Psychodynamic Therapists in El Portal, CA

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Online Therapists

Photo of Erin R Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Erin R Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
I bring together a psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and humanistic approach that will effectively meet your needs.
I am an art therapist and LMFT. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents who have learning disorders, issues around early attachment, depression, anxiety, pervasive development disorders, and behavioral problems. I also work with adults in individual, co-parenting and family therapy. I can support clients through crisis and life changes. I am familiar with 12 step recovery and can provided effective treatment for dually diagnosed clients.
I bring together a psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and humanistic approach that will effectively meet your needs.
I am an art therapist and LMFT. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents who have learning disorders, issues around early attachment, depression, anxiety, pervasive development disorders, and behavioral problems. I also work with adults in individual, co-parenting and family therapy. I can support clients through crisis and life changes. I am familiar with 12 step recovery and can provided effective treatment for dually diagnosed clients.
(530) 656-5772 View (530) 656-5772
Photo of Rachel Kane-Cooley, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Rachel Kane-Cooley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93703
I most commonly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-centered, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness approaches in my practice.
Hi there. My name is Rachel Kane-Cooley and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I love connecting with and supporting others on their therapeutic journey. I consider this work a delight and a privilege. Over the years, I have met so many wonderful people looking to heal, grow, and evolve. It's a beautiful process and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
I most commonly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-centered, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness approaches in my practice.
Hi there. My name is Rachel Kane-Cooley and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I love connecting with and supporting others on their therapeutic journey. I consider this work a delight and a privilege. Over the years, I have met so many wonderful people looking to heal, grow, and evolve. It's a beautiful process and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
(951) 383-6952 View (951) 383-6952
Photo of Nicholas Giotto, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Nicholas Giotto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madera, CA 93638
Hello! My name is Nicholas Giotto. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate to have the privilege of helping others to navigate life’s challenges. I take a balanced approach to therapy, meeting individuals wherever they are in their journey of positive mental health. Sometimes that involves examining the past through a psychodynamic lens; other times taking a here-and-now view to make change using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or other mindfulness-based approaches.
Hello! My name is Nicholas Giotto. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate to have the privilege of helping others to navigate life’s challenges. I take a balanced approach to therapy, meeting individuals wherever they are in their journey of positive mental health. Sometimes that involves examining the past through a psychodynamic lens; other times taking a here-and-now view to make change using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or other mindfulness-based approaches.
(559) 702-5623 View (559) 702-5623
Photo of Margaret Effinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Portal, CA
Margaret Effinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Banos, CA 93635
I most commonly utilize Cognitive Theory and Psychodynamic Theory in my practice.
Hi there, I'm Margaret Effinger, LCSW 113220. My approach to therapy is warm, calm and compassionate. My focus areas of focus are anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and trauma. I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, and trauma.
I most commonly utilize Cognitive Theory and Psychodynamic Theory in my practice.
Hi there, I'm Margaret Effinger, LCSW 113220. My approach to therapy is warm, calm and compassionate. My focus areas of focus are anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and trauma. I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, and trauma.
(661) 927-0807 View (661) 927-0807
Photo of Ileana Gallegos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Portal, CA
Ileana Gallegos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95206
I utilize a variety of techniques, including psychodynamic, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and supportive interventions.
I am Ileana Gallegos, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about facilitating the healing process by collaborating with you to assist you with your goals. I strongly believe in creating safe spaces for clients without judgment. I am so excited that you have decided to take this next step in your journey to allow me to assist you with promoting healing, helping you reach your desired goals, to become a healthier, stronger version of yourself. I have helped individuals with trauma, mental illness, relationship issues, life transitions, and grief and loss.
I utilize a variety of techniques, including psychodynamic, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and supportive interventions.
I am Ileana Gallegos, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about facilitating the healing process by collaborating with you to assist you with your goals. I strongly believe in creating safe spaces for clients without judgment. I am so excited that you have decided to take this next step in your journey to allow me to assist you with promoting healing, helping you reach your desired goals, to become a healthier, stronger version of yourself. I have helped individuals with trauma, mental illness, relationship issues, life transitions, and grief and loss.
(209) 309-3595 View (209) 309-3595
Photo of Patricia (Patty) Behrens, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Patricia (Patty) Behrens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, CT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93720
Other techniques used come from DBT, mindfulness, MCBT, and psychodynamic.
My passion is to help you get immediate relief, manage symptoms and truly heal from the underlying causes of your distress. I believe you can obtain emotional healing from life's struggles whether from childhood and adult traumas or present circumstances. My approach is to empower you to work through your struggles, resolve traumas and discover what works for you. I have helped individuals heal from anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief, depression, transitions, and family/relational issues. I feel strongly about having an individualized plan that fits you and using cutting-edge methods that truly can change your brain.
