Photo of Christina Yan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94107, CA
Christina Yan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94107
As a psychodynamic therapist, I am dedicated to providing a safe, judgement-free environment where anything can be said, felt, imagined, and explored.
There are many reasons we might seek psychotherapy. We might want more or better for ourselves. We may be ready for change but something is stopping us. Perhaps we are grappling with a change, challenge, or uncertainty already upon us. The people I work with face challenges at various life stages, including those related to depression, anxiety, chronic/acute trauma, cultural conflicts, relationships, motherhood, high-pressure academic and work environments, entrepreneurship, and loss.
As a psychodynamic therapist, I am dedicated to providing a safe, judgement-free environment where anything can be said, felt, imagined, and explored.
There are many reasons we might seek psychotherapy. We might want more or better for ourselves. We may be ready for change but something is stopping us. Perhaps we are grappling with a change, challenge, or uncertainty already upon us. The people I work with face challenges at various life stages, including those related to depression, anxiety, chronic/acute trauma, cultural conflicts, relationships, motherhood, high-pressure academic and work environments, entrepreneurship, and loss.
(347) 967-5611 View (347) 967-5611
Photo of Arielle Piastunovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94107, CA
Arielle Piastunovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
(650) 206-9870 View (650) 206-9870
Photo of Ilene Rich-Holtzberg Ph.D., Psychologist in 94107, CA
Ilene Rich-Holtzberg Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94107
My focus is to develop a relationship with the client. This is called the two person model which is different than the old fashion practice where the doctor is one up and the client is one down. Rather, the two person model attempts to understand the client through questions and mutual discussion. I am not a silent therapist. I give feedback and remain fully engaged with the patient. Together we build a rapport. I adhere to a humanistic approach.
My focus is to develop a relationship with the client. This is called the two person model which is different than the old fashion practice where the doctor is one up and the client is one down. Rather, the two person model attempts to understand the client through questions and mutual discussion. I am not a silent therapist. I give feedback and remain fully engaged with the patient. Together we build a rapport. I adhere to a humanistic approach.
(415) 366-8999 View (415) 366-8999
Photo of Kalana Greer, Psychologist in 94107, CA
Kalana Greer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94107
Mental health often dictates a person’s overall well-being. Our perception of ourselves, our families, community and world allow us to experience the gift of life in its entirety or we can find ourselves struggling and limiting what life has to offer. Being a psychologist allows me to help people understand themselves and to create the best version of themselves; which often leads to good experiences and a fulfilling lifestyle. I appreciate the opportunity to connect with people and explore who they are and what they want out of life.
Mental health often dictates a person’s overall well-being. Our perception of ourselves, our families, community and world allow us to experience the gift of life in its entirety or we can find ourselves struggling and limiting what life has to offer. Being a psychologist allows me to help people understand themselves and to create the best version of themselves; which often leads to good experiences and a fulfilling lifestyle. I appreciate the opportunity to connect with people and explore who they are and what they want out of life.
(925) 526-7167 View (925) 526-7167

See more therapy options for 94107

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.