Psychodynamic Therapists in Murrysville, PA
I draw from a variety of modalities including ACT, CBT, parts work, and psychodynamic.
Major life transitions, work stress, grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, or simply feeling “stuck"...regardless of your reasons for seeking therapy, I consider it a privilege to provide nonjudgmental support and productive insight as we work towards your goals together.
A few of my specializations include high-achieving adults with anxiety and/or depression, infertility/postpartum/parental stress, trauma/PTSD, and relationship issues/couples work. I work with individuals across genders and bring a nuanced awareness of how identity, relationships, and social expectations can shape emotional experience.
I draw from a variety of modalities including ACT, CBT, parts work, and psychodynamic.
Major life transitions, work stress, grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, or simply feeling “stuck"...regardless of your reasons for seeking therapy, I consider it a privilege to provide nonjudgmental support and productive insight as we work towards your goals together.
A few of my specializations include high-achieving adults with anxiety and/or depression, infertility/postpartum/parental stress, trauma/PTSD, and relationship issues/couples work. I work with individuals across genders and bring a nuanced awareness of how identity, relationships, and social expectations can shape emotional experience.
Jennifer Ann Barker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
1 Endorsed
Murrysville, PA 15668
In my work with clients, I emphasize the power of self-expression as a path to greater self-awareness and healing. Expression plays a vital role in our everyday lives, especially when navigating through challenging experiences like grief and trauma. I approach therapy with a person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based perspective, meeting clients where they are and helping them make meaningful changes toward healing. As an Art Therapist, I have the ability to use creative techniques to assist with expression.
In my work with clients, I emphasize the power of self-expression as a path to greater self-awareness and healing. Expression plays a vital role in our everyday lives, especially when navigating through challenging experiences like grief and trauma. I approach therapy with a person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based perspective, meeting clients where they are and helping them make meaningful changes toward healing. As an Art Therapist, I have the ability to use creative techniques to assist with expression.
Embarking on the journey to understand your story takes immense courage. Whether it's filled with emotional struggles, past trauma, or the weight of anxiety about what lies ahead, I want you to know you're not alone in this. Together, we can begin to rewrite your narrative with compassion and clarity. My goal is to help you feel comfortable in your own skin and support you in uncovering your true, authentic self.
I invite you to explore the unspoken - no topic is off limits. Together, we can make sense of what feels difficult to carry alone, untangle patterns that no longer serve you, and create room for new perspectives.
Embarking on the journey to understand your story takes immense courage. Whether it's filled with emotional struggles, past trauma, or the weight of anxiety about what lies ahead, I want you to know you're not alone in this. Together, we can begin to rewrite your narrative with compassion and clarity. My goal is to help you feel comfortable in your own skin and support you in uncovering your true, authentic self.
I invite you to explore the unspoken - no topic is off limits. Together, we can make sense of what feels difficult to carry alone, untangle patterns that no longer serve you, and create room for new perspectives.
Life can be hard, especially when things start to feel overwhelming. I am currently accepting new clients and work with those who struggle with anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, and patterns in relationships that may feel difficult or confusing. Many people I work with are looking for support in understanding how past experiences continue to impact them. I offer a safe, inclusive environment to explore emotions, increase self-awareness, and develop healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
Life can be hard, especially when things start to feel overwhelming. I am currently accepting new clients and work with those who struggle with anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, and patterns in relationships that may feel difficult or confusing. Many people I work with are looking for support in understanding how past experiences continue to impact them. I offer a safe, inclusive environment to explore emotions, increase self-awareness, and develop healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
Living with emotional pain and stress can disrupt your relationships with others, interfere with productivity, and worsen your overall health. Through therapy, you can achieve insight into your problems, reach your goals, and obtain greater life satisfaction. We are especially interested in helping others navigate relational difficulties, life transitions, depression, anxiety, sexuality, and concerns with work or college. Our approach incorporates building positive coping strategies, strengthening relationships, increasing support, and providing accountability. We will encourage you to be an active participant in your treatment.
Living with emotional pain and stress can disrupt your relationships with others, interfere with productivity, and worsen your overall health. Through therapy, you can achieve insight into your problems, reach your goals, and obtain greater life satisfaction. We are especially interested in helping others navigate relational difficulties, life transitions, depression, anxiety, sexuality, and concerns with work or college. Our approach incorporates building positive coping strategies, strengthening relationships, increasing support, and providing accountability. We will encourage you to be an active participant in your treatment.
