Photo of Dr. Rikki Spencer, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Dr. Rikki Spencer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I integrate various therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based.
We all have the capacity for a fulfilling life. However, sometimes either our biology betrays us or we get stuck in over-learned, over-practiced loops. Sometimes the actions of others or of the larger system block or derail us. We become unsure, losing our confidence. Often we do not understand what is wrong or why, but we know we are capable of more – more joy, more achievement, more intimacy, more satisfaction. I can and want to help you reach your goals.
I integrate various therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based.
We all have the capacity for a fulfilling life. However, sometimes either our biology betrays us or we get stuck in over-learned, over-practiced loops. Sometimes the actions of others or of the larger system block or derail us. We become unsure, losing our confidence. Often we do not understand what is wrong or why, but we know we are capable of more – more joy, more achievement, more intimacy, more satisfaction. I can and want to help you reach your goals.
(858) 758-7637 View (858) 758-7637
Photo of Julie K Peters, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in La Jolla, CA
Julie K Peters
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
My training equips me with skills in drama therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, etc.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
My training equips me with skills in drama therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, etc.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
(510) 380-5706 View (510) 380-5706
Photo of Louiza Livschitz, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Louiza Livschitz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I primarily practice from a relational psychodynamic orientation, while integrating aspects from other modalities such as DBT, CBT, and ACT based on each client's unique presenting problems.
I believe that early in life we develop ways to cope with difficult experiences and environmental situations that we couldn’t control and throughout life those cope mechanisms become reinforced. For many of us there comes a point where some of the ways that we learned to exist in the world no longer adaptively serve us. This is often a time we find ourselves in therapy. I want to help you gain insight into those patterns and develop new ways of being in order to make positive changes. These changes often come from both evidence-based tools and deeper reflections. Visit my website to read more about me: www.drlouizalivschitz.com
I primarily practice from a relational psychodynamic orientation, while integrating aspects from other modalities such as DBT, CBT, and ACT based on each client's unique presenting problems.
I believe that early in life we develop ways to cope with difficult experiences and environmental situations that we couldn’t control and throughout life those cope mechanisms become reinforced. For many of us there comes a point where some of the ways that we learned to exist in the world no longer adaptively serve us. This is often a time we find ourselves in therapy. I want to help you gain insight into those patterns and develop new ways of being in order to make positive changes. These changes often come from both evidence-based tools and deeper reflections. Visit my website to read more about me: www.drlouizalivschitz.com
(925) 293-9042 View (925) 293-9042
Photo of Alexa Douros in La Jolla, CA
Alexa Douros
LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I integrate ACT, DBT, and CBT practices into a foundation of psychodynamic, narrative, and feminist theories.
You might be in survival-mode, and that makes sense. Together, we can explore ways to cultivate safety and recovery in your life. My approach emphasizes genuine curiosity, self-compassion, and non-judgment to empower your journey towards healing. Whether you're seeking support for trauma, self-esteem challenges, negative self-talk, anxiety, depression, shame, or difficulties in your relationships, I can help.
I integrate ACT, DBT, and CBT practices into a foundation of psychodynamic, narrative, and feminist theories.
You might be in survival-mode, and that makes sense. Together, we can explore ways to cultivate safety and recovery in your life. My approach emphasizes genuine curiosity, self-compassion, and non-judgment to empower your journey towards healing. Whether you're seeking support for trauma, self-esteem challenges, negative self-talk, anxiety, depression, shame, or difficulties in your relationships, I can help.
(760) 479-7064 View (760) 479-7064
Photo of Julia Rosengren, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Julia Rosengren
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
(858) 609-8405 View (858) 609-8405
Photo of Lawrence T Woodburn, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Lawrence T Woodburn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Our integrative approach uses psychodynamic and cognitive strategies that nurture psychological, emotional, physical and spiritual growth in an environment of empathy and compassion.
We believe that therapy is an opportunity for enhancing the functioning of individuals and families because everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life. We are sensitive to our diverse community and strive to honor everyone’s beliefs and cultural values offering services tailored to meet the needs of our clients.
Our integrative approach uses psychodynamic and cognitive strategies that nurture psychological, emotional, physical and spiritual growth in an environment of empathy and compassion.
We believe that therapy is an opportunity for enhancing the functioning of individuals and families because everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life. We are sensitive to our diverse community and strive to honor everyone’s beliefs and cultural values offering services tailored to meet the needs of our clients.
