Psychodynamic Therapists in Knoxville, TN

Amanda M Partin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
You've been stuck in a loop of intrusive thoughts, self-destructive patterns, and unanswered questions about why you keep doing this or why your life feels this way. The confusion and guilt about what "could/should have been" might be overwhelming. Each days it feel like things are getting worse, and the life you want seems further away. Let's bring the life you want, the true joy you want, back into focus and talk about your next steps.
You've been stuck in a loop of intrusive thoughts, self-destructive patterns, and unanswered questions about why you keep doing this or why your life feels this way. The confusion and guilt about what "could/should have been" might be overwhelming. Each days it feel like things are getting worse, and the life you want seems further away. Let's bring the life you want, the true joy you want, back into focus and talk about your next steps.
(865) 737-1886 View (865) 737-1886
Joyce M Cartor
Psychologist, PhD
Knoxville, TN 37919
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process; the therapist must be serious and respectful and possess a solid reservoir of knowledge about the human condition. The therapy-seeker must, in addition to wanting symptom relief, bring to the process his or her curiosity and some desire for increased self awareness. People come to psychotherapy in emotional turmoil and/or pain. While this is usually the first focus, quickly it will become important to try to understand one's personality style, one's relationship patterns and the roots of these patterns, one's thinking style and the characteristic way one goes about managing, deflecting or enacting emotional storms.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process; the therapist must be serious and respectful and possess a solid reservoir of knowledge about the human condition. The therapy-seeker must, in addition to wanting symptom relief, bring to the process his or her curiosity and some desire for increased self awareness. People come to psychotherapy in emotional turmoil and/or pain. While this is usually the first focus, quickly it will become important to try to understand one's personality style, one's relationship patterns and the roots of these patterns, one's thinking style and the characteristic way one goes about managing, deflecting or enacting emotional storms.
(865) 584-7470 View (865) 584-7470
Nicole A Perez
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
My style of therapy is an interpersonal approach informed by neurological, behavioral and psychodynamic concepts
My ideal client is one who is curious about his/her emotional life. My treatment philosophy is to engage a person in an exploration of their problems in ways that can lead to better relationships, feelings about themselves, and overall day-to-day functioning. My patients should find relief from their symptoms - whatever they may be - while making changes that will help them stay emotionally healthy and symptom-free in the long-term. It is my belief that therapy is a growth process that can only happen by collaboration and genuine trust between patient and therapist.
My style of therapy is an interpersonal approach informed by neurological, behavioral and psychodynamic concepts
My ideal client is one who is curious about his/her emotional life. My treatment philosophy is to engage a person in an exploration of their problems in ways that can lead to better relationships, feelings about themselves, and overall day-to-day functioning. My patients should find relief from their symptoms - whatever they may be - while making changes that will help them stay emotionally healthy and symptom-free in the long-term. It is my belief that therapy is a growth process that can only happen by collaboration and genuine trust between patient and therapist.
(865) 325-9986 View (865) 325-9986
Diana Brown Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Please note, you will receive a faster response if you utilize email! I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients who want to live healthier and more fulfilling lives. When entering into a relationship with a therapist, it is important to bring an attitude of change and we will build trust as we go. I see the therapeutic process as a partnership. My therapeutic approach comes from a love of education and I hope to teach my clients skills they can use to navigate life. I use workbooks and homework to help my clients fully engage in the changes they want to see in themselves.
Please note, you will receive a faster response if you utilize email! I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients who want to live healthier and more fulfilling lives. When entering into a relationship with a therapist, it is important to bring an attitude of change and we will build trust as we go. I see the therapeutic process as a partnership. My therapeutic approach comes from a love of education and I hope to teach my clients skills they can use to navigate life. I use workbooks and homework to help my clients fully engage in the changes they want to see in themselves.
(865) 999-0425 View (865) 999-0425
Dr. Zahra Amer
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in psychodynamic/relational therapy, offering a thoughtful space to work through struggles without judgment.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults in MA & TN navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem concerns, relationship and communication issues, and major life transitions. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or disconnected, and may feel like they are simply “bad at handling life.” Yet, they bravely recognize their current ways of moving through life aren't sustainable for them. I help my clients understand their lifelong patterns, access self-compassion and regulation, and carve out new ways forward.
