Psychodynamic Therapists in Charlotte, NC
What I hear most frequently is that people are seeking an understanding of their motivations - why do I do things I do? In asking this question, they're often looking for deeper satisfaction both at work, or school, and in relationships with friends and family. And through our conversations, they often find their pathway in their career, speak up more effectively, and connect more deeply with those they love. Men's topics are a focus of my work, as well as important work with women and older adolescents.
What I hear most frequently is that people are seeking an understanding of their motivations - why do I do things I do? In asking this question, they're often looking for deeper satisfaction both at work, or school, and in relationships with friends and family. And through our conversations, they often find their pathway in their career, speak up more effectively, and connect more deeply with those they love. Men's topics are a focus of my work, as well as important work with women and older adolescents.
Do you feel like you are all alone, that you have no one who really listens, understands you, or can relate to what you are going through? Well look no further because I specialize in alleviating anxiety, managing and overcoming depression, and adjusting to life transitions (such as parenting, relationship challenges, experiencing an empty nest, health issues, job loss, divorce, death of a loved one, or retirement.)
Do you feel like you are all alone, that you have no one who really listens, understands you, or can relate to what you are going through? Well look no further because I specialize in alleviating anxiety, managing and overcoming depression, and adjusting to life transitions (such as parenting, relationship challenges, experiencing an empty nest, health issues, job loss, divorce, death of a loved one, or retirement.)
Do you have difficulty dealing with negative self-talk and negative moods that won't go away? If so, you're not alone. I specialize in guiding individuals through life's ups and downs and provide holistic support when it's most needed. Whether you're facing low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions, women's issues, or relationship struggles, my holistic therapy approach offers compassionate guidance for everyday issues. Therapy is not only for traumatic events—it's for anyone seeking resilience and growth in their journey.
Do you have difficulty dealing with negative self-talk and negative moods that won't go away? If so, you're not alone. I specialize in guiding individuals through life's ups and downs and provide holistic support when it's most needed. Whether you're facing low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions, women's issues, or relationship struggles, my holistic therapy approach offers compassionate guidance for everyday issues. Therapy is not only for traumatic events—it's for anyone seeking resilience and growth in their journey.
I use psychodynamic, attachment-based, intergenerational, and trauma-focused approaches in my practice.
Do you ever feel like the past is still living inside you, shaping your relationships, your choices, and even your sense of self? Healing doesn’t mean forgetting; it means finding freedom. I help people untangle the impact of childhood and intergenerational wounds, trauma and identity struggles so they can live with more clarity and connection. I'm a Columbia University-trained therapist, relational psychoanalyst, attachment and trauma specialist, helping you explore both the deep roots of your struggles and the patterns that emerge in your everyday life. Together, we create space for reflection, healing, and growth.
I use psychodynamic, attachment-based, intergenerational, and trauma-focused approaches in my practice.
Do you ever feel like the past is still living inside you, shaping your relationships, your choices, and even your sense of self? Healing doesn’t mean forgetting; it means finding freedom. I help people untangle the impact of childhood and intergenerational wounds, trauma and identity struggles so they can live with more clarity and connection. I'm a Columbia University-trained therapist, relational psychoanalyst, attachment and trauma specialist, helping you explore both the deep roots of your struggles and the patterns that emerge in your everyday life. Together, we create space for reflection, healing, and growth.
Are you feeling stressed, defeated, or overwhelmed? Sometimes, we find ourselves feeling “stuck” and unable to move forward, or in any direction. Feeling as if you’re going nowhere, despite energy output, can be discouraging and defeating. Trust me, I understand. Everyone encounters challenging times in their lives. I think we can all agree that you never know what life will throw at you. The journey to healing can be lonely; but I am here to walk with you every step of the way. I can assure you that I will provide a safe place for you to express yourself, free from judgement.
