Psychodynamic Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
My training and orientation are mainly psychodynamic, but I utilize multiple theories and techniques, including mindfulness, family systems, as well as my background in cultural anthropology.
Therapy is enabled by a safe and supportive space, which makes the exploration of the past and the present possible. In therapy, we reach insights, identify patterns, and process life’s transitions and relationships. I work with adults and couples who feel that the challenges they face are unnecessarily burdened by their past and unresolved experiences and relationships, and with those who seek to better understand themselves, their difficulties, their connections — and wish to work towards positive change.
My training and orientation are mainly psychodynamic, but I utilize multiple theories and techniques, including mindfulness, family systems, as well as my background in cultural anthropology.
Therapy is enabled by a safe and supportive space, which makes the exploration of the past and the present possible. In therapy, we reach insights, identify patterns, and process life’s transitions and relationships. I work with adults and couples who feel that the challenges they face are unnecessarily burdened by their past and unresolved experiences and relationships, and with those who seek to better understand themselves, their difficulties, their connections — and wish to work towards positive change.
Psychodynamic therapy is an effective, evidence-based treatment for individuals working through anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as feelings of meaninglessness, loss, and disconnection.
I am a psychiatrist and psychotherapist who believes therapy is an opportunity to address aspects of the human condition that are very much felt, though not as often examined in contemporary life. The development of a secure, safe, and supportive therapeutic relationship is central to the effectiveness of psychotherapy and lays the groundwork for self-reflection, healing, and growth. My approach is dedicated to facilitating this process and creating a collaborative space for empathy, curiosity, and understanding. As a psychiatrist, I am also able to provide thoughtful, adjunctive medication management.
Psychodynamic therapy is an effective, evidence-based treatment for individuals working through anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as feelings of meaninglessness, loss, and disconnection.
I am a psychiatrist and psychotherapist who believes therapy is an opportunity to address aspects of the human condition that are very much felt, though not as often examined in contemporary life. The development of a secure, safe, and supportive therapeutic relationship is central to the effectiveness of psychotherapy and lays the groundwork for self-reflection, healing, and growth. My approach is dedicated to facilitating this process and creating a collaborative space for empathy, curiosity, and understanding. As a psychiatrist, I am also able to provide thoughtful, adjunctive medication management.
My therapeutic approach is primarily grounded in evidence-based practice drawing from Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT) with an emphasis on social justice and cultural humility.
Therapy offers us an opportunity to be wholly seen & understood. Turning inward lets us explore our values, needs, & relationships. I work from a collaborative, warm, & open approach to therapy, highlighting the therapeutic relationship to build self-awareness, meaning, & cognitive flexibility. I believe that building insight & awareness into what motivates our behaviors leads to long lasting change. My areas of specialization include working with couples & non traditional relationships, Depression and Anxiety, as well as identity development and learning how to navigate through big changes and stages of life.
My therapeutic approach is primarily grounded in evidence-based practice drawing from Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT) with an emphasis on social justice and cultural humility.
Therapy offers us an opportunity to be wholly seen & understood. Turning inward lets us explore our values, needs, & relationships. I work from a collaborative, warm, & open approach to therapy, highlighting the therapeutic relationship to build self-awareness, meaning, & cognitive flexibility. I believe that building insight & awareness into what motivates our behaviors leads to long lasting change. My areas of specialization include working with couples & non traditional relationships, Depression and Anxiety, as well as identity development and learning how to navigate through big changes and stages of life.
Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (including Limbic System Therapy to unlearn what Trauma has taught), Psychodynamic, Grief Work, and EMDR are all areas that are utilized.
There is no shame in struggling. Even the most healthy of people will go through periods of struggle. Sometimes we reach a point in our lives where we realize we have painful experiences from our early life that now need to be resolved and put to rest. We may be tired of an unresolved past disrupting our relationships and life in the present. Finally, sometimes, it's just that life has been thrown at us faster than we can process. This can cause unexpected anxiety or make us feel like things are out of control. Anxiety does not need to be feared. It can be managed and mastered.
Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (including Limbic System Therapy to unlearn what Trauma has taught), Psychodynamic, Grief Work, and EMDR are all areas that are utilized.
There is no shame in struggling. Even the most healthy of people will go through periods of struggle. Sometimes we reach a point in our lives where we realize we have painful experiences from our early life that now need to be resolved and put to rest. We may be tired of an unresolved past disrupting our relationships and life in the present. Finally, sometimes, it's just that life has been thrown at us faster than we can process. This can cause unexpected anxiety or make us feel like things are out of control. Anxiety does not need to be feared. It can be managed and mastered.
