Photo of Morgan Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
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 Genevieve Kemp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Genevieve Kemp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
I employ a psychodynamic lens and utilize primarily Narrative Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques.
My goal as a therapist is to support the people I work with in gaining greater insight into unhelpful patterns, develop and strengthen their coping skills, resolve trauma, and strengthen positive beliefs around their life purpose.
I employ a psychodynamic lens and utilize primarily Narrative Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques.
My goal as a therapist is to support the people I work with in gaining greater insight into unhelpful patterns, develop and strengthen their coping skills, resolve trauma, and strengthen positive beliefs around their life purpose.
(424) 352-7352 View (424) 352-7352
Photo of Kate Clarkson, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Jose, CA
Kate Clarkson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95101  (Online Only)
I combine elements of Psychodynamic Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
As an intern, I am hoping to work with folks seeking therapy to address challenges such as anxiety, depression, adjustment-related challenges, identity work, relationship issues, and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ folks. I seek to work with populations that have historically faced barriers to accessing affirming and empowering mental health care. I recognize the significance of creating an environment where individuals can explore and understand their identities without fear of judgment. I approach each client with unconditional acceptance and a genuine desire to witness and celebrate their authentic selves.
I combine elements of Psychodynamic Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
As an intern, I am hoping to work with folks seeking therapy to address challenges such as anxiety, depression, adjustment-related challenges, identity work, relationship issues, and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ folks. I seek to work with populations that have historically faced barriers to accessing affirming and empowering mental health care. I recognize the significance of creating an environment where individuals can explore and understand their identities without fear of judgment. I approach each client with unconditional acceptance and a genuine desire to witness and celebrate their authentic selves.
(341) 766-0446 View (341) 766-0446
Photo of Sonia Aldape, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Sonia Aldape
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CA91224
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I have specialty trainings in AF-EMDR, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Attachment, Psychodynamic, Crucible, PACT, Somatic, Sex therapies and more.
Hi and welcome.. I am a relationship, trauma and culture sensitive therapist in Los Altos, CA. If you feel that you are, are going through, have seen or lived through "too much," I offer you professional and compassionate support honoring your unique experiences, recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, speak your truth and trust someone new. I am passionate about helping you not just cope in life but find your way to lasting peace, liberation and healing through the power of your innate wisdom and our collaborative alliance. It would be a great honor to be considered as your therapist and a privilege to join you on your path.
I have specialty trainings in AF-EMDR, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Attachment, Psychodynamic, Crucible, PACT, Somatic, Sex therapies and more.
Hi and welcome.. I am a relationship, trauma and culture sensitive therapist in Los Altos, CA. If you feel that you are, are going through, have seen or lived through "too much," I offer you professional and compassionate support honoring your unique experiences, recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, speak your truth and trust someone new. I am passionate about helping you not just cope in life but find your way to lasting peace, liberation and healing through the power of your innate wisdom and our collaborative alliance. It would be a great honor to be considered as your therapist and a privilege to join you on your path.
(650) 910-1486 View (650) 910-1486
Photo of Jason I. White, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Jason I. White
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95172  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is experiential, mindfulness-based, and insight-oriented, taking inspiration from the humanistic and psychodynamic traditions, as well as contemporary models like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
I believe that the capacities for both healing and growth are innate to each of us, and that the role of a therapist is to help facilitate the flow of these natural processes. My priority is to assist you in fostering a renewed connection to the inherent vitality, openness, calm, and creativity that reside deep within each of us and to help you embody these resources as you turn toward life's challenges.
My approach to therapy is experiential, mindfulness-based, and insight-oriented, taking inspiration from the humanistic and psychodynamic traditions, as well as contemporary models like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
I believe that the capacities for both healing and growth are innate to each of us, and that the role of a therapist is to help facilitate the flow of these natural processes. My priority is to assist you in fostering a renewed connection to the inherent vitality, openness, calm, and creativity that reside deep within each of us and to help you embody these resources as you turn toward life's challenges.
(650) 719-7157 View (650) 719-7157
Photo of Nancy Chau, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Nancy Chau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95133  (Online Only)
I use various modalities that would best fit with clients' needs such as: CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, Strengths-based, and Solution-focused.
It is believed that the healing process begins with a therapeutic relationship. My genuineness and honest personality helps me build a strong connection and relationship with you to begin this journey. Through this foundation, you will learn how to develop healthy relationships with people in your own life. You might also need a safe and non-judgmental space to gain confidence to share and express what you are unable to with people in your life. My directive approach will challenge you to take what you learn in therapy and make changes that you need to reach the ideal life that you want to live!