Melissa DeSoto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Murrysville, PA 15668
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there, I’m so glad you’re here. With over 10 years of experience in the social work field, including work in domestic violence and community mental health, I’m passionate about holding space for healing, reflection, and growth. I support teens, adults, and families through life’s toughest moments with a compassionate, down-to-earth approach. Whether you're navigating a big transition or just need someone to talk to, I'm here. Sessions are available both in person and via telehealth.
Hi there, I’m so glad you’re here. With over 10 years of experience in the social work field, including work in domestic violence and community mental health, I’m passionate about holding space for healing, reflection, and growth. I support teens, adults, and families through life’s toughest moments with a compassionate, down-to-earth approach. Whether you're navigating a big transition or just need someone to talk to, I'm here. Sessions are available both in person and via telehealth.
Amanda Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CCTP-II, LPC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to treatment of complex trauma is an integrative triphasic approach that utilizes psychodynamic therapy, ego states, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, ACT, Forward-Facing Trauma Therapy, and EMDR.
You’ve survived what should have broken you, but the impact of those experiences lingers in sneaky ways like dissociation, shame, emotional numbness, or feeling stuck in unhealthy / toxic patterns that no longer serve you or the person you're becoming. You long for deeper connections to safe people, crave relief from overwhelm, or need to break cycles of trauma, especially as a parent. You want to heal, to feel whole, and to reclaim / unconditionally embrace the parts of yourself lost to survival. Learning to be important to yourself can be challenging if you were never safe enough to be important before. Trust is scary.
My approach to treatment of complex trauma is an integrative triphasic approach that utilizes psychodynamic therapy, ego states, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, ACT, Forward-Facing Trauma Therapy, and EMDR.
You’ve survived what should have broken you, but the impact of those experiences lingers in sneaky ways like dissociation, shame, emotional numbness, or feeling stuck in unhealthy / toxic patterns that no longer serve you or the person you're becoming. You long for deeper connections to safe people, crave relief from overwhelm, or need to break cycles of trauma, especially as a parent. You want to heal, to feel whole, and to reclaim / unconditionally embrace the parts of yourself lost to survival. Learning to be important to yourself can be challenging if you were never safe enough to be important before. Trust is scary.
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling, as well as intensive group therapy when desired. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling, as well as intensive group therapy when desired. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 40 years experience of working with families and individuals of all ages, I find that the most effective approach is one that is strengths-based with a strong emphasis on helping clients solve the problems that bring them to me for therapy and also on helping them develop powerful resiliency characteristics that allow for future problem-solving, conflict resolution, goal-attainment, wellness, and life satisfaction. My ideal client is one who likes to learn. Trauma survivors, in particular, do well with this approach.
As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 40 years experience of working with families and individuals of all ages, I find that the most effective approach is one that is strengths-based with a strong emphasis on helping clients solve the problems that bring them to me for therapy and also on helping them develop powerful resiliency characteristics that allow for future problem-solving, conflict resolution, goal-attainment, wellness, and life satisfaction. My ideal client is one who likes to learn. Trauma survivors, in particular, do well with this approach.
Does life suddenly feel challenging or overwhelming? Deciding to start therapy is the first step in prioritizing your mental health and well-being. I'm a licensed professional counselor and board-certified art therapist with over 15 years of experience working with adults and adolescents. I specialize in providing support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma and difficult life transitions. I'm a strength-based therapist who will provide you with a safe space to address your concerns with no judgement. Together we will identify the steps you can take to better manage the stressors in your life.
Does life suddenly feel challenging or overwhelming? Deciding to start therapy is the first step in prioritizing your mental health and well-being. I'm a licensed professional counselor and board-certified art therapist with over 15 years of experience working with adults and adolescents. I specialize in providing support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma and difficult life transitions. I'm a strength-based therapist who will provide you with a safe space to address your concerns with no judgement. Together we will identify the steps you can take to better manage the stressors in your life.