(858) 452-1477 View (858) 452-1477
Photo of Russell F Fuller, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Russell F Fuller
Psychologist, JD, PsyD, DCEP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
(858) 215-1921 View (858) 215-1921
Photo of Kim F Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Kim F Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. My therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic and person-centered perspectives, which means that we may explore the past and patterns of relationships to help you gain personal insight and healing. To facilitate this process, I integrate EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
Hello and welcome. My therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic and person-centered perspectives, which means that we may explore the past and patterns of relationships to help you gain personal insight and healing. To facilitate this process, I integrate EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
(858) 780-4092 View (858) 780-4092
Photo of Roseann Larson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Roseann Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
My professional training includes post-graduate certification in psychodynamic psychotherapy from the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute.
Because each person is different, there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy. Ultimately, the right therapist can help you develop a greater sense of peace and self-fulfillment. So it is important to choose someone with whom you feel safe; someone who will listen, empathize, and respect your needs; and someone with the skills necessary to support you in reaching your goals. In the process, you will acquire greater self-awareness, and learn to cope more effectively with life issues. This is my approach to therapy.
My professional training includes post-graduate certification in psychodynamic psychotherapy from the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute.
Because each person is different, there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy. Ultimately, the right therapist can help you develop a greater sense of peace and self-fulfillment. So it is important to choose someone with whom you feel safe; someone who will listen, empathize, and respect your needs; and someone with the skills necessary to support you in reaching your goals. In the process, you will acquire greater self-awareness, and learn to cope more effectively with life issues. This is my approach to therapy.
(619) 722-3116 View (619) 722-3116
Photo of Sara Vicendese & Associates , Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Sara Vicendese & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
At The Maple Counseling Center, I received supervised training in psychodynamic, interpersonal therapy.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression? Is your mood affecting your relationships or career? Sometimes life's challenges become difficult to overcome alone. I offer free phone consultations to see if my practice might be the right fit for your needs. I have diverse training and experience working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. While there are no guarantees of what you will experience, therapy has shown significant benefits for most people who go through it. And being here, on this site, is an important first step.
At The Maple Counseling Center, I received supervised training in psychodynamic, interpersonal therapy.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression? Is your mood affecting your relationships or career? Sometimes life's challenges become difficult to overcome alone. I offer free phone consultations to see if my practice might be the right fit for your needs. I have diverse training and experience working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. While there are no guarantees of what you will experience, therapy has shown significant benefits for most people who go through it. And being here, on this site, is an important first step.
(310) 504-1898 View (310) 504-1898
Photo of Ross Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Ross Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I primarily work from Rogerian, client-centered, and psychodynamic orientations.
Authentic communication and connection nourishes our essence. Being in tune with our deeper self helps us stay centered, feeling sure and confident of who we are. At times our head may spin from anxiety-provoking events or situations. We can learn to cope and self-regulate by getting in touch with our self in different ways. Nourishing our essence gives us a solid sense of self-worth, helping us feel safe and secure in the universe allowing us to take ownership of our journey through life, whether dealing with addiction, depression, anxiety, or relationships we can learn to live in the solution.
I primarily work from Rogerian, client-centered, and psychodynamic orientations.
Authentic communication and connection nourishes our essence. Being in tune with our deeper self helps us stay centered, feeling sure and confident of who we are. At times our head may spin from anxiety-provoking events or situations. We can learn to cope and self-regulate by getting in touch with our self in different ways. Nourishing our essence gives us a solid sense of self-worth, helping us feel safe and secure in the universe allowing us to take ownership of our journey through life, whether dealing with addiction, depression, anxiety, or relationships we can learn to live in the solution.
(805) 214-6831 View (805) 214-6831
Photo of Julianne Lucia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Julianne Lucia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
My clinical approach is eclectic; most often pulling from psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal and Internal Family Systems (IFS informed) theoretical orientations.
Julianne has had the privilege and honor to support and treat diverse populations of all ages who experience mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, gender dysphoria, neurodevelopmental disorders, personality disorders, as well as issues related to grief and loss, chronic illnesses/pain/sleep disorders, life transitions, relationship & social issues, and sex & intimacy. Julianne's main mission is to provide more safe therapeutic spaces focused for women and the LGBTQ+ community to explore their internal worlds.
My clinical approach is eclectic; most often pulling from psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal and Internal Family Systems (IFS informed) theoretical orientations.
Julianne has had the privilege and honor to support and treat diverse populations of all ages who experience mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, gender dysphoria, neurodevelopmental disorders, personality disorders, as well as issues related to grief and loss, chronic illnesses/pain/sleep disorders, life transitions, relationship & social issues, and sex & intimacy. Julianne's main mission is to provide more safe therapeutic spaces focused for women and the LGBTQ+ community to explore their internal worlds.
