication) approaches as well as a variety of therapy modalities, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, couples and group therapy.
Reaching out for help is one of the hardest yet crucial steps in improving your psychological well-being, and one which I commend you for doing. It can be difficult to find a psychiatrist that feels right for you. But once a strong connection is formed, that relationship can be a life changing experience for you. You deserve a safe space to explore the psychological, social, cultural, relationship and biological contributors to your mental health. I aim to provide you with this safe space using both therapy and medications tailored to address your specific mental health needs.
(617) 812-7464 View (617) 812-7464
Photo of Crystal Han, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Crystal Han
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02140
I use an integrative approach based in anti-racism and cultural humility and involving aspects of CBT, trauma, mindfulness and psychodynamic psychotherapies.
Many teens and young adults struggle with various aspects of their lives, be it identity, relationships, work/school, or past experiences that affect how they feel and navigate the world. I work with many young adults who may seem high functioning at first glance but struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, or other emotional issues. I have particular experience supporting Asians and Asian Americans navigating issues of race, identity and culture. Talk therapy and medications can be a powerful way to help people process, make sense of, and change these patterns that hold them back from living the life they want.
I use an integrative approach based in anti-racism and cultural humility and involving aspects of CBT, trauma, mindfulness and psychodynamic psychotherapies.
Many teens and young adults struggle with various aspects of their lives, be it identity, relationships, work/school, or past experiences that affect how they feel and navigate the world. I work with many young adults who may seem high functioning at first glance but struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, or other emotional issues. I have particular experience supporting Asians and Asian Americans navigating issues of race, identity and culture. Talk therapy and medications can be a powerful way to help people process, make sense of, and change these patterns that hold them back from living the life they want.
(781) 678-8163 View (781) 678-8163
Photo of Joe Gallego, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Joe Gallego
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
(508) 374-9271 View (508) 374-9271
Photo of Ayelet Barkai, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Ayelet Barkai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02140
I specialize in combined psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment, psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis.
People are often unaware of, and frustrated by, the emotional and relational roadblocks that repeatedly thwart them. I work with you to clarify and understand these issues and their origins, to help you effect positive change. I believe that the self-understanding that catalyzes such change is best reached by cultivating a psychotherapeutic relationship in which compassionate, honest and constructive communication can occur. I strive to create an environment that encourages the development of empathic and reflective self-awareness, recognizes and fosters resilience, and promotes your optimal well-being.
I specialize in combined psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment, psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis.
People are often unaware of, and frustrated by, the emotional and relational roadblocks that repeatedly thwart them. I work with you to clarify and understand these issues and their origins, to help you effect positive change. I believe that the self-understanding that catalyzes such change is best reached by cultivating a psychotherapeutic relationship in which compassionate, honest and constructive communication can occur. I strive to create an environment that encourages the development of empathic and reflective self-awareness, recognizes and fosters resilience, and promotes your optimal well-being.
(617) 440-3237 View (617) 440-3237
Photo of Diane Germano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lincoln, MA
Diane Germano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
My practice focuses on helping people with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, PTSD; individuation within the framework of psychodynamic psychotherapy. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents (18+), adults, couples, and people involved in the arts. Childhood experiences and relationships with one's family of origin influence an individual's personality and provides a template for future relationships. It can therefore be fruitful to understand via therapy that your family relationships are not destiny. I believe therapy is a psychological and spiritual journey, requiring empathy, patience, and validation of feelings.
My practice focuses on helping people with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, PTSD; individuation within the framework of psychodynamic psychotherapy. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents (18+), adults, couples, and people involved in the arts. Childhood experiences and relationships with one's family of origin influence an individual's personality and provides a template for future relationships. It can therefore be fruitful to understand via therapy that your family relationships are not destiny. I believe therapy is a psychological and spiritual journey, requiring empathy, patience, and validation of feelings.
(617) 446-3247 View (617) 446-3247
Photo of Tyrone J Williams, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Tyrone J Williams
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
I have experience in psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, and family therapy and use an eclectic approach that makes sense based on an individual's needs.
I am a psychiatrist in private practice in Cambridge, Massachusetts with board certification in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry. I have 15 years of experience in practice and most commonly treat ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance use. I specialize in individual therapy and provide guidance to parents and families. I normally emphasize diet, exercise, and sleeping habits as essential elements to therapy. If I think it makes sense, I will prescribe medications, collaborating with my patients and their healthcare providers to make safe and appropriate medication choices.
I have experience in psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, and family therapy and use an eclectic approach that makes sense based on an individual's needs.
I am a psychiatrist in private practice in Cambridge, Massachusetts with board certification in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry. I have 15 years of experience in practice and most commonly treat ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance use. I specialize in individual therapy and provide guidance to parents and families. I normally emphasize diet, exercise, and sleeping habits as essential elements to therapy. If I think it makes sense, I will prescribe medications, collaborating with my patients and their healthcare providers to make safe and appropriate medication choices.
(617) 941-4632 View (617) 941-4632