Are you struggling with grief, anxiety, self-worth issues, trauma or everyday personal relationships? A supportive connection and listening ear can make a world of difference. My approach is to create a supportive partnership where we work together solving problems, discovering solutions and experiencing greater peace. My goal is to support you in having a better understanding of your inner world, to gain perspective about who you are in relationships and to increase overall health. Most importantly, I want to know the life you want for yourself and help you reach that vision.
Are you struggling with grief, anxiety, self-worth issues, trauma or everyday personal relationships? A supportive connection and listening ear can make a world of difference. My approach is to create a supportive partnership where we work together solving problems, discovering solutions and experiencing greater peace. My goal is to support you in having a better understanding of your inner world, to gain perspective about who you are in relationships and to increase overall health. Most importantly, I want to know the life you want for yourself and help you reach that vision.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking therapeutic treatment and psychological evaluations. The goal of treatment is to assist the individual in actualizing their potential through a strengths-based approach to cognitive behavioral techniques. It's important that each person understands their worth and utilizes the tools learned in therapy in their daily lives. In addition to individual therapy, I am also able to offer diagnostic evaluations and psychological testing as a means to understand complex issues and formulate the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking therapeutic treatment and psychological evaluations. The goal of treatment is to assist the individual in actualizing their potential through a strengths-based approach to cognitive behavioral techniques. It's important that each person understands their worth and utilizes the tools learned in therapy in their daily lives. In addition to individual therapy, I am also able to offer diagnostic evaluations and psychological testing as a means to understand complex issues and formulate the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual.
More Therapists Nearby
Hi, I'm Rich! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents and adults who are looking for an encouraging, collaborative approach to therapy. I enjoy working with people who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from themselves and the life they want to be living. My approach is down to earth and supportive— I believe therapy works best when you feel comfortable enough to show up as yourself without judgment.
Hi, I'm Rich! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents and adults who are looking for an encouraging, collaborative approach to therapy. I enjoy working with people who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from themselves and the life they want to be living. My approach is down to earth and supportive— I believe therapy works best when you feel comfortable enough to show up as yourself without judgment.
I have been in full-time practice as a clinical social worker/psychotherapist since 1969, and practiced in both hospital and agency psychiatric settings as a clinician, as well as a supervisor and administrator for over 15 years, in addition to maintaining a private practice. Throughout my career, I have provided numerous national and regional training seminars and workshops for MH professionals on women's issues; treatments for the chronically mentally ill; and group psychotherapy modalities, and have also published in these areas.I have an eclectic style that encourages a flexible and collaborative therapeutic partnership which reflects the needs, goals, and personal context of the individual person. Every person needs the safety net of an affirming and compassionate relationship to explore the changes needed to bring more balance to ones life-- whether learning to integrate a synergy of mind, body, and spirit, or exploring change in the patterns of relationships and behaviors that are impeding growth.
I have been in full-time practice as a clinical social worker/psychotherapist since 1969, and practiced in both hospital and agency psychiatric settings as a clinician, as well as a supervisor and administrator for over 15 years, in addition to maintaining a private practice. Throughout my career, I have provided numerous national and regional training seminars and workshops for MH professionals on women's issues; treatments for the chronically mentally ill; and group psychotherapy modalities, and have also published in these areas.I have an eclectic style that encourages a flexible and collaborative therapeutic partnership which reflects the needs, goals, and personal context of the individual person. Every person needs the safety net of an affirming and compassionate relationship to explore the changes needed to bring more balance to ones life-- whether learning to integrate a synergy of mind, body, and spirit, or exploring change in the patterns of relationships and behaviors that are impeding growth.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, isolation, or relationship issues? Burned out at work or struggling through a major life transition? You don’t have to face it alone. At eTalkTherapy, our Pennsylvania-licensed therapists provide secure, convenient online counseling tailored to your unique needs. Whatever mental health or emotional challenges you're facing, we're here to help you heal, grow, and thrive. Begin your journey today with compassionate, professional support you can trust. We're ready to listen.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, isolation, or relationship issues? Burned out at work or struggling through a major life transition? You don’t have to face it alone. At eTalkTherapy, our Pennsylvania-licensed therapists provide secure, convenient online counseling tailored to your unique needs. Whatever mental health or emotional challenges you're facing, we're here to help you heal, grow, and thrive. Begin your journey today with compassionate, professional support you can trust. We're ready to listen.
These are the treatment types I use, and this is what your experience will be like: I draw from psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Reaching out for therapy can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to take that next step, I would be honored to support you.