(323) 431-5587 View (323) 431-5587
Photo of Dr. Rachel Tobi, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Dr. Rachel Tobi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92093  (Online Only)
Hi! I am Dr. Tobi and I typically work with young adults presenting with a variety of concerns including anxiety, family or relationship issues, relational trauma (including narcissistic abuse), codependency, self-esteem issues, and depression. My approach to therapy involves a holistic and collaborative process; we will work together on your personal journey of growth, change, and empowerment. I integrate multiple therapeutic modalities to best fit your individual needs, including CBT, DBT, internal family systems, psychodynamic, attachment, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Hi! I am Dr. Tobi and I typically work with young adults presenting with a variety of concerns including anxiety, family or relationship issues, relational trauma (including narcissistic abuse), codependency, self-esteem issues, and depression. My approach to therapy involves a holistic and collaborative process; we will work together on your personal journey of growth, change, and empowerment. I integrate multiple therapeutic modalities to best fit your individual needs, including CBT, DBT, internal family systems, psychodynamic, attachment, and mindfulness-based approaches.
(619) 439-0805 View (619) 439-0805
Photo of Maggie Tysor, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Maggie Tysor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92093  (Online Only)
I work from a psychodynamic and attachment-based lens.
You're feeling overwhelmed by the racing thoughts in your mind. It's been difficult to trust yourself, set boundaries, and stick to them. That can be exhausting and probably has you feeling under-appreciated, resentful, and burnt out! Imagine what it might feel like to be more grounded and resourced in your body and mind. Imagine feeling more confident in your voice and speaking about your needs. I enjoy supporting women and queer folks to lead a more integrated and aligned life. If any of this resonates with you, we might be a good fit :)
I work from a psychodynamic and attachment-based lens.
You're feeling overwhelmed by the racing thoughts in your mind. It's been difficult to trust yourself, set boundaries, and stick to them. That can be exhausting and probably has you feeling under-appreciated, resentful, and burnt out! Imagine what it might feel like to be more grounded and resourced in your body and mind. Imagine feeling more confident in your voice and speaking about your needs. I enjoy supporting women and queer folks to lead a more integrated and aligned life. If any of this resonates with you, we might be a good fit :)
(619) 612-0925 View (619) 612-0925
Photo of Solara Calderon, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Solara Calderon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92038  (Online Only)
I integrate relational psychodynamic therapy with DBT/CBT skills.
Are you struggling through a major transition, life change, or loss? I am passionate in supporting my clients through these significant and painful life events, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, becoming a parent, moving cross country, or starting a new job. In therapy, I also help my clients to understand themselves more authentically, to shift unhelpful patterns or behaviors, to learn how to manage and tolerate intense emotions, and to develop deeper meaning or connection in their lives. I particularly love working with young adults, college/graduate students, moms & dads, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
I integrate relational psychodynamic therapy with DBT/CBT skills.
Are you struggling through a major transition, life change, or loss? I am passionate in supporting my clients through these significant and painful life events, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, becoming a parent, moving cross country, or starting a new job. In therapy, I also help my clients to understand themselves more authentically, to shift unhelpful patterns or behaviors, to learn how to manage and tolerate intense emotions, and to develop deeper meaning or connection in their lives. I particularly love working with young adults, college/graduate students, moms & dads, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
(760) 253-9319 View (760) 253-9319
Photo of Erin Wigger, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in La Jolla, CA
Erin Wigger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Therapy seeks to address the patterns and unresolved material unique to each of us which hampers our ability to connect meaningfully with others and limits our capacity for joy. I work with couples and individuals looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and work collaboratively to cultivate curiosity, authenticity, honesty, self-compassion, and the ability to tolerate difficult feelings. I use a combination of gestalt therapy, psychodynamic therapy, relational therapy, EMDR, and somatic interventions when working with individuals. My couple’s work is mainly inspired by family systems theory and imago therapy.
Therapy seeks to address the patterns and unresolved material unique to each of us which hampers our ability to connect meaningfully with others and limits our capacity for joy. I work with couples and individuals looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and work collaboratively to cultivate curiosity, authenticity, honesty, self-compassion, and the ability to tolerate difficult feelings. I use a combination of gestalt therapy, psychodynamic therapy, relational therapy, EMDR, and somatic interventions when working with individuals. My couple’s work is mainly inspired by family systems theory and imago therapy.
(310) 986-3240 View (310) 986-3240
Photo of Dr. Lara Zappaterra, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Dr. Lara Zappaterra
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
With expertise in multiple evidence-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, relational, mindfulness-based, and existential), I tailor my approach to that most helpful for you.
