Psychoanalytic Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Lara Cox, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Lara Cox
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
My style is interactive and my theoretical orientation is psychoanalytic, meaning I believe the past can shape how we perceive the world and act in the present.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired of repeating the same self-defeating behaviors? Do you want to learn healthy strategies to manage your current difficulties? I have over 25 years of clinical experience helping individuals lead fuller, more authentic and satisfying lives. My job is to help you gain insight into your conflicts, strengths, past experiences and current relationships so that you can break free of old patterns and find new possibilities. I find it extremely rewarding to watch my clients grow, realize their full potential and make successful changes in their lives.
My style is interactive and my theoretical orientation is psychoanalytic, meaning I believe the past can shape how we perceive the world and act in the present.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired of repeating the same self-defeating behaviors? Do you want to learn healthy strategies to manage your current difficulties? I have over 25 years of clinical experience helping individuals lead fuller, more authentic and satisfying lives. My job is to help you gain insight into your conflicts, strengths, past experiences and current relationships so that you can break free of old patterns and find new possibilities. I find it extremely rewarding to watch my clients grow, realize their full potential and make successful changes in their lives.
(202) 681-0974 View (202) 681-0974
Photo of Claire Connolly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Claire Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I am a board-certified psychotherapist. In my practice I provide psychotherapy to adults, couples, and older adolescents, using psychoanalytic psychotherapy and analytical psychology. It is my goal to create a warm and supportive environment in which to work with my clients to heal relational wounds and other forms of trauma. I support clients in their process to gain deeper self-understanding and to foster personal growth through self-compassion. Together we can explore new ways of understanding old patterns of behavior.
I am a board-certified psychotherapist. In my practice I provide psychotherapy to adults, couples, and older adolescents, using psychoanalytic psychotherapy and analytical psychology. It is my goal to create a warm and supportive environment in which to work with my clients to heal relational wounds and other forms of trauma. I support clients in their process to gain deeper self-understanding and to foster personal growth through self-compassion. Together we can explore new ways of understanding old patterns of behavior.
(202) 968-2303 View (202) 968-2303
Photo of James Lim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
James Lim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I work from a relational foundation, being trained in psychodynamic psychoanalytic techniques.
I am a progressive, inclusive therapist and life coach believing there is no singular way one thinks or feels. We are complex people requiring a blend of kindness, empathy, patience, flexibility, acceptance, and a healthy bond to others. How one achieves this in our work together will be dependent on you and me. I welcome individuals who like to work organically, discussing thoughts and feelings that arise in the moment; and individuals who prefer a more structured approach.
I work from a relational foundation, being trained in psychodynamic psychoanalytic techniques.
I am a progressive, inclusive therapist and life coach believing there is no singular way one thinks or feels. We are complex people requiring a blend of kindness, empathy, patience, flexibility, acceptance, and a healthy bond to others. How one achieves this in our work together will be dependent on you and me. I welcome individuals who like to work organically, discussing thoughts and feelings that arise in the moment; and individuals who prefer a more structured approach.
(202) 318-5942 View (202) 318-5942
Photo of Umi Chong, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Umi Chong
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I completed 2 fellowships in psychoanalytic therapy and am in analytic training.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist trained at Harvard Medical School. Occasionally, we notice patterns of thinking, behaving, and experiencing others & ourselves, which can feel very familiar and frustrating. Or we can be hit by sudden life circumstances like loss, transition, identity shifts, or trauma that leave us feeling overwhelmed & scared, where existing strengths and coping skills are outstripped. Through a dynamic and collaborative process, I help patients understand & transform their old ways of being to feel more connected, renewed, and, ultimately, to better flourish in their relationships, work, and within themselves.
I completed 2 fellowships in psychoanalytic therapy and am in analytic training.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist trained at Harvard Medical School. Occasionally, we notice patterns of thinking, behaving, and experiencing others & ourselves, which can feel very familiar and frustrating. Or we can be hit by sudden life circumstances like loss, transition, identity shifts, or trauma that leave us feeling overwhelmed & scared, where existing strengths and coping skills are outstripped. Through a dynamic and collaborative process, I help patients understand & transform their old ways of being to feel more connected, renewed, and, ultimately, to better flourish in their relationships, work, and within themselves.
