Psychodynamic Therapists in Piedmont, Oakland, CA

Photo of Lori Beth Kaplan, Psychologist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Lori Beth Kaplan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I am a Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Mindfulness clinician.
My ideal client is an adult, child or teenager struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, relationship and Identity issues. In childhood or adolescence there may be behavioral, academic or social issues that are limiting success and happiness. Today's world is challenging with increased stressors and isolation. Adults may try to mask their struggles or feel stuck in the same pattern of behavior. Parents want their children or teenagers to maximize their potential and grow into fulfilled adults.
I am a Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Mindfulness clinician.
My ideal client is an adult, child or teenager struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, relationship and Identity issues. In childhood or adolescence there may be behavioral, academic or social issues that are limiting success and happiness. Today's world is challenging with increased stressors and isolation. Adults may try to mask their struggles or feel stuck in the same pattern of behavior. Parents want their children or teenagers to maximize their potential and grow into fulfilled adults.
(510) 849-6760 View (510) 849-6760
Photo of Jianne Gimian, Psychologist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Jianne Gimian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
I have been trained in psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, and have taken courses in and employed methods from interpersonal psychology, relational psychology, family systems and others.
If you are having difficulty with relationships, at work, with parents or children, I can help you identify the issues causing discomfort and learn new strategies for coping, managing and getting more joy in life. If you need someone to talk openly with about your challenges in life, I can listen and help you gain insight so that you can choose the best ways to proceed. If you feel isolated and judged, I can help you build confidence. If you are stuck in grief, I can help you get through it. I can help you see pathways where you might be inclined to see barriers.
I have been trained in psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, and have taken courses in and employed methods from interpersonal psychology, relational psychology, family systems and others.
If you are having difficulty with relationships, at work, with parents or children, I can help you identify the issues causing discomfort and learn new strategies for coping, managing and getting more joy in life. If you need someone to talk openly with about your challenges in life, I can listen and help you gain insight so that you can choose the best ways to proceed. If you feel isolated and judged, I can help you build confidence. If you are stuck in grief, I can help you get through it. I can help you see pathways where you might be inclined to see barriers.
(510) 974-7019 View (510) 974-7019
Photo of Farooq Malik, Marriage & Family Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Farooq Malik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) which integrate the best of various models of psychotherapy (e.
I provide therapy for those experiencing a wide range of life challenges including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, trauma recovery, grief and loss, life transitions and relationship concerns. With my background in Technology and corporate work (over a decade) I am very conversant and knowledgeable of that world. I have extensive experience and expertise in working with Anxiety, relationship issues and highly sensitive people.
I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) which integrate the best of various models of psychotherapy (e.
I provide therapy for those experiencing a wide range of life challenges including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, trauma recovery, grief and loss, life transitions and relationship concerns. With my background in Technology and corporate work (over a decade) I am very conversant and knowledgeable of that world. I have extensive experience and expertise in working with Anxiety, relationship issues and highly sensitive people.
(415) 964-3281 View (415) 964-3281
Photo of Nicholas Hack, Psychologist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Nicholas Hack
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
I come to this work with a contemporary psychodynamic approach, meaning we’ll explore things deeply.
Many people find themselves with one hand tied behind their backs. They weren't taught or allowed as children to express what’s happening inside of them. Rather than showing any vulnerability, they're told to not feel, to act as if everything is fine. Unfortunately, this leaves many people not knowing their real needs, wants, and inner conflicts when it comes to the most important parts of their lives.
I come to this work with a contemporary psychodynamic approach, meaning we’ll explore things deeply.
Many people find themselves with one hand tied behind their backs. They weren't taught or allowed as children to express what’s happening inside of them. Rather than showing any vulnerability, they're told to not feel, to act as if everything is fine. Unfortunately, this leaves many people not knowing their real needs, wants, and inner conflicts when it comes to the most important parts of their lives.
