Psychodynamic Therapists in West Hartford, CT

Photo of Sasha Lambert, Psychologist, PsyD
Sasha Lambert
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Hello there. I help my clients by offering them an accepting and empathic place to talk about their lives. Depending on the needs of the individual, I may simply listen and follow, or I may be more directive and action-oriented, offering concrete tools that bring about symptom relief. I focus on behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and relationships, and we explore, together, what brings happiness. I ask my clients to be open, honest, and patient with themselves through this process, and I offer them support as we work toward relief. Hopefully my approach offers what you're looking for.
Hello there. I help my clients by offering them an accepting and empathic place to talk about their lives. Depending on the needs of the individual, I may simply listen and follow, or I may be more directive and action-oriented, offering concrete tools that bring about symptom relief. I focus on behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and relationships, and we explore, together, what brings happiness. I ask my clients to be open, honest, and patient with themselves through this process, and I offer them support as we work toward relief. Hopefully my approach offers what you're looking for.
(203) 428-4983 View (203) 428-4983
Photo of Kristina Dalao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kristina Dalao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, adults, and women. My specialties are treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD (trauma), Women's Issues, and Life Stressors. My clinical experience includes inpatient, outpatient and residential settings. I currently work from a Person-Centered approach as well as a Strength- Based perspective utilizing EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Brief-Solution Focused Therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, adults, and women. My specialties are treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD (trauma), Women's Issues, and Life Stressors. My clinical experience includes inpatient, outpatient and residential settings. I currently work from a Person-Centered approach as well as a Strength- Based perspective utilizing EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Brief-Solution Focused Therapy.
(959) 208-4003 View (959) 208-4003
Photo of Deborah Krevalin, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Deborah Krevalin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
3 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119
Deborah specializes in helping clients strengthen relationships and deepen connections. Using holistic and science-based methods, clients learn a new way to communicate and alter unhealthy relationship dynamics. Partners are able to have productive conversations without blowing up or shutting down. Deborah is an 'active therapist' who offers suggestions and brings good energy to sessions. On her watch, there is no “bad guy” and blame is never the focus. She creates a safe space where clients feel comfortable discussing tough topics and personal issues. Deborah is warm, open and has the ability to quickly identify the core issues.
Deborah specializes in helping clients strengthen relationships and deepen connections. Using holistic and science-based methods, clients learn a new way to communicate and alter unhealthy relationship dynamics. Partners are able to have productive conversations without blowing up or shutting down. Deborah is an 'active therapist' who offers suggestions and brings good energy to sessions. On her watch, there is no “bad guy” and blame is never the focus. She creates a safe space where clients feel comfortable discussing tough topics and personal issues. Deborah is warm, open and has the ability to quickly identify the core issues.
(959) 209-9677 View (959) 209-9677
Photo of Debra S Bailey, Psychologist, PhD
Debra S Bailey
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I believe that the single most important component of the treatment process is the therapeutic relationship. It develops over time as a product of trust in the therapist and feeling like you have been heard. It is the vehicle by which change comes about and the connection of feelings with thought gets translated into action.
I believe that the single most important component of the treatment process is the therapeutic relationship. It develops over time as a product of trust in the therapist and feeling like you have been heard. It is the vehicle by which change comes about and the connection of feelings with thought gets translated into action.
(860) 200-1614 View (860) 200-1614
Photo of Kimberly Platt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Kimberly Platt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
West Hartford, CT 06119
I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, patient-centered, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy treating anxiety, PTSD, depression, addiction and behavioral issues.
Additionally, I will help you focus on your strengths, develop a stronger support network, acquire practical skills and tools, and discover deeper purpose and meaning in life. I always make sure you feel listened to and that you're getting what you need.
I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, patient-centered, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy treating anxiety, PTSD, depression, addiction and behavioral issues.
Additionally, I will help you focus on your strengths, develop a stronger support network, acquire practical skills and tools, and discover deeper purpose and meaning in life. I always make sure you feel listened to and that you're getting what you need.
