Photo of Sana Gaitonde, Psychologist in Virginia
Sana Gaitonde
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301  (Online Only)
I have an extensive background working with adolescents, and adults, providing psychotherapy. I have worked in a variety of settings including private practices, community clinics, and residential treatment centers. With specialized training and experience in different theoretical approaches including psychodynamic, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused CBT, interpersonal, and narrative therapy, I use an integrated approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Due to my own diverse background and experience, I am intimately aware of multicultural issues, and enjoy working with a clientele from various arrays of life.
I have an extensive background working with adolescents, and adults, providing psychotherapy. I have worked in a variety of settings including private practices, community clinics, and residential treatment centers. With specialized training and experience in different theoretical approaches including psychodynamic, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused CBT, interpersonal, and narrative therapy, I use an integrated approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Due to my own diverse background and experience, I am intimately aware of multicultural issues, and enjoy working with a clientele from various arrays of life.
(571) 496-8985 View (571) 496-8985
Photo of McKenzie Casad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
McKenzie Casad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220
In all forms, relationships are a guiding part of our lives and directly impact how we live. My practice is guided by psychodynamic/psychoanalytic theory, and I believe therapist and client thinking together creates insight and deeper understanding, which allows you to learn about your inner world. As you come to know yourself, a positive space opens up to afford you an opportunity to grow, evolve, and flourish. As a psychoanalyst I have studied for many years including infant and young child observational studies, my clinical experience includes trauma, depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, and life-changing events.
In all forms, relationships are a guiding part of our lives and directly impact how we live. My practice is guided by psychodynamic/psychoanalytic theory, and I believe therapist and client thinking together creates insight and deeper understanding, which allows you to learn about your inner world. As you come to know yourself, a positive space opens up to afford you an opportunity to grow, evolve, and flourish. As a psychoanalyst I have studied for many years including infant and young child observational studies, my clinical experience includes trauma, depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, and life-changing events.
(757) 553-2780 View (757) 553-2780
Jeanne Face
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte Court House, VA 23923  (Online Only)
Dr. Face works with her clients to develop individualized treatment goals to facilitate positive changes in their lives. Dr. Face utilizes a developmental perspective to understand the client’s current concerns within the context of their life history and to address coping across the lifespan. In sessions, she tends to assume an interpersonal, relational, and collaborative approach with a focus on empathy, understanding from the client’s perspective, and the strength of the therapeutic relationship. She has received training in humanistic, psychodynamic, interpersonal, relational, cognitive-behavioral, and family systems therapies.
Dr. Face works with her clients to develop individualized treatment goals to facilitate positive changes in their lives. Dr. Face utilizes a developmental perspective to understand the client’s current concerns within the context of their life history and to address coping across the lifespan. In sessions, she tends to assume an interpersonal, relational, and collaborative approach with a focus on empathy, understanding from the client’s perspective, and the strength of the therapeutic relationship. She has received training in humanistic, psychodynamic, interpersonal, relational, cognitive-behavioral, and family systems therapies.
(434) 448-2673 View (434) 448-2673
Photo of Dr. Helen Rathbun, Psychologist in Virginia
Dr. Helen Rathbun
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I see therapy as time dedicated to unpacking your thoughts and feelings. It's also a space to process past experiences that may have been confusing or painful. I believe it's crucial to have a trusting therapeutic relationship where you are genuinely seen and valued, allowing space for all your identities to be acknowledged and validated. Working with me, you will find an attentive, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapist. My clinical foundation is psychodynamic, relational, cognitive behavioral, and culturally attuned.
I see therapy as time dedicated to unpacking your thoughts and feelings. It's also a space to process past experiences that may have been confusing or painful. I believe it's crucial to have a trusting therapeutic relationship where you are genuinely seen and valued, allowing space for all your identities to be acknowledged and validated. Working with me, you will find an attentive, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapist. My clinical foundation is psychodynamic, relational, cognitive behavioral, and culturally attuned.
(202) 798-3410 View (202) 798-3410
Photo of Mary Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Mary Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
I use an integrative approach in therapy to best suit every individual’s and family’s needs, drawing from person-centered and psychodynamic theories, as well as CBT, DBT, art therapy and sand tray therapy.
Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and exhausting. It’s hard to find answers when you feel like everything around you is unraveling. My goal is to be a secure base while we work together to foster self-exploration, resilience, and restoration. As an art therapist, I believe that using art and metaphor can be a way to give voice to those experiences and emotions which remain unspoken. Together, we will work towards gaining comfort with uncomfortable feelings and situations, finding balance, and fostering resilience with life’s challenges.
I use an integrative approach in therapy to best suit every individual’s and family’s needs, drawing from person-centered and psychodynamic theories, as well as CBT, DBT, art therapy and sand tray therapy.
Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and exhausting. It’s hard to find answers when you feel like everything around you is unraveling. My goal is to be a secure base while we work together to foster self-exploration, resilience, and restoration. As an art therapist, I believe that using art and metaphor can be a way to give voice to those experiences and emotions which remain unspoken. Together, we will work towards gaining comfort with uncomfortable feelings and situations, finding balance, and fostering resilience with life’s challenges.
(571) 410-2818 View (571) 410-2818
Photo of Karen Stefano, Counselor in Virginia
Karen Stefano
Counselor, MA, LPC, CBT, NCC
Verified Verified
Winchester, VA 22602
I am an artist and practicing License Professional Counselor and Bio-energetic Analyst. I have trained extensively in psychodynamic psychotherapy, group psychotherapy, and analytic somatic psychotherapy and bio-energetics. A trained sculptor and painter, I also draw on the synergy of expressive arts and counseling. Working with individuals, couples and groups - my approach is somatic, existential, and influenced by Jungian ideas. I also work extensively with the Jungian practice of Active Imagination.
I am an artist and practicing License Professional Counselor and Bio-energetic Analyst. I have trained extensively in psychodynamic psychotherapy, group psychotherapy, and analytic somatic psychotherapy and bio-energetics. A trained sculptor and painter, I also draw on the synergy of expressive arts and counseling. Working with individuals, couples and groups - my approach is somatic, existential, and influenced by Jungian ideas. I also work extensively with the Jungian practice of Active Imagination.
(540) 402-9728 View (540) 402-9728
Photo of Holly Ellis, Psychologist in Virginia
Holly Ellis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
In therapy, to maximize your recovery and mitigate against relapse, I use an integrative approach, integrating, as appropriate, exposure and response prevention (ERP), family systems, general cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic and relational therapies, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, among other approaches.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, phobias, and social anxiety disorder. I also provide treatment for depression and interpersonal issues. In addition to therapy, I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, focusing primarily on ADHD and learning differences.
In therapy, to maximize your recovery and mitigate against relapse, I use an integrative approach, integrating, as appropriate, exposure and response prevention (ERP), family systems, general cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic and relational therapies, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, among other approaches.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, phobias, and social anxiety disorder. I also provide treatment for depression and interpersonal issues. In addition to therapy, I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations, focusing primarily on ADHD and learning differences.
(703) 249-9686 View (703) 249-9686
Photo of Anne Mader, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Anne Mader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Anne also works from a relational and psychodynamic perspective while integrating mindfulness and curiosity.
Anne is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington, DC, and Virginia. Currently, she is only seeing clients via telehealth. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and holds a Bachelor of the Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Tennessee. Anne has received advanced training in Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, and Sensorimotor Psychology. Anne's areas of interest working through life transitions, relationship issues, work/life balance, and trauma. She provides a warm and inviting space to come as you are, without judgment.
Anne also works from a relational and psychodynamic perspective while integrating mindfulness and curiosity.
Anne is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington, DC, and Virginia. Currently, she is only seeing clients via telehealth. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and holds a Bachelor of the Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Tennessee. Anne has received advanced training in Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, and Sensorimotor Psychology. Anne's areas of interest working through life transitions, relationship issues, work/life balance, and trauma. She provides a warm and inviting space to come as you are, without judgment.
(202) 979-9841 View (202) 979-9841
Photo of Milov Sonnier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Milov Sonnier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
I most frequently use humanistic and psychodynamic approaches.
I am Milov Sonnier a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in women's issues, trauma, PTSD, thought disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and more. I use integrative approaches to help my clients make progress and to begin to feel better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults who are experiencing transition periods in their lives, and have traumatic memories that surface due to a current life stressor's.
I most frequently use humanistic and psychodynamic approaches.