Other techniques used come from DBT, mindfulness, MCBT, and psychodynamic.
My passion is to help you get immediate relief, manage symptoms and truly heal from the underlying causes of your distress. I believe you can obtain emotional healing from life's struggles whether from childhood and adult traumas or present circumstances. My approach is to empower you to work through your struggles, resolve traumas and discover what works for you. I have helped individuals heal from anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief, depression, transitions, and family/relational issues. I feel strongly about having an individualized plan that fits you and using cutting-edge methods that truly can change your brain.
(559) 549-9624 View (559) 549-9624
Photo of Ann Murphy, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Ann Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
I am Dr. Ann Susan Murphy, PsyD; I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, have an MFT license, and an MS in Sec. Ed, an MA in Counseling Psyc and a BS in Fash. Merch/Social Sciences. I can see the potential for true health in every individual and am positive and excited about each client I see. I believe in the power of the mind. I prefer Psychodynamic Therapy, as this gets quickly to the underlying cause, the real issue (s) blocking us from living to our full potential. Everyone needs to briefly uncover perceptions from the past and recognize how these perceptions can block us from living a balanced life in the present.
I am Dr. Ann Susan Murphy, PsyD; I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, have an MFT license, and an MS in Sec. Ed, an MA in Counseling Psyc and a BS in Fash. Merch/Social Sciences. I can see the potential for true health in every individual and am positive and excited about each client I see. I believe in the power of the mind. I prefer Psychodynamic Therapy, as this gets quickly to the underlying cause, the real issue (s) blocking us from living to our full potential. Everyone needs to briefly uncover perceptions from the past and recognize how these perceptions can block us from living a balanced life in the present.
(213) 799-5179 View (213) 799-5179
Photo of Shelly S Goscha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Portal, CA
Shelly S Goscha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life entails times of joy, happiness, growth, change, pain, and loss. Life can be hard and sometimes we need help to cope through difficult experiences and learn new ways of navigating the challenges we face. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change, reduce emotional suffering, access strengths, change negative patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and further movement toward a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Life entails times of joy, happiness, growth, change, pain, and loss. Life can be hard and sometimes we need help to cope through difficult experiences and learn new ways of navigating the challenges we face. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change, reduce emotional suffering, access strengths, change negative patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and further movement toward a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.
(916) 226-9443 View (916) 226-9443
Photo of Candyce Spruel, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Candyce Spruel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93710
My theoretical approach is based in psychodynamic theory and application is cognitive behavioral therapies (DBT and ACT.
Hi I am Candyce Spruel a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). I have been counseling for over 20 years. I am a client centered humanistic therapist. I approach every situation with a non-judgmental and empathic view. I am client focused and I met my clients where they are. I work with clients who have symptoms of anxiety, depression and psychosis. Many of my clients are survivors of childhood trauma.
My theoretical approach is based in psychodynamic theory and application is cognitive behavioral therapies (DBT and ACT.
Hi I am Candyce Spruel a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). I have been counseling for over 20 years. I am a client centered humanistic therapist. I approach every situation with a non-judgmental and empathic view. I am client focused and I met my clients where they are. I work with clients who have symptoms of anxiety, depression and psychosis. Many of my clients are survivors of childhood trauma.
(559) 648-9299 View (559) 648-9299
Photo of Karla Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Portal, CA
Karla Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lodi, CA 95240  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is eclectic and culturally sensitive while incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-Based, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-informed approaches.
I strongly believe that every human being is worthy and should be living their best life. Therapy should be a safe place where one can explore our deepest emotions, thoughts, and feelings without judgement. Together, I believe we can help you heal from past emotional wounds that are not allowing you to be who you truly are. I am a bilingual Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I have worked in outpatient mental health programs, non-profit agencies, field-based community programs, and private practice.
My approach to therapy is eclectic and culturally sensitive while incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-Based, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-informed approaches.
I strongly believe that every human being is worthy and should be living their best life. Therapy should be a safe place where one can explore our deepest emotions, thoughts, and feelings without judgement. Together, I believe we can help you heal from past emotional wounds that are not allowing you to be who you truly are. I am a bilingual Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I have worked in outpatient mental health programs, non-profit agencies, field-based community programs, and private practice.
