Psychodynamic Therapists in Chicago, IL
I am offering both virtual and in-person counseling services. I specialize in treating the issues that arise from unresolved trauma, difficult early life experiences, and perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders. My goal is to support and empower my clients by using an integrative and collaborative stance, incorporating my background in psychodynamic psychotherapy with body-centered and mindfulness-based techniques. It is my hope that by equipping my clients with the skills to develop their own self-awareness, self-compassion, clarity, and peace, they can go on to experience more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
I am offering both virtual and in-person counseling services. I specialize in treating the issues that arise from unresolved trauma, difficult early life experiences, and perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders. My goal is to support and empower my clients by using an integrative and collaborative stance, incorporating my background in psychodynamic psychotherapy with body-centered and mindfulness-based techniques. It is my hope that by equipping my clients with the skills to develop their own self-awareness, self-compassion, clarity, and peace, they can go on to experience more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Although my theoretical orientation is firmly grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories and training, I take an integrative approach to therapy.
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
Although my theoretical orientation is firmly grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories and training, I take an integrative approach to therapy.
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
Caitlin Liddle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642 (Online Only)
Caitlin Liddle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently providing individual psychotherapy to adults. Caitlin received her Master's Degree at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration in 2011. Since completing her degree, she has worked extensively with adults and adolescents, providing both group and individual therapy. Caitlin uses an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from her training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Family Systems, and Yoga Informed Psychotherapy to best meet the needs of her patients.
Caitlin Liddle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently providing individual psychotherapy to adults. Caitlin received her Master's Degree at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration in 2011. Since completing her degree, she has worked extensively with adults and adolescents, providing both group and individual therapy. Caitlin uses an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from her training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Family Systems, and Yoga Informed Psychotherapy to best meet the needs of her patients.
Therapeutic work requires trust, and I feel it is an enormous privilege to be trusted with another person’s struggles, joys, and stories. I deeply value the human experience and am dedicated to my role as a therapist. As a final-year Masters student at the University of Chicago, my approach to therapy is constantly growing alongside my communities, the larger socio-political landscape, and the natural world. I employ multiple modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Psychodynamic, Relational-Cultural Theory, and queer theory. I’m able to tailor my therapeutic approach to your unique needs and individual growth.
Therapeutic work requires trust, and I feel it is an enormous privilege to be trusted with another person’s struggles, joys, and stories. I deeply value the human experience and am dedicated to my role as a therapist. As a final-year Masters student at the University of Chicago, my approach to therapy is constantly growing alongside my communities, the larger socio-political landscape, and the natural world. I employ multiple modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Psychodynamic, Relational-Cultural Theory, and queer theory. I’m able to tailor my therapeutic approach to your unique needs and individual growth.
My lens is psychodynamic.
Being a warm, collaborative, humorous, and grounded psychotherapist is essential to my work. I believe that relationships are at the core of the human experience. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, young adults and families who are struggling with life transitions, depression, anxiety, and reactions to trauma. The clients I work with are often seeking support in deepening connections with others and within themselves. My goal is to support my clients by providing a safe, accepting environment for self-exploration, and to help them remain grounded and find peace as they manage complex life stressors.
My lens is psychodynamic.
Being a warm, collaborative, humorous, and grounded psychotherapist is essential to my work. I believe that relationships are at the core of the human experience. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, young adults and families who are struggling with life transitions, depression, anxiety, and reactions to trauma. The clients I work with are often seeking support in deepening connections with others and within themselves. My goal is to support my clients by providing a safe, accepting environment for self-exploration, and to help them remain grounded and find peace as they manage complex life stressors.
Savanna L. Halman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
In session, we will strengthen the mind-body-soul connection while integrating therapeutic modalities such as internal family system, psychodynamic therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, and feminist theory.
It can be challenging to take the first step in releasing the parts of us that no longer serve us. Wherever you are in your journey, I would be grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside you. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor providing holistic and weight-inclusive care for presenting concerns related to eating disorders, body image, women’s issues, trauma, anxiety and other mood concerns. As a person-centered therapist, I utilize a warm and authentic approach encouraging my clients to learn more about themselves, their identity, and their values.
In session, we will strengthen the mind-body-soul connection while integrating therapeutic modalities such as internal family system, psychodynamic therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, and feminist theory.