(202) 838-7793 View (202) 838-7793
Photo of Lynn Hamerling, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Lynn Hamerling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I am the President and Faculty Chair of The Washington Society of Psychoanalytic Psychology, and a Member of The American Psychological Association and American Group Psychotherapy Association.
Are you suffering from low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy, shame or perhaps even self-loathing? These feelings can make it extremely difficult to seek the very treatment which might offer relief and change. It can feel risky and sometimes exquisitely shameful to reveal oneself to a another person. I can help reduce your shame and make the therapeutic process more bearable and productive. Together we will look honestly and fully at your conflicts, strengths, relationships and experiences - in a manner that is gentle, yet steadfast; warm, yet serious; and attentive to you in all your individual complexity.
I am the President and Faculty Chair of The Washington Society of Psychoanalytic Psychology, and a Member of The American Psychological Association and American Group Psychotherapy Association.
Are you suffering from low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy, shame or perhaps even self-loathing? These feelings can make it extremely difficult to seek the very treatment which might offer relief and change. It can feel risky and sometimes exquisitely shameful to reveal oneself to a another person. I can help reduce your shame and make the therapeutic process more bearable and productive. Together we will look honestly and fully at your conflicts, strengths, relationships and experiences - in a manner that is gentle, yet steadfast; warm, yet serious; and attentive to you in all your individual complexity.
(202) 722-1507 View (202) 722-1507
Photo of Nina Van Sant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Nina Van Sant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I am currently a psychoanalytic candidate at the WBCP.
Currently accepting patients for psychoanalysis. It's normal to struggle at various times in life. Maybe a recent loss or an ongoing feeling strains your capacities or relationships. Talking with a trained professional helps. My type of working with people goes beyond symptom relief. I listen closely to build understanding. This understanding can inform new ways in which you see yourself.
I am currently a psychoanalytic candidate at the WBCP.
Currently accepting patients for psychoanalysis. It's normal to struggle at various times in life. Maybe a recent loss or an ongoing feeling strains your capacities or relationships. Talking with a trained professional helps. My type of working with people goes beyond symptom relief. I listen closely to build understanding. This understanding can inform new ways in which you see yourself.
(202) 257-9094 View (202) 257-9094
Photo of John Jacob Hartman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
John Jacob Hartman
Psychologist, PhD, FABP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Psychoanalytic therapy unlocks the potential of self-discovery with a practitioner with over 50 years of experience.
I am seeing clients online only in Tampa, Florida and Washington DC. If you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self esteem, or find yourself in recurring patterns of relationship difficulties or if you feel that something is missing in your life or you just wish to understand yourself better, psychoanalytic psychotherapy may be the answer you are looking for.
Psychoanalytic therapy unlocks the potential of self-discovery with a practitioner with over 50 years of experience.
I am seeing clients online only in Tampa, Florida and Washington DC. If you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self esteem, or find yourself in recurring patterns of relationship difficulties or if you feel that something is missing in your life or you just wish to understand yourself better, psychoanalytic psychotherapy may be the answer you are looking for.
(202) 937-3034 View (202) 937-3034
Photo of Terri Judge, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Terri Judge
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010
In my work with individuals I view the relationship between patient and therapist as central to treatment. The need for trust, privacy, safety, and non-judgmental acceptance is fundamental to the success of treatment. My theoretical orientation is psychodynamic or psychoanalytic, though I rely on an eclectic range of ideas for understanding each person. Patients experience my approach as insight-oriented, dynamic, and interactive. When a person seeks therapy it is because something hurts - a broken relationship, past or present, or deep frustrations with the self - not being able to live up to one's ideals or accomplish goals.
In my work with individuals I view the relationship between patient and therapist as central to treatment. The need for trust, privacy, safety, and non-judgmental acceptance is fundamental to the success of treatment. My theoretical orientation is psychodynamic or psychoanalytic, though I rely on an eclectic range of ideas for understanding each person. Patients experience my approach as insight-oriented, dynamic, and interactive. When a person seeks therapy it is because something hurts - a broken relationship, past or present, or deep frustrations with the self - not being able to live up to one's ideals or accomplish goals.