(707) 723-6043 View (707) 723-6043
Photo of David Cerfolio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
David Cerfolio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADAC
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified substance abuse counselor who has worked in the field for the past 15 years. My hope is to use my experiences and skills to help individuals struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD or substance abuse issues find new coping skills in order improve the quality of their lives. My approach combines elements of short-term behavioral therapies (DBT and CBT) with psychodynamic techniques to address problematic behaviors to achieve lasting change.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified substance abuse counselor who has worked in the field for the past 15 years. My hope is to use my experiences and skills to help individuals struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD or substance abuse issues find new coping skills in order improve the quality of their lives. My approach combines elements of short-term behavioral therapies (DBT and CBT) with psychodynamic techniques to address problematic behaviors to achieve lasting change.
(510) 296-6270 View (510) 296-6270
Photo of Lisa C. Tracy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Lisa C. Tracy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (64812), I integrate a variety of treatment approaches in my work including relational psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and EFT couples therapy.
I work with individuals and couples facing significant life choices and transitions in areas such as relationships, marriage, divorce, parenthood, career, and identity. I also have a sub-specialization in work with survivors of trauma. I am experienced in working with clients from a wide range of cultural and geographic backgrounds. In our sessions I provide clients a place to find support, acceptance, perspective and hope, to explore themselves and their lives in depth, and to develop more effective ways of relating to themselves and others.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (64812), I integrate a variety of treatment approaches in my work including relational psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and EFT couples therapy.
I work with individuals and couples facing significant life choices and transitions in areas such as relationships, marriage, divorce, parenthood, career, and identity. I also have a sub-specialization in work with survivors of trauma. I am experienced in working with clients from a wide range of cultural and geographic backgrounds. In our sessions I provide clients a place to find support, acceptance, perspective and hope, to explore themselves and their lives in depth, and to develop more effective ways of relating to themselves and others.
(510) 279-3808 View (510) 279-3808
Photo of Shirin Shoai, Marriage & Family Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Shirin Shoai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, L3 IFS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
My approach blends mindfulness and somatic inquiry with relational/psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems therapy.
If you often find yourself feeling out of place or struggling inside—even though other people think you have it all together—I can help. I work with individual adults who are familiar with psychotherapy and want deeper, root-level healing for symptoms related to anxiety and relational trauma. This can include concerns around relationships, life transitions, overthinking, people-pleasing, self-doubt, self-limiting beliefs and thought patterns, boundaries, and self-criticism. My style is active, spacious, and focused on supporting you in slowing down, tuning into yourself, and feeling the healing wisdom that thrives within you.
My approach blends mindfulness and somatic inquiry with relational/psychodynamic and Internal Family Systems therapy.
If you often find yourself feeling out of place or struggling inside—even though other people think you have it all together—I can help. I work with individual adults who are familiar with psychotherapy and want deeper, root-level healing for symptoms related to anxiety and relational trauma. This can include concerns around relationships, life transitions, overthinking, people-pleasing, self-doubt, self-limiting beliefs and thought patterns, boundaries, and self-criticism. My style is active, spacious, and focused on supporting you in slowing down, tuning into yourself, and feeling the healing wisdom that thrives within you.
(415) 366-8346 View (415) 366-8346
Photo of Eti A Valdez-Kaminsky, MFT Divorce Mediator, Marriage & Family Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Eti A Valdez-Kaminsky, MFT Divorce Mediator
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
I utilize humanistic and psychodynamic approaches to help normalize and humanize life problems, issues and circumstances.
People who need personal engagement and direct feedback about their life dynamics and challenges are a good fit for my style. Whether one is managing a mental health diagnosis, personal growth or dealing with a particular life circumstance. I also offer Divorce Mediation. Helping people achieve a fair and equitable divorce settlement.
I utilize humanistic and psychodynamic approaches to help normalize and humanize life problems, issues and circumstances.
People who need personal engagement and direct feedback about their life dynamics and challenges are a good fit for my style. Whether one is managing a mental health diagnosis, personal growth or dealing with a particular life circumstance. I also offer Divorce Mediation. Helping people achieve a fair and equitable divorce settlement.