Photo of Andrew Compaine, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Andrew Compaine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
My approach is to synthesize a medical-model to the evaluation and treatment of your symptoms with a commitment to psychodynamic therapy. Diagnostic labels can be useful if you may need medications; but,even more important is our work together to understand the context of your current difficulties. What are the triggers for your symptoms; what are the meanings you give to feelings; and, how do your relationships, past and present, effect your coping style? My aim is to facilitate your growth towards ever greater authenticity, and to empower you to make healthier choices and maintain a more positive outlook.
My approach is to synthesize a medical-model to the evaluation and treatment of your symptoms with a commitment to psychodynamic therapy. Diagnostic labels can be useful if you may need medications; but,even more important is our work together to understand the context of your current difficulties. What are the triggers for your symptoms; what are the meanings you give to feelings; and, how do your relationships, past and present, effect your coping style? My aim is to facilitate your growth towards ever greater authenticity, and to empower you to make healthier choices and maintain a more positive outlook.
(781) 479-2171 View (781) 479-2171
Photo of Howard M Katz, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Howard M Katz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
Over 35 years of practice, I have understood that first and foremost, a therapy relationship must provide trust and safety. In such a setting, close and active listening helps to illuminate a person’s inner world and establish a dialog that deepens self-understanding and acceptance. An expanded narrative of the self and discovery of new modes of thinking leads toward more positive feeling and action. I am pragmatic: People want help with pressing problems in living and we go with what works – choosing from a range of psychodynamic approaches those best tailored to a person’s specific needs.
Over 35 years of practice, I have understood that first and foremost, a therapy relationship must provide trust and safety. In such a setting, close and active listening helps to illuminate a person’s inner world and establish a dialog that deepens self-understanding and acceptance. An expanded narrative of the self and discovery of new modes of thinking leads toward more positive feeling and action. I am pragmatic: People want help with pressing problems in living and we go with what works – choosing from a range of psychodynamic approaches those best tailored to a person’s specific needs.
(617) 500-2605 View (617) 500-2605
Photo of Devin Gibbs, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Devin Gibbs
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02421
I provide therapy using a psychodynamic framework and integrate techniques from mindfulness, CBT, and DBT.
Most people at some point in their lives find themselves feeling stuck, unable to break out of old patterns or achieve their goals. Many of the individuals I work with are outwardly functioning well in many areas of their lives, but struggling with depression, anxiety, or navigating life transitions. Talk therapy can be a powerful tool to help people move past these roadblocks and build a more meaningful and full life.
I provide therapy using a psychodynamic framework and integrate techniques from mindfulness, CBT, and DBT.
Most people at some point in their lives find themselves feeling stuck, unable to break out of old patterns or achieve their goals. Many of the individuals I work with are outwardly functioning well in many areas of their lives, but struggling with depression, anxiety, or navigating life transitions. Talk therapy can be a powerful tool to help people move past these roadblocks and build a more meaningful and full life.
(339) 331-1566 View (339) 331-1566
Photo of Joshua Haugh, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Joshua Haugh
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
Comprehensive treatment options weave together: Psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychiatric medications (when appropriate), evidence-based integrative medicine (functional medicine), medical hypnosis, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
Now accepting new patients. Evening and weekend appointments are available. I treat patients as complex and dynamic individuals. As a fully licensed double-board-certified physician, my practice combines several approaches to create tailored support. At Synchrony Integrative Psychiatry, I offer support for adults struggling with psychiatric conditions and distress related to medical illnesses, emphasizing the interconnection between the mind, the body, and the social world. “Invisible illnesses” including chronic pain conditions, migraine, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and IBS are areas of distinct interest for me.
Comprehensive treatment options weave together: Psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychiatric medications (when appropriate), evidence-based integrative medicine (functional medicine), medical hypnosis, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
Now accepting new patients. Evening and weekend appointments are available. I treat patients as complex and dynamic individuals. As a fully licensed double-board-certified physician, my practice combines several approaches to create tailored support. At Synchrony Integrative Psychiatry, I offer support for adults struggling with psychiatric conditions and distress related to medical illnesses, emphasizing the interconnection between the mind, the body, and the social world. “Invisible illnesses” including chronic pain conditions, migraine, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and IBS are areas of distinct interest for me.
(781) 443-8488 View (781) 443-8488
Photo of Dr. Barbara Burton, Psychiatrist in Lincoln, MA
Dr. Barbara Burton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459
I offer both medication management and therapy, with a specialization in psychodynamic therapy.
When mental health symptoms interfere with everyday life, finding the right clinician can be daunting. I am excited to get to know you and hopefully make your journey a little easier. You deserve an approach that is personalized to your unique story, with a psychiatrist who is attentive and flexible. Together, we will collaborate to design a treatment plan that best fits your individual wellness goals. I have a clinical focus on working with patients from high-stress professions, addressing issues such as burnout, moral injury, relationships, self-esteem, and identity.
I offer both medication management and therapy, with a specialization in psychodynamic therapy.
When mental health symptoms interfere with everyday life, finding the right clinician can be daunting. I am excited to get to know you and hopefully make your journey a little easier. You deserve an approach that is personalized to your unique story, with a psychiatrist who is attentive and flexible. Together, we will collaborate to design a treatment plan that best fits your individual wellness goals. I have a clinical focus on working with patients from high-stress professions, addressing issues such as burnout, moral injury, relationships, self-esteem, and identity.
(857) 382-2901 View (857) 382-2901

See more therapy options for Lincoln

Psychodynamic Psychiatrists

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.