Psychodynamic Therapists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Linda Nastari, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Nastari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95150
I practice from a psychodynamic perspective, believing that the relationship developed between the therapist and client is a catalyst for lasting change.
I have over 30 years experience as a licensed pyschotherapist. I enjoy working with adolescents, individual adults, and couples. I treat a wide variety of issues including; anxiety/depression, relational difficulties, addictions, grief/loss, parenting challenges, spiritual concerns, eating disorders, family of origin issues, work related stress, and trauma. I also provide consultation to small family businesses around communication, conflict resolution, business management, and succession planning. I also am part of a collaborative team of estate attorneys, financial planners, and therapists to help families with Trust and Estate issues.
I practice from a psychodynamic perspective, believing that the relationship developed between the therapist and client is a catalyst for lasting change.
I have over 30 years experience as a licensed pyschotherapist. I enjoy working with adolescents, individual adults, and couples. I treat a wide variety of issues including; anxiety/depression, relational difficulties, addictions, grief/loss, parenting challenges, spiritual concerns, eating disorders, family of origin issues, work related stress, and trauma. I also provide consultation to small family businesses around communication, conflict resolution, business management, and succession planning. I also am part of a collaborative team of estate attorneys, financial planners, and therapists to help families with Trust and Estate issues.
(408) 669-3554 View (408) 669-3554
Photo of Lillian Goldbard, LCSW, IFECMH , RP , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lillian Goldbard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IFECMH , RP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I work within a strength based, psychodynamic model.
You might be seeking help because you feel stuck in your relationships, with your family or with your child. The stories of our lives are powerful and can shape our reality. You might be holding stories and pain about yourself, your family, the world, or your child, that are interfering with a present focus and ability to face current challenges. Together we can champion your innate healing capacity in a safe, emphatic, and attached, therapeutic relationship. Therapeutic support can help you recover your true sense of self as an individual or a parent, can heal family wounds, and help you find a renewed zest for life.
I work within a strength based, psychodynamic model.
You might be seeking help because you feel stuck in your relationships, with your family or with your child. The stories of our lives are powerful and can shape our reality. You might be holding stories and pain about yourself, your family, the world, or your child, that are interfering with a present focus and ability to face current challenges. Together we can champion your innate healing capacity in a safe, emphatic, and attached, therapeutic relationship. Therapeutic support can help you recover your true sense of self as an individual or a parent, can heal family wounds, and help you find a renewed zest for life.
(408) 351-9939 View (408) 351-9939
Photo of Dr. Debbie Francis, PsyD, MA, BSR, Psychologist
Dr. Debbie Francis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BSR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124
I work from an integrative approach, drawing primarily from a psychodynamic orientation.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW MEDICARE PATIENTS* I work with adults struggling with a wide range of challenges including loss of relationships, life transitions, and personal problems like anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma. Life can be difficult but you don't have to figure it out all alone. I can help you. Together, we'll create a safe space where you'll gain insight and perspective into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are no longer working for you. With these understandings, you'll be able to make better choices and positive life changes. By working through your pain, you'll gain a self-awareness you didn't have before.
I work from an integrative approach, drawing primarily from a psychodynamic orientation.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW MEDICARE PATIENTS* I work with adults struggling with a wide range of challenges including loss of relationships, life transitions, and personal problems like anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma. Life can be difficult but you don't have to figure it out all alone. I can help you. Together, we'll create a safe space where you'll gain insight and perspective into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are no longer working for you. With these understandings, you'll be able to make better choices and positive life changes. By working through your pain, you'll gain a self-awareness you didn't have before.
(408) 207-4564 View (408) 207-4564
Sabrina Ayoub
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123
Hey, I'm Sabrina Ayoub, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I'm here to support you on your path to well-being. Life can throw challenges your way, from anxiety to depression and intricate relationships. I bring a mix of psychodynamic theory for depth and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for practical solutions. Let's work together to break through patterns and set the stage for your healing and growth.
Hey, I'm Sabrina Ayoub, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I'm here to support you on your path to well-being. Life can throw challenges your way, from anxiety to depression and intricate relationships. I bring a mix of psychodynamic theory for depth and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for practical solutions. Let's work together to break through patterns and set the stage for your healing and growth.
(669) 215-4125 View (669) 215-4125
Photo of Grace Kim- Hur, MA , LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Grace Kim- Hur
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed psychotherapist with a background specializing in severe behavioral issues and relationship issues. I work with a variety of approaches from CBT, EFT to Psychodynamic approach depending on my patient's needs and what I feel is most effective. In addition I create individual treatment plans to match my patient's goals. Together we can create a safe space and begin your journey in understanding your current issues or concerns. Explore where they may have stemmed from, and how they are currently effecting your life. I believe anyone's goal in therapy would be to heal and ignite awareness to live a more fulfilling life.