My approach consists of psychodynamic, IFS, harm reduction, systems-based perspectives, and emotionally- and relationally-focused therapies.
When we are able to shed feelings of shame and be vulnerable, we are able to dream, to embrace change as possible and then practice it. When we become aware of and in tune with our emotions—one of the many things that institutional injustices make more difficult—we learn about ourselves, our capacities, and our needs. We can then set boundaries and improve our relationships. We are then able to help ourselves with clear intent and invite our communities to support us. Areas of practice include depression, anxiety, attachment wounds, non-monogamy, relationship issues, sexuality and gender identities & issues, HIV, and self-worth.
My approach consists of psychodynamic, IFS, harm reduction, systems-based perspectives, and emotionally- and relationally-focused therapies.
When we are able to shed feelings of shame and be vulnerable, we are able to dream, to embrace change as possible and then practice it. When we become aware of and in tune with our emotions—one of the many things that institutional injustices make more difficult—we learn about ourselves, our capacities, and our needs. We can then set boundaries and improve our relationships. We are then able to help ourselves with clear intent and invite our communities to support us. Areas of practice include depression, anxiety, attachment wounds, non-monogamy, relationship issues, sexuality and gender identities & issues, HIV, and self-worth.
I work with a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, person-centered therapy and more symptom-focused modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
People seek therapy when they are in pain. This pain may show up as anxiety, depression, loneliness, compulsive behaviors, addiction or a combination of these. My job as your therapist is to meet you where you are and to understand your experience, your pain, and to help you move forward. The goal is to create a collaboration in which you have the support and safety to begin to challenge thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that may be holding you back and causing suffering. I will guide you in this work with warmth, humor, respect, and acceptance.
I work with a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, person-centered therapy and more symptom-focused modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
People seek therapy when they are in pain. This pain may show up as anxiety, depression, loneliness, compulsive behaviors, addiction or a combination of these. My job as your therapist is to meet you where you are and to understand your experience, your pain, and to help you move forward. The goal is to create a collaboration in which you have the support and safety to begin to challenge thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that may be holding you back and causing suffering. I will guide you in this work with warmth, humor, respect, and acceptance.
I am trauma-informed and use an eclectic approach with a psychodynamic foundation.
A psychodynamic perspective in session means I will often look back at your past to see how it could be impacting your present. This also helps me achieve a more complete picture of you. So much of our developmental stages become internalized and influence how we go throughout life as an adult.
I am trauma-informed and use an eclectic approach with a psychodynamic foundation.
A psychodynamic perspective in session means I will often look back at your past to see how it could be impacting your present. This also helps me achieve a more complete picture of you. So much of our developmental stages become internalized and influence how we go throughout life as an adult.
Joel Allen Makin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LCAC, LPC, LPCC, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use psychodynamic therapy to help you uncover patterns shaped by early experiences and unconscious beliefs.
If you’ve tried short-term fixes but still feel stuck in anxiety, low self-worth, or recurring emotional patterns, you’re not alone. Many people reach a point where surface-level solutions no longer work—they want to understand the “why” behind their struggles. I help individuals who are ready to go deeper, uncovering the root causes of pain and making space for real change. Through long-term therapy, we work to build self-awareness, heal attachment wounds, and foster emotional resilience so you can move forward with clarity, purpose, and strength.
I use psychodynamic therapy to help you uncover patterns shaped by early experiences and unconscious beliefs.
If you’ve tried short-term fixes but still feel stuck in anxiety, low self-worth, or recurring emotional patterns, you’re not alone. Many people reach a point where surface-level solutions no longer work—they want to understand the “why” behind their struggles. I help individuals who are ready to go deeper, uncovering the root causes of pain and making space for real change. Through long-term therapy, we work to build self-awareness, heal attachment wounds, and foster emotional resilience so you can move forward with clarity, purpose, and strength.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
When working with children, adolescents, and families, Yisroel utilizes psychodynamic, CBT, play, and art therapy techniques, as well as EMDR and family systems strategies to support clients in actualizing their goals in treatment.
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
When working with children, adolescents, and families, Yisroel utilizes psychodynamic, CBT, play, and art therapy techniques, as well as EMDR and family systems strategies to support clients in actualizing their goals in treatment.