I specialize in psychodynamic/relational therapy, offering a thoughtful space to work through struggles without judgment.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults in MA & TN navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem concerns, relationship and communication issues, and major life transitions. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or disconnected, and may feel like they are simply “bad at handling life.” Yet, they bravely recognize their current ways of moving through life aren't sustainable for them. I help my clients understand their lifelong patterns, access self-compassion and regulation, and carve out new ways forward.
(865) 509-8853 View (865) 509-8853
Ashleigh Hyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
10 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Please note: I am currently accepting clients for ADHD Assessment only When you feel like you are sinking, it's hard to believe you can get your head above water. It would be my privilege to help you re-discover your own resiliency and strength. I believe in having a client-centered approach to treatment as YOU are an expert on YOU. I believe with the right support and tools, everyone has the ability to heal. Please note: phone number listed routes to my office not my work cell.
Please note: I am currently accepting clients for ADHD Assessment only When you feel like you are sinking, it's hard to believe you can get your head above water. It would be my privilege to help you re-discover your own resiliency and strength. I believe in having a client-centered approach to treatment as YOU are an expert on YOU. I believe with the right support and tools, everyone has the ability to heal. Please note: phone number listed routes to my office not my work cell.
(865) 730-2616 View (865) 730-2616
Laila Sherrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
Feeling misunderstood or going through a tough time? It can be hard to find your footing when you feel out of sync with the world around you. If you're looking for a safe, open, and non-judgmental space to process life’s challenges, I’m here to help. I work with adults navigating identity, stress, and the complexities of being human—especially in environments where your values or experiences may not feel accepted. I’m proud to offer an LGBTQ+ affirming and inclusive space where you can be your authentic self. Heads-up: my sweet senior pup, Cosmo, is usually in session with me (he’s not a fan of staying home alone). See pic below.
Feeling misunderstood or going through a tough time? It can be hard to find your footing when you feel out of sync with the world around you. If you're looking for a safe, open, and non-judgmental space to process life’s challenges, I’m here to help. I work with adults navigating identity, stress, and the complexities of being human—especially in environments where your values or experiences may not feel accepted. I’m proud to offer an LGBTQ+ affirming and inclusive space where you can be your authentic self. Heads-up: my sweet senior pup, Cosmo, is usually in session with me (he’s not a fan of staying home alone). See pic below.
(865) 674-9047 View (865) 674-9047
Randall Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I use evidence-based and person-centered approaches including psychodynamic therapy, CBT, ACT, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Life can change quickly, and even capable, resilient people can find themselves overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of what comes next. I work with adults and older teens facing stress, relationship concerns, identity questions, health challenges, grief, eating disorders, and major transitions. At Newfound Mental Health, we take time to understand the whole person—not just a diagnosis—and help clients develop insight, practical tools, and a clearer path forward.
I use evidence-based and person-centered approaches including psychodynamic therapy, CBT, ACT, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Life can change quickly, and even capable, resilient people can find themselves overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of what comes next. I work with adults and older teens facing stress, relationship concerns, identity questions, health challenges, grief, eating disorders, and major transitions. At Newfound Mental Health, we take time to understand the whole person—not just a diagnosis—and help clients develop insight, practical tools, and a clearer path forward.
(865) 459-4002 View (865) 459-4002
Kristen Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
I work with individuals and couples that are ready to prioritize the work of therapy so they can be more self-aware, move through their days with more ease, and have more functional relationships. Maybe you’ve seen therapists in the past, and now find yourself seeking more from therapy than someone who listens and validates. I strive to offer concrete takeaways from our sessions.
I work with individuals and couples that are ready to prioritize the work of therapy so they can be more self-aware, move through their days with more ease, and have more functional relationships. Maybe you’ve seen therapists in the past, and now find yourself seeking more from therapy than someone who listens and validates. I strive to offer concrete takeaways from our sessions.
(708) 773-5681 View (708) 773-5681
Shan Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I specialize in supporting clients with depression, anxiety, stress-related issues, life transitions, and unresolved or repressed trauma. Life happens quickly, and we don’t always have the tools or perspective to show up as our best selves. I believe a successful therapeutic relationship depends on working together to create a sense of peace that might not otherwise exist. I use a client-centered approach, providing a safe space for vulnerability, honesty, and growth.
