Psychodynamic Therapists in 20003

Photo of Peter Devlin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Devlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
I practice a relational form of psychodynamic/humanistic therapy that views the therapeutic relationship as central to the therapeutic process. However. I also incorporate therapeutic tools from difrrent pychotherapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, and psychoanalysis . I have had great success working with people who have had difficulty connecting to therapists in the past and am noted for working with high-conflict couples. I enjoy working with couples utilizing. among other modalities, the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, which aren't necessarily exclusive to each other
I practice a relational form of psychodynamic/humanistic therapy that views the therapeutic relationship as central to the therapeutic process. However. I also incorporate therapeutic tools from difrrent pychotherapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, and psychoanalysis . I have had great success working with people who have had difficulty connecting to therapists in the past and am noted for working with high-conflict couples. I enjoy working with couples utilizing. among other modalities, the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, which aren't necessarily exclusive to each other
(202) 972-6846 View (202) 972-6846
Photo of Stephanie Benson, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephanie Benson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Benson utilizes an integrative and multicultural approach to therapy and draws upon psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
Dr. Benson specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, body image concerns, eating disorders, and relationship concerns. She has worked in several outpatient settings, including a community mental health center, a public high school, a VA Medical Center, a college counseling center, and two private group practices.
Benson utilizes an integrative and multicultural approach to therapy and draws upon psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
Dr. Benson specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, body image concerns, eating disorders, and relationship concerns. She has worked in several outpatient settings, including a community mental health center, a public high school, a VA Medical Center, a college counseling center, and two private group practices.
(202) 902-6884 View (202) 902-6884
Photo of Cherian Verghese, PhD, Psychologist
Cherian Verghese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
I have several years of graduate and post-graduate training and work experiences in Psychodynamic, Rogerian, Behavioral and other forms of psychotherapy.
My aim in individual and couple therapy is to help you better understand and address aspects of your life that are less than satisfactory. Those problems may include anxiety, depression, fluctuating self-esteem issues, and conflictual interpersonal, family and/or intimate/couple relationships. Understanding and overcoming the limiting, even crippling, effects of early life traumas on your life at present may also be important for us to consider. The privacy and safety of a confidential therapeutic environment is ideal for us to explore problems together and find ways for you to move forward to a more rewarding and satisfying life.
I have several years of graduate and post-graduate training and work experiences in Psychodynamic, Rogerian, Behavioral and other forms of psychotherapy.
My aim in individual and couple therapy is to help you better understand and address aspects of your life that are less than satisfactory. Those problems may include anxiety, depression, fluctuating self-esteem issues, and conflictual interpersonal, family and/or intimate/couple relationships. Understanding and overcoming the limiting, even crippling, effects of early life traumas on your life at present may also be important for us to consider. The privacy and safety of a confidential therapeutic environment is ideal for us to explore problems together and find ways for you to move forward to a more rewarding and satisfying life.
(202) 670-3905 View (202) 670-3905
Photo of Raquel Grigera, PsyD, Psychologist
Raquel Grigera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Grigera is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), The Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Family Based Treatment (FBT) for eating disorders.
Dr. Grigera is a licensed clinical psychologist who adults and adolescents specializing in couples counseling, eating disorders, self esteem concerns, mood and anxiety disorders, self-injury, suicidal ideation, trauma, and relationship concerns. She provides individualized evidence-based therapeutic services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She has extensive experience in conducting individual, group, and family therapy. Dr. Grigera has worked in a variety of settings, including private practices, public school systems, medical centers, and residential treatment centers.
Grigera is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), The Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Family Based Treatment (FBT) for eating disorders.
Dr. Grigera is a licensed clinical psychologist who adults and adolescents specializing in couples counseling, eating disorders, self esteem concerns, mood and anxiety disorders, self-injury, suicidal ideation, trauma, and relationship concerns. She provides individualized evidence-based therapeutic services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She has extensive experience in conducting individual, group, and family therapy. Dr. Grigera has worked in a variety of settings, including private practices, public school systems, medical centers, and residential treatment centers.
(202) 831-2138 View (202) 831-2138
Photo of Nicole Rollins-Lamar, PsyD, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Rollins-Lamar
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Lamar uses a psychodynamic approach to therapy which emphasizes the client's relationship patterns and interpersonal conflicts.
Dr. Lamar is a psychologist and a licensed professional counselor who has been providing therapy to individuals, families and groups for over 18 years. She earned a Psy.D. and Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University's Illinois School of Professional Psychology.