I am Milov Sonnier a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in women's issues, trauma, PTSD, thought disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and more. I use integrative approaches to help my clients make progress and to begin to feel better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults who are experiencing transition periods in their lives, and have traumatic memories that surface due to a current life stressor's.
(804) 596-4915 View (804) 596-4915
Photo of Linda Zaffram, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Linda Zaffram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23294
Do you suffer with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, perinatal mood disorders, fertility and/or have a birth trauma history? Do you want to find healing and find personal fulfillment in your life? By utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, strengths based, solution focused, psychodynamic, EMDR and a mindfulness perspective you can begin to make sense of your past and look forward to your future. Together we can build on your strengths, improve functioning, facilitate personal growth, deepen relationships and increase self esteem. My passion is helping others see the light through the darkness by healing one day at a time!
Do you suffer with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, perinatal mood disorders, fertility and/or have a birth trauma history? Do you want to find healing and find personal fulfillment in your life? By utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, strengths based, solution focused, psychodynamic, EMDR and a mindfulness perspective you can begin to make sense of your past and look forward to your future. Together we can build on your strengths, improve functioning, facilitate personal growth, deepen relationships and increase self esteem. My passion is helping others see the light through the darkness by healing one day at a time!
(804) 299-5410 View (804) 299-5410
Photo of Martina Samuel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Martina Samuel
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22320  (Online Only)
I also use attachment-based work, psychodynamic theory, ACT, CBT, somatic work, and mindfulness to treat relationship issues and childhood traumas as I support you to be present and live your life to the fullest.
Are you wondering whether you should stay in your relationship? Do you need help healing from an abusive relationship? Have you been in a relationship with a narcissist that left you wounded and confused? Have you experienced childhood trauma that is hindering your growth and happiness today? I will help you heal from those life-changing experiences as I create a safe space and work with you on your most authentic and healthy self. We will understand how your past experiences are impacting your present life, help you fully live and thrive in the present, and grow to your fullest potential beyond what you have imagined for yourself.
I also use attachment-based work, psychodynamic theory, ACT, CBT, somatic work, and mindfulness to treat relationship issues and childhood traumas as I support you to be present and live your life to the fullest.
Are you wondering whether you should stay in your relationship? Do you need help healing from an abusive relationship? Have you been in a relationship with a narcissist that left you wounded and confused? Have you experienced childhood trauma that is hindering your growth and happiness today? I will help you heal from those life-changing experiences as I create a safe space and work with you on your most authentic and healthy self. We will understand how your past experiences are impacting your present life, help you fully live and thrive in the present, and grow to your fullest potential beyond what you have imagined for yourself.
(804) 570-2889 View (804) 570-2889
Photo of Debra Babarsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Debra Babarsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Purcellville, VA 20132
I integrate various therapeutic modalities including humanistic, psychodynamic, family systems, cognitive/behavioral, body-oriented.
With decades of experience, I have helped many families, couples and individuals heal from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, etc. by examining their beliefs, feelings, and behaviors; building and strengthening tools and skills; and learning how to create healthy relationships within themselves and with others. The therapeutic benefits of counseling allow you to transform and grow, Counseling opens the door for new possibilities in your life. The positive changes that occur are the outcome of exploring yourself with curiosity, building inner resources, and learning how to make choices that nourish and fulfill you.
I integrate various therapeutic modalities including humanistic, psychodynamic, family systems, cognitive/behavioral, body-oriented.
With decades of experience, I have helped many families, couples and individuals heal from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, etc. by examining their beliefs, feelings, and behaviors; building and strengthening tools and skills; and learning how to create healthy relationships within themselves and with others. The therapeutic benefits of counseling allow you to transform and grow, Counseling opens the door for new possibilities in your life. The positive changes that occur are the outcome of exploring yourself with curiosity, building inner resources, and learning how to make choices that nourish and fulfill you.
(540) 338-0620 View (540) 338-0620
Photo of Allie Kassraie, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Allie Kassraie
Pre-Licensed Professional, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am Allie Kassraie, MT-BC, a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Student at Northwestern University. I am a board-certified music therapist who has worked part-time in Northern Virginia for the last two years. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings with all ages as young as five. The oldest client I have served was 82. As a counselor, I believe in the innate resiliency of all living beings, and I seek to collaborate with clients to support their autonomy by increasing a sense of empowerment, growth, and understanding. My approach is from a trauma-informed, humanistic, social justice, and psychodynamic lens.