I use various modalities that would best fit with clients' needs such as: CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, Strengths-based, and Solution-focused.
It is believed that the healing process begins with a therapeutic relationship. My genuineness and honest personality helps me build a strong connection and relationship with you to begin this journey. Through this foundation, you will learn how to develop healthy relationships with people in your own life. You might also need a safe and non-judgmental space to gain confidence to share and express what you are unable to with people in your life. My directive approach will challenge you to take what you learn in therapy and make changes that you need to reach the ideal life that you want to live!
(408) 351-8557 View (408) 351-8557
Photo of Serenity Serseción, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
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 Liz Dietrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Liz Dietrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR, Sex Therapy, EFT for Couples, and psychodynamic process groups, all from a relational, psychodynamic orientation.
I love working with clients who are curious about what more there is to experience in this life, who are ready to do the work of diving within in order to heal past wounds and create a life that they truly love. Sometimes trauma, relationship problems, work, or other life circumstances can result in our lives shrinking. We can become fearful or lose touch with what it is that we love, prioritizing other things. I'm committed to walking with you while you get back to yourself by processing all that you've been through.
I offer EMDR, Sex Therapy, EFT for Couples, and psychodynamic process groups, all from a relational, psychodynamic orientation.
I love working with clients who are curious about what more there is to experience in this life, who are ready to do the work of diving within in order to heal past wounds and create a life that they truly love. Sometimes trauma, relationship problems, work, or other life circumstances can result in our lives shrinking. We can become fearful or lose touch with what it is that we love, prioritizing other things. I'm committed to walking with you while you get back to yourself by processing all that you've been through.
(650) 405-0409 View (650) 405-0409
Photo of Kerri King, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Kerri King
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95101
Most mental health providers assist the patient(s) with the process of gaining interpersonal awareness, but do not specialize in both the emotional and physical aspects of intimacy. Alternatively, most intimacy coaches do not specialize in the psychodynamic underpinnings of human attachment and resulting relational dynamics. I offer a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment that allows couples or individuals to address issues, questions, and concerns pertaining to sexuality, intimacy, and relationships.
Most mental health providers assist the patient(s) with the process of gaining interpersonal awareness, but do not specialize in both the emotional and physical aspects of intimacy. Alternatively, most intimacy coaches do not specialize in the psychodynamic underpinnings of human attachment and resulting relational dynamics. I offer a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment that allows couples or individuals to address issues, questions, and concerns pertaining to sexuality, intimacy, and relationships.
(408) 426-4431 View (408) 426-4431
Photo of Alex Frank, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Alex Frank
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95127
During challenging times, much that we’ve taken for granted - health, finance, career, dating, dreams - may suddenly feel elusive, precarious even. I'll help you identify, then challenge any "thinking" obstacles, to guide you past what holds you back. I will collaborate with you towards acceptance or management of any real challenges you face, and help you to expand your tools. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapies (IPT) therapies, but also draw from traditional psychodynamic theory (i.e. attachment and early family dynamics) and mindfulness to gently guide you toward your desired change.
During challenging times, much that we’ve taken for granted - health, finance, career, dating, dreams - may suddenly feel elusive, precarious even. I'll help you identify, then challenge any "thinking" obstacles, to guide you past what holds you back. I will collaborate with you towards acceptance or management of any real challenges you face, and help you to expand your tools. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapies (IPT) therapies, but also draw from traditional psychodynamic theory (i.e. attachment and early family dynamics) and mindfulness to gently guide you toward your desired change.
(424) 304-1009 View (424) 304-1009
Photo of Clarice Fangzhou Hassan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Clarice Fangzhou Hassan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95133  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Clarice. I’m a New York University School of Social Work graduate, Gestalt Associate for Psychotherapy Clinical Fellow, mother and wife, ambitious entrepreneur, culinary enthusiast, and big fan of solution-focused thinking. My purpose is to guide you on a journey of self-discovery, providing support as you delve into your needs and ambitions. Drawing from a variety of therapeutic methods such as Gestalt and Psychodynamic therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and the realm of somatic therapy, I offer a diverse toolbox to enrich your life.
Hello! I’m Clarice. I’m a New York University School of Social Work graduate, Gestalt Associate for Psychotherapy Clinical Fellow, mother and wife, ambitious entrepreneur, culinary enthusiast, and big fan of solution-focused thinking. My purpose is to guide you on a journey of self-discovery, providing support as you delve into your needs and ambitions. Drawing from a variety of therapeutic methods such as Gestalt and Psychodynamic therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and the realm of somatic therapy, I offer a diverse toolbox to enrich your life.
