Psychodynamic Therapists in Johnson County, IA

I use an integrative approach by pulling from elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, ACT, and solution focused therapy.
My approach is collaborative and warm, and I tailor treatment to each individual client's needs while remaining devoted to evidence-based practice. I see both adult and teens experiencing a wide range of challenges. Therapy is beneficial for personal growth, capacity to cope, new insights, and may help you view yourself in a more gentle, positive light.
I use an integrative approach by pulling from elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, ACT, and solution focused therapy.
My approach is collaborative and warm, and I tailor treatment to each individual client's needs while remaining devoted to evidence-based practice. I see both adult and teens experiencing a wide range of challenges. Therapy is beneficial for personal growth, capacity to cope, new insights, and may help you view yourself in a more gentle, positive light.

I am client-focused and primarily utilize Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Systems Theory, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness techniques and grief counseling.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Iowa, and I work with adults (18 and up) in both individual and couples therapy. I have experience working with diverse clients on a wide-range of concerns, that include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, family-of-origin concerns, interpersonal functioning, trauma, identity-based concerns, and sex/intimacy concerns. I work best with individuals who are motivated and interested in change, and in engaging with deep exploration of their own behaviors and experiences.
I am client-focused and primarily utilize Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Systems Theory, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness techniques and grief counseling.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Iowa, and I work with adults (18 and up) in both individual and couples therapy. I have experience working with diverse clients on a wide-range of concerns, that include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, family-of-origin concerns, interpersonal functioning, trauma, identity-based concerns, and sex/intimacy concerns. I work best with individuals who are motivated and interested in change, and in engaging with deep exploration of their own behaviors and experiences.

My practice is primarily psychodynamic, while incorporating elements of cognitive and behavioral therapies as needed to assist in restructuring self-defeating patterns.
Utilizing a strengths-based, person-centered approach, I come from the belief that you are the expert in your own life and you have the capacity to handle the problems you face. I integrate elements of mindfulness, helping you to observe your inner experience without judgment.
My practice is primarily psychodynamic, while incorporating elements of cognitive and behavioral therapies as needed to assist in restructuring self-defeating patterns.
Utilizing a strengths-based, person-centered approach, I come from the belief that you are the expert in your own life and you have the capacity to handle the problems you face. I integrate elements of mindfulness, helping you to observe your inner experience without judgment.

Often, I like to integrate aspects of Interpersonal Therapy, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive-Behavioral theories with the Bio-Psycho-Social framework.
I am interested in working a broad range of concerns including depression and anxiety, identity and self-esteem issues, emotional expression (EQ), relationship, marriage/family concerns, men's issues, sexual trauma, sexual addiction, academic skills, and career concerns. I am fluent in Mandarin Chinese and can offer bilingual services upon request.
Often, I like to integrate aspects of Interpersonal Therapy, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive-Behavioral theories with the Bio-Psycho-Social framework.
I am interested in working a broad range of concerns including depression and anxiety, identity and self-esteem issues, emotional expression (EQ), relationship, marriage/family concerns, men's issues, sexual trauma, sexual addiction, academic skills, and career concerns. I am fluent in Mandarin Chinese and can offer bilingual services upon request.

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.

I received my initial clinical training at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD, where I trained in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and experiential therapies.
I have worked extensively in the treatment of trauma symptoms from childhood abuse, domestic violence, military service and grief and loss. In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer clients mind-body and expressive art therapies which can be very helpful in relieving symptoms of anxiety and pain.
I received my initial clinical training at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD, where I trained in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and experiential therapies.
I have worked extensively in the treatment of trauma symptoms from childhood abuse, domestic violence, military service and grief and loss. In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer clients mind-body and expressive art therapies which can be very helpful in relieving symptoms of anxiety and pain.