(860) 300-3388 View (860) 300-3388
Photo of Catherine Jennings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Catherine Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Taking the first step in seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to listen to what you are feeling in the moment, provide validation and guidance, and help you develop skills to create lasting change. I have over 20 years of professional experience helping clients manage symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, navigate life changes, and build stronger interpersonal relationships. Developing a strong rapport with my clients is very important to me. I look forward to meeting you, and supporting you, as we work together towards you therapy goals.
Taking the first step in seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to listen to what you are feeling in the moment, provide validation and guidance, and help you develop skills to create lasting change. I have over 20 years of professional experience helping clients manage symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, navigate life changes, and build stronger interpersonal relationships. Developing a strong rapport with my clients is very important to me. I look forward to meeting you, and supporting you, as we work together towards you therapy goals.
(860) 606-4290 View (860) 606-4290
Photo of Evan R. Lemma - Evan Lemma, LGBTQ+ Counseling, Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Evan Lemma, LGBTQ+ Counseling
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Online Only
As a trans therapist, I am passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, with a focus on issues surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity. I also specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and low self-esteem. Therapy isn’t 'one size fits all.' I meet clients where they are and help them reach their goals in a way that feels natural. In a safe, judgment-free virtual space, I support healing and growth. My approach is unique to each client, often using positive psychology to maximize strengths and highlight joy, rather than focusing only on areas of challenge.
As a trans therapist, I am passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, with a focus on issues surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity. I also specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and low self-esteem. Therapy isn’t 'one size fits all.' I meet clients where they are and help them reach their goals in a way that feels natural. In a safe, judgment-free virtual space, I support healing and growth. My approach is unique to each client, often using positive psychology to maximize strengths and highlight joy, rather than focusing only on areas of challenge.
(959) 214-2614 View (959) 214-2614
Photo of Andrew G. DiFiore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Andrew G. DiFiore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
I use an interactive and warm relational psychodynamic approach with influences from other therapies including DBT.
Above all, therapy is a relationship. I work collaboratively with my patients to develop a safe, trusting, and attuned relationship that we can use to explore problematic patterns of relating, work through emotional tensions and conflicts, and better understand themselves. Through the therapeutic relationship, we can begin to unravel those patterns that keep people wondering, "why does this keep happening?", fully experience emotions, develop a greater sense of self-awareness and vitality, and understand how the past impacts and influences the present. I also work with individuals living with infertility concerns.
I use an interactive and warm relational psychodynamic approach with influences from other therapies including DBT.
Above all, therapy is a relationship. I work collaboratively with my patients to develop a safe, trusting, and attuned relationship that we can use to explore problematic patterns of relating, work through emotional tensions and conflicts, and better understand themselves. Through the therapeutic relationship, we can begin to unravel those patterns that keep people wondering, "why does this keep happening?", fully experience emotions, develop a greater sense of self-awareness and vitality, and understand how the past impacts and influences the present. I also work with individuals living with infertility concerns.
(860) 481-6001 View (860) 481-6001
Photo of Elizabeth LaRosa-Ladd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Elizabeth LaRosa-Ladd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
West Hartford, CT 06119
Lizz takes an individualized, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach to therapy, integrating CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic principles, mindfulness, somatic techniques, expressive arts, and play-based interventions when appropriate.
Lizz specializes in working with young adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, identity exploration, grief and loss, and the pressures of school, work, and early adulthood. She creates an affirming, supportive space where clients feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools for growth. Lizz also has extensive experience supporting adolescents, children, families, and adults, and is committed to providing inclusive, affirming care for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults. She enjoys partnering with parents to better understand their child's emotional world and strengthen family relationships.
Lizz takes an individualized, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach to therapy, integrating CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic principles, mindfulness, somatic techniques, expressive arts, and play-based interventions when appropriate.
Lizz specializes in working with young adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, identity exploration, grief and loss, and the pressures of school, work, and early adulthood. She creates an affirming, supportive space where clients feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools for growth. Lizz also has extensive experience supporting adolescents, children, families, and adults, and is committed to providing inclusive, affirming care for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults. She enjoys partnering with parents to better understand their child's emotional world and strengthen family relationships.