(925) 336-3145 View (925) 336-3145
Photo of Karena Henrietta Montag, Marriage & Family Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Karena Henrietta Montag
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience as a therapist working with individuals, couples & families. I communicate genuine care & respect, empathy & non-judgment which creates an environment of safety & understanding, while a belief in goal-oriented therapy promotes generative shifts & sustainable changes. My clinical orientation is informed by psychodynamic, narrative & family systems theories, as well as my committment to racial, restorative + transformative justice. I have long worked with those impacted by violence and believe that wellness is integral to creating community safety.
I have extensive experience as a therapist working with individuals, couples & families. I communicate genuine care & respect, empathy & non-judgment which creates an environment of safety & understanding, while a belief in goal-oriented therapy promotes generative shifts & sustainable changes. My clinical orientation is informed by psychodynamic, narrative & family systems theories, as well as my committment to racial, restorative + transformative justice. I have long worked with those impacted by violence and believe that wellness is integral to creating community safety.
View
Photo of Cary Littell, Psychologist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Cary Littell
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
As a seasoned clinician in practice for almost 25 years, my approach is predominantly psychodynamic while integrating one's unique neurobiological factors.
People seek therapy when they feel unhappy, anxious, stuck in patterns and relationships that don't serve them or acting in ways that are self-destructive. Therapy can address and change outmoded ways of being. The therapeutic relationship is key to this work: It offers the possibility of exploring and understanding more effective and satisfying ways of relating to ourselves and others. I work with children, adolescents and adults in individual therapy, using a collaborative approach that centers on empathy, understanding, curiosity and exploration.
As a seasoned clinician in practice for almost 25 years, my approach is predominantly psychodynamic while integrating one's unique neurobiological factors.
People seek therapy when they feel unhappy, anxious, stuck in patterns and relationships that don't serve them or acting in ways that are self-destructive. Therapy can address and change outmoded ways of being. The therapeutic relationship is key to this work: It offers the possibility of exploring and understanding more effective and satisfying ways of relating to ourselves and others. I work with children, adolescents and adults in individual therapy, using a collaborative approach that centers on empathy, understanding, curiosity and exploration.
(510) 544-8237 View (510) 544-8237
Photo of Vivian Singleton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Vivian Singleton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
Hi, my name is Vivian Singleton, LMFT licensed in California. I approach therapy with potential clients from a client-centered approach, offering DBT, CBT couples counseling. I typically work with moderate to severe depressed clients, individuals experiencing psychosis impairments. In addition, working with couples struggling with communication, emotional intimacy, rupture in trust and intimacy. My approach is from a psychodynamic and humanistic and behavioral standpoint.
Hi, my name is Vivian Singleton, LMFT licensed in California. I approach therapy with potential clients from a client-centered approach, offering DBT, CBT couples counseling. I typically work with moderate to severe depressed clients, individuals experiencing psychosis impairments. In addition, working with couples struggling with communication, emotional intimacy, rupture in trust and intimacy. My approach is from a psychodynamic and humanistic and behavioral standpoint.
(805) 303-5998 View (805) 303-5998
Photo of Dae'Jah Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Dae'Jah Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I practice from a holistic, trauma-informed psychodynamic framework in my work with clients.
Are you tired of working hard and still feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? Do you give everything you have only to feel like you continually come up short? Are you constantly repeating the same mistakes over and over in your relationships and friendships? You don't have to struggle alone. I'm here to support you and help you find self-acceptance, discover your worth, and embrace your whole self. Together we will work to identify your innate talents, optimize your coping skills so you can better deal with life's stressors, and remove the barriers that hold you back from happiness and fulfillment.
I practice from a holistic, trauma-informed psychodynamic framework in my work with clients.
Are you tired of working hard and still feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? Do you give everything you have only to feel like you continually come up short? Are you constantly repeating the same mistakes over and over in your relationships and friendships? You don't have to struggle alone. I'm here to support you and help you find self-acceptance, discover your worth, and embrace your whole self. Together we will work to identify your innate talents, optimize your coping skills so you can better deal with life's stressors, and remove the barriers that hold you back from happiness and fulfillment.