I am Allie Kassraie, MT-BC, a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Student at Northwestern University. I am a board-certified music therapist who has worked part-time in Northern Virginia for the last two years. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings with all ages as young as five. The oldest client I have served was 82. As a counselor, I believe in the innate resiliency of all living beings, and I seek to collaborate with clients to support their autonomy by increasing a sense of empowerment, growth, and understanding. My approach is from a trauma-informed, humanistic, social justice, and psychodynamic lens.
(571) 554-2712 View (571) 554-2712
Photo of Mackenzie Nelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Mackenzie Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Crozet, VA 22932
I pull from a variety of theories, including psychodynamic talk therapy and cognitive behavioral strategies.
I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking counseling services for a variety of reasons. Many of my clients have depressive, anxious, or disordered eating symptoms. Others are in life transitions or are seeking support with something such as athletic performance. I believe counseling can benefit everyone and collaborate with clients on individual goals. Together we reflect, build upon strengths, and apply new strategies to increase fulfillment. I am happy to meet at my office, via video, or outside for a walk.
I pull from a variety of theories, including psychodynamic talk therapy and cognitive behavioral strategies.
I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking counseling services for a variety of reasons. Many of my clients have depressive, anxious, or disordered eating symptoms. Others are in life transitions or are seeking support with something such as athletic performance. I believe counseling can benefit everyone and collaborate with clients on individual goals. Together we reflect, build upon strengths, and apply new strategies to increase fulfillment. I am happy to meet at my office, via video, or outside for a walk.
View
Photo of Dr. Chantelle Elam Bernard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Dr. Chantelle Elam Bernard
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, EdS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060  (Online Only)
As an existential therapist, I use strengths-based, psychodynamic, and mindfulness based approaches to improve mood, enhance self-perception, and to help clients tap into resources that will offer them strategies to work through hurts, losses, challenges, negative thoughts and beliefs.
Becoming known to oneself is often a lifelong task, and there are times when we need help gaining insight into our own story. The simple exercise of living often exposes us to seen and unforeseen challenges; but I believe their is a resiliency in the human spirit that affords us the opportunity for renewal and restoration. My mission is to help people see that no matter how bad their situation, problem or loss; there is a way forward, and recovery is possible. I also believe that learning how to properly activate self-care and self-compassion is at the root of that recovery.
As an existential therapist, I use strengths-based, psychodynamic, and mindfulness based approaches to improve mood, enhance self-perception, and to help clients tap into resources that will offer them strategies to work through hurts, losses, challenges, negative thoughts and beliefs.
Becoming known to oneself is often a lifelong task, and there are times when we need help gaining insight into our own story. The simple exercise of living often exposes us to seen and unforeseen challenges; but I believe their is a resiliency in the human spirit that affords us the opportunity for renewal and restoration. My mission is to help people see that no matter how bad their situation, problem or loss; there is a way forward, and recovery is possible. I also believe that learning how to properly activate self-care and self-compassion is at the root of that recovery.
(804) 944-8717 View (804) 944-8717
Photo of Todd H Huntley, Psychologist in Virginia
Todd H Huntley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
I believe that therapy is a place where meaningful dialogue is co-created and tailored to help individuals, couples, and families achieve their goals, maximize their potentials, and to heal emotionally. My clinical orientation is integrative and includes approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-based, and Humanistic therapies.
I believe that therapy is a place where meaningful dialogue is co-created and tailored to help individuals, couples, and families achieve their goals, maximize their potentials, and to heal emotionally. My clinical orientation is integrative and includes approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-based, and Humanistic therapies.
(571) 290-2485 View (571) 290-2485
Photo of Kristin Schroeder, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Kristin Schroeder
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MSW
Verified Verified
I frequently draw from from experiential, psychodynamic, somatic, mindfulness, and parts work techniques.