I come from Strengths-Based with Trauma-Informed & Psychodynamic approaches and other treatment modalities into my eleven years of experience providing counseling.
Finding the right therapist is based upon the connection and "goodness of fit". My approach to providing therapy is collaborative, relational, direct, warmth and with a sense of humor. If you have been having challenges and or stuck with creating meaningful changes in your life, I will help you first identify the kinds of roadblocks & blinders that are preventing you to give you a better understanding of why it has been difficult. There were patterns from your history, relationships & past conditioning that we might need to dive in to process. My hope is to engage, empower & foster hope towards your healing, learning & growth
I come from Strengths-Based with Trauma-Informed & Psychodynamic approaches and other treatment modalities into my eleven years of experience providing counseling.
Finding the right therapist is based upon the connection and "goodness of fit". My approach to providing therapy is collaborative, relational, direct, warmth and with a sense of humor. If you have been having challenges and or stuck with creating meaningful changes in your life, I will help you first identify the kinds of roadblocks & blinders that are preventing you to give you a better understanding of why it has been difficult. There were patterns from your history, relationships & past conditioning that we might need to dive in to process. My hope is to engage, empower & foster hope towards your healing, learning & growth

Our counselors and clinicians have over ten years of experience utilizing evidence-based interventions, such as CBT, DBT, psychodynamic theory, as well as EMDR to help clients better cope with feelings of sadness, fear, and trauma.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? Life can be overwhelming but we are here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. At SATT, which stands for Seat At The Table, we give you access to the therapeutic table and the tools for you to understand yourself more deeply and better cope with change.
Our counselors and clinicians have over ten years of experience utilizing evidence-based interventions, such as CBT, DBT, psychodynamic theory, as well as EMDR to help clients better cope with feelings of sadness, fear, and trauma.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? Life can be overwhelming but we are here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. At SATT, which stands for Seat At The Table, we give you access to the therapeutic table and the tools for you to understand yourself more deeply and better cope with change.

Using evidence-based treatments including trauma-informed interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and a psychodynamic perspective, I will support you in uncovering core issues and taking pivotal steps toward your goals.
Are you looking to understand the root of your challenges and gain deeper insight into yourself? Perhaps you often find yourself worrying, doubting your abilities, or losing interest in activities that once brought you joy. If so, you may be seeking a safe, honest, and non-judgmental environment where you can explore and express yourself and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, our work together will address and reduce barriers that get in the way of your growth and potential.
Using evidence-based treatments including trauma-informed interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and a psychodynamic perspective, I will support you in uncovering core issues and taking pivotal steps toward your goals.
Are you looking to understand the root of your challenges and gain deeper insight into yourself? Perhaps you often find yourself worrying, doubting your abilities, or losing interest in activities that once brought you joy. If so, you may be seeking a safe, honest, and non-judgmental environment where you can explore and express yourself and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, our work together will address and reduce barriers that get in the way of your growth and potential.

I generally use psychodynamic therapy to get at the root of a client's issues.
Licensed In Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Iowa, Virginia. In my work as a therapist, I am deeply passionate about helping young women who find themselves in a pattern of unhealthy relationships. I work with my clients to understand how early experiences with caregivers shape their expectations and interactions in romantic relationships. Many young women who come to me feel trapped in a cycle—moving from one relationship to the next, repeating familiar dynamics that leave them feeling unfulfilled, anxious, or even broken. At the core of these experiences is often a longing for connection, love, and security that goes unmet.
I generally use psychodynamic therapy to get at the root of a client's issues.
Licensed In Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Iowa, Virginia. In my work as a therapist, I am deeply passionate about helping young women who find themselves in a pattern of unhealthy relationships. I work with my clients to understand how early experiences with caregivers shape their expectations and interactions in romantic relationships. Many young women who come to me feel trapped in a cycle—moving from one relationship to the next, repeating familiar dynamics that leave them feeling unfulfilled, anxious, or even broken. At the core of these experiences is often a longing for connection, love, and security that goes unmet.

I utilize a variety of trauma-informed therapies, including Somatic Experiencing, parts work, psychodynamic, EMDR, and expressive therapies to support in understanding, processing, and building the necessary skills to navigate the world in a different way that is filled with curiosity, kindness, strength, power, and most importantly, agency.
How many times have you asked yourself, "Why do I do that?" Maybe it has come with curiosity, "Where did that come from?" or maybe it has come with the all too familiar shame and judgement, "What's wrong with me?" For many reasons, it can be hard to connect to our own inner wisdom, creativity, and power, to help find answers to these questions. Life is challenging and you may be fighting battles internally and externally against oppressive or unfair systems. You may never have been given the skills or supports needed to navigate life in the ways you want to. This is not your fault. Answers AND solutions AND compassion are available!
I utilize a variety of trauma-informed therapies, including Somatic Experiencing, parts work, psychodynamic, EMDR, and expressive therapies to support in understanding, processing, and building the necessary skills to navigate the world in a different way that is filled with curiosity, kindness, strength, power, and most importantly, agency.
How many times have you asked yourself, "Why do I do that?" Maybe it has come with curiosity, "Where did that come from?" or maybe it has come with the all too familiar shame and judgement, "What's wrong with me?" For many reasons, it can be hard to connect to our own inner wisdom, creativity, and power, to help find answers to these questions. Life is challenging and you may be fighting battles internally and externally against oppressive or unfair systems. You may never have been given the skills or supports needed to navigate life in the ways you want to. This is not your fault. Answers AND solutions AND compassion are available!
Meet Our Psychodynamic Therapists

