Psychodynamic Therapists in Polk County, FL
I often use Psychodynamic therapy in my practice.
“If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” If you need support managing emotions like grief and loss, anxiety, sadness or depression, anger, and more. Even if you just need someone to talk to in a nonjudgmental setting. I'm here to support and guide you through these feelings so that we may work together to find a way ahead.
I often use Psychodynamic therapy in my practice.
“If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” If you need support managing emotions like grief and loss, anxiety, sadness or depression, anger, and more. Even if you just need someone to talk to in a nonjudgmental setting. I'm here to support and guide you through these feelings so that we may work together to find a way ahead.
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Seeking help or change takes a lot of bravery, resiliency, self-determination, and courage when getting started. I applaud you for taking the first step in creating an authentic and fulfilling life for yourself. As a counselor, my goal is to foster a relationship that encourages the client to take power over their own lives in determining what is best for them. I am here to support, listen, accept, educate, and help guide individuals in creating positive changes that will ultimately empower them to work through major obstacles. My passion comes from working collaboratively with people of all gender identities and cultures.
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Seeking help or change takes a lot of bravery, resiliency, self-determination, and courage when getting started. I applaud you for taking the first step in creating an authentic and fulfilling life for yourself. As a counselor, my goal is to foster a relationship that encourages the client to take power over their own lives in determining what is best for them. I am here to support, listen, accept, educate, and help guide individuals in creating positive changes that will ultimately empower them to work through major obstacles. My passion comes from working collaboratively with people of all gender identities and cultures.
In our work together, I integrate various therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic and supportive therapies, tailored to meet your individual needs.
I have a deep commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for all clients. My work is rooted in empathy, compassion, authenticity, and acceptance. I view the process of therapy through a neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed lens. As someone with lived experience in neurodiversity, I understand firsthand the importance of being validated for your unique experience. I strive to create an environment where there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. My goal is to work alongside you, helping you navigate challenges, uncover your strengths, and empower you to live authentically.
In our work together, I integrate various therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic and supportive therapies, tailored to meet your individual needs.
I have a deep commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for all clients. My work is rooted in empathy, compassion, authenticity, and acceptance. I view the process of therapy through a neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed lens. As someone with lived experience in neurodiversity, I understand firsthand the importance of being validated for your unique experience. I strive to create an environment where there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. My goal is to work alongside you, helping you navigate challenges, uncover your strengths, and empower you to live authentically.
I do this with an integrative approach which prioritizes your specific needs, implementing therapeutic concepts from Psychodynamic and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
Welcome, and how amazing we are both meeting here. Regardless if this is your first time looking for a therapist, or you are well-versed in it, there can be many obstacles in finding one suited for your needs. As a counselor, I am here to walk alongside you in your experiences, offering support, insight, and healthy coping strategies to help you move through life. I am passionate about working with persons of all identities that are willing to look into the experiences of anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood, and discomfort that are occurring in their lives.
I do this with an integrative approach which prioritizes your specific needs, implementing therapeutic concepts from Psychodynamic and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
Welcome, and how amazing we are both meeting here. Regardless if this is your first time looking for a therapist, or you are well-versed in it, there can be many obstacles in finding one suited for your needs. As a counselor, I am here to walk alongside you in your experiences, offering support, insight, and healthy coping strategies to help you move through life. I am passionate about working with persons of all identities that are willing to look into the experiences of anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood, and discomfort that are occurring in their lives.
Psychodynamic approaches, such as psychoeducation is used to ensure that the client has a clear understanding of their diagnosis and treatment.
Are you significantly impacted by life experiences? I have worked extensively with individuals and families who have experienced trauma and other stressful events. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist. My approach is direct, yet gentle. My clients can rely on me to help get them through their past and present struggles. We together will work toward desired goals and accomplishments. My areas of expertise include trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflicts and grief. All strengths are highlighted and all feelings are important and acknowledged.
Psychodynamic approaches, such as psychoeducation is used to ensure that the client has a clear understanding of their diagnosis and treatment.
Are you significantly impacted by life experiences? I have worked extensively with individuals and families who have experienced trauma and other stressful events. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist. My approach is direct, yet gentle. My clients can rely on me to help get them through their past and present struggles. We together will work toward desired goals and accomplishments. My areas of expertise include trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflicts and grief. All strengths are highlighted and all feelings are important and acknowledged.