I specialize in supporting clients with depression, anxiety, stress-related issues, life transitions, and unresolved or repressed trauma. Life happens quickly, and we don’t always have the tools or perspective to show up as our best selves. I believe a successful therapeutic relationship depends on working together to create a sense of peace that might not otherwise exist. I use a client-centered approach, providing a safe space for vulnerability, honesty, and growth.
(865) 391-6997 View (865) 391-6997
Lauren Valencia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I use a holistic and client-centered approach and believe the therapeutic relationship is key to making progress. It's this fit between client and therapist that allows you to 'tell it like it is' and for me to provide the space for you to be real. Most importantly, I believe the therapeutic relationship is key to making progress and building resilience in therapy. I also specialize in utilizing Mindfulness and other modalities. I am committed to meeting you where you are on your journey. Together, we can explore at your pace and work towards creating positive change in your life.
I use a holistic and client-centered approach and believe the therapeutic relationship is key to making progress. It's this fit between client and therapist that allows you to 'tell it like it is' and for me to provide the space for you to be real. Most importantly, I believe the therapeutic relationship is key to making progress and building resilience in therapy. I also specialize in utilizing Mindfulness and other modalities. I am committed to meeting you where you are on your journey. Together, we can explore at your pace and work towards creating positive change in your life.
(865) 413-3882 View (865) 413-3882
Dr. Richard Adlin
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
26 year private practice specializing in psychotherapy grounded in theory and research on treatment, relationships, child development, and disorders. I'm committed to those I work with and open to all walks of life. I listen closely with curiosity to help you identify deep emotional blind spots to help you make sense of the troubles you are having. Discovering these deeper roots of your problems and symptoms will not only give you a different perspective of the obstacles and trauma in your life, it will reduce emotional pain, and help you feel more control in your life.
26 year private practice specializing in psychotherapy grounded in theory and research on treatment, relationships, child development, and disorders. I'm committed to those I work with and open to all walks of life. I listen closely with curiosity to help you identify deep emotional blind spots to help you make sense of the troubles you are having. Discovering these deeper roots of your problems and symptoms will not only give you a different perspective of the obstacles and trauma in your life, it will reduce emotional pain, and help you feel more control in your life.
(865) 822-8866 View (865) 822-8866
Daniel Shirley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MS
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Life is often confusing and sometimes very difficult. I believe my clients can improve their lives, even in difficult situations. I take a holistic approach that considers the wellness and level of functioning of each client across their many roles and responsibilities. It is my hope that each of my clients gains greater feelings of hope and autonomy as a result of our work together.
Life is often confusing and sometimes very difficult. I believe my clients can improve their lives, even in difficult situations. I take a holistic approach that considers the wellness and level of functioning of each client across their many roles and responsibilities. It is my hope that each of my clients gains greater feelings of hope and autonomy as a result of our work together.
(865) 419-7462 View (865) 419-7462
Carl E Bello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, LMHC, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I come from a Jungian/ psychodynamic perspective and will work collaboratively with you in order to help you find your way.
Do you feel: sad, angry, afraid, lonely, powerless, stuck, or numb? Emotions are messages from the deep Self that something needs your attention. It may be a relationship, a past trauma, a lack of living your true purpose, or simply increasing threats to your personal health or well being, as well as that of our planet. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space in which we can explore the particular areas in your life that are asking for your attention. This process can lead to new insights and perspectives as to what changes might be helpful for you.
I come from a Jungian/ psychodynamic perspective and will work collaboratively with you in order to help you find your way.
Do you feel: sad, angry, afraid, lonely, powerless, stuck, or numb? Emotions are messages from the deep Self that something needs your attention. It may be a relationship, a past trauma, a lack of living your true purpose, or simply increasing threats to your personal health or well being, as well as that of our planet. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space in which we can explore the particular areas in your life that are asking for your attention. This process can lead to new insights and perspectives as to what changes might be helpful for you.
(865) 213-7401 View (865) 213-7401
Gabriel Hayes Crowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37915
My clients often begin therapy because they recognize a need for change. These realizations can be difficult to deal with, so I respect them. I am also excited by these moments because they are the beginning of the healing process. Through therapy, I help clients develop a greater understanding of who they are and what got them to this point in life. From there, we explore what their goals are, and we develop a plan to achieve these goals.