I work with adults and teenagers through an eclectic approach to fit your needs, with specialty modalities including psychodynamic, emotion-focused, and strength-based therapies.
We all experience change; some alter our lives and functioning significantly. Making healthy adjustments can require skills which you have limited or no experience utilizing. Simply recognizing that you are having some difficulty, can be elusive, but is an essential first step. You may need support and further encouragement to take additional steps towards your healing. As your counselor, I can offer a collaborative and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings about the circumstances which are presenting in your life and support you as you move through your journey.
I work with adults and teenagers through an eclectic approach to fit your needs, with specialty modalities including psychodynamic, emotion-focused, and strength-based therapies.
We all experience change; some alter our lives and functioning significantly. Making healthy adjustments can require skills which you have limited or no experience utilizing. Simply recognizing that you are having some difficulty, can be elusive, but is an essential first step. You may need support and further encouragement to take additional steps towards your healing. As your counselor, I can offer a collaborative and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings about the circumstances which are presenting in your life and support you as you move through your journey.

Claudia Mazzanti
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I practice from a psychodynamic approach while integrating holistic, existential, and CBT/ACT interventions.
I am a licensed psychotherapist specializing in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Issues I address: interpersonal conflict, negative body image, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, depersonalization/derealizaiton disorders. Common issues that are typically addressed: life transitions, dealing with a new medical diagnoses, problems within relationships, parents struggling to communicate with their children, children/adolescents having academic or social difficulties, personal or social isolation, difficulties managing day to day life. I am licensed in Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois.
I practice from a psychodynamic approach while integrating holistic, existential, and CBT/ACT interventions.
I am a licensed psychotherapist specializing in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Issues I address: interpersonal conflict, negative body image, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, depersonalization/derealizaiton disorders. Common issues that are typically addressed: life transitions, dealing with a new medical diagnoses, problems within relationships, parents struggling to communicate with their children, children/adolescents having academic or social difficulties, personal or social isolation, difficulties managing day to day life. I am licensed in Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois.

Matt Cohen, Ph.D, LISW, Counseling And Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
Matt Cohen, Ph.D. is an LISW (Licensed independent Social Worker, The University of Kansas '94) and is the EAP onsite counselor for Raytheon Technology's (RTX) Rockwell-Collins site in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He also counsels couples and individuals 18 years and older in his private counseling practice in Iowa City. He has given national seminars about working with difficult people in the workplace, and is a licensed workplace mediator and trains others in mediation. He has traveled nationally and internationally to present and conduct workshops using movement, storytelling, and play as a technique to build community and spontaneity.
Matt Cohen, Ph.D. is an LISW (Licensed independent Social Worker, The University of Kansas '94) and is the EAP onsite counselor for Raytheon Technology's (RTX) Rockwell-Collins site in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He also counsels couples and individuals 18 years and older in his private counseling practice in Iowa City. He has given national seminars about working with difficult people in the workplace, and is a licensed workplace mediator and trains others in mediation. He has traveled nationally and internationally to present and conduct workshops using movement, storytelling, and play as a technique to build community and spontaneity.

United Action for Youth Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52244
Waitlist for new clients
The therapists at United Action for Youth have a unique ability to engage teenagers in individual adolescent psychotherapy. They balance listening with talking; they don't lecture or blame; they tailor their style to increase the youth's comfort. UAY therapists have expertise in the areas that are common concerns for teens, parents, and young adults. Although our focus is serving youth 10-25, we can also provide services for adults if space is available.
The therapists at United Action for Youth have a unique ability to engage teenagers in individual adolescent psychotherapy. They balance listening with talking; they don't lecture or blame; they tailor their style to increase the youth's comfort. UAY therapists have expertise in the areas that are common concerns for teens, parents, and young adults. Although our focus is serving youth 10-25, we can also provide services for adults if space is available.