Are you seeking trauma-informed care that integrates mind and body? Does cognitive behavioral therapy feel limiting and impersonal to you? Are you curious about cultivating a deeper, more compassionate relationship with your inner emotional life? Is it important to you that your therapist is LGBTQ+ affirming and social justice oriented? If so, my approach may be a good fit for you. I enjoy working with individuals (16+) and couples who are coping with issues related to anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, academic challenges, identity, self-esteem, loss, and trauma.
I frequently draw from from experiential, psychodynamic, somatic, mindfulness, and parts work techniques.
Are you seeking trauma-informed care that integrates mind and body? Does cognitive behavioral therapy feel limiting and impersonal to you? Are you curious about cultivating a deeper, more compassionate relationship with your inner emotional life? Is it important to you that your therapist is LGBTQ+ affirming and social justice oriented? If so, my approach may be a good fit for you. I enjoy working with individuals (16+) and couples who are coping with issues related to anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, academic challenges, identity, self-esteem, loss, and trauma.
(434) 361-3825 View (434) 361-3825
Photo of Best Life Therapeutic Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Best Life Therapeutic Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Our clinicians employ a multitude of treatment approaches to include; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), coaching, psychodynamic psychotherapy, recovery model and an overall eclectic approach.
You've come to this site for a reason. Maybe it's for assistance with depression, communication, anger management, trauma, or you may be looking for someone to help your loved one. No matter the reason, you have made a big step in wanting a better life and that is an investment worth taking. As a practice with a diverse group of therapist, we have experience in an array of specialties to help assist with living your best life.
Our clinicians employ a multitude of treatment approaches to include; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), coaching, psychodynamic psychotherapy, recovery model and an overall eclectic approach.
You've come to this site for a reason. Maybe it's for assistance with depression, communication, anger management, trauma, or you may be looking for someone to help your loved one. No matter the reason, you have made a big step in wanting a better life and that is an investment worth taking. As a practice with a diverse group of therapist, we have experience in an array of specialties to help assist with living your best life.
(571) 556-9198 View (571) 556-9198
Photo of Jamie R. Wyatt, Counselor in Virginia
Jamie R. Wyatt
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22802  (Online Only)
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I incorporate elements of mindfulness, parts work, Jungian, and psychodynamic oriented approaches.
Do you yearn for a happier, more fulfilled life? Are you struggling with loss, life transition, trauma, depression or anxiety, or a life that feels unsatisfying? I understand how difficult it can be to start the journey of therapy. If you are willing to take this brave step, I am here to listen deeply to your story with non-judgement and compassion, join you in moments of laughter and tears, and journey with you through the scary places. Together we can uncover what gets you stuck, and take the steps necessary to transform your pain into restorative healing.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I incorporate elements of mindfulness, parts work, Jungian, and psychodynamic oriented approaches.
Do you yearn for a happier, more fulfilled life? Are you struggling with loss, life transition, trauma, depression or anxiety, or a life that feels unsatisfying? I understand how difficult it can be to start the journey of therapy. If you are willing to take this brave step, I am here to listen deeply to your story with non-judgement and compassion, join you in moments of laughter and tears, and journey with you through the scary places. Together we can uncover what gets you stuck, and take the steps necessary to transform your pain into restorative healing.
(434) 204-8178 View (434) 204-8178
Photo of David Paul, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
David Paul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Through mindfulness practices grounded in cognitive behavioral theory along with psychodynamic techniques you will gain new insights and awareness of old patterns that cause undue suffering.
The goal of all therapy and counseling is to reduce suffering. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, impulsivity, ADHD, relationship problems, traumatic past, gender identity, sexual orientation, or just feeling stuck and dissatisfied with life, therapy can be a powerful vehicle for holistic change and increased peace and contentment. By focusing on your natural strengths we work collaboratively to identify the roadblocks internally and externally getting in the way of leading a fulfilled life.
Through mindfulness practices grounded in cognitive behavioral theory along with psychodynamic techniques you will gain new insights and awareness of old patterns that cause undue suffering.
The goal of all therapy and counseling is to reduce suffering. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, impulsivity, ADHD, relationship problems, traumatic past, gender identity, sexual orientation, or just feeling stuck and dissatisfied with life, therapy can be a powerful vehicle for holistic change and increased peace and contentment. By focusing on your natural strengths we work collaboratively to identify the roadblocks internally and externally getting in the way of leading a fulfilled life.
(202) 849-9624 View (202) 849-9624
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.