I'm a licensed psychotherapist with a background specializing in severe behavioral issues and relationship issues. I work with a variety of approaches from CBT, EFT to Psychodynamic approach depending on my patient's needs and what I feel is most effective. In addition I create individual treatment plans to match my patient's goals. Together we can create a safe space and begin your journey in understanding your current issues or concerns. Explore where they may have stemmed from, and how they are currently effecting your life. I believe anyone's goal in therapy would be to heal and ignite awareness to live a more fulfilling life.
(408) 351-7563 View (408) 351-7563
Photo of Orfanelli Ambriz Ibarra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Orfanelli Ambriz Ibarra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95111
My name is Orfanelli Ambriz and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to working through telehealth with individuals in Los Angeles, California and across the state. I work with adults facing a variance of difficulties that have led to stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and difficult to manage adversities. As a psychodynamic therapist, I help my clients dive deep in effort to gain clarity and direction towards a better tomorrow.
My name is Orfanelli Ambriz and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to working through telehealth with individuals in Los Angeles, California and across the state. I work with adults facing a variance of difficulties that have led to stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and difficult to manage adversities. As a psychodynamic therapist, I help my clients dive deep in effort to gain clarity and direction towards a better tomorrow.
(408) 539-5413 View (408) 539-5413
Photo of Melissa Satram, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Satram
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
By using CBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic approach, I can help you navigate life's ups and downs and shift patterns, thoughts, and behaviors.
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
By using CBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic approach, I can help you navigate life's ups and downs and shift patterns, thoughts, and behaviors.
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
(408) 359-1686 View (408) 359-1686
Photo of Morgan Williams, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Morgan Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I use evidence-based trauma-informed practices including psychodynamic psychotherapy, internal family systems, CBT, and neuroscience-backed mindfulness, to address both your troubling symptoms and your mind-body connection.
Do you feel as though your experiences have left you fractured, disconnected or lost? We can’t erase them, but together we can help you make sense of your history and heal painful emotional wounds. My treatment is based on trust and safety: understanding how these may be difficult for you and finding ways to develop them with me. With this foundation, my patients find that they are able to gain new understanding of and compassion for themselves as multifaceted individuals. Our therapeutic relationship will be dedicated to holding space for all parts of you and your story, especially those that feel too challenging to explore alone.
I use evidence-based trauma-informed practices including psychodynamic psychotherapy, internal family systems, CBT, and neuroscience-backed mindfulness, to address both your troubling symptoms and your mind-body connection.
Do you feel as though your experiences have left you fractured, disconnected or lost? We can’t erase them, but together we can help you make sense of your history and heal painful emotional wounds. My treatment is based on trust and safety: understanding how these may be difficult for you and finding ways to develop them with me. With this foundation, my patients find that they are able to gain new understanding of and compassion for themselves as multifaceted individuals. Our therapeutic relationship will be dedicated to holding space for all parts of you and your story, especially those that feel too challenging to explore alone.
(408) 539-3289 View (408) 539-3289
Photo of Jorge Garcia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jorge Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95110  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy emphasizes psychodynamic, existential, and systems techniques; however, I customize the therapeutic process to meet your individual goals.
I have experience working with those struggling with symptoms of trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, parenting, communication, and low self-esteem. My practice is inclusive, non-judgmental, culturally responsive, and affirming of LGBTQ+ communities. I offer services in English and Spanish.
My approach to therapy emphasizes psychodynamic, existential, and systems techniques; however, I customize the therapeutic process to meet your individual goals.
I have experience working with those struggling with symptoms of trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, parenting, communication, and low self-esteem. My practice is inclusive, non-judgmental, culturally responsive, and affirming of LGBTQ+ communities. I offer services in English and Spanish.
(408) 665-7288 View (408) 665-7288
Photo of Margaret A Bailey, PhD, Psychologist
Margaret A Bailey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
My orientation is eclectic, psychodynamic, and analytic.
I provide a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable in talking about the discomfort they are experiencing. Together we explore those difficulties and seek to help you find relief. For those who want deeper work, and to make significant changes in their lives, I have been trained to provide more intensive, longer term therapy. I began my practice and continued training post graduate school for 30 years. For more information about my practice please see my website at: pegbailey.com.
My orientation is eclectic, psychodynamic, and analytic.