Are you feeling stressed, defeated, or overwhelmed? Sometimes, we find ourselves feeling “stuck” and unable to move forward, or in any direction. Feeling as if you’re going nowhere, despite energy output, can be discouraging and defeating. Trust me, I understand. Everyone encounters challenging times in their lives. I think we can all agree that you never know what life will throw at you. The journey to healing can be lonely; but I am here to walk with you every step of the way. I can assure you that I will provide a safe place for you to express yourself, free from judgement.
Are you feeling unfulfilled in your daily life? Do you experience fluctuating energy levels and struggle to cope? Has daily stress been unbearable? Are you seeking ways to boost your self-esteem and self-worth? Do you feel like a spectator in life, unsure of how to engage?
Welcome to Authentic Self Therapy, PLLC! I am here to help!
I am an outpatient therapist located in Charlotte, NC and I will work with you on building resources to help make life more manageable! I have experience in working with people struggling with depression, mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, disordered eating and body image concerns.
Are you feeling unfulfilled in your daily life? Do you experience fluctuating energy levels and struggle to cope? Has daily stress been unbearable? Are you seeking ways to boost your self-esteem and self-worth? Do you feel like a spectator in life, unsure of how to engage?
Welcome to Authentic Self Therapy, PLLC! I am here to help!
I am an outpatient therapist located in Charlotte, NC and I will work with you on building resources to help make life more manageable! I have experience in working with people struggling with depression, mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, disordered eating and body image concerns.
I am a clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience collaborating with adults, children, youth and families in overcoming some of life's challenges including trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship issues. My approach to therapy is one of partnership; working together with you to develop goals that are important to you. I particularly like working with children and youth and their caregivers in order to enhance relationships and overall functioning. I am licensed to provide services in North Carolina as well as licensed to provide Telehealth services in South Carolina.
I am a clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience collaborating with adults, children, youth and families in overcoming some of life's challenges including trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship issues. My approach to therapy is one of partnership; working together with you to develop goals that are important to you. I particularly like working with children and youth and their caregivers in order to enhance relationships and overall functioning. I am licensed to provide services in North Carolina as well as licensed to provide Telehealth services in South Carolina.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
Throughout life, we encounter experiences and challenges that are unexpected. During these difficult times, the future may seem out of our control. I can help you gain insight into your situation and support you as you cope through it. I specialize in working with couples who have experienced infidelity, postpartum and other relational issues, young adults going through life transitions such as starting college, a new job or a family, and adults experiencing, anxiety, depression and/or trauma as a result of unhealthy relationship dynamics with romantic partners, friends, children and parents. I want you to know you are not alone.
Throughout life, we encounter experiences and challenges that are unexpected. During these difficult times, the future may seem out of our control. I can help you gain insight into your situation and support you as you cope through it. I specialize in working with couples who have experienced infidelity, postpartum and other relational issues, young adults going through life transitions such as starting college, a new job or a family, and adults experiencing, anxiety, depression and/or trauma as a result of unhealthy relationship dynamics with romantic partners, friends, children and parents. I want you to know you are not alone.
Ava Pollack
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for showing up for yourself today! We can often benefit from processing life's challenges and allowing others to help carry the weight of our lived experiences. I believe that humans are resilient by nature, and adversity sometimes offers the opportunity to build upon existing strength. With openness, courage, and support, you can approach your emotions and adapt to uncertainty. If you have struggled with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, life stressors, and/or trauma, I can help you find healing. I prioritize inclusivity of all sizes, cultures, ages, religions, and races.
Thank you for showing up for yourself today! We can often benefit from processing life's challenges and allowing others to help carry the weight of our lived experiences. I believe that humans are resilient by nature, and adversity sometimes offers the opportunity to build upon existing strength. With openness, courage, and support, you can approach your emotions and adapt to uncertainty. If you have struggled with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, life stressors, and/or trauma, I can help you find healing. I prioritize inclusivity of all sizes, cultures, ages, religions, and races.