My approach combines deep empathy with evidence-based techniques like CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy, and attachment-focused work.
I have extensive experience working with young adults and individuals seeking trauma recovery, and I prioritize making therapy a space where you feel truly seen, understood, and supported. This is your journey toward healing, and I’ll walk alongside you every step of the way.
My approach combines deep empathy with evidence-based techniques like CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy, and attachment-focused work.
I have extensive experience working with young adults and individuals seeking trauma recovery, and I prioritize making therapy a space where you feel truly seen, understood, and supported. This is your journey toward healing, and I’ll walk alongside you every step of the way.
I use CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapy to help you build coping tools and reconnect with your strengths.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master of Social Work from Fordham University and a Post-Master Certificate in Trauma-Informed Clinical Practice from NYU. I specialize in trauma, including generational trauma and identity-related stress, and I understand how deeply emotional pain can impact both the mind and body. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, integrating each person’s culture, family history, and place in society. I believe in whole-person care that acknowledges the complexity of who you are and how your experiences have shaped you.
I use CBT, DBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapy to help you build coping tools and reconnect with your strengths.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master of Social Work from Fordham University and a Post-Master Certificate in Trauma-Informed Clinical Practice from NYU. I specialize in trauma, including generational trauma and identity-related stress, and I understand how deeply emotional pain can impact both the mind and body. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, integrating each person’s culture, family history, and place in society. I believe in whole-person care that acknowledges the complexity of who you are and how your experiences have shaped you.
I take an integrative approach, blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), inner child work (drawing from IFS and psychodynamic principles), and somatic therapy to help you connect with your mind and body.
Hi, I’m Bri! A dedicated therapist passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges and embrace their potential. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, and women, particularly those who identify as cycle breakers—individuals seeking to disrupt patterns and create healthier legacies. My areas of focus also include eating disorders, body-focused repetitive behaviors, and prenatal/postpartum concerns.
I take an integrative approach, blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), inner child work (drawing from IFS and psychodynamic principles), and somatic therapy to help you connect with your mind and body.
Hi, I’m Bri! A dedicated therapist passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges and embrace their potential. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, and women, particularly those who identify as cycle breakers—individuals seeking to disrupt patterns and create healthier legacies. My areas of focus also include eating disorders, body-focused repetitive behaviors, and prenatal/postpartum concerns.
I frequently utilize Psychodynamic Therapy to help clients gain self-awareness and understanding of how their past impacts present behavior as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help clients recognize patterns of thinking and behavior that cause problems and to develop more helpful habits.
My name is Alexa (Lex) Buford and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Palm Harbor, Florida and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, and eating disorders. My approach to therapy is supportive and collaborative. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens and adults navigating difficult life transitions, stressors of daily life, social pressures, relationship issues, as well as eating disorders. Many of my clients have depression and anxiety.
I frequently utilize Psychodynamic Therapy to help clients gain self-awareness and understanding of how their past impacts present behavior as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help clients recognize patterns of thinking and behavior that cause problems and to develop more helpful habits.
My name is Alexa (Lex) Buford and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Palm Harbor, Florida and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, and eating disorders. My approach to therapy is supportive and collaborative. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens and adults navigating difficult life transitions, stressors of daily life, social pressures, relationship issues, as well as eating disorders. Many of my clients have depression and anxiety.
Hyun Hee 'hunny' Kang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hunny utilizes a variety of evidence-based practices to meet your specific therapeutic needs, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Hunny received a Master of Social Work degree from New York University Silver School of Social Work and a Bachelor of Social Work from Adelphi University. With a background in medical and community social work with homeless and low-income individuals, and gerontology, Hunny brings awareness of how intersectional identities inform how we experience everyday life and is committed to a multicultural approach to psychotherapy. Hunny holds certifications in complex trauma, grief, case management, and cognitive disorders in aging populations. Her therapeutic approach is integrative, inclusive, and flexible based on the unique individuals.