I provide a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable in talking about the discomfort they are experiencing. Together we explore those difficulties and seek to help you find relief. For those who want deeper work, and to make significant changes in their lives, I have been trained to provide more intensive, longer term therapy. I began my practice and continued training post graduate school for 30 years. For more information about my practice please see my website at: pegbailey.com.
(408) 358-4090 View (408) 358-4090
Photo of Maria Herrera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Herrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95139
My theoretical foundations are psychodynamic, humanistic and cognitive-behavioral.
Welcome! I am glad that you are here taking a step towards change. I appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself. I am a licensed clinical social worker with almost twenty years of experience. I graduated from the University of Southern California. I have worked in a wide range of areas. I have helped client’s manage and cope with challenging health and emotional issues, as well as life transitions, substance abuse, and relationship problems. As your counselor, I can help you explore, process, and learn ways to cope with life challenges.
My theoretical foundations are psychodynamic, humanistic and cognitive-behavioral.
Welcome! I am glad that you are here taking a step towards change. I appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself. I am a licensed clinical social worker with almost twenty years of experience. I graduated from the University of Southern California. I have worked in a wide range of areas. I have helped client’s manage and cope with challenging health and emotional issues, as well as life transitions, substance abuse, and relationship problems. As your counselor, I can help you explore, process, and learn ways to cope with life challenges.
(408) 516-5731 View (408) 516-5731
Photo of Tyesha Sullivan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tyesha Sullivan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95122
I am a Psychodynamic therapist but am eclectic in my therapeutic approach.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. Therapy is my passion! I find joy in assisting individuals and couples through different journeys and challenges of life to help them become the best versions of themselves. I have experience working with different levels of concerns that range from Dissociation to Depression. While Trauma and Abuse are a couple of my main areas of focus, Anxiety and Self-Esteem are also within my scope.
I am a Psychodynamic therapist but am eclectic in my therapeutic approach.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. Therapy is my passion! I find joy in assisting individuals and couples through different journeys and challenges of life to help them become the best versions of themselves. I have experience working with different levels of concerns that range from Dissociation to Depression. While Trauma and Abuse are a couple of my main areas of focus, Anxiety and Self-Esteem are also within my scope.
(408) 676-5556 View (408) 676-5556
Photo of Serenity Serseción, PhD, Psychologist
Serenity Serseción
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
Regarding theoretical orientation, they use cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory.
Dr. Serseción is a genderqueer, Latinx, a licensed psychologist with 15+ years of experience as a therapist. Dr. Serseción is a native Spanish speaker from Puerto Rico, providing treatment in English and Spanish. In addition, Dr. Sersecion provides workshops on various topics such as cultural humility, and working with diverse populations. They work with the following communities: LGBTQ+ population, polyamory community, Latinx community, DID/ plural community, geek community, video game community, and various others.
Regarding theoretical orientation, they use cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory.
Dr. Serseción is a genderqueer, Latinx, a licensed psychologist with 15+ years of experience as a therapist. Dr. Serseción is a native Spanish speaker from Puerto Rico, providing treatment in English and Spanish. In addition, Dr. Sersecion provides workshops on various topics such as cultural humility, and working with diverse populations. They work with the following communities: LGBTQ+ population, polyamory community, Latinx community, DID/ plural community, geek community, video game community, and various others.
(650) 946-1649 View (650) 946-1649
Photo of Nancy Chau, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Chau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95131  (Online Only)
I employ a variety of evidence-based modalities tailored to meet each client's unique needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
My authenticity in sessions help me build a strong connection and relationship with clients to begin their journey of growth and healing. It is believed that the healing process begins with a therapeutic relationship. Through our relationship, I aim to help you develop healthy interactions in your own life, providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can gain the confidence needed to express feelings you may struggle to communicate elsewhere. My directive approach encourages you to apply the insights and skills gained in therapy to make meaningful changes in your life, towards your ideal vision of well-being.
I employ a variety of evidence-based modalities tailored to meet each client's unique needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
My authenticity in sessions help me build a strong connection and relationship with clients to begin their journey of growth and healing. It is believed that the healing process begins with a therapeutic relationship. Through our relationship, I aim to help you develop healthy interactions in your own life, providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can gain the confidence needed to express feelings you may struggle to communicate elsewhere. My directive approach encourages you to apply the insights and skills gained in therapy to make meaningful changes in your life, towards your ideal vision of well-being.
(408) 351-8557 View (408) 351-8557
Photo of Brent Batter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brent Batter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95148
My services are provided from a strength-based client-centered cognitive behavioral family systems psychodynamic perspective.
Hi, I'm Brent Batter, LMFT. I am passionate about helping others and I have a diverse blend of experience providing compassionate care with many different client groups. I look forward to helping you gain clarity in life and excel in the goals that you have for yourself. My lifelong passion is for people and believe we all have an intrinsic desire to move toward health and happiness. I would be honored to work with you as we discover your path forward.