(860) 421-9953 x3 View (860) 421-9953 x3
Photo of Gary Steven Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gary Steven Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06117
I work with adults of all ages in a highly attuned, caring, and deeply respectful way. I have helped many people overcome painful anxiety, shame, depression, relationship difficulties, job stress, loss, and the challenges of creating a truly meaningful life. As a fully licensed clinical social worker, I offer an effective blend of deep empathy, understanding and considerable training. I enjoy working with adults from all backgrounds and lifestyles, and will tailor my approach to your needs.
I work with adults of all ages in a highly attuned, caring, and deeply respectful way. I have helped many people overcome painful anxiety, shame, depression, relationship difficulties, job stress, loss, and the challenges of creating a truly meaningful life. As a fully licensed clinical social worker, I offer an effective blend of deep empathy, understanding and considerable training. I enjoy working with adults from all backgrounds and lifestyles, and will tailor my approach to your needs.
(203) 930-1553 View (203) 930-1553
Photo of Rachel Sampson - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry West Hartford, Psychologist
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(860) 753-3763 View (860) 753-3763
Photo of Rachel Sampson, Psychologist, PsyD
Rachel Sampson
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I am a licensed psychologist with 37 years of experience supporting individuals across the lifespan through life transitions, emotional challenges, and relational stress. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and family issues. My work centers on building a trusting therapeutic relationship where the roots of distress can be explored, and healing becomes possible.
I am a licensed psychologist with 37 years of experience supporting individuals across the lifespan through life transitions, emotional challenges, and relational stress. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and family issues. My work centers on building a trusting therapeutic relationship where the roots of distress can be explored, and healing becomes possible.
(860) 792-4328 View (860) 792-4328
Photo of Ira Potashner, Psychologist, PsyD
Ira Potashner
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 20 years experience working with people from many different backgrounds facing a variety of challenges.
I have over 20 years experience working with people from many different backgrounds facing a variety of challenges.
(646) 502-7957 View (646) 502-7957
Photo of Julie Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julie Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
West Hartford, CT 06105
If you would like to feel seen, cared for and accompanied on your personal journey, I am here to help. I am a seasoned therapist who truly loves what I do. I believe that we all come into this world perfectly. If you have ever held a newborn, you understand. An infant is fully present, gazes into our eyes, and lets us know exactly how they are feeling. Babies are connectors! And then what? Like a piece of clay, we are shaped by the many circumstances that surround us. I can help you connect the dots and understand how you have come to be you. Best of all, you will be able to decide what has helped and what to leave behind.
If you would like to feel seen, cared for and accompanied on your personal journey, I am here to help. I am a seasoned therapist who truly loves what I do. I believe that we all come into this world perfectly. If you have ever held a newborn, you understand. An infant is fully present, gazes into our eyes, and lets us know exactly how they are feeling. Babies are connectors! And then what? Like a piece of clay, we are shaped by the many circumstances that surround us. I can help you connect the dots and understand how you have come to be you. Best of all, you will be able to decide what has helped and what to leave behind.
(516) 504-1881 View (516) 504-1881
Photo of Susan Gluck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Susan Gluck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
West Hartford, CT 06110
My experience is in CBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Eclectic therapy.
I have had the privilege of working with adults, young adults, and older adolescents, both on an inpatient and outpatient basis. I have been in private practice for 28 years and work with clients who present with the full spectrum of mood disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. Many clients also struggle with relational issues, chronic health problems, stress and wanting to make major life changes.
My experience is in CBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Eclectic therapy.
I have had the privilege of working with adults, young adults, and older adolescents, both on an inpatient and outpatient basis. I have been in private practice for 28 years and work with clients who present with the full spectrum of mood disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. Many clients also struggle with relational issues, chronic health problems, stress and wanting to make major life changes.
(860) 956-3621 View (860) 956-3621
Photo of Carroll Foley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Carroll Foley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
West Hartford, CT 06107
No two people are the same, and so I work creatively using trauma-informed therapeutic approaches from psychodynamic, attachment, mindfulness, IFS, EMDR, and cognitive-behavioral therapies uniquely tailored to you.