Lamar uses a psychodynamic approach to therapy which emphasizes the client's relationship patterns and interpersonal conflicts.
Dr. Lamar is a psychologist and a licensed professional counselor who has been providing therapy to individuals, families and groups for over 18 years. She earned a Psy.D. and Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University's Illinois School of Professional Psychology.
(202) 759-6134 View (202) 759-6134
Photo of Kelly Haines, MSW, MPH, LICSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Haines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPH, LICSW, CGP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Welcome! I'd like to tell you, I am an in-person individual, couple, and group psychotherapist. Areas of my specialization are attachment, anxiety, codependency, relationship issues, addiction, and trauma/PTSD. My interventions are somatic, psychodynamic and IFS-informed. If we work together, I can help you (+partner) with new and different behaviors so you can develop meaningful relationships, resolve old pain & trauma, break unhelpful habits, decrease anxiety, achieve work/life balance, use confidence and assertiveness to get your needs met, as well as increase experiences of joy, pleasure, vitality, equanimity.
Welcome! I'd like to tell you, I am an in-person individual, couple, and group psychotherapist. Areas of my specialization are attachment, anxiety, codependency, relationship issues, addiction, and trauma/PTSD. My interventions are somatic, psychodynamic and IFS-informed. If we work together, I can help you (+partner) with new and different behaviors so you can develop meaningful relationships, resolve old pain & trauma, break unhelpful habits, decrease anxiety, achieve work/life balance, use confidence and assertiveness to get your needs met, as well as increase experiences of joy, pleasure, vitality, equanimity.
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Photo of Heather Lyle Cassidy, PsyD, Psychologist
Heather Lyle Cassidy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
My training and practice is psychodynamic, which focuses on understanding how you are feeling in the moment, and making connections between your past and present.
I’m a clinical psychologist specializing in understanding relationships, both with yourself and with others. I graduated from a psychology doctoral program in 2004 and have worked at psychiatric and health rehabilitation hospitals, community mental health center, and long term care facilities, treating adolescents, adults and seniors. I have had a full- time private practice for over 13 years.
My training and practice is psychodynamic, which focuses on understanding how you are feeling in the moment, and making connections between your past and present.
I’m a clinical psychologist specializing in understanding relationships, both with yourself and with others. I graduated from a psychology doctoral program in 2004 and have worked at psychiatric and health rehabilitation hospitals, community mental health center, and long term care facilities, treating adolescents, adults and seniors. I have had a full- time private practice for over 13 years.
(202) 251-5197 View (202) 251-5197
Photo of Lisa Schievelbein, PsyD, Psychologist
Lisa Schievelbein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
I learned my craft in extraordinary places (including Stanford Psychiatry and the National Center for PTSD), and I am pleased to offer psychodynamic therapy, an evidence-based form of care.
In times like these, mental health can be a fragile thing. You might be feeling sad, stressed, anxious, detached, irritable, or just plain ground down. The one thing you don’t feel like is yourself. Under the surface of your day-to-day burdens, there may be deeper concerns calling for your attention. Perhaps your relationships are stagnant or suffering. An old betrayal or grief might keep coming up. However it looks, you deserve to live in better conditions. We can help you stretch your innate capacity to live a life with more freedom, choice, and possibility.
I learned my craft in extraordinary places (including Stanford Psychiatry and the National Center for PTSD), and I am pleased to offer psychodynamic therapy, an evidence-based form of care.
In times like these, mental health can be a fragile thing. You might be feeling sad, stressed, anxious, detached, irritable, or just plain ground down. The one thing you don’t feel like is yourself. Under the surface of your day-to-day burdens, there may be deeper concerns calling for your attention. Perhaps your relationships are stagnant or suffering. An old betrayal or grief might keep coming up. However it looks, you deserve to live in better conditions. We can help you stretch your innate capacity to live a life with more freedom, choice, and possibility.
(202) 968-1460 View (202) 968-1460
Photo of Stephanie O'Brien, MSW, LGSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
In my practice, I incorporate training in grief and trauma-focused therapies, mindfulness and somatic techniques, and relational psychodynamic approaches.