(202) 643-1908 View (202) 643-1908
Photo of Ernest Wallwork, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Washington, DC
Ernest Wallwork
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I see patients suffering from anxiety, depression, self-destructive patterns, relationship issues, sexual difficulties, identity, adjustment problems in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couple's counseling. My aim is to relieve mental distress and interpersonal conflict by deepening self-understanding and self-control. After 36 years in practice, my clinical experience is broad and deep. My reputation and publications on relational, religious and ethical topics sometimes attracts patients with these difficulties. A graduate of Harvard University (MBA,PhD) and Washington Psychoanalytic Institute, I practice in Washington, DC.
I see patients suffering from anxiety, depression, self-destructive patterns, relationship issues, sexual difficulties, identity, adjustment problems in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couple's counseling. My aim is to relieve mental distress and interpersonal conflict by deepening self-understanding and self-control. After 36 years in practice, my clinical experience is broad and deep. My reputation and publications on relational, religious and ethical topics sometimes attracts patients with these difficulties. A graduate of Harvard University (MBA,PhD) and Washington Psychoanalytic Institute, I practice in Washington, DC.
(202) 759-7949 View (202) 759-7949
Photo of Douglas LaBier, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Douglas LaBier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
I've served patients in the Washington, D.C. area for over four decades, helping men, women and couples resolve conflicts arising from the many changes and transitions they experience -- especially during the "middle years" of adulthood, My holistic perspective integrates psychoanalytic understanding of developmental origins of conflicts with the social, cultural, gender and career experiences that contribute to emotional troubles; feelings of limitations about change; your values. All can impede capacity for loving relationships and expressing hidden dimensions of your personalities; and for achieving success and meaning in life.
I've served patients in the Washington, D.C. area for over four decades, helping men, women and couples resolve conflicts arising from the many changes and transitions they experience -- especially during the "middle years" of adulthood, My holistic perspective integrates psychoanalytic understanding of developmental origins of conflicts with the social, cultural, gender and career experiences that contribute to emotional troubles; feelings of limitations about change; your values. All can impede capacity for loving relationships and expressing hidden dimensions of your personalities; and for achieving success and meaning in life.
(202) 557-8157 View (202) 557-8157
Photo of Joseph LaFleur & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Joseph LaFleur & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CPATP, CDWF, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I am a psychoanalytic talk therapist.
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
I am a psychoanalytic talk therapist.
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
(202) 559-4759 View (202) 559-4759
Photo of Fernando De Greef, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Fernando De Greef
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
My approach to work is psychodynamic, and more specifically, psychoanalytic.
Inspired by the passion of the clinical field, I became Professional Counselor to help people improving their quality of living. It means that it does no matter what the initial phase of the persons existing living arrangements, the quality of life can be improved through professional counseling. My diverse and intense professional working experience added to the qualified academic, and certified credentials gained; makes me a valuable, suitable and responsible therapist with a strong understanding of human behavior in extreme situations that provides private and confidential therapy, safe environment of treatment, and ethical standards of practice for all clients.
My approach to work is psychodynamic, and more specifically, psychoanalytic.
Inspired by the passion of the clinical field, I became Professional Counselor to help people improving their quality of living. It means that it does no matter what the initial phase of the persons existing living arrangements, the quality of life can be improved through professional counseling. My diverse and intense professional working experience added to the qualified academic, and certified credentials gained; makes me a valuable, suitable and responsible therapist with a strong understanding of human behavior in extreme situations that provides private and confidential therapy, safe environment of treatment, and ethical standards of practice for all clients.
(703) 297-8608 View (703) 297-8608
Photo of Cathy Eisenhower, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Cathy Eisenhower
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
I have advanced training in play therapy and parent-child therapy for caregivers and their infants or young children, as well as in psychoanalytic psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children.
The key to successful therapy is a relationship with a caring, nonjudgmental therapist there to respond sensitively and patiently to whatever comes up. In my work, I offer that to my clients, as we collaborate in developing an understanding of your emotional states and how they drive your thoughts and actions. We’ll learn together what you need to strengthen and grow. My work with children and adolescents informs my understanding of development over the life span, and how those relationships and experiences that shape us are alive in the present moment.
I have advanced training in play therapy and parent-child therapy for caregivers and their infants or young children, as well as in psychoanalytic psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children.
