Psychodynamic Therapists in Penn Valley, PA

Photo of Susan S. Levine, LCSW, BCD, FABP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan S. Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, FABP
Verified Verified
Penn Valley, PA 19072
Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis can relieve emotional pain and also be transformative beyond what you can imagine when you are immersed in turmoil and suffering. One of my strengths is in helping my patients discover and build on their strengths. It's important to understand how a coping style that is no longer effective was once the best adjustment you could devise for your circumstances. You may be living as though those same circumstances still exist without awareness that you are doing so. Our interactions can provide a powerful vehicle for understanding of what goes on in your mind as well as in your relationships.
Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis can relieve emotional pain and also be transformative beyond what you can imagine when you are immersed in turmoil and suffering. One of my strengths is in helping my patients discover and build on their strengths. It's important to understand how a coping style that is no longer effective was once the best adjustment you could devise for your circumstances. You may be living as though those same circumstances still exist without awareness that you are doing so. Our interactions can provide a powerful vehicle for understanding of what goes on in your mind as well as in your relationships.
(610) 915-8899 View (610) 915-8899
Photo of Elliot Elbaum, LAPC, MA
Elliot Elbaum
Associate Professional Counselor, LAPC, MA
Verified Verified
Penn Valley, PA 19072
Seeking help is a courageous and commendable step. Because of that, my goal is to set you up for success by fostering an authentic & nonjudgmental environment in which you feel safe to participate in the counseling process. Using traditional psychotherapy, evidence-based interventions, with a dash of humor sprinkled in, I aim to meet you where you are at to address the concerns that are important to you. I work with adults of all ages and specialize in working with older teens and the emerging adult population
Seeking help is a courageous and commendable step. Because of that, my goal is to set you up for success by fostering an authentic & nonjudgmental environment in which you feel safe to participate in the counseling process. Using traditional psychotherapy, evidence-based interventions, with a dash of humor sprinkled in, I aim to meet you where you are at to address the concerns that are important to you. I work with adults of all ages and specialize in working with older teens and the emerging adult population
(610) 938-6977 View (610) 938-6977
Photo of Meredith Barber, PsyD, Psychologist
Meredith Barber
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Penn Valley, PA 19072
To live full, free, and generous lives, we need to connect deeply with ourselves and with others. I gently encourage clients to develop confidence in their inner knowledge and to have faith in the flow of the universe. When we trust our feelings, our intuition, and our creativity, we don't feel impelled to muscle through the world. Instead, we feel guided and supported. I help clients to rely on their inner knowledge and to express their vulnerabilities and strengths so that they can fulfill their potential, interact meaningfully with others, enjoy life's riches, and do the work they are meant to do.
To live full, free, and generous lives, we need to connect deeply with ourselves and with others. I gently encourage clients to develop confidence in their inner knowledge and to have faith in the flow of the universe. When we trust our feelings, our intuition, and our creativity, we don't feel impelled to muscle through the world. Instead, we feel guided and supported. I help clients to rely on their inner knowledge and to express their vulnerabilities and strengths so that they can fulfill their potential, interact meaningfully with others, enjoy life's riches, and do the work they are meant to do.
(610) 347-5541 View (610) 347-5541
Photo of Sloane Ferenchak, PsyD, MEd, MA, Psychological Associate
Sloane Ferenchak
Psychological Associate, PsyD, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Penn Valley, PA 19072  (Online Only)
I feel both honored and privileged to partner with individuals and couples to build their understanding of their challenges, leverage their strengths, and create personalized strategies to make meaningful changes in their lives. As a therapist with ADHD, I recognize that one of the most painful experiences that come with ADHD is feeling “in your own way” and the sense of thwarted potential that comes along with it. I also know that ADHD doesn’t just impact attention, organization, and motivation; it can affect your entire life, from your performance at work to your home life and inner world.
I feel both honored and privileged to partner with individuals and couples to build their understanding of their challenges, leverage their strengths, and create personalized strategies to make meaningful changes in their lives. As a therapist with ADHD, I recognize that one of the most painful experiences that come with ADHD is feeling “in your own way” and the sense of thwarted potential that comes along with it. I also know that ADHD doesn’t just impact attention, organization, and motivation; it can affect your entire life, from your performance at work to your home life and inner world.