Loss is the universal human condition. At times, all of us move with a sense of "lostness" - be it around a death, a relationship, our sense of safety, hopes for the future. Yet as a culture, we have a hard time being with loss and accompanying grief. I believe that loss and grief deserve attention. You may know exactly why you are seeking therapy, or you may something may just feel off. My role is to help you learn about yourself and your losses. I hold special interest and skill supporting people with experiences of infertility/pregnancy loss, relationship loss, trauma, and death and dying.
In my practice, I incorporate training in grief and trauma-focused therapies, mindfulness and somatic techniques, and relational psychodynamic approaches.
Loss is the universal human condition. At times, all of us move with a sense of "lostness" - be it around a death, a relationship, our sense of safety, hopes for the future. Yet as a culture, we have a hard time being with loss and accompanying grief. I believe that loss and grief deserve attention. You may know exactly why you are seeking therapy, or you may something may just feel off. My role is to help you learn about yourself and your losses. I hold special interest and skill supporting people with experiences of infertility/pregnancy loss, relationship loss, trauma, and death and dying.
(202) 804-9592 View (202) 804-9592
Photo of Jeremy Kozne, PhD, Psychologist
Jeremy Kozne
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
I teach clients skills from evidence-based therapies including: Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Short-Term Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & Mindfulness strategies.
Many people get stuck and feel disappointed or unsatisfied when they evaluate their lives. I work with clients to help them identify destructive thoughts and behaviors, manage disruptive, uncomfortable emotions, establish more fulfilling relationships, and reach a place of genuine satisfaction. I teach clients skills to increase positive feelings and we will work together to uncover deep insights and break entrenched maladaptive, negative life patterns. As your therapist, I provide a warm, directive and active role to help you meet your treatment goals.
I teach clients skills from evidence-based therapies including: Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Short-Term Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & Mindfulness strategies.
Many people get stuck and feel disappointed or unsatisfied when they evaluate their lives. I work with clients to help them identify destructive thoughts and behaviors, manage disruptive, uncomfortable emotions, establish more fulfilling relationships, and reach a place of genuine satisfaction. I teach clients skills to increase positive feelings and we will work together to uncover deep insights and break entrenched maladaptive, negative life patterns. As your therapist, I provide a warm, directive and active role to help you meet your treatment goals.
(202) 933-7917 View (202) 933-7917
Photo of Latia Taliaferro - Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C., Marriage & Family Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C.
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
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.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Johanna Williams, PhD
Johanna Williams
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
As a psychodynamic psychologist, the relationship I try to build with my clients is one of openness, genuinness, and innovation.
Approaching therapy can be very scary and may feel like just another thing on your to do list. You may feel apprehensive about sharing intimate details of your life with a complete stranger or perhaps therapy isn't your first rodeo at all and you're seeking something specific. No matter the need, I believe therapy is for everyone. The difference between therapy and a friend is 1. You pay a considerable amount of money, give dedicated time to your concerns, have peace and quiet, and resources ready for you to grab at your own leisure instead of someone else telling you the shoulda, coulda, woulda's.
As a psychodynamic psychologist, the relationship I try to build with my clients is one of openness, genuinness, and innovation.
Approaching therapy can be very scary and may feel like just another thing on your to do list. You may feel apprehensive about sharing intimate details of your life with a complete stranger or perhaps therapy isn't your first rodeo at all and you're seeking something specific. No matter the need, I believe therapy is for everyone. The difference between therapy and a friend is 1. You pay a considerable amount of money, give dedicated time to your concerns, have peace and quiet, and resources ready for you to grab at your own leisure instead of someone else telling you the shoulda, coulda, woulda's.
(703) 420-5210 View (703) 420-5210
Photo of Megan Goldberg, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
My approach includes psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies along with Gottman’s, Imago, and emotionally focused therapy for couples.
If you feel stuck, stagnated, or like you’re struggling with persistent worries, avoidance or procrastination, tough communication with a partner, a stream of academic or career stressors, or your relationship with substances, we can work together to improve your satisfaction with yourself and the life you create around you. Life is full of challenges and it’s crucial to develop a toolbox of coping strategies to navigate them fluidly. That’s where I come in! Together, we'll create a safe space for us to process your challenges and use your strengths to step toward your goals.
My approach includes psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies along with Gottman’s, Imago, and emotionally focused therapy for couples.
If you feel stuck, stagnated, or like you’re struggling with persistent worries, avoidance or procrastination, tough communication with a partner, a stream of academic or career stressors, or your relationship with substances, we can work together to improve your satisfaction with yourself and the life you create around you. Life is full of challenges and it’s crucial to develop a toolbox of coping strategies to navigate them fluidly. That’s where I come in! Together, we'll create a safe space for us to process your challenges and use your strengths to step toward your goals.