The key to successful therapy is a relationship with a caring, nonjudgmental therapist there to respond sensitively and patiently to whatever comes up. In my work, I offer that to my clients, as we collaborate in developing an understanding of your emotional states and how they drive your thoughts and actions. We’ll learn together what you need to strengthen and grow. My work with children and adolescents informs my understanding of development over the life span, and how those relationships and experiences that shape us are alive in the present moment.
(202) 318-3958 View (202) 318-3958
Photo of Kathy A. Johns, Counselor in Washington, DC
Kathy A. Johns
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
My approach to therapy relies on a psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, relational framework.
Life presents us with pain and conflict that we have trouble navigating alone. Why is it that we often find ourselves in scenarios that seem to repeat themselves, even though we want differently?
My approach to therapy relies on a psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, relational framework.
Life presents us with pain and conflict that we have trouble navigating alone. Why is it that we often find ourselves in scenarios that seem to repeat themselves, even though we want differently?
(206) 309-6260 View (206) 309-6260
Photo of Jennifer Unterberg, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jennifer Unterberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Finding a therapist with whom you have a good fit can be a daunting task, especially when you are experiencing painful emotions and major life changes. I strive to create an environment where you can feel safe to express your most intimate thoughts and feelings. I believe psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis can lead to deep and lasting change, and can help you resolve a wide range of issues. Learning more about yourself and how your past impacts your present can have many benefits, including more satisfying personal relationships, greater acceptance of yourself, relief from distress, and a richer experience of life.
Finding a therapist with whom you have a good fit can be a daunting task, especially when you are experiencing painful emotions and major life changes. I strive to create an environment where you can feel safe to express your most intimate thoughts and feelings. I believe psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis can lead to deep and lasting change, and can help you resolve a wide range of issues. Learning more about yourself and how your past impacts your present can have many benefits, including more satisfying personal relationships, greater acceptance of yourself, relief from distress, and a richer experience of life.
(202) 803-8584 View (202) 803-8584
Photo of Adriana Couto Silva, Counselor in Washington, DC
Adriana Couto Silva
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Contemporary psychoanalytic approach is the foundation of my work.
It can be hard to change our habits and ways of relating with ourselves and with others even when old patterns are causing significant emotional pain. For real change to take place, something beyond motivation and a commitment to change is often needed. What can make a real difference involves finding a receptive person and an accepting environment that fosters a deeper understanding of one's self. I strive to provide such a receptive and safe environment to my clients with the hope that they feel listened to, understood, and recognized in their desires to get to know themselves, to connect with others and to feel alive in the world
Contemporary psychoanalytic approach is the foundation of my work.
It can be hard to change our habits and ways of relating with ourselves and with others even when old patterns are causing significant emotional pain. For real change to take place, something beyond motivation and a commitment to change is often needed. What can make a real difference involves finding a receptive person and an accepting environment that fosters a deeper understanding of one's self. I strive to provide such a receptive and safe environment to my clients with the hope that they feel listened to, understood, and recognized in their desires to get to know themselves, to connect with others and to feel alive in the world
(240) 453-4935 View (240) 453-4935
Photo of Bryce W Phillips, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Bryce W Phillips
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I currently have some availability to see psychoanalytic patients.
I realize that for an individual to take the first steps toward looking inward at various psychological conflicts may be an anxiety-provoking process in and of itself, may even be a sense of relief, or a combination of the two. Through my professional training and experience in various treatment settings, I have had the honor to work with individuals and provide them the respect, privacy, and confidentiality that I believe every human being deserves. I focus on providing a safe, trusting, and confidential environment in which one may gain insight and understanding and ultimately grow through this therapeutic relationship.
I currently have some availability to see psychoanalytic patients.
I realize that for an individual to take the first steps toward looking inward at various psychological conflicts may be an anxiety-provoking process in and of itself, may even be a sense of relief, or a combination of the two. Through my professional training and experience in various treatment settings, I have had the honor to work with individuals and provide them the respect, privacy, and confidentiality that I believe every human being deserves. I focus on providing a safe, trusting, and confidential environment in which one may gain insight and understanding and ultimately grow through this therapeutic relationship.
(202) 455-6915 View (202) 455-6915
Photo of John J Hartman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
John J Hartman
Psychologist, PhD, FABP
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
I am trained in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
I see people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other unpleasant emotions who want to learn more about themselves as a way of relieving their stress. These unpleasant emotions may involve problems in work, school, or close interpersonal relationships.