(610) 989-7573 View (610) 989-7573

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marjorie Cobin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marjorie Cobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004  (Online Only)
My therapeutic modalities include Cognitive Behavioral and Psychodynamic approaches, and often include DBT practices such as mindfulness and guided meditation techniques.
Hello, I'm Marjorie, an experienced clinical social worker, licensed in the states of Pa. and NJ. My specialties include working with adolescents and adults from varied backgrounds, identities, and cultures who suffer from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or mood disorders. There may be times when you are struggling with relationships, and/or are overwhelmed with anxiety or depression which are interfering with your daily life. Together, we will identify your particular thought/behavioral patterns that are counterproductive and replace them with healthier coping skills. Collaboration and mutual respect underlie all my work.
My therapeutic modalities include Cognitive Behavioral and Psychodynamic approaches, and often include DBT practices such as mindfulness and guided meditation techniques.
Hello, I'm Marjorie, an experienced clinical social worker, licensed in the states of Pa. and NJ. My specialties include working with adolescents and adults from varied backgrounds, identities, and cultures who suffer from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or mood disorders. There may be times when you are struggling with relationships, and/or are overwhelmed with anxiety or depression which are interfering with your daily life. Together, we will identify your particular thought/behavioral patterns that are counterproductive and replace them with healthier coping skills. Collaboration and mutual respect underlie all my work.
(814) 821-2634 View (814) 821-2634
Photo of Sarah Rosenbaum, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah Rosenbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wynnewood, PA 19096
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and groups. I am classically trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, and am also an experienced provider of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Using a variety of techniques and approaches, including mindfulness training, insight-oriented and behavioral change strategies, I adapt my style to suit the needs and personality of each client.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and groups. I am classically trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, and am also an experienced provider of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Using a variety of techniques and approaches, including mindfulness training, insight-oriented and behavioral change strategies, I adapt my style to suit the needs and personality of each client.
(267) 390-4942 View (267) 390-4942
Jacqueline M Salmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
I also have extensive training in psychodynamic and cognitive/behavioral approaches.
Clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress due to relationship,family and work issues, as well as those suffering from loss and grief find that my long professional experience and warm, empathic style helps them access their own inner strengths. I strive to help clients clarify their thoughts and feelings, and support them in developing personal goals that will make their lives more satisfying. My intention is to help clients remove both inner and outer obstacles that prevent them from living rich and meaningful lives. I find my work deeply rewarding and inspiring.
I also have extensive training in psychodynamic and cognitive/behavioral approaches.
Clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress due to relationship,family and work issues, as well as those suffering from loss and grief find that my long professional experience and warm, empathic style helps them access their own inner strengths. I strive to help clients clarify their thoughts and feelings, and support them in developing personal goals that will make their lives more satisfying. My intention is to help clients remove both inner and outer obstacles that prevent them from living rich and meaningful lives. I find my work deeply rewarding and inspiring.
(610) 422-3784 View (610) 422-3784
Photo of Christie M Baur - Christie Baur Psychotherapy, MS, LPC, Counselor
Christie Baur Psychotherapy
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
My therapeutic style is eclectic with a focus on cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and person centered techniques.
Hi! I’m a licensed professional counselor specializing in eating, anxiety and mood disorders. I dedicate myself to creating an environment of trust, acceptance, and empowerment where my clients can discuss their innermost thoughts, feelings and fears without judgement. For over 17 years I've helped my clients overcome and heal the parts of their lives that cause them pain or discomfort. I truly dedicate myself toward helping people build happier, healthier lives through positive lasting change.
My therapeutic style is eclectic with a focus on cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and person centered techniques.
Hi! I’m a licensed professional counselor specializing in eating, anxiety and mood disorders. I dedicate myself to creating an environment of trust, acceptance, and empowerment where my clients can discuss their innermost thoughts, feelings and fears without judgement. For over 17 years I've helped my clients overcome and heal the parts of their lives that cause them pain or discomfort. I truly dedicate myself toward helping people build happier, healthier lives through positive lasting change.
(267) 394-9722 View (267) 394-9722
Photo of Nick Nehéz, MFA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nick Nehéz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
My practice is rooted in psychoanalytic, relational, and psychodynamic principles.
I am a psychotherapist licensed in the state of Pennsylvania (LSW). I have a master’s degree in Clinical Social Work (MSW) from Bryn Mawr’s Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research. I’ve worked in the field of addiction and mental health since 2022. With my wife, the author Alexandra Auder, I have founded yoga schools in New York and Philadelphia. Together, we have led yoga, writing and creative retreats around the world for over twenty years. I continue to use mindfulness and creativity to aid my clients. My experience has included inpatient care and private practice with individuals, couples and families.