Hello and Welcome. I have over a decade of practice in individual, adolescent, and couples therapy. I specialize in treating mood or anxiety difficulties, trauma, childhood trauma, relational difficulties, life stressors, or life and identity transitions. My passion is to help you live authentically- experiencing relief, resilience, self-compassion, and increased emotional freedom. We often learn strategies through life to keep us safe, but those strategies may hold us back in our present. It is in our relationships that we learned these strategies; it is through a therapeutic relationship that we re-learn, re-parent, and heal.
With expertise in multiple evidence-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, relational, mindfulness-based, and existential), I tailor my approach to that most helpful for you.
Hello and Welcome. I have over a decade of practice in individual, adolescent, and couples therapy. I specialize in treating mood or anxiety difficulties, trauma, childhood trauma, relational difficulties, life stressors, or life and identity transitions. My passion is to help you live authentically- experiencing relief, resilience, self-compassion, and increased emotional freedom. We often learn strategies through life to keep us safe, but those strategies may hold us back in our present. It is in our relationships that we learned these strategies; it is through a therapeutic relationship that we re-learn, re-parent, and heal.
(858) 956-7579 View (858) 956-7579
Photo of Rebecca Murphy, Registered Psychological Associate in La Jolla, CA
Rebecca Murphy
Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92093
I work from a psychodynamic and feminist therapy framework while incorporating approaches like ACT, mindfulness, play therapy, and CBT.
There can be so much pressure to know who you are at a young age, but most people don’t! Therapy can be a place to explore who you are, who you want to be, and how you want to get there. As a therapist I care about empowering you to find your voice and engage in value-congruent action. I strive to work collaboratively, be mindful of power and privilege, and always seek to understand the world as you see and experience it so we can better find your path forward.
I work from a psychodynamic and feminist therapy framework while incorporating approaches like ACT, mindfulness, play therapy, and CBT.
There can be so much pressure to know who you are at a young age, but most people don’t! Therapy can be a place to explore who you are, who you want to be, and how you want to get there. As a therapist I care about empowering you to find your voice and engage in value-congruent action. I strive to work collaboratively, be mindful of power and privilege, and always seek to understand the world as you see and experience it so we can better find your path forward.
(442) 302-3327 View (442) 302-3327
Photo of Jeff A Kleinberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Jeff A Kleinberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I use insight-oriented Psychodynamic Psychotherapy: Insight into ways your past show up today & "ACT," aka Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to help change behaviors, thoughts and emotional experiences w adults (18+).
At some point, and sometimes all at once, we all encounter challenges. In part, therapy helps us gain insight into core, possibly long-standing problems or can be a space for you to freely talk about your difficulties. I'll listen to your needs, help you navigate & find perspective. My hope is for you to find self-understanding, develop skills and use insights leading you toward improved life satisfaction and personal leadership.
I use insight-oriented Psychodynamic Psychotherapy: Insight into ways your past show up today & "ACT," aka Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to help change behaviors, thoughts and emotional experiences w adults (18+).
At some point, and sometimes all at once, we all encounter challenges. In part, therapy helps us gain insight into core, possibly long-standing problems or can be a space for you to freely talk about your difficulties. I'll listen to your needs, help you navigate & find perspective. My hope is for you to find self-understanding, develop skills and use insights leading you toward improved life satisfaction and personal leadership.
(858) 266-9937 View (858) 266-9937
Photo of Lindsey G. Robertson, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Lindsey G. Robertson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92093
I use evidence based approaches (EFT, DBT, IFS, and Psychodynamic) from a relational, developmental, and attachment-based perspective.
I believe symptoms are often the body’s way of communicating with us. Learning to recognize our symptoms as messages to listen to, we start making sense of the chaos, and feel less out of control. I’m committed to helping you get that kind of relief and clarity, so that it becomes easier to explore the roots of what gets you stuck. The therapy I offer is experiential and relational, providing the context to name what needs to heal, process what's overwhelming, build psychological skills and confidence, grow in compassion, strengthen relationships, and find a path forward with greater freedom, meaning, and hope.
I use evidence based approaches (EFT, DBT, IFS, and Psychodynamic) from a relational, developmental, and attachment-based perspective.
I believe symptoms are often the body’s way of communicating with us. Learning to recognize our symptoms as messages to listen to, we start making sense of the chaos, and feel less out of control. I’m committed to helping you get that kind of relief and clarity, so that it becomes easier to explore the roots of what gets you stuck. The therapy I offer is experiential and relational, providing the context to name what needs to heal, process what's overwhelming, build psychological skills and confidence, grow in compassion, strengthen relationships, and find a path forward with greater freedom, meaning, and hope.
(760) 496-5835 View (760) 496-5835
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.