It can be challenging to take the first step in releasing the parts of us that no longer serve us. Wherever you are in your journey, I would be grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside you. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor providing holistic and weight-inclusive care for presenting concerns related to eating disorders, body image, women’s issues, trauma, anxiety and other mood concerns. As a person-centered therapist, I utilize a warm and authentic approach encouraging my clients to learn more about themselves, their identity, and their values.
Carlson Counseling Connection
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
My approach to therapy is holistic and trauma informed, integrating ACT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy to address your unique needs and goals.
Hi, My name is Arooj ! Life’s challenges can be complex, especially when you’re navigating depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, or difficult relationships. These challenges can be even more pronounced if you're an immigrant or person of color, facing the additional layers of cultural and systemic stressors. My approach is designed to meet you where you are, with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to your well-being. I understand that the experiences of immigrants and people of color come with unique challenges and cultural nuances. In our sessions, you'll find a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel safe and heard.
My approach to therapy is holistic and trauma informed, integrating ACT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy to address your unique needs and goals.
Hi, My name is Arooj ! Life’s challenges can be complex, especially when you’re navigating depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, or difficult relationships. These challenges can be even more pronounced if you're an immigrant or person of color, facing the additional layers of cultural and systemic stressors. My approach is designed to meet you where you are, with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to your well-being. I understand that the experiences of immigrants and people of color come with unique challenges and cultural nuances. In our sessions, you'll find a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel safe and heard.
Lb Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I incorporate Relational Psychodynamic Theory, Motivational Interviewing, Relational Cultural Feminist Theory, and third wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methods.
Our authentic connections to one another sustain us as human beings. Often past harms and invalidation make us further disconnected from ourselves and each other. By moving beyond binaries created and sustained by capitalism and other constructs of oppression, I pathologize systems and not people. I work to create an environment that affirms a person’s complete and complex humanity with a sense of compassion that is free from judgment or imposed expectations. When we establish secure and affirming relationships, we have the ability to embrace our authentic selves and the numerous possibilities of transformation.
In my practice, I incorporate Relational Psychodynamic Theory, Motivational Interviewing, Relational Cultural Feminist Theory, and third wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methods.
Our authentic connections to one another sustain us as human beings. Often past harms and invalidation make us further disconnected from ourselves and each other. By moving beyond binaries created and sustained by capitalism and other constructs of oppression, I pathologize systems and not people. I work to create an environment that affirms a person’s complete and complex humanity with a sense of compassion that is free from judgment or imposed expectations. When we establish secure and affirming relationships, we have the ability to embrace our authentic selves and the numerous possibilities of transformation.
While I tailor my work with each client individually, my general approach to therapy is integrative, drawing on psychodynamic/relational, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness techniques.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and work with emerging adults and adults across the life span experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, women's issues, stress, and self-esteem concerns, among many other difficulties. I believe people come to therapy for all kinds of reasons, often with a common theme of being stuck in some way. It is a privilege to guide people on a journey of becoming "unstuck," helping them cultivate a path of healing, wellness, growth and greater self-understanding.
While I tailor my work with each client individually, my general approach to therapy is integrative, drawing on psychodynamic/relational, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness techniques.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and work with emerging adults and adults across the life span experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, women's issues, stress, and self-esteem concerns, among many other difficulties. I believe people come to therapy for all kinds of reasons, often with a common theme of being stuck in some way. It is a privilege to guide people on a journey of becoming "unstuck," helping them cultivate a path of healing, wellness, growth and greater self-understanding.
I integrate psychodynamic therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, relational, and attachment based therapy into my practice.
I am a queer-identified, first generation immigrant, and multiculturally informed psychotherapist. I have experience working with adults who struggle with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, and PTSD. I specialize in working with individuals who are recovering from eating disorders and have body image disturbance, as well as survivors of trauma. I strive to be a fat-positive, anti-diet, HAES informed clinician.
I integrate psychodynamic therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, relational, and attachment based therapy into my practice.
I am a queer-identified, first generation immigrant, and multiculturally informed psychotherapist. I have experience working with adults who struggle with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, and PTSD. I specialize in working with individuals who are recovering from eating disorders and have body image disturbance, as well as survivors of trauma. I strive to be a fat-positive, anti-diet, HAES informed clinician.
My methods are rooted in Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, Intersectional-Feminist, and Trauma-focused psychotherapy.