My clients often begin therapy because they recognize a need for change. These realizations can be difficult to deal with, so I respect them. I am also excited by these moments because they are the beginning of the healing process. Through therapy, I help clients develop a greater understanding of who they are and what got them to this point in life. From there, we explore what their goals are, and we develop a plan to achieve these goals.
(865) 269-6288 View (865) 269-6288
Kindal Akers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I work with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from and cope with the impact of issues like trauma, abuse, grief, loss, adoption, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship struggles, and postpartum and women's issues. I believe every client I see is more than their problems or labels. I complete a thorough assessment, so I can customize treatment to meet clients where they are and help them toward their goals. I also create a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere that allows for reflection and healing.
I work with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from and cope with the impact of issues like trauma, abuse, grief, loss, adoption, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship struggles, and postpartum and women's issues. I believe every client I see is more than their problems or labels. I complete a thorough assessment, so I can customize treatment to meet clients where they are and help them toward their goals. I also create a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere that allows for reflection and healing.
(865) 205-0967 View (865) 205-0967
Cindy Fugatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37931
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy practicing from a Christian platform but also respect and honor other religions/spirituality/and beliefs. I received a Masters of Social Work from the University of Alabama and a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Tennessee. I do have an emotional support dog in my office, my Chocolate Lab, Jed :)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy practicing from a Christian platform but also respect and honor other religions/spirituality/and beliefs. I received a Masters of Social Work from the University of Alabama and a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Tennessee. I do have an emotional support dog in my office, my Chocolate Lab, Jed :)
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Penny R. Lukin
Psychologist, PhD
Knoxville, TN 37923
I have been in professional psychological practice since 1979, been married many years, raised 2 children and shared in raising 3 step-children, so I have many years of clinical and personal experience on which to draw. However, I am always learning and growing, and enjoy sharing the journey of self-discovery with my clients/patients. I tailor my psychological treatment with individuals (adults, adolescents, and children), couples, and families to each person's unique situation. I utilize a variety of different treatment approaches, depending on the problems presented, ranging from cognitive-behavioral, insight, family systems, to supportive reality therapy.
I have been in professional psychological practice since 1979, been married many years, raised 2 children and shared in raising 3 step-children, so I have many years of clinical and personal experience on which to draw. However, I am always learning and growing, and enjoy sharing the journey of self-discovery with my clients/patients. I tailor my psychological treatment with individuals (adults, adolescents, and children), couples, and families to each person's unique situation. I utilize a variety of different treatment approaches, depending on the problems presented, ranging from cognitive-behavioral, insight, family systems, to supportive reality therapy.
(865) 671-0780 View (865) 671-0780
Stina Nesbit
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPCMHSP
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37920
My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from psychodynamic, behavioral, and emotional theories, and couples and sex therapy techniques.
Many of my clients also have a lot of knowledge about both themselves and mental health and still find themselves stuck in the same patterns. I am a big nerd about human behavior and I want to get curious with you to break out of these cycles. I especially love helping individuals, couples, and families improve their communication, reconnect, and build healthier relationships. I also have experience working with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, addiction, and gender and sexuality issues.
My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from psychodynamic, behavioral, and emotional theories, and couples and sex therapy techniques.
Many of my clients also have a lot of knowledge about both themselves and mental health and still find themselves stuck in the same patterns. I am a big nerd about human behavior and I want to get curious with you to break out of these cycles. I especially love helping individuals, couples, and families improve their communication, reconnect, and build healthier relationships. I also have experience working with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, addiction, and gender and sexuality issues.
(865) 448-4204 View (865) 448-4204
Headstrong Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Knoxville, TN 37902
Men’s Counseling. Sports Psychology. Personality Testing. My approach to therapy is down-to-earth. We'll talk about your life, your history, and your goals for the future. If you're having a hard time managing stress, anxiety, depression, or other concerns, we'll talk about that too. I know a few things that may help. If you're still not sure if this is right for you, check out my website to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
Men’s Counseling. Sports Psychology. Personality Testing. My approach to therapy is down-to-earth. We'll talk about your life, your history, and your goals for the future. If you're having a hard time managing stress, anxiety, depression, or other concerns, we'll talk about that too. I know a few things that may help. If you're still not sure if this is right for you, check out my website to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
(865) 927-3484 View (865) 927-3484

See more therapy options for Knoxville

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.