My practice is rooted in psychoanalytic, relational, and psychodynamic principles.
I am a psychotherapist licensed in the state of Pennsylvania (LSW). I have a master’s degree in Clinical Social Work (MSW) from Bryn Mawr’s Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research. I’ve worked in the field of addiction and mental health since 2022. With my wife, the author Alexandra Auder, I have founded yoga schools in New York and Philadelphia. Together, we have led yoga, writing and creative retreats around the world for over twenty years. I continue to use mindfulness and creativity to aid my clients. My experience has included inpatient care and private practice with individuals, couples and families.
(267) 490-3962 View (267) 490-3962
Photo of Abigail Irwin Bartus, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Irwin Bartus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
Throughout each person’s journey, life can be very fulfilling and enjoyable, but also challenging and stressful at different points. I believe strongly in the support, encouragement and guidance that a therapeutic relationship can provide. As a psychotherapist, I work together with children, adolescents, women and men to improve their happiness and fulfillment in life. My therapeutic orientation is highly client-centered and focused on the strengths of the individual. I work to create a safe and nurturing environment for each client, which combines psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and strength based approaches.
Throughout each person’s journey, life can be very fulfilling and enjoyable, but also challenging and stressful at different points. I believe strongly in the support, encouragement and guidance that a therapeutic relationship can provide. As a psychotherapist, I work together with children, adolescents, women and men to improve their happiness and fulfillment in life. My therapeutic orientation is highly client-centered and focused on the strengths of the individual. I work to create a safe and nurturing environment for each client, which combines psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and strength based approaches.
(267) 281-3230 View (267) 281-3230
Photo of Virginia Harr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Harr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
Throughout our time together, I may draw from psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, EMDR, and mindfulness techniques when appropriate.
Overwhelming feelings, difficult life transitions, and relationship challenges are normal; but they can take a major toll on the quality of your life and your sense of well-being. In my decade of clinical experience, I've seen therapy provide relief, clarity, and empowerment. I’m here to help you identify long-standing patterns of thinking, behaving, and feeling that may be keeping you stuck. Through increased insight and awareness it becomes possible to challenge the narratives and behaviors that are no longer serving you and find alternate ways of relating to yourself and others.
Throughout our time together, I may draw from psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, EMDR, and mindfulness techniques when appropriate.
Overwhelming feelings, difficult life transitions, and relationship challenges are normal; but they can take a major toll on the quality of your life and your sense of well-being. In my decade of clinical experience, I've seen therapy provide relief, clarity, and empowerment. I’m here to help you identify long-standing patterns of thinking, behaving, and feeling that may be keeping you stuck. Through increased insight and awareness it becomes possible to challenge the narratives and behaviors that are no longer serving you and find alternate ways of relating to yourself and others.
(267) 494-6010 View (267) 494-6010
Photo of Max Shmidheiser, PsyD, ABPP, MBE, CBIST, Psychologist
Max Shmidheiser
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, MBE, CBIST
Verified Verified
Wynnewood, PA 19096  (Online Only)
I have been formally trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and other evidence-based therapeutic approaches including Motivational Interviewing.
If you are struggling with a protracted rehabilitation, whether from orthopedic issues, brain injury, stroke, movement problems, etc., or the effects of a chronic illness, we can assist you in processing the changes you have experienced, and facilitating your path to your goals of emotional well-being. If you are dealing with stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, etc.; cognitive issues, ADHD, insomnia, or learning problems; or sport, work or school performance struggles, we can empower you with effective evidence-based strategies and authentic heart-felt emotional support.
I have been formally trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and other evidence-based therapeutic approaches including Motivational Interviewing.
If you are struggling with a protracted rehabilitation, whether from orthopedic issues, brain injury, stroke, movement problems, etc., or the effects of a chronic illness, we can assist you in processing the changes you have experienced, and facilitating your path to your goals of emotional well-being. If you are dealing with stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, etc.; cognitive issues, ADHD, insomnia, or learning problems; or sport, work or school performance struggles, we can empower you with effective evidence-based strategies and authentic heart-felt emotional support.