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
Prior jobs (Clinical Social Worker at The Pentagon, an EAP, hospitals; Fortune 500 Subject Matter Expert; Medical School Mentor; MSW Program Director) have informed my practice as has training in CBT, EMDR, DBT, & Psychodynamic Therapy.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
Prior jobs (Clinical Social Worker at The Pentagon, an EAP, hospitals; Fortune 500 Subject Matter Expert; Medical School Mentor; MSW Program Director) have informed my practice as has training in CBT, EMDR, DBT, & Psychodynamic Therapy.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
I draw on evidence-based modalities such as cognitive-behavioral
therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), internal family systems (IFS), psychodynamic therapy, as well as research in neuroscience,attachment theory, and lifespan development.
As an LCSW with over 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, complex trauma, chronic illness, and peripartum issues (including postpartum depression and anxiety). I am dedicated to providing a safe,compassionate space for clients to explore their emotions, gain insight, and develop strategies for healing.
I draw on evidence-based modalities such as cognitive-behavioral
therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), internal family systems (IFS), psychodynamic therapy, as well as research in neuroscience,attachment theory, and lifespan development.
As an LCSW with over 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, complex trauma, chronic illness, and peripartum issues (including postpartum depression and anxiety). I am dedicated to providing a safe,compassionate space for clients to explore their emotions, gain insight, and develop strategies for healing.
I believe in using a person centered approach when working with clients and utilize psychoeducation in sessions as well as elements of CBT, DBT and psychodynamic approaches.
I strive to be able to help my clients live a life worth living. I have a strong desire to help clients that have a history of sexual and/or childhood trauma, grief, PTSD, anxiety, somatic complaints and depression.
I believe in using a person centered approach when working with clients and utilize psychoeducation in sessions as well as elements of CBT, DBT and psychodynamic approaches.
I strive to be able to help my clients live a life worth living. I have a strong desire to help clients that have a history of sexual and/or childhood trauma, grief, PTSD, anxiety, somatic complaints and depression.
My style of therapy blends humanistic, feminist, psychodynamic, and internal family systems practices.
As a licensed psychologist, I am experienced in providing care to clients facing life transitions, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with adults at all ages, and I have specialized experience with independence challenges, family concerns, identity issues, and childhood trauma. Regardless of the reasons you are seeking help, your treatment will be feasible and sustainable. I will guide you through each step of your progress, taking into account your unique worldview, values and culture.
My style of therapy blends humanistic, feminist, psychodynamic, and internal family systems practices.
As a licensed psychologist, I am experienced in providing care to clients facing life transitions, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with adults at all ages, and I have specialized experience with independence challenges, family concerns, identity issues, and childhood trauma. Regardless of the reasons you are seeking help, your treatment will be feasible and sustainable. I will guide you through each step of your progress, taking into account your unique worldview, values and culture.
Some of our team's specialties include Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma-Focused Play Therapy, Foster Care/Adoption, ADHD, LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Christian Counseling, Inner Child Work, and more.
The goal of Premier Psychotherapy is to create a place where anyone can relax and be fully self-expressed, without fear of judgment. The team offers a range of services that are designed to meet the individual needs of each client who comes to us for help. Our clinicians work with adults and children to heal the wounds that trauma or stressful events have created in their lives. When working with clients, clinicians utilize an integrative approach to best meet the needs of the client. Each team member has specialized training and styles that meet the needs of diverse clients.
Some of our team's specialties include Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma-Focused Play Therapy, Foster Care/Adoption, ADHD, LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Christian Counseling, Inner Child Work, and more.
The goal of Premier Psychotherapy is to create a place where anyone can relax and be fully self-expressed, without fear of judgment. The team offers a range of services that are designed to meet the individual needs of each client who comes to us for help. Our clinicians work with adults and children to heal the wounds that trauma or stressful events have created in their lives. When working with clients, clinicians utilize an integrative approach to best meet the needs of the client. Each team member has specialized training and styles that meet the needs of diverse clients.
A relational or interpersonal psychodynamic perspective helps me to see the person-first within a social context, without which we cannot truly understand an individual.
I am a Pittsburgher and I'm proud to practice psychology in my home community, and to support other therapists in my practice group by providing supervision and a supportive workplace. My goal is to see each client as a person first, and provide individualized healthcare. I see therapy as collaborative, and including both skill-building and self-exploration. In terms of self-exploration, I see the client as the expert in their own life, while a therapist is attuned to noticing themes or patterns that the client would have otherwise missed or avoided.