Most challenges we face as humans are "normal" as opposed to there being something "wrong" with us. However, we can often feel alone and overwhelmed when facing problems. Talking to a caring person can make a difference. I believe it helps to have an objective, knowledgeable and wise coach to help you find your way. I like to use analogies and work as a team with a client.
Most challenges we face as humans are "normal" as opposed to there being something "wrong" with us. However, we can often feel alone and overwhelmed when facing problems. Talking to a caring person can make a difference. I believe it helps to have an objective, knowledgeable and wise coach to help you find your way. I like to use analogies and work as a team with a client.
Sharhonda L. Ford, EMDR & Brainspotting Therapist
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for H.O.P.E. (Help Overcoming Powerful Emotions)? If you are struggling with identifying your pain points and powerful emotions, let's connect. Therapy is a way to identify, acknowledge and address trauma and triggers. Have you been plagued by shame, guilt, fear, doubt, despair, grief, abandonment, disappointment, hurt, rejection or any other negative emotion? Are you paralyzed by past experiences or decisions? Are you ready to move beyond the notion that you can't move forward? Choosing healing is a powerful choice. Allowing previous pain to prevent you from your promised purpose should NEVER be an option. Get HOPE!
Are you looking for H.O.P.E. (Help Overcoming Powerful Emotions)? If you are struggling with identifying your pain points and powerful emotions, let's connect. Therapy is a way to identify, acknowledge and address trauma and triggers. Have you been plagued by shame, guilt, fear, doubt, despair, grief, abandonment, disappointment, hurt, rejection or any other negative emotion? Are you paralyzed by past experiences or decisions? Are you ready to move beyond the notion that you can't move forward? Choosing healing is a powerful choice. Allowing previous pain to prevent you from your promised purpose should NEVER be an option. Get HOPE!
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
Real change is hard, long-term work not meant to be done alone. Dysfunctions around sexuality, food, money and work (the so-called "process" addictions) are primarily a struggle with intimacy. One needs to understand THE FUNCTION OF one's own self - destructive behaviors: that self hatred is not low self esteem; that contempt for others is not good self concept; that my wife is not the problem; and that sex is not my greatest need. I am several steps ahead of you on a journey I encourage you to take. Real change is hard, don't do it alone. :)
Real change is hard, long-term work not meant to be done alone. Dysfunctions around sexuality, food, money and work (the so-called "process" addictions) are primarily a struggle with intimacy. One needs to understand THE FUNCTION OF one's own self - destructive behaviors: that self hatred is not low self esteem; that contempt for others is not good self concept; that my wife is not the problem; and that sex is not my greatest need. I am several steps ahead of you on a journey I encourage you to take. Real change is hard, don't do it alone. :)
Places you come to, places you leave behind, and places you still hope to reach. You have come to one of life’s tough places, finding confusion and conflict. Instead of fully enjoying life, you are spending much of it on anxiety, stress, disappointment, shame, loneliness, and sadness. There are places of greater calm, simplicity, and well-being, where relationships are caring, connections are deep, and ease is daily. You have strength to make inroads towards new places and the wisdom to find greater acceptance and enjoyment of your life journey. "On the long, rough road, the sun and moon will continue to shine" -Thich Nhat Hanh
Places you come to, places you leave behind, and places you still hope to reach. You have come to one of life’s tough places, finding confusion and conflict. Instead of fully enjoying life, you are spending much of it on anxiety, stress, disappointment, shame, loneliness, and sadness. There are places of greater calm, simplicity, and well-being, where relationships are caring, connections are deep, and ease is daily. You have strength to make inroads towards new places and the wisdom to find greater acceptance and enjoyment of your life journey. "On the long, rough road, the sun and moon will continue to shine" -Thich Nhat Hanh
Keri A Schafer
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, DMin, MACC, MSFL
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? As a compassionate and attuned therapist, I am dedicated to helping you navigate life's challenges and discover your inner strengths. With a focus on personalized care, I utilize evidence-based techniques to support your mental well-being and personal growth. Whether you're dealing with stress, relationship issues, or seeking personal development, my goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. Let's work together to create a path toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? As a compassionate and attuned therapist, I am dedicated to helping you navigate life's challenges and discover your inner strengths. With a focus on personalized care, I utilize evidence-based techniques to support your mental well-being and personal growth. Whether you're dealing with stress, relationship issues, or seeking personal development, my goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. Let's work together to create a path toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
I’m a licensed therapist specializing in relationships, work-related stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and couples therapy. I help young adults navigate the pressures of perfectionism, self-doubt, and disconnection, while supporting couples in learning how to communicate more openly, manage conflict, and rebuild trust. My style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth—I use curiosity, humor, and practical tools to help you move from feeling stuck to living with greater clarity, connection, and balance.