(610) 632-1354 View (610) 632-1354
Photo of Heather Novack Robinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Novack Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
I approach treatment as a collaboration between two partners, working together to deepen our understanding of your concerns, and construct alternative ways of thinking, being, relating and feeling. As a relational psychodynamic therapist, I consider our relationship an essential mechanism of change.
I approach treatment as a collaboration between two partners, working together to deepen our understanding of your concerns, and construct alternative ways of thinking, being, relating and feeling. As a relational psychodynamic therapist, I consider our relationship an essential mechanism of change.
(410) 469-6344 View (410) 469-6344
Photo of Mia Bezalel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mia Bezalel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035  (Online Only)
I am a psychodynamic therapist and pull from other frames including object relations, feminist, internal family systems, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Pursuing and going to therapy can be uncomfortable, scary, and exhausting. It takes a tremendous amount of courage and willingness. Living with and carrying emotional pain can be lonely and in therapy we will navigate this and work towards healing together. We will process how the past and unconscious resurface in the present causing distress in various areas including family, relationships, work, mental health, etc. As we do this work and build an open and trusting relationship, we can develop insights, bring about change, and further healing.
I am a psychodynamic therapist and pull from other frames including object relations, feminist, internal family systems, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Pursuing and going to therapy can be uncomfortable, scary, and exhausting. It takes a tremendous amount of courage and willingness. Living with and carrying emotional pain can be lonely and in therapy we will navigate this and work towards healing together. We will process how the past and unconscious resurface in the present causing distress in various areas including family, relationships, work, mental health, etc. As we do this work and build an open and trusting relationship, we can develop insights, bring about change, and further healing.
(267) 310-3105 View (267) 310-3105
Photo of Ariane Thomas, PsyD, JD, Psychologist
Ariane Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wynnewood, PA 19096  (Online Only)
My clinical approach includes, but is not limited to psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and feminist strategies.
I work with clients on adjustment to life changes, anxiety, depression, identity development, racial stress, relationship conflicts, and work stress. Much of my practice currently focuses on supporting attorneys, high performing athletes, and individuals in other professions who deal with similar levels expectation and high scrutiny. I have a law degree and consider myself a strong advocate for cultivating and supporting the whole person inside the attorney and the athlete. It is my true pleasure to provide coaching, therapy, and wellness supports to individuals in both professions and other fields that encounter similar challenges.
My clinical approach includes, but is not limited to psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and feminist strategies.
I work with clients on adjustment to life changes, anxiety, depression, identity development, racial stress, relationship conflicts, and work stress. Much of my practice currently focuses on supporting attorneys, high performing athletes, and individuals in other professions who deal with similar levels expectation and high scrutiny. I have a law degree and consider myself a strong advocate for cultivating and supporting the whole person inside the attorney and the athlete. It is my true pleasure to provide coaching, therapy, and wellness supports to individuals in both professions and other fields that encounter similar challenges.
(215) 372-8878 View (215) 372-8878
Photo of Jeremy Frank - Jeremy Frank and Associates, PhD, CADC, Psychologist
Jeremy Frank and Associates
Psychologist, PhD, CADC
Verified Verified
29 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness and evidence based practices.
Addiction psychology, alcohol and drug counseling is what we do. I am unusual as a director of this practice because I am 1) a psychologist 2) a certified alcohol and drug counselor and 3) I'm over 30 years sober myself but 4) I don't insist that people be sober if they don't want to be or aren't ready. This approach is called, "harm reduction". While we offer counseling for compulsive behaviors like, gambling, internet, computer and gaming addictions, our focus is relationships, depression, anxiety and other mental health & psychological treatment & counseling. We each have specific specialties and practice very similarly.
Psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness and evidence based practices.
Addiction psychology, alcohol and drug counseling is what we do. I am unusual as a director of this practice because I am 1) a psychologist 2) a certified alcohol and drug counselor and 3) I'm over 30 years sober myself but 4) I don't insist that people be sober if they don't want to be or aren't ready. This approach is called, "harm reduction". While we offer counseling for compulsive behaviors like, gambling, internet, computer and gaming addictions, our focus is relationships, depression, anxiety and other mental health & psychological treatment & counseling. We each have specific specialties and practice very similarly.
(215) 607-2160 View (215) 607-2160
Photo of Raffaella Braga, PhD, Psychologist
Raffaella Braga
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I primarily adopt a psychodynamic approach to therapy.