(415) 991-4552 View (415) 991-4552
Photo of Amalia Pilar Jarvis, Psychologist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Amalia Pilar Jarvis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
I draw from various theoretical backgrounds, including psychodynamic theory, CBT, DBT, and PACT to offer the most comprehensive and appropriate interventions for my patients.
I work with adults, parents, couples and teens who are struggling with various aspects of life and want to make a change. I enjoy working with people going through transitions, which may be stressful but also offer huge opportunities for growth. I believe in a collaborative process and I will explore your needs with you and work with you to determine the best course of treatment. I will help you identify issues that are interfering with your happiness and support you in making the changes necessary to feel better and improve your quality of life. I prioritize emotion regulation and mindfulness and integrate this into our sessions.
I draw from various theoretical backgrounds, including psychodynamic theory, CBT, DBT, and PACT to offer the most comprehensive and appropriate interventions for my patients.
I work with adults, parents, couples and teens who are struggling with various aspects of life and want to make a change. I enjoy working with people going through transitions, which may be stressful but also offer huge opportunities for growth. I believe in a collaborative process and I will explore your needs with you and work with you to determine the best course of treatment. I will help you identify issues that are interfering with your happiness and support you in making the changes necessary to feel better and improve your quality of life. I prioritize emotion regulation and mindfulness and integrate this into our sessions.
(510) 399-1253 View (510) 399-1253
Photo of Catherine Metzger, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Catherine Metzger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
My background in music and writing, and my training in psychodynamic and play therapy allow me to treat each child, teen, and adult creatively and individually.
Sometimes life poses challenges or does not work out the way we hoped. At some point, everyone needs help during difficult times. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to foster growth, healing, and self-compassion. I love working with people of all ages. I am deeply committed to meeting you and/or your child wherever you/they are so that over time you can find more ease and clarity in your daily and inner life.
My background in music and writing, and my training in psychodynamic and play therapy allow me to treat each child, teen, and adult creatively and individually.
Sometimes life poses challenges or does not work out the way we hoped. At some point, everyone needs help during difficult times. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to foster growth, healing, and self-compassion. I love working with people of all ages. I am deeply committed to meeting you and/or your child wherever you/they are so that over time you can find more ease and clarity in your daily and inner life.
(341) 895-5774 View (341) 895-5774
Photo of Ariel Escobedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Ariel Escobedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
These include Internal Family Systems Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, the Gottman Method, Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
As a dedicated bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking mental health practitioner, I am deeply committed to facilitating the emotional healing journey for adults. My approach is inherently collaborative, emphasizing a partnership with individuals, families, and couples who entrust their care to me. By combining these diverse psychotherapy techniques, I aim to foster a nurturing and empathetic space that supports clients in navigating their emotional landscapes.
These include Internal Family Systems Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, the Gottman Method, Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
As a dedicated bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking mental health practitioner, I am deeply committed to facilitating the emotional healing journey for adults. My approach is inherently collaborative, emphasizing a partnership with individuals, families, and couples who entrust their care to me. By combining these diverse psychotherapy techniques, I aim to foster a nurturing and empathetic space that supports clients in navigating their emotional landscapes.
(510) 880-1338 View (510) 880-1338
Photo of David Worden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
David Worden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
The therapeutic modalities I use most with clients include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Feminist Therapy, and SFBT.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has had the privilege of serving a diverse clientele across multiple systems and settings in a therapeutic environment. Part of what makes my approach different as a therapist is my emphasis on intersectionality and treating the whole person to work toward healing and recovery. I assist my clients in validating, processing, and identifying how their identity and experiences shape their mental health journey.
The therapeutic modalities I use most with clients include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Feminist Therapy, and SFBT.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has had the privilege of serving a diverse clientele across multiple systems and settings in a therapeutic environment. Part of what makes my approach different as a therapist is my emphasis on intersectionality and treating the whole person to work toward healing and recovery. I assist my clients in validating, processing, and identifying how their identity and experiences shape their mental health journey.