(909) 490-3811 View (909) 490-3811
Photo of Sukhjit Mann, Psychologist in El Portal, CA
Sukhjit Mann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93703
My name is Dr. Sukhjit Mann and I am a Psychologist who is licensed to practice in California. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic, and psychodynamic based approaches in my clinical work. I have a background in working with a diverse population of clients, providing psychotherapy and conducting psychological evaluations for outpatient, inpatient, and forensic populations, with adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. I strongly believe in the power of psychotherapy and I think we all have the ability to help heal and better ourselves throughout each stage of our lives.
My name is Dr. Sukhjit Mann and I am a Psychologist who is licensed to practice in California. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic, and psychodynamic based approaches in my clinical work. I have a background in working with a diverse population of clients, providing psychotherapy and conducting psychological evaluations for outpatient, inpatient, and forensic populations, with adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. I strongly believe in the power of psychotherapy and I think we all have the ability to help heal and better ourselves throughout each stage of our lives.
(559) 314-1246 View (559) 314-1246
Photo of Samuel Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Samuel Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93704
I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I have worked with individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and attachment difficulties. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have suffered childhood abuse. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory. I believe that if there is a leaky pipe in the ceiling, the best approach is to figure out what caused that pipe to leak and repair the traumatic experiences.
I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I have worked with individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and attachment difficulties. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have suffered childhood abuse. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory. I believe that if there is a leaky pipe in the ceiling, the best approach is to figure out what caused that pipe to leak and repair the traumatic experiences.
(661) 760-2781 View (661) 760-2781
Photo of Emily Courney (Turlock Family Counseling), Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in El Portal, CA
Emily Courney (Turlock Family Counseling)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
Rabbi Shemuel ben Nachmani once said, "We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are." During our sessions, we will work together to increase self-awareness surrounding long-standing cognitions in order to nurture congruence between your intrapersonal world and outward actions. My approach is influenced by existentialist, psychodynamic, and attachment theories, as well as mentalization based treatment. In other words, I work through several combined approaches in order to help you identify how your past experiences have shaped the way you view the world today.
Rabbi Shemuel ben Nachmani once said, "We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are." During our sessions, we will work together to increase self-awareness surrounding long-standing cognitions in order to nurture congruence between your intrapersonal world and outward actions. My approach is influenced by existentialist, psychodynamic, and attachment theories, as well as mentalization based treatment. In other words, I work through several combined approaches in order to help you identify how your past experiences have shaped the way you view the world today.
(209) 439-5166 View (209) 439-5166
Photo of Teresa Moreno, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Teresa Moreno
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95624
My therapeutic approaches are the use of CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), and Psychodynamic.
Hello. My name is Teresa Moreno. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with diverse populations and situations. I believe Recovery is possible. Life can become stressful and challenging as we navigate changes in our lives- whether it is divorce, a breakup, trauma, loss, parenting, relocating, unfulfilled careers, conflict in family or relationships, and so forth. Our bodies can respond to changes and or stress in different ways- depression, anxiety, anger, loss of sleep, overthinking, loss of pleasure or hope, diet changes, loss of concentration or loss of motivation, etc.
My therapeutic approaches are the use of CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), and Psychodynamic.
Hello. My name is Teresa Moreno. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with diverse populations and situations. I believe Recovery is possible. Life can become stressful and challenging as we navigate changes in our lives- whether it is divorce, a breakup, trauma, loss, parenting, relocating, unfulfilled careers, conflict in family or relationships, and so forth. Our bodies can respond to changes and or stress in different ways- depression, anxiety, anger, loss of sleep, overthinking, loss of pleasure or hope, diet changes, loss of concentration or loss of motivation, etc.
(213) 577-1052 View (213) 577-1052
Photo of Faria Alamkhel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Portal, CA
Faria Alamkhel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95202  (Online Only)
My work is guided by my client's goals for treatment and is informed by Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness in order to reduce symptoms while increasing coping skills.
I believe that every human being has an inner wisdom, and I use evidence and strengths-based approaches to help us tap into your inherent ability to heal, thrive, and live with inner peace. As part of my approach, I seek to gently uncover the thoughts, feelings, and dynamics that may keep you stuck in some aspect of your life. I believe in the mind-body connection and honor a holistic approach to your healing journey.
My work is guided by my client's goals for treatment and is informed by Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness in order to reduce symptoms while increasing coping skills.
I believe that every human being has an inner wisdom, and I use evidence and strengths-based approaches to help us tap into your inherent ability to heal, thrive, and live with inner peace. As part of my approach, I seek to gently uncover the thoughts, feelings, and dynamics that may keep you stuck in some aspect of your life. I believe in the mind-body connection and honor a holistic approach to your healing journey.