I am dedicated to helping clients expand self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and process traumas and psychological wounds. With extensive experience in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relational conflicts, burnout, and challenging life transitions, I offer compassionate and tailored support. I take great pride in working with BIPOC, immigrants, and first- and second-generation individuals navigating acculturation, racial identity, and cultural challenges, as well as young professionals and college students.
My methods are rooted in Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, Intersectional-Feminist, and Trauma-focused psychotherapy.
I am dedicated to helping clients expand self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and process traumas and psychological wounds. With extensive experience in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relational conflicts, burnout, and challenging life transitions, I offer compassionate and tailored support. I take great pride in working with BIPOC, immigrants, and first- and second-generation individuals navigating acculturation, racial identity, and cultural challenges, as well as young professionals and college students.
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I am actively attuned and engaged with clients and use an integrative approach, drawing when appropriate from a range of modalities and lenses (CBT, Psychodynamic, Jungian, Internal Family Systems, and Object Relations). My goal is to meet the person where they are with what they need. The therapeutic process often results in psychological maturation and improvements in both inner life and relationships.
I am actively attuned and engaged with clients and use an integrative approach, drawing when appropriate from a range of modalities and lenses (CBT, Psychodynamic, Jungian, Internal Family Systems, and Object Relations). My goal is to meet the person where they are with what they need. The therapeutic process often results in psychological maturation and improvements in both inner life and relationships.
Kenji Kuramitsu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60649 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My background is in psychodynamic psychotherapy and integrating group and individual treatment.
Many of those looking for psychotherapy are responding to the feeling that things in life are breaking apart. Whether you are experiencing unwanted symptoms or seeking greater self-understanding about your interpersonal patterns, mental health treatment can be a powerful tool to help us learn how to live in ways that align with our deepest values. I have experiences working with those who are navigating significant life changes, those seeking healing from old and new wounds, and those working to integrate loss and pain including intergenerational trauma and spiritual concerns.
My background is in psychodynamic psychotherapy and integrating group and individual treatment.
Many of those looking for psychotherapy are responding to the feeling that things in life are breaking apart. Whether you are experiencing unwanted symptoms or seeking greater self-understanding about your interpersonal patterns, mental health treatment can be a powerful tool to help us learn how to live in ways that align with our deepest values. I have experiences working with those who are navigating significant life changes, those seeking healing from old and new wounds, and those working to integrate loss and pain including intergenerational trauma and spiritual concerns.
, ACT, CBT, DBT), interpersonal psychodynamic, and humanistic/existential philosophies.
Counseling can strengthen your ability to recognize and make choices in your life that align with the person you want to be. I can help you cope with difficult emotions and develop a strong sense of self-compassion and acceptance. I am most passionate about addressing concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual health. A significant portion of my career has been focused on serving LGBTQ+ people and communities, and I pay close attention to cultural factors and the ways in which they impact a person's vantage point in this world.
, ACT, CBT, DBT), interpersonal psychodynamic, and humanistic/existential philosophies.
Counseling can strengthen your ability to recognize and make choices in your life that align with the person you want to be. I can help you cope with difficult emotions and develop a strong sense of self-compassion and acceptance. I am most passionate about addressing concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual health. A significant portion of my career has been focused on serving LGBTQ+ people and communities, and I pay close attention to cultural factors and the ways in which they impact a person's vantage point in this world.
I practice from an integrative approach with groundings in psychodynamic theory.
Are you feeling trapped or overwhelmed by life's challenges? Does something feel "off," but you don't yet have words for it? A strong therapeutic relationship can empower us to live the lives we want by challenging the stories we tell about ourselves and the world. Asking for help can be daunting, so I work to create a safe environment that supports my clients in being fully themselves. Since each person comes to my practice with their own vision of what a fulfilling life looks like, I use a collaborative approach to meet each person's unique needs.
I practice from an integrative approach with groundings in psychodynamic theory.
Are you feeling trapped or overwhelmed by life's challenges? Does something feel "off," but you don't yet have words for it? A strong therapeutic relationship can empower us to live the lives we want by challenging the stories we tell about ourselves and the world. Asking for help can be daunting, so I work to create a safe environment that supports my clients in being fully themselves. Since each person comes to my practice with their own vision of what a fulfilling life looks like, I use a collaborative approach to meet each person's unique needs.