(323) 870-1109 View (323) 870-1109
Photo of Katelyn Simons, Psychologist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Katelyn Simons
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
I practice both individual psychotherapy and assessment for children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in understanding and addressing coping skills, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, and family conflict. Through therapy, assessment, or consultation, I provide support in navigating individual complexities. Whether I am working with children, teenagers, or adults, my aim is to help those I work with manage overwhelming emotions, navigate challenging situations, and address barriers standing in the way of contentment and clarity.
I practice both individual psychotherapy and assessment for children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in understanding and addressing coping skills, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, and family conflict. Through therapy, assessment, or consultation, I provide support in navigating individual complexities. Whether I am working with children, teenagers, or adults, my aim is to help those I work with manage overwhelming emotions, navigate challenging situations, and address barriers standing in the way of contentment and clarity.
(510) 296-6515 View (510) 296-6515
Photo of Judith Muschel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Judith Muschel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611
Choosing a therapist is a significant decision, and one in which it is crucial to trust your feelings. I am a very engaging, warm and thoughtful person. My approach is eclectic and interactive, and is adapted to the unique needs of each individual or couple. Humor, respectful listening, honest dialogue and collaboration are all important aspects of my work. My priority is to provide a safe connection as a foundation for growth, enhanced self-esteem, and well-being. Habitual patterns causing impasses, lack of passion, anxiety and depression, can shift once underlying needs and feelings are legitimized and given voice.
Choosing a therapist is a significant decision, and one in which it is crucial to trust your feelings. I am a very engaging, warm and thoughtful person. My approach is eclectic and interactive, and is adapted to the unique needs of each individual or couple. Humor, respectful listening, honest dialogue and collaboration are all important aspects of my work. My priority is to provide a safe connection as a foundation for growth, enhanced self-esteem, and well-being. Habitual patterns causing impasses, lack of passion, anxiety and depression, can shift once underlying needs and feelings are legitimized and given voice.
(510) 403-8134 View (510) 403-8134
Photo of Angela Hasty, Psychologist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Angela Hasty
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist with more than 25 years of clinical experience working with adults on issues of vital importance in their daily lives. I am deeply committed to helping people create the most fulfilling lives possible, as they move through and beyond challenges such as anxiety, depression, personal effectiveness, stress and work/life balance, grief reactions, relationships and self-esteem issues. When "life" has thrown you off our path, I work with you to restore your natural capacity for self esteem and healing, and provide unwavering emotional support as you create an enriching life with healthier relationships.
I am a clinical psychologist with more than 25 years of clinical experience working with adults on issues of vital importance in their daily lives. I am deeply committed to helping people create the most fulfilling lives possible, as they move through and beyond challenges such as anxiety, depression, personal effectiveness, stress and work/life balance, grief reactions, relationships and self-esteem issues. When "life" has thrown you off our path, I work with you to restore your natural capacity for self esteem and healing, and provide unwavering emotional support as you create an enriching life with healthier relationships.
(510) 878-4910 View (510) 878-4910
Photo of Rosanna Chang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Piedmont, Oakland, CA
Rosanna Chang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Piedmont, Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Every person that enters into therapy wants the same thing; to give and receive love more freely and fully. I believe this is not only possible it is your divine birthright. I am here to partner with you on your healing journey - to help guide you back to a state of greater freedom, wholeness and connection. In our work together, we aim to activate your innate resiliency, repair old relational injuries and release oppressive binds of shame-based conditioning. I see our work through a lens of possibilities. Most importantly, I already see you as a whole being.
Every person that enters into therapy wants the same thing; to give and receive love more freely and fully. I believe this is not only possible it is your divine birthright. I am here to partner with you on your healing journey - to help guide you back to a state of greater freedom, wholeness and connection. In our work together, we aim to activate your innate resiliency, repair old relational injuries and release oppressive binds of shame-based conditioning. I see our work through a lens of possibilities. Most importantly, I already see you as a whole being.
(510) 746-8540 View (510) 746-8540
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.