Hello! I’m a Postdoctoral Fellow in Clinical Psychology. I have experience supporting adults and adolescents with concerns related to stigma and marginalization, sexuality and gender identity, body image and eating, perfectionism, grief, trauma, and relationships. I’m especially passionate about unpacking and resisting the effects of patriarchy, cisheterosexism, and other forms of marginalization on sexuality, gender identity, and relationships with others, ourselves, and our bodies.
Hello! I’m a Postdoctoral Fellow in Clinical Psychology. I have experience supporting adults and adolescents with concerns related to stigma and marginalization, sexuality and gender identity, body image and eating, perfectionism, grief, trauma, and relationships. I’m especially passionate about unpacking and resisting the effects of patriarchy, cisheterosexism, and other forms of marginalization on sexuality, gender identity, and relationships with others, ourselves, and our bodies.

Rachael L Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
Through somatic therapies and trauma-informed approaches, I will guide you to develop the ability to be with, and relate to uncertainty towards creating new possibilities. When stressful experiences exhaust our physical, mental, or emotional capacities, trauma can develop. Cycles of anxiety or anger, freeze and/or depression/collapse can occur. This unresolved trauma can contribute to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and physical pain, profoundly affecting daily life. Working together, therapy will help you find out what reassurance is available to you now, in this constantly changing world.
Through somatic therapies and trauma-informed approaches, I will guide you to develop the ability to be with, and relate to uncertainty towards creating new possibilities. When stressful experiences exhaust our physical, mental, or emotional capacities, trauma can develop. Cycles of anxiety or anger, freeze and/or depression/collapse can occur. This unresolved trauma can contribute to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and physical pain, profoundly affecting daily life. Working together, therapy will help you find out what reassurance is available to you now, in this constantly changing world.

My direct phone is 319-360-1582 My areas of special interest are grief counseling and helping those coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, spirituality , relationship issues, existential struggles, and recovery from domestic violence. I have years of experience doing individual, premarital, and couple therapy. I am especially sensitive to those who've had losses and are coping with sadness, sorrow, or grief. My clients tell me I have exceptional listening skills and the ability to make each person feel valued. I value each person's story and honor it as I help people find meaningful, healthy, and productive lives.
My direct phone is 319-360-1582 My areas of special interest are grief counseling and helping those coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, spirituality , relationship issues, existential struggles, and recovery from domestic violence. I have years of experience doing individual, premarital, and couple therapy. I am especially sensitive to those who've had losses and are coping with sadness, sorrow, or grief. My clients tell me I have exceptional listening skills and the ability to make each person feel valued. I value each person's story and honor it as I help people find meaningful, healthy, and productive lives.

I am a licensed psychologist with over two decades of experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress management, chronic pain, insomnia, low self-esteem, trauma, abuse, addiction, anger management, relationship issue, marital conflict and stress related illness. I work from a holistic perspective that integrates in-depth psychological theory with complimentary medicine and mind-body wellness. If you are looking for release from old stuck patterns and wanting to feel whole and fully alive, call me.
I am a licensed psychologist with over two decades of experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress management, chronic pain, insomnia, low self-esteem, trauma, abuse, addiction, anger management, relationship issue, marital conflict and stress related illness. I work from a holistic perspective that integrates in-depth psychological theory with complimentary medicine and mind-body wellness. If you are looking for release from old stuck patterns and wanting to feel whole and fully alive, call me.

I am scheduling new clients for August 2025. I maintain a wait list. I work with adults of all ages and children ages 13 and up. I have 16 years of experience doing outpatient therapy in a school, community mental health, and private practice setting. I previously worked as a public school teacher. I have helped clients with a wide range of concerns, from anxiety, work issues and relationship problems to traumatic stress. I particularly enjoy helping women with anxiety. I adjust my therapy approach to the needs of each unique client, but I generally draw from CBT, Mindfulness, IFS and EMDR.
I am scheduling new clients for August 2025. I maintain a wait list. I work with adults of all ages and children ages 13 and up. I have 16 years of experience doing outpatient therapy in a school, community mental health, and private practice setting. I previously worked as a public school teacher. I have helped clients with a wide range of concerns, from anxiety, work issues and relationship problems to traumatic stress. I particularly enjoy helping women with anxiety. I adjust my therapy approach to the needs of each unique client, but I generally draw from CBT, Mindfulness, IFS and EMDR.
See more therapy options for Johnson 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.