As a therapist I work from an anti-oppressive and LGBTQIA2S+ affirming space with an emphasis on trauma informed work. I specialize in working with individuals overcoming pregnancy loss, relationship issues, and grief. I practice from a psychodynamic and attachment theory perspective, while incorporating mindfulness and somatic regulation skills into sessions. Additionally I have experience supporting those who have experienced CPTSD, trauma, and life transitions.
As a therapist I work from an anti-oppressive and LGBTQIA2S+ affirming space with an emphasis on trauma informed work. I specialize in working with individuals overcoming pregnancy loss, relationship issues, and grief. I practice from a psychodynamic and attachment theory perspective, while incorporating mindfulness and somatic regulation skills into sessions. Additionally I have experience supporting those who have experienced CPTSD, trauma, and life transitions.
My work draws on psychodynamic, humanistic/existential, and feminist interventions.
Our past can impact how we navigate the present. In my opinion, understanding our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space where you can freely explore those vulnerabilities. This is a space where you can vent, laugh, and make greater meaning out of your experiences. I use a strength-based approach to empower you to be your most authentic self. This approach can include times of humor and times when I challenge you. I believe the therapeutic relationship is integral to exploring uncomfortable emotions and relationship dynamics.
My work draws on psychodynamic, humanistic/existential, and feminist interventions.
Our past can impact how we navigate the present. In my opinion, understanding our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space where you can freely explore those vulnerabilities. This is a space where you can vent, laugh, and make greater meaning out of your experiences. I use a strength-based approach to empower you to be your most authentic self. This approach can include times of humor and times when I challenge you. I believe the therapeutic relationship is integral to exploring uncomfortable emotions and relationship dynamics.
I am trained in EMDR, and work from a Psychodynamic and Feminist Theory modalities.
Are you or your teen struggling with navigating your identity? Have you experienced trauma, bullying, communication issues, self-harm, or suicidal ideation? Has your gender and/or sexuality impacted your mental health and you are wanting to learn how to embrace your most authentic self? Knowing how to navigate your own identity, or knowing how to support your child as they discover parts of who they are, can be a scary process. In order to embrace authenticity we need safety, security, and an ability to communicate. We will work together on finding healing, cultivating healthy communication, and creating a sense of safety.
I am trained in EMDR, and work from a Psychodynamic and Feminist Theory modalities.
Are you or your teen struggling with navigating your identity? Have you experienced trauma, bullying, communication issues, self-harm, or suicidal ideation? Has your gender and/or sexuality impacted your mental health and you are wanting to learn how to embrace your most authentic self? Knowing how to navigate your own identity, or knowing how to support your child as they discover parts of who they are, can be a scary process. In order to embrace authenticity we need safety, security, and an ability to communicate. We will work together on finding healing, cultivating healthy communication, and creating a sense of safety.
Juan David Velasquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as well as Psychodynamic theory.
My ideal clients are those seeking to make a positive change in their lives currently and for the future. My typical clients start their therapeutic journey by seeking to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, emerging identities as well as life stressors. Our goal is to integrate parts of themselves previously unknown or unreachable and this is done by creating a safe and strong therapeutic bond. Although I work with a variety of folx, my passion lies in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community as well as BIPOC.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as well as Psychodynamic theory.
My ideal clients are those seeking to make a positive change in their lives currently and for the future. My typical clients start their therapeutic journey by seeking to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, emerging identities as well as life stressors. Our goal is to integrate parts of themselves previously unknown or unreachable and this is done by creating a safe and strong therapeutic bond. Although I work with a variety of folx, my passion lies in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community as well as BIPOC.
Successful treatment within my practice is achieved through customizing therapeutic needs for each individual client. Creating a deepened sense of self awareness allows for life transformations resulting in an overall increase in one's contentment and satisfaction. My work is grounded in an advanced education within a psychodynamic practice and is utilized in combination with recent brain research regarding the ability to systematically alter brain function through therapeutic techniques to create overall improved well being.
Successful treatment within my practice is achieved through customizing therapeutic needs for each individual client. Creating a deepened sense of self awareness allows for life transformations resulting in an overall increase in one's contentment and satisfaction. My work is grounded in an advanced education within a psychodynamic practice and is utilized in combination with recent brain research regarding the ability to systematically alter brain function through therapeutic techniques to create overall improved well being.
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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.