A relational or interpersonal psychodynamic perspective helps me to see the person-first within a social context, without which we cannot truly understand an individual.
I am a Pittsburgher and I'm proud to practice psychology in my home community, and to support other therapists in my practice group by providing supervision and a supportive workplace. My goal is to see each client as a person first, and provide individualized healthcare. I see therapy as collaborative, and including both skill-building and self-exploration. In terms of self-exploration, I see the client as the expert in their own life, while a therapist is attuned to noticing themes or patterns that the client would have otherwise missed or avoided.
Curious Cat Counseling and Counsulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have training in psychodynamic and CBT approaches.
Hey! Im Sarah, the owner of Curious Cat.
I sincerely enjoy working with people who are doing their best to become who they want to be in this world.
I have extensive expertise working with and being part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, working with people experiencing life transitions, and exploring and implementing values with my clients. I provide gender affirming care.
I have training in psychodynamic and CBT approaches.
Hey! Im Sarah, the owner of Curious Cat.
I sincerely enjoy working with people who are doing their best to become who they want to be in this world.
I have extensive expertise working with and being part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, working with people experiencing life transitions, and exploring and implementing values with my clients. I provide gender affirming care.
A psychodynamic approach helps clients feel listened to and encouraged to develop their story, gain insight and self-awareness, & notice the connection between past events and current difficulties.
My experience in evidence-based practices (CBT, mindfulness, DBT, ACT) helps explore techniques that would alleviate mental suffering and help you cope with life challenges.
A psychodynamic approach helps clients feel listened to and encouraged to develop their story, gain insight and self-awareness, & notice the connection between past events and current difficulties.
My experience in evidence-based practices (CBT, mindfulness, DBT, ACT) helps explore techniques that would alleviate mental suffering and help you cope with life challenges.
Humanistic, Relational Psychodynamic approach with a focus on helping clients increase understanding and awareness of their emotions, experiences, and relational patterns.
I have over 25 years of experience working with adults (age 18+) on issues of identity, relationships, and family concerns, as well as stress, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I have extensive experience working with college students and the particular challenges of young adulthood. I approach psychotherapy as a collaborative endeavor, and I believe that understanding the past is important in helping you make changes in the present. I look forward to helping you work towards your goals! In addition to my practice, I am an Adjunct Professor of Psychology and Counseling at Carlow University.
Humanistic, Relational Psychodynamic approach with a focus on helping clients increase understanding and awareness of their emotions, experiences, and relational patterns.
I have over 25 years of experience working with adults (age 18+) on issues of identity, relationships, and family concerns, as well as stress, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I have extensive experience working with college students and the particular challenges of young adulthood. I approach psychotherapy as a collaborative endeavor, and I believe that understanding the past is important in helping you make changes in the present. I look forward to helping you work towards your goals! In addition to my practice, I am an Adjunct Professor of Psychology and Counseling at Carlow University.
I approach therapy from a psychodynamic, insight-oriented lens for building greater self-awareness and deeper understanding of how patterns of thinking and behaving may be inhibiting your ability to make meaningful change.
I understand that seeking help of any kind can take a great deal of vulnerability; I provide a non-judgmental, compassionate therapeutic environment where emotional safety is paramount. I have experience counseling clients with depression, anxiety, relationship stressors, adjustments to life transitions and other identity related impasses. Other therapy journeys can take the shape of building a more secure, emotionally regulated, connected state within oneself or developing a more stable sense of worth.
I approach therapy from a psychodynamic, insight-oriented lens for building greater self-awareness and deeper understanding of how patterns of thinking and behaving may be inhibiting your ability to make meaningful change.
I understand that seeking help of any kind can take a great deal of vulnerability; I provide a non-judgmental, compassionate therapeutic environment where emotional safety is paramount. I have experience counseling clients with depression, anxiety, relationship stressors, adjustments to life transitions and other identity related impasses. Other therapy journeys can take the shape of building a more secure, emotionally regulated, connected state within oneself or developing a more stable sense of worth.
See more therapy options for Pittsburgh
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Pittsburgh
- Arsenal
- Aspinwall
- Carnegie
- East Liberty
- McKees Rocks
- Mount Lebanon
- Pleasant Hills
- Shadyside
- Squirrel Hill
- Swissvale
- West Homestead
- 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.