Hunny utilizes a variety of evidence-based practices to meet your specific therapeutic needs, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Hunny received a Master of Social Work degree from New York University Silver School of Social Work and a Bachelor of Social Work from Adelphi University. With a background in medical and community social work with homeless and low-income individuals, and gerontology, Hunny brings awareness of how intersectional identities inform how we experience everyday life and is committed to a multicultural approach to psychotherapy. Hunny holds certifications in complex trauma, grief, case management, and cognitive disorders in aging populations. Her therapeutic approach is integrative, inclusive, and flexible based on the unique individuals.
Don’t allow anything from your personal history to keep holding you hostage. Today may be your day to turn the hurts of your life into a breakthrough for the future. Every difficulty in life is a fork in the road.
Don’t allow anything from your personal history to keep holding you hostage. Today may be your day to turn the hurts of your life into a breakthrough for the future. Every difficulty in life is a fork in the road.
Meet Our Psychodynamic Therapists
Maya Angelou said, "there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you". I seek to help my clients share their stories in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment so that they can process their experiences and find a path to a brighter tomorrow.
I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and qualified supervisor (QS) in the state of Florida. I have vast experience in outpatient, inpatient, training, consulting, public speaking, and supervisory settings, and I have extensive training in various modalities, such as EMDR.
Maya Angelou said, "there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you". I seek to help my clients share their stories in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment so that they can process their experiences and find a path to a brighter tomorrow.
I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and qualified supervisor (QS) in the state of Florida. I have vast experience in outpatient, inpatient, training, consulting, public speaking, and supervisory settings, and I have extensive training in various modalities, such as EMDR.
Tired of figuring it out on your own? Counseling could be an important next step in your life-a new journey into greater health. I see my role as an expert guide to bring understanding into your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. I'll explore your history to facilitate a greater awareness of how your past affects the present. Because life is often played out in the context of relationships; these emotions, thoughts, and behaviors not only impact your view of self, but also the world around you. I have an eclectic approach to therapy drawing from over 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples.
Tired of figuring it out on your own? Counseling could be an important next step in your life-a new journey into greater health. I see my role as an expert guide to bring understanding into your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. I'll explore your history to facilitate a greater awareness of how your past affects the present. Because life is often played out in the context of relationships; these emotions, thoughts, and behaviors not only impact your view of self, but also the world around you. I have an eclectic approach to therapy drawing from over 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples.
There may be times in your life when you feel as if you are surviving life instead of enjoying it. Now may be one of those moments. Survival is an instinct that drives many human behaviors and is completely acceptable. Moving beyond survival requires support. Life can be challenging at times and seeking help with those challenges can be intimidating. If you are seeking emotional wellness, self-acceptance, personal growth, or help in finding answers, I invite you to call for consultation and determine whether I am the right therapist for you.
There may be times in your life when you feel as if you are surviving life instead of enjoying it. Now may be one of those moments. Survival is an instinct that drives many human behaviors and is completely acceptable. Moving beyond survival requires support. Life can be challenging at times and seeking help with those challenges can be intimidating. If you are seeking emotional wellness, self-acceptance, personal growth, or help in finding answers, I invite you to call for consultation and determine whether I am the right therapist for you.
Taking the step into therapy is brave, and I want to work with you to make it worth your time and investment. I believe in a holistic and multicultural approach that prioritizes uniqueness, respect, compassion, empowerment, and self-worth. I focus on who you are as a person above diagnoses. I would like to take the journey with you in fully understanding how you have developed into who you are and explore how you can be an even better version of yourself. Please call me if you need to discuss in-home sessions.
Taking the step into therapy is brave, and I want to work with you to make it worth your time and investment. I believe in a holistic and multicultural approach that prioritizes uniqueness, respect, compassion, empowerment, and self-worth. I focus on who you are as a person above diagnoses. I would like to take the journey with you in fully understanding how you have developed into who you are and explore how you can be an even better version of yourself. Please call me if you need to discuss in-home sessions.
Melissa Rabell
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MS, LMHC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by anxiety, perfectionism, or past trauma? Struggling with boundaries, relationships, or prioritizing yourself? You don’t have to navigate this alone—healing is possible.
Hi, my name is Melissa and I would love the chance to hear your story and walk alongside you on your journey. As a therapist, I aim to be in your corner, creating a safe, dependable place to help you process, explore new perspectives, and navigate life’s challenges. While your past shapes you, it doesn’t define your future. Together, we’ll break unhelpful patterns and build the life you deserve.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by anxiety, perfectionism, or past trauma? Struggling with boundaries, relationships, or prioritizing yourself? You don’t have to navigate this alone—healing is possible.