I am trained in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
I see people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other unpleasant emotions who want to learn more about themselves as a way of relieving their stress. These unpleasant emotions may involve problems in work, school, or close interpersonal relationships.
(813) 701-2459 View (813) 701-2459
Photo of Andrea Mattison Fisher, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Andrea Mattison Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I have post doctoral training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
"Picking up the telephone to make an initial appointment to see a psychologist, can be difficult for many people for various reasons. One may be feeling wounded, lost, or stuck. I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families begin to heal and get "unstuck" by freeing themselves of distressing and sometimes debilitating feelings such as depression, anxiety, and feeling out of control. I believe awareness and insight into your child's feelings and behaviors, and your feelings and behaviors, is the great gift of psychotherapy. At its best, psychotherapy is a rewarding, productive, and at times, fun experience."
I have post doctoral training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
"Picking up the telephone to make an initial appointment to see a psychologist, can be difficult for many people for various reasons. One may be feeling wounded, lost, or stuck. I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families begin to heal and get "unstuck" by freeing themselves of distressing and sometimes debilitating feelings such as depression, anxiety, and feeling out of control. I believe awareness and insight into your child's feelings and behaviors, and your feelings and behaviors, is the great gift of psychotherapy. At its best, psychotherapy is a rewarding, productive, and at times, fun experience."
(202) 559-4850 View (202) 559-4850
Photo of Susan C Fox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Susan C Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
As a psychotherapist, I take a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic approach, which provides support and curious exploration to gain insight into the areas of your life where you may feel stuck, dissatisfied, anxious or depressed.
Looking for a therapist is difficult and can increase our already present anxiety and depression. Many of these feelings are constructed throughout our childhood and brought into our adult lives creating feelings of inadequacy or repeating patterns from our past that leave us stuck and unable to move forward. By creating a safe and trusting environment, where issues of trauma and anxiety can be freely discussed, I will assist you in becoming more fluid in your life so you can move forward in a more fulfilling direction. I believe psychic and emotional change happens through the relationship between the therapist and patient.
As a psychotherapist, I take a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic approach, which provides support and curious exploration to gain insight into the areas of your life where you may feel stuck, dissatisfied, anxious or depressed.
Looking for a therapist is difficult and can increase our already present anxiety and depression. Many of these feelings are constructed throughout our childhood and brought into our adult lives creating feelings of inadequacy or repeating patterns from our past that leave us stuck and unable to move forward. By creating a safe and trusting environment, where issues of trauma and anxiety can be freely discussed, I will assist you in becoming more fluid in your life so you can move forward in a more fulfilling direction. I believe psychic and emotional change happens through the relationship between the therapist and patient.
(833) 276-7176 View (833) 276-7176
Psychoanalytic Therapists

Does psychoanalytic therapy work?

Psychoanalytic therapy derives from the work of Sigmund Freud. In this type of therapy, discovering buried thoughts and emotions from the unconscious will help a person work through their difficulties and negative behaviors. Research shows that psychoanalytic therapy can be highly effective, with patients reporting improvement in mood, quality of life, and overall well-being.

How long are people typically in psychoanalytic therapy?

Traditional psychoanalysis is in-depth and is conducted in five sessions every week. Today, modern psychoanalytic therapy is less intense and normally incorporates as few as one or two sessions a week. In some cases, positive change can occur quickly. However, if the condition, difficulty, or behavior is deep-seated, improvement may require many months or years of therapy.

Is psychoanalytic therapy suitable for young people?

Children and adolescents can benefit from this type of therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts and emotions. Psychoanalytic therapy uses specific techniques such as dream analysis, symbolism, and free association or word association; all of which can be useful tools for less-communicative young people. Through this therapy, a patient will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.

Can psychoanalytic therapy be done online?

Modern-day psychoanalytic therapy is very different from traditional psychoanalysis. While an individual can sit face-to-face with the psychoanalyst for multiple sessions a week, they do not have to. Today, psychoanalytic therapy can be effectively conducted online or by phone. The key is that the individual confronts what is repressed and avoided, and this can be done whether in person or over online video.