(650) 663-4500 View (650) 663-4500
Photo of Yesica C Solorio, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Yesica C Solorio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95112  (Online Only)
As a therapist with over 15 years of experience, I enjoy working with children, families, adolescents, and the elderly. I enjoy providing support, understanding, and giving positive feedback to my clients. My goal is to support clients explore and understand their issues, build on their strengths, develop effective coping mechanism skills. The common types of therapy I focus on are Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy, Family therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Art therapy and Psychoeducation. I am fully bilingual/bicultural in Spanish.
As a therapist with over 15 years of experience, I enjoy working with children, families, adolescents, and the elderly. I enjoy providing support, understanding, and giving positive feedback to my clients. My goal is to support clients explore and understand their issues, build on their strengths, develop effective coping mechanism skills. The common types of therapy I focus on are Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy, Family therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Art therapy and Psychoeducation. I am fully bilingual/bicultural in Spanish.
(408) 634-6452 View (408) 634-6452
Photo of Morgan Hancock | Anxiety Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Morgan Hancock | Anxiety Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95118
I'm a psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapist, attachment-based, and person-centered.
I work with women who are struggling with overwhelming anxiety. Sometimes this includes issues with relationships, eating issues, sports performance, spirituality, self esteem, codependency, life transitions, and grief. You may be feeling not good enough, stuck in a toxic relationship, uncomfortable asking for help, scared of conflict, intimidated, taken advantage of. You can achieve, tough it out, and make other people happy, but aren’t really happy yourself.
I'm a psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapist, attachment-based, and person-centered.
I work with women who are struggling with overwhelming anxiety. Sometimes this includes issues with relationships, eating issues, sports performance, spirituality, self esteem, codependency, life transitions, and grief. You may be feeling not good enough, stuck in a toxic relationship, uncomfortable asking for help, scared of conflict, intimidated, taken advantage of. You can achieve, tough it out, and make other people happy, but aren’t really happy yourself.
(408) 780-4644 View (408) 780-4644
Photo of Clint Gaver, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Clint Gaver
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124  (Online Only)
I only offer Video now, but take all insurances. Life has shown up, and you might feel depressed, anxious, lonely, or angry. Has your self-esteem plummeted? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you: Beat yourself up? Use drugs or alcohol to cope with life? Have unresolved grief, trauma, or shame? Has your inner critic taken control of you? Do you believe the lies it tells you? If you answered YES, then you've found the right place to transform your life and heal. In therapy, I provide a safe, caring, and nonjudgmental setting, using evidence-based theories. "Thank you, Clint! My self-confidence is stronger than ever" -Kim.
I only offer Video now, but take all insurances. Life has shown up, and you might feel depressed, anxious, lonely, or angry. Has your self-esteem plummeted? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you: Beat yourself up? Use drugs or alcohol to cope with life? Have unresolved grief, trauma, or shame? Has your inner critic taken control of you? Do you believe the lies it tells you? If you answered YES, then you've found the right place to transform your life and heal. In therapy, I provide a safe, caring, and nonjudgmental setting, using evidence-based theories. "Thank you, Clint! My self-confidence is stronger than ever" -Kim.
(408) 981-4700 View (408) 981-4700
Photo of Natasha Jeswani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Natasha Jeswani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126  (Online Only)
As a sensitive and deeply feeling person, you struggle to navigate big feelings, sensory stimulation, and a strong emotional response to the state of the world today. You are impacted by the world around you, and are privy to the pain of others who suffer. The weight of a hurting world lives inside you, along with all that you sometimes struggle to feel. You are sensitive, spiritually inclined, and committed to personal and collective transformation. You are seeking a space of support and accountability, where you can develop the capacity and mindset to grow, expand, and open, through those times when things feel “too much.”
As a sensitive and deeply feeling person, you struggle to navigate big feelings, sensory stimulation, and a strong emotional response to the state of the world today. You are impacted by the world around you, and are privy to the pain of others who suffer. The weight of a hurting world lives inside you, along with all that you sometimes struggle to feel. You are sensitive, spiritually inclined, and committed to personal and collective transformation. You are seeking a space of support and accountability, where you can develop the capacity and mindset to grow, expand, and open, through those times when things feel “too much.”