I look forward to helping adults and children cope with issues that are interfering with their capacity to enjoy their daily life. I work individually with adults to help with issues related to life-transition (e.g., moving to a different country, transition into parenthood, career changes, etc.), anxiety, depression, body image, and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with children who struggle with parents' divorce, academic difficulties, relationships, inhibition, and trauma. Finally, I offer support groups for expecting parents or parents of young children (0-5 years old).
I primarily adopt a psychodynamic approach to therapy.
I look forward to helping adults and children cope with issues that are interfering with their capacity to enjoy their daily life. I work individually with adults to help with issues related to life-transition (e.g., moving to a different country, transition into parenthood, career changes, etc.), anxiety, depression, body image, and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with children who struggle with parents' divorce, academic difficulties, relationships, inhibition, and trauma. Finally, I offer support groups for expecting parents or parents of young children (0-5 years old).
(347) 983-0595 View (347) 983-0595
Photo of Charles L Solomon, MA, MBA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles L Solomon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Narberth, PA 19072  (Online Only)
My approaches include: Cognitive Behavior Therapy Psychodynamic Therapy Behavior Modification Rational Emotive Therapy Solution Focused Therapy Yalom's Therapeutic Factors (Group) Relaxation Therapy Psycho-Pharmaceutical Education Forgiveness Empowerment Principles Play Therapy.
Throughout a lifetime, we are reminded of our own mortality by a continuous journey fraught with hurdles and complications that cause not only physical, but emotional pain as well. Often, along with that journey, we discover the desired destination is full of stressors that inhibit our strive, accomplishments, and ultimately, our very joy and sense of fulfillment.
My approaches include: Cognitive Behavior Therapy Psychodynamic Therapy Behavior Modification Rational Emotive Therapy Solution Focused Therapy Yalom's Therapeutic Factors (Group) Relaxation Therapy Psycho-Pharmaceutical Education Forgiveness Empowerment Principles Play Therapy.
Throughout a lifetime, we are reminded of our own mortality by a continuous journey fraught with hurdles and complications that cause not only physical, but emotional pain as well. Often, along with that journey, we discover the desired destination is full of stressors that inhibit our strive, accomplishments, and ultimately, our very joy and sense of fulfillment.
(484) 260-7565 View (484) 260-7565
Photo of Matthew Weiner, MS, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Weiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Due to my clinical interests, I have received a Post-Masters certificate in Trauma Studies from Chestnut Hill College and underwent clinical supervision in Psychodynamic Therapy.
My goal is to guide people toward making meaningful change. My patients can vary from people who have experienced acute traumatic events, suffered from health-related problems, or are struggling with the problems of everyday life. Utilizing a trauma-informed treatment perspective, I invite my patients into a safe and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I have a decade-plus history of helping individuals experiencing issues ranging from social anxiety to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Due to my clinical interests, I have received a Post-Masters certificate in Trauma Studies from Chestnut Hill College and underwent clinical supervision in Psychodynamic Therapy.
My goal is to guide people toward making meaningful change. My patients can vary from people who have experienced acute traumatic events, suffered from health-related problems, or are struggling with the problems of everyday life. Utilizing a trauma-informed treatment perspective, I invite my patients into a safe and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I have a decade-plus history of helping individuals experiencing issues ranging from social anxiety to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(484) 309-9424 View (484) 309-9424
Photo of Sam Paris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Paris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
I use a psychodynamic and relatable approaches to join in the healing process, uproot negative beliefs, increase self-esteem, and improve relationships.
I am a psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of complex trauma and PTSD. I believe in creating a relatable and safe space to work through the toughest parts of our past. While some trauma is overt, such as PTSD, other traumas can be hidden behind depression or anxiety. Emotional traumas can even arise from being raised by parents or guardians with personality disorders. I have over 10 years of experience using EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic interventions to address various forms of trauma.
I use a psychodynamic and relatable approaches to join in the healing process, uproot negative beliefs, increase self-esteem, and improve relationships.
I am a psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of complex trauma and PTSD. I believe in creating a relatable and safe space to work through the toughest parts of our past. While some trauma is overt, such as PTSD, other traumas can be hidden behind depression or anxiety. Emotional traumas can even arise from being raised by parents or guardians with personality disorders. I have over 10 years of experience using EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic interventions to address various forms of trauma.
(484) 214-2825 View (484) 214-2825

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.