(209) 439-5224 View (209) 439-5224
Photo of Kathleen Funes, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Kathleen Funes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95351
I also utilize CBT, family systems, and psychodynamic theories.
Hello, My name is Kathleen Funes. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working alongside you to help create a pathway toward self-awareness, healing, joy, and fulfillment. I work from a relational, client-centered, and psychodynamic approach. I believe that one’s past provides a pathway for what they may be experiencing in the present. I believe that it is essential to have a trusting relationship in a safe and therapeutic space. My hope is for you to feel both heard and known during our time together.
I also utilize CBT, family systems, and psychodynamic theories.
Hello, My name is Kathleen Funes. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working alongside you to help create a pathway toward self-awareness, healing, joy, and fulfillment. I work from a relational, client-centered, and psychodynamic approach. I believe that one’s past provides a pathway for what they may be experiencing in the present. I believe that it is essential to have a trusting relationship in a safe and therapeutic space. My hope is for you to feel both heard and known during our time together.
(619) 815-3943 View (619) 815-3943
Photo of Theppharack Sounthala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Portal, CA
Theppharack Sounthala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95355
Hello! I'm Theppharack Sounthala, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with a Master of Social Work from the California State University of Stanislaus. I have over 20 years of diverse experience with adults who are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Grief, and Loss. I also have experience working with refugee clients, and am a refugee myself. I speak English, Laotian, and Thai, and provide services via teletherapy. Some of my most used modalities are CBT, Cognitive Processing, Humanistic, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused, Strength-Based, and more.
Hello! I'm Theppharack Sounthala, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with a Master of Social Work from the California State University of Stanislaus. I have over 20 years of diverse experience with adults who are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Grief, and Loss. I also have experience working with refugee clients, and am a refugee myself. I speak English, Laotian, and Thai, and provide services via teletherapy. Some of my most used modalities are CBT, Cognitive Processing, Humanistic, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused, Strength-Based, and more.
(209) 554-2031 View (209) 554-2031
Photo of Jessica Rice, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Jessica Rice
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711
Every person has their own reasons for seeking therapy. Some choose it during a period of major life transitions or hardships, while others may seek out therapy in order to deepen their understanding of themselves. By using a psychodynamic and object relations model I am able to consider the whole person rather than pure symptom reduction. I believe there is both conscious and unconscious meaning to symptoms.
Every person has their own reasons for seeking therapy. Some choose it during a period of major life transitions or hardships, while others may seek out therapy in order to deepen their understanding of themselves. By using a psychodynamic and object relations model I am able to consider the whole person rather than pure symptom reduction. I believe there is both conscious and unconscious meaning to symptoms.
(559) 366-6522 View (559) 366-6522
Photo of Kristen Nurkowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Portal, CA
Kristen Nurkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hanford, CA 93230
As a licensed clinical social worker, I take a humanistic perspective, utilizing both psychodynamic and holistic approaches to support my clients moving toward their valued direction and developing the skills to do so. Only by taking the time to explore your inner-workings, can we begin to identify and eradicate what doesn’t work by developing strategies & moving towards what does, allowing a healthy authentic adult version of you to emerge.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I take a humanistic perspective, utilizing both psychodynamic and holistic approaches to support my clients moving toward their valued direction and developing the skills to do so. Only by taking the time to explore your inner-workings, can we begin to identify and eradicate what doesn’t work by developing strategies & moving towards what does, allowing a healthy authentic adult version of you to emerge.
(559) 543-9994 View (559) 543-9994
Photo of Miriam Lamb, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Portal, CA
Miriam Lamb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95355
My name is Miriam Lamb. I utilize an integrative/holistic approach to therapy. I provide services that engage you logically, emotionally, spiritually (if relevant), and physically. I don't provide a 'one size fits all approach' and utilize many modalities. I have a public health background and believe in the interplay between mind/body/spirit. I utilize CBT, EMDR, Jungian, psychodynamic, art therapy, play therapy, DBT, poetry/music/sound therapy, transpersonal psychology, somatic approaches, and many more. I also work with families and couples.
My name is Miriam Lamb. I utilize an integrative/holistic approach to therapy. I provide services that engage you logically, emotionally, spiritually (if relevant), and physically. I don't provide a 'one size fits all approach' and utilize many modalities. I have a public health background and believe in the interplay between mind/body/spirit. I utilize CBT, EMDR, Jungian, psychodynamic, art therapy, play therapy, DBT, poetry/music/sound therapy, transpersonal psychology, somatic approaches, and many more. I also work with families and couples.
(209) 528-0977 View (209) 528-0977

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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.