(650) 749-1302 View (650) 749-1302
Photo of Dr. Randi Fredricks, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Dr. Randi Fredricks, PhD, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
First and foremost, therapy should make you feel cared for. A therapist needs to be insightful and honest with a huge dose of compassion. I always remember that it’s not easy for someone to reach out for help. I have over 17 years experience providing psychotherapy and counseling. I provide therapy for adults with anxiety, depression, self-confidence issues, grief and loss, addiction, intimacy, spiritual growth, and difficult life transitions. In addition to being a psychotherapist, I’m a best-selling author of several books and a published researcher. My approach to therapy is person-centered. I work in collaboration with clients,
First and foremost, therapy should make you feel cared for. A therapist needs to be insightful and honest with a huge dose of compassion. I always remember that it’s not easy for someone to reach out for help. I have over 17 years experience providing psychotherapy and counseling. I provide therapy for adults with anxiety, depression, self-confidence issues, grief and loss, addiction, intimacy, spiritual growth, and difficult life transitions. In addition to being a psychotherapist, I’m a best-selling author of several books and a published researcher. My approach to therapy is person-centered. I work in collaboration with clients,
(408) 351-0938 View (408) 351-0938
Photo of Carolina Sang, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
Carolina Sang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Are you finding it difficult to express your needs with someone in your life? Are you concerned that you and your loved one keep misunderstanding each other due to differences in cultural or gendered communication styles? Maybe you're going through a life transition that's adding to your stress levels, and leaving you both feeling in the dark about how to give and receive support? Or perhaps you are happy in your partnership, but are eager to grow together and deepen your bond even further? I can shine a light on those areas of difficulty for you both that remain obscured from view, and illuminate a new way forward.
Are you finding it difficult to express your needs with someone in your life? Are you concerned that you and your loved one keep misunderstanding each other due to differences in cultural or gendered communication styles? Maybe you're going through a life transition that's adding to your stress levels, and leaving you both feeling in the dark about how to give and receive support? Or perhaps you are happy in your partnership, but are eager to grow together and deepen your bond even further? I can shine a light on those areas of difficulty for you both that remain obscured from view, and illuminate a new way forward.
(408) 583-5437 View (408) 583-5437
Photo of Elizabeth Ojeda, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
Elizabeth Ojeda
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I strive to integrate and honor the wisdom and inherited medicine my clients carry to move toward embodied wellness. My intention is to curate a space to help you reclaim your narrative, realign with your authentic self, and orient towards what is possible - to return home to healing and hope.
I strive to integrate and honor the wisdom and inherited medicine my clients carry to move toward embodied wellness. My intention is to curate a space to help you reclaim your narrative, realign with your authentic self, and orient towards what is possible - to return home to healing and hope.
(408) 676-1506 View (408) 676-1506
Photo of Trauma Recovery Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Trauma Recovery Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95134  (Online Only)
Life is hard on a good day, then we have trauma. Depression, anxiety, avoidance, hopelessness, despair, isolation..there are a million different ways people respond to trauma; The way you respond to trauma is unique to you. You've already come so far in this process which shows how resilient, brave, courageous, and determined you are. Let us know what is and isn't working for you, and we can help you build a life that is full of the hope, joy, and freedom you were always promised. Let's identify how you got here and make sure you don't end up here again.
Life is hard on a good day, then we have trauma. Depression, anxiety, avoidance, hopelessness, despair, isolation..there are a million different ways people respond to trauma; The way you respond to trauma is unique to you. You've already come so far in this process which shows how resilient, brave, courageous, and determined you are. Let us know what is and isn't working for you, and we can help you build a life that is full of the hope, joy, and freedom you were always promised. Let's identify how you got here and make sure you don't end up here again.
(650) 417-3125 View (650) 417-3125
Photo of Dr. Michelle Wambach, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Dr. Michelle Wambach
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95117
Are you up at night worrying about relationships, job, kids, school, or life in general? For over 23 years, I have helped anxious and sad people feel better and change for good. You want to feel happy, but a painful past keeps you in the same patterns despite your best efforts to change. Fear and worry make it hard to feel secure in relationships, parenting, school, career. You want to be more successful in managing when to control and where to just let go, but feel like your mind is out of control with anxiety and stress. You try so hard, but the choices you're making just aren't working out so well. You are not alone, I can help!
Are you up at night worrying about relationships, job, kids, school, or life in general? For over 23 years, I have helped anxious and sad people feel better and change for good. You want to feel happy, but a painful past keeps you in the same patterns despite your best efforts to change. Fear and worry make it hard to feel secure in relationships, parenting, school, career. You want to be more successful in managing when to control and where to just let go, but feel like your mind is out of control with anxiety and stress. You try so hard, but the choices you're making just aren't working out so well. You are not alone, I can help!
(408) 247-7909 View (408) 247-7909
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.