I’m a licensed therapist specializing in relationships, work-related stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and couples therapy. I help young adults navigate the pressures of perfectionism, self-doubt, and disconnection, while supporting couples in learning how to communicate more openly, manage conflict, and rebuild trust. My style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth—I use curiosity, humor, and practical tools to help you move from feeling stuck to living with greater clarity, connection, and balance.
I’m a seasoned psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience, specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, and women’s issues. I offer compassionate support to adult women, including those navigating perimenopause and the emotional challenges that can arise with hormonal changes. I bring both wisdom and experience to my practice, using a range of therapeutic tools to support real growth and healing. I take the time to understand your goals and build a trusting relationship—the foundation of effective therapy. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, balance, and peace.
I’m a seasoned psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience, specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, and women’s issues. I offer compassionate support to adult women, including those navigating perimenopause and the emotional challenges that can arise with hormonal changes. I bring both wisdom and experience to my practice, using a range of therapeutic tools to support real growth and healing. I take the time to understand your goals and build a trusting relationship—the foundation of effective therapy. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, balance, and peace.
Life feels confusing and often times overwhelming. You're not sure what is 'normal' and you're exhausted by the intensity of your emotions. You feel like you've exhausted all other options. You’re hoping to find someone who can listen without the fear of judgement. Who can offer support and help you get answers. You’re wanting the thoughts that tell you “you’re not good enough” to stop. Whether this is a new pain or a chronic one, by looking for help you are taking a courageous step. I understand how scary it can be to ask for help.
Life feels confusing and often times overwhelming. You're not sure what is 'normal' and you're exhausted by the intensity of your emotions. You feel like you've exhausted all other options. You’re hoping to find someone who can listen without the fear of judgement. Who can offer support and help you get answers. You’re wanting the thoughts that tell you “you’re not good enough” to stop. Whether this is a new pain or a chronic one, by looking for help you are taking a courageous step. I understand how scary it can be to ask for help.
Struggling with maintaining healthy relationships, processing relational trauma, childhood trauma, or adjusting to life transitions? I focus on relational trauma whether that be romantic partners, unhealthy family dynamics, or attachment and codependency issues stemming from unresolved childhood trauma. I believe in an individualized approach to therapy and am passionate about helping people reach their goals. It is important to me to build trusting relationships with my clients and bring warmth and genuineness to every session. My approach is personalized to fit your individual needs!
Struggling with maintaining healthy relationships, processing relational trauma, childhood trauma, or adjusting to life transitions? I focus on relational trauma whether that be romantic partners, unhealthy family dynamics, or attachment and codependency issues stemming from unresolved childhood trauma. I believe in an individualized approach to therapy and am passionate about helping people reach their goals. It is important to me to build trusting relationships with my clients and bring warmth and genuineness to every session. My approach is personalized to fit your individual needs!
See more therapy options for Charlotte
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Charlotte
- Belmont
- Cramerton
- Harrisburg
- Huntersville
- Indian Trail
- Marvin
- Matthews
- Mint Hill
- Newell
- Pineville
- Waxhaw
- Weddington
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.