I specialize in the really hard stuff life throws our way. I work with adults, college students, and teens affected by grief and loss, complex trauma (abuse and neglect) and PTSD, serious and chronic health conditions (like cancer, ALS, MS, MD), disability, and other big life changes and challenges resulting in depression and anxiety. I believe that our inability to control what happens to us is not something to be overcome. Instead, it is the reality of life that we all live within. This is where the real work of being a person begins. And this is where good, meaningful, compassionate therapy comes in. I'm glad you're here.
No two people are the same, and so I work creatively using trauma-informed therapeutic approaches from psychodynamic, attachment, mindfulness, IFS, EMDR, and cognitive-behavioral therapies uniquely tailored to you.
I specialize in the really hard stuff life throws our way. I work with adults, college students, and teens affected by grief and loss, complex trauma (abuse and neglect) and PTSD, serious and chronic health conditions (like cancer, ALS, MS, MD), disability, and other big life changes and challenges resulting in depression and anxiety. I believe that our inability to control what happens to us is not something to be overcome. Instead, it is the reality of life that we all live within. This is where the real work of being a person begins. And this is where good, meaningful, compassionate therapy comes in. I'm glad you're here.
(860) 397-6291 View (860) 397-6291
Photo of Colleen Schmelter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Colleen Schmelter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
My clinical training and expertise include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic and Relational Therapies, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, or uncertain about how to move forward. My approach, is grounded in the belief that healing and growth are possible when we feel heard, understood, and personally empowered. I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, ADHD, depression and grief. Together, we will explore your unique challenges and strengths, and develop practical coping strategies focusing on restoring sense of balance, control and well-being, whether at home, in school or at work.
My clinical training and expertise include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic and Relational Therapies, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, or uncertain about how to move forward. My approach, is grounded in the belief that healing and growth are possible when we feel heard, understood, and personally empowered. I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, ADHD, depression and grief. Together, we will explore your unique challenges and strengths, and develop practical coping strategies focusing on restoring sense of balance, control and well-being, whether at home, in school or at work.
(860) 337-8262 View (860) 337-8262
Photo of Sara J Sabellico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sara J Sabellico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119
I have had the honor of seeing the power of human connection and supporting people in various walks of life. I work with adults on issues such as fertility, mood, self esteem, body image, life transitions and anxiety disorders.
I have had the honor of seeing the power of human connection and supporting people in various walks of life. I work with adults on issues such as fertility, mood, self esteem, body image, life transitions and anxiety disorders.
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Photo of Shannon Kulak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shannon Kulak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119
Now accepting new clients! - - - My approach is empowering and straight forward, tailored to both presenting challenges and your innate strength and resilience. I specialize in prenatal and postpartum mental health care and am trained through Postpartum International Support (PSI). I integrate my training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients effectively overcome past trauma and negative beliefs of self. The therapeutic relationship is one that can be rewarding, honest, open, and most of all, human. It is a nonjudgmental space for exploration and self understanding.
Now accepting new clients! - - - My approach is empowering and straight forward, tailored to both presenting challenges and your innate strength and resilience. I specialize in prenatal and postpartum mental health care and am trained through Postpartum International Support (PSI). I integrate my training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients effectively overcome past trauma and negative beliefs of self. The therapeutic relationship is one that can be rewarding, honest, open, and most of all, human. It is a nonjudgmental space for exploration and self understanding.
(860) 566-8938 View (860) 566-8938
Photo of Teressa U Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Teressa U Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06117
My approach is relationally psychodynamic enhanced with contemplative practice.
I see individuals across the life span, couples at all stages of their relationships and families with adolescents and adult children looking for greater freedom in being together. I am fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and serve the Deaf, DeafBlind, and CODA communities through linguistically accessible, culturally responsive, and inclusive care.
My approach is relationally psychodynamic enhanced with contemplative practice.
I see individuals across the life span, couples at all stages of their relationships and families with adolescents and adult children looking for greater freedom in being together. I am fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and serve the Deaf, DeafBlind, and CODA communities through linguistically accessible, culturally responsive, and inclusive care.
(959) 666-6947 View (959) 666-6947

See more therapy options for West Hartford

Psychodynamic Therapists
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.