Hi, my name is Melissa and I would love the chance to hear your story and walk alongside you on your journey. As a therapist, I aim to be in your corner, creating a safe, dependable place to help you process, explore new perspectives, and navigate life’s challenges. While your past shapes you, it doesn’t define your future. Together, we’ll break unhelpful patterns and build the life you deserve.
Kim Brulay
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33805
Waitlist for new clients
You’ve begun the process of knowing you want something to change in your life. Don't stop now! Choose a therapist you can connect with, who you feel comfortable with, is non-judgmental, supportive, compassionate and experienced to help you. Invest in yourself. You are worth it! Family and friends are often too close to the problem to be objective. I will listen and offer a fresh unbiased and experienced perspective and teach you useful tools to help you get your life moving forward again. I applaud you - it takes courage to make this decision! (More info on my Website)
You’ve begun the process of knowing you want something to change in your life. Don't stop now! Choose a therapist you can connect with, who you feel comfortable with, is non-judgmental, supportive, compassionate and experienced to help you. Invest in yourself. You are worth it! Family and friends are often too close to the problem to be objective. I will listen and offer a fresh unbiased and experienced perspective and teach you useful tools to help you get your life moving forward again. I applaud you - it takes courage to make this decision! (More info on my Website)
Domenica R Alioto
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33805
Let me pour a cup of tea, and let's talk! Do you feel stuck? Do you find yourself in the grips of anxiety, trapped in the depths of depression, or oscillating toward both? Are you having trouble with making decisions, in relationships, focusing, functioning in daily life, giving and receiving love, or engaging in activities that were once your everyday life? Do you find yourself stuck in a loop of negative coping mechanisms leading you down a harmful path? I strive for empathy, understanding, and healing with everyone who pulls up a chair with me.
Let me pour a cup of tea, and let's talk! Do you feel stuck? Do you find yourself in the grips of anxiety, trapped in the depths of depression, or oscillating toward both? Are you having trouble with making decisions, in relationships, focusing, functioning in daily life, giving and receiving love, or engaging in activities that were once your everyday life? Do you find yourself stuck in a loop of negative coping mechanisms leading you down a harmful path? I strive for empathy, understanding, and healing with everyone who pulls up a chair with me.
If you have done traditional approaches to therapy without long term relief, depth psychotherapy is worth trying. All symptoms of anxiety and depression have psychological roots that can be healed through talk therapy when the counselor knows how to listen and to your life with discernment & as an empathic witness. In addition to practicing depth therapy I am also a Qualified Supervisor for registeted interns and enjoy working with new therapists seeking support & supervision. Training in dream interpretation is also available for therapists at any stage wanting to work with dreams to access crucial forgotten memories & desires.
If you have done traditional approaches to therapy without long term relief, depth psychotherapy is worth trying. All symptoms of anxiety and depression have psychological roots that can be healed through talk therapy when the counselor knows how to listen and to your life with discernment & as an empathic witness. In addition to practicing depth therapy I am also a Qualified Supervisor for registeted interns and enjoy working with new therapists seeking support & supervision. Training in dream interpretation is also available for therapists at any stage wanting to work with dreams to access crucial forgotten memories & desires.
Crystin Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, RMFTI
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
My ideal clients value relationships and seek to improve them, whether as couples facing communication problems, conflicts, or infidelity, or as individuals struggling with self-esteem, sexual concerns, or emotional wounds. They need a safe space for open communication, skill development, and healing. Their goals include rebuilding trust, enhancing intimacy, fostering loving partnerships, improving communication, and achieving personal growth. They want to honor their self and each other! They understand the value of professional guidance for more fulfilling and harmonious relationships.
My ideal clients value relationships and seek to improve them, whether as couples facing communication problems, conflicts, or infidelity, or as individuals struggling with self-esteem, sexual concerns, or emotional wounds. They need a safe space for open communication, skill development, and healing. Their goals include rebuilding trust, enhancing intimacy, fostering loving partnerships, improving communication, and achieving personal growth. They want to honor their self and each other! They understand the value of professional guidance for more fulfilling and harmonious relationships.
See more therapy options for Polk County
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.