My services are provided from a strength-based client-centered cognitive behavioral family systems psychodynamic perspective.
Hi, I'm Brent Batter, LMFT. I am passionate about helping others and I have a diverse blend of experience providing compassionate care with many different client groups. I look forward to helping you gain clarity in life and excel in the goals that you have for yourself. My lifelong passion is for people and believe we all have an intrinsic desire to move toward health and happiness. I would be honored to work with you as we discover your path forward.
(669) 348-3738 View (669) 348-3738
Photo of Shanna Rayyan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanna Rayyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123
I utilize various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Family Therapy.
I’m Shanna Rayyan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist who is passionate about helping my clients work through their traumas, hardships, and mental illness in order to improve their quality of life. I use an eclectic approach, implementing various evidence-based therapeutic modalities that best fit my specific client’s life story, needs, and goals.
I utilize various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Family Therapy.
I’m Shanna Rayyan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist who is passionate about helping my clients work through their traumas, hardships, and mental illness in order to improve their quality of life. I use an eclectic approach, implementing various evidence-based therapeutic modalities that best fit my specific client’s life story, needs, and goals.
(408) 540-6850 View (408) 540-6850
Photo of Carrie Herbst, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Herbst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95118
I draw from Expressive Arts, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic Theory to best support emotional growth and healing for each individual client.
I am here to listen to you. I work with children, teens, and adults to support exploration of difficult issues and life changes. Often what brings someone to seek counseling, either for themselves or for their child, is being faced with a challenge they need support navigating and resolving. This issue may result from an atypical experience or be more pervasive, and can bring about feelings of anger, depression, anxiety, low self-worth, or communication issues. Taking the risk to ask for help is the first step on the road toward healing and growth.
I draw from Expressive Arts, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic Theory to best support emotional growth and healing for each individual client.
I am here to listen to you. I work with children, teens, and adults to support exploration of difficult issues and life changes. Often what brings someone to seek counseling, either for themselves or for their child, is being faced with a challenge they need support navigating and resolving. This issue may result from an atypical experience or be more pervasive, and can bring about feelings of anger, depression, anxiety, low self-worth, or communication issues. Taking the risk to ask for help is the first step on the road toward healing and growth.
(408) 617-8227 x101 View (408) 617-8227 x101
Photo of Nicole Logan, LPC, EMDR
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I utilize CBT, psychodynamic theory, EMDR, and narrative therapy to target feelings of dread, abandonment, isolation, anxiety, fear, hopelessness, and helplessness.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize CBT, psychodynamic theory, EMDR, and narrative therapy to target feelings of dread, abandonment, isolation, anxiety, fear, hopelessness, and helplessness.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(408) 351-8468 View (408) 351-8468
Photo of Elizabeth Harris, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Elizabeth Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I incorporate elements of Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, ACT, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), DBT, Somatic, and Gesalt.
Would you like someone to listen to you? Maybe you are feeling stuck or are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, burnout, overwhelm, isolation, grief, trauma, attachment issues, excessive worrying, healing from past wounds, or your sense of identity and purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey by providing you a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and feelings.
I incorporate elements of Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, ACT, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), DBT, Somatic, and Gesalt.
Would you like someone to listen to you? Maybe you are feeling stuck or are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, burnout, overwhelm, isolation, grief, trauma, attachment issues, excessive worrying, healing from past wounds, or your sense of identity and purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey by providing you a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and feelings.
(408) 840-0801 View (408) 840-0801
Photo of Gregory Bendau, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gregory Bendau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt or low self-esteem? Do you find yourself avoiding social engagements or so preoccupied with excessive worrying? Finding ways to navigate these difficult feelings can help you get back on track. I use a psychodynamic approach and CBT that focuses on uncovering patterns of behavior and ways of relating to ourselves and others that are often outside of our awareness. I also consider how our past impacts who we are today. Through acceptance and empathy, we will establish a trusting therapeutic relationship and work together toward your personal growth and self-discovery.
Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt or low self-esteem? Do you find yourself avoiding social engagements or so preoccupied with excessive worrying? Finding ways to navigate these difficult feelings can help you get back on track. I use a psychodynamic approach and CBT that focuses on uncovering patterns of behavior and ways of relating to ourselves and others that are often outside of our awareness. I also consider how our past impacts who we are today. Through acceptance and empathy, we will establish a trusting therapeutic relationship and work together toward your personal growth and self-discovery.
(408) 351-0562 View (408) 351-0562
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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.