(202) 929-0995 View (202) 929-0995
Photo of Sarah Holland, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Holland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, OCD, self-doubt, and harsh inner critics to learn how to relate to themselves and to the world differently so that they can live lives of greater authenticity, belonging, and purpose. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems (or "parts work"), psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies, as well as ERP.
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, OCD, self-doubt, and harsh inner critics to learn how to relate to themselves and to the world differently so that they can live lives of greater authenticity, belonging, and purpose. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems (or "parts work"), psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies, as well as ERP.
(202) 890-1828 View (202) 890-1828
Photo of Julie Kirtz, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Kirtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
Waitlist for new clients
My emotion-focused approach is rooted in psychodynamic and attachment theories.
Are you struggling to connect with others or to move on from a painful experience? I can help you get unstuck and deal with life's future curve balls. Working as a team, I tailor my therapeutic approach to your individual goals. With each session, I work to create a warm and trusting space for growth and healing. By processing core issues, you can change unhelpful emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns in sustainable ways. I am able to provide in-person therapy in my DC office and online therapy for folks physically located in DC and MD.
My emotion-focused approach is rooted in psychodynamic and attachment theories.
Are you struggling to connect with others or to move on from a painful experience? I can help you get unstuck and deal with life's future curve balls. Working as a team, I tailor my therapeutic approach to your individual goals. With each session, I work to create a warm and trusting space for growth and healing. By processing core issues, you can change unhelpful emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns in sustainable ways. I am able to provide in-person therapy in my DC office and online therapy for folks physically located in DC and MD.
(202) 929-5754 View (202) 929-5754
Photo of Brittni Dash - SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
(202) 804-0992 View (202) 804-0992
Photo of Kimberly Brammer, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Brammer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
I believe that resiliency is in each of us. You may have tried multiple ways to create change for yourself and found it difficulty to break out of unhealthy patterns. These feelings may be affecting your work, relationships, or health. I have worked with many individuals and couples who struggle with creating change long term. Whether you've tried therapy before or this is your first time, deciding to step outside your comfort zone and try something different is the first step to a more fulfilling life.
I believe that resiliency is in each of us. You may have tried multiple ways to create change for yourself and found it difficulty to break out of unhealthy patterns. These feelings may be affecting your work, relationships, or health. I have worked with many individuals and couples who struggle with creating change long term. Whether you've tried therapy before or this is your first time, deciding to step outside your comfort zone and try something different is the first step to a more fulfilling life.
(202) 860-1523 View (202) 860-1523
Photo of Virginia Hendrickson - The Capitol Hill Center for Individual and Family, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Capitol Hill Center for Individual and Family
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
Why do we cling to dysfunctional relationship patterns or engage in self-defeating behaviors, perpetuating these ways of living despite the suffering involved? The work we do addresses these concerns in the lives of adults, adolescents, and children.
Why do we cling to dysfunctional relationship patterns or engage in self-defeating behaviors, perpetuating these ways of living despite the suffering involved? The work we do addresses these concerns in the lives of adults, adolescents, and children.
(202) 999-3598 View (202) 999-3598
Photo of Christopher Barry Hill, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Barry Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
(202) 759-4221 View (202) 759-4221
Photo of Adriana Couto Silva, LCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adriana Couto Silva
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
It can be hard to change our habits and ways of relating with ourselves and with others even when old patterns are causing significant emotional pain. For real change to take place, something beyond motivation and a commitment to change is often needed. What can make a real difference involves finding a receptive person and an accepting environment that fosters a deeper understanding of one's self. I strive to provide such a receptive and safe environment to my clients with the hope that they feel listened to, understood, and recognized in their desires to get to know themselves, to connect with others and to feel alive in the world
It can be hard to change our habits and ways of relating with ourselves and with others even when old patterns are causing significant emotional pain. For real change to take place, something beyond motivation and a commitment to change is often needed. What can make a real difference involves finding a receptive person and an accepting environment that fosters a deeper understanding of one's self. I strive to provide such a receptive and safe environment to my clients with the hope that they feel listened to, understood, and recognized in their desires to get to know themselves, to connect with others and to feel alive in the world
(202) 937-1183 View (202) 937-1183
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Psychodynamic Therapists

Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?

Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?

Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?

Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?

Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.