I work with kids, teens, and young adults who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck, especially during big transitions between homes, schools, or friend groups. They need steadiness and practical tools. Their goals: calm, confidence, and better relationships, because worry is stealing joy and focus.
These are the treatment types I use, and this is what your experience will be like: I draw from psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Reaching out for therapy can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to take that next step, I would be honored to support you.
I work with kids, teens, and young adults who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck, especially during big transitions between homes, schools, or friend groups. They need steadiness and practical tools. Their goals: calm, confidence, and better relationships, because worry is stealing joy and focus.
Many clients come to Self Care Conversations carrying anxiety, OCD, or the weight of a major life transition — feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward. Using CBT, ERP, and REBT, sessions focus on practical tools and honest conversation, not just talk for talk's sake. Clients leave with a clearer sense of their patterns and real strategies to interrupt them. Whether it's working through OCD, navigating a relationship, or adjusting to change, the goal is steady, measurable progress — and a client who feels more capable handling what life brings.
Many clients come to Self Care Conversations carrying anxiety, OCD, or the weight of a major life transition — feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward. Using CBT, ERP, and REBT, sessions focus on practical tools and honest conversation, not just talk for talk's sake. Clients leave with a clearer sense of their patterns and real strategies to interrupt them. Whether it's working through OCD, navigating a relationship, or adjusting to change, the goal is steady, measurable progress — and a client who feels more capable handling what life brings.
If your child or teen is struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or behavioral challenges, therapy can help them build the skills they need to feel more confident and capable. I was trained at Harvard Medical School’s McLean Hospital and use evidence-based treatments to support children and teens with OCD, eating disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I also provide parent coaching to help parents build effective parenting strategies. In addition to my work with children and teens, I support women navigating pregnancy, postpartum, and fertility challenges.
If your child or teen is struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or behavioral challenges, therapy can help them build the skills they need to feel more confident and capable. I was trained at Harvard Medical School’s McLean Hospital and use evidence-based treatments to support children and teens with OCD, eating disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I also provide parent coaching to help parents build effective parenting strategies. In addition to my work with children and teens, I support women navigating pregnancy, postpartum, and fertility challenges.
Hi! Welcome to The Phillips Practice. My job is to help peel back the layers so you can feel more empowered, heard, and connected to your own strength.
I specialize in helping people navigate the challenges of anxiety, which can feel overwhelming and affect every part of life. Anxiety isn’t just in your head—it can also show up in your body through symptoms like stomach pain, muscle tension, fatigue, or a racing heart. It can leave you feeling disconnected, isolated, or even paralyzed by fear. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that keep anxiety in control and break the cycle.
Hi! Welcome to The Phillips Practice. My job is to help peel back the layers so you can feel more empowered, heard, and connected to your own strength.
I specialize in helping people navigate the challenges of anxiety, which can feel overwhelming and affect every part of life. Anxiety isn’t just in your head—it can also show up in your body through symptoms like stomach pain, muscle tension, fatigue, or a racing heart. It can leave you feeling disconnected, isolated, or even paralyzed by fear. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that keep anxiety in control and break the cycle.
Let's invent together a way beyond your suffering or problematic repetitions. I use creative language play to release unconscious tensions manifesting as symptoms. In psychoanalysis you can elevate your agency by recognizing your own unfolding processes without the pressure to change. My attention will be focused on the linguistic and homophonous patterns of your unconscious as manifested in your speech, with the aim of distilling the suffering from your words and possibly producing a creative practice in its stead. To that end I will invite you to speak.
Let's invent together a way beyond your suffering or problematic repetitions. I use creative language play to release unconscious tensions manifesting as symptoms. In psychoanalysis you can elevate your agency by recognizing your own unfolding processes without the pressure to change. My attention will be focused on the linguistic and homophonous patterns of your unconscious as manifested in your speech, with the aim of distilling the suffering from your words and possibly producing a creative practice in its stead. To that end I will invite you to speak.
See more therapy options for Murrysville
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Murrysville
- Fox Chapel
- Greensburg
- Irwin
- Jeannette
- McKeesport
- Monroeville
- New Kensington
- North Huntingdon
- Oakmont
- Penn Hills
- Swissvale
- Wilkinsburg
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.