Psychodynamic Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Elizabeth Sikes, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth Sikes
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
I specialize in working in a way that is client-centered, relational, and psychodynamic.
Are you going through a major life transition, such as a recent move to Seattle or a change in the status of your -or a loved one's-job, relationship, or health? Major transitions in life, whether seen as positive or negative, can stir up a lot of mixed emotions and bring up old issues from the past. I am experienced in helping people during times of confusion, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, and struggle with old traumatic injuries. I can help you find compassion, open insight, and create value and meaning from this time of transition.
I specialize in working in a way that is client-centered, relational, and psychodynamic.
Are you going through a major life transition, such as a recent move to Seattle or a change in the status of your -or a loved one's-job, relationship, or health? Major transitions in life, whether seen as positive or negative, can stir up a lot of mixed emotions and bring up old issues from the past. I am experienced in helping people during times of confusion, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, and struggle with old traumatic injuries. I can help you find compassion, open insight, and create value and meaning from this time of transition.
(206) 966-4387 View (206) 966-4387
Photo of Ridley Beierschmitt, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ridley Beierschmitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133
My clinical approach is largely psychodynamic with existential and humanistic elements. Some of my clinical interests include: adult developmental life transitions, the impact of chronic illness (on both the person with chronic illness and those caring for someone with chronic illness/ongoing health needs), and men's issues.
My clinical approach is largely psychodynamic with existential and humanistic elements. Some of my clinical interests include: adult developmental life transitions, the impact of chronic illness (on both the person with chronic illness and those caring for someone with chronic illness/ongoing health needs), and men's issues.
(206) 504-3862 View (206) 504-3862
Photo of Lara Vander Woude, LMHC, Counselor
Lara Vander Woude
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
As a psychodynamic therapist, I listen for those underground rivers of feeling, and the conflicts and struggle they create.
Summer 2024 Update: I have immediate in-person availability. - Welcome. Maybe you're here because of an old current of suffering, branched out in channels, running wild under the surface of things. Or maybe it's more specific - an event long past or currently unraveling. Maybe you feel plagued by a background hum of panic, or an old wound that just won’t seem to heal. Maybe you feel trapped in patterns that keep repeating, a chronic emptiness, or a confusing internal force that blocks your efforts to fully work, or love, or play. And you want something more from life - more capacity, more ease, more joy.
As a psychodynamic therapist, I listen for those underground rivers of feeling, and the conflicts and struggle they create.
Summer 2024 Update: I have immediate in-person availability. - Welcome. Maybe you're here because of an old current of suffering, branched out in channels, running wild under the surface of things. Or maybe it's more specific - an event long past or currently unraveling. Maybe you feel plagued by a background hum of panic, or an old wound that just won’t seem to heal. Maybe you feel trapped in patterns that keep repeating, a chronic emptiness, or a confusing internal force that blocks your efforts to fully work, or love, or play. And you want something more from life - more capacity, more ease, more joy.
(206) 944-6316 View (206) 944-6316
Photo of Sarah Crane O'Neill, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Crane O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122
My clinical training is eclectic and includes psychodynamic theory, attachment theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness.
I walk with individuals through periods of stress or change in their lives and relationships, whether they feel overwhelmed, stuck in negative patterns, or simply wanting to explore and grow. I have a warm, down-to-earth style. I listen closely, tune in to your state and non-verbal messages, ask guiding questions, and offer compassionate and gentle but candid observations for us to explore together. I believe you have great strengths which I will seek out and help you develop.
My clinical training is eclectic and includes psychodynamic theory, attachment theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness.
I walk with individuals through periods of stress or change in their lives and relationships, whether they feel overwhelmed, stuck in negative patterns, or simply wanting to explore and grow. I have a warm, down-to-earth style. I listen closely, tune in to your state and non-verbal messages, ask guiding questions, and offer compassionate and gentle but candid observations for us to explore together. I believe you have great strengths which I will seek out and help you develop.
(425) 657-3148 View (425) 657-3148
Photo of Hannah Rush, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Hannah Rush
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Rooted in humanistic, psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic theories, we'll uncover layers of your emotional experience.
Life can feel overwhelming, leaving you confused, stuck, and yearning for change without knowing how to begin. You may find yourself repeating the same patterns or struggling with a pervasive sense of shame. You long for deeper connections—with yourself and others—but something holds you back. I work with individuals driven by curiosity and a desire for reflection. Whether navigating the ramifications of trauma, exploring neurodivergence, or feeling lost in today’s world, you're here because you're ready to embrace a deeper feeling of being alive, grounded, and connected to your Self.
Rooted in humanistic, psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic theories, we'll uncover layers of your emotional experience.
Life can feel overwhelming, leaving you confused, stuck, and yearning for change without knowing how to begin. You may find yourself repeating the same patterns or struggling with a pervasive sense of shame. You long for deeper connections—with yourself and others—but something holds you back. I work with individuals driven by curiosity and a desire for reflection. Whether navigating the ramifications of trauma, exploring neurodivergence, or feeling lost in today’s world, you're here because you're ready to embrace a deeper feeling of being alive, grounded, and connected to your Self.
(360) 495-1235 View (360) 495-1235
Photo of Lauren R Pollard, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lauren R Pollard
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
I generally work from a psychodynamic, attachment-based perspective, but often incorporate other approaches in order to best meet the needs of my clients.
You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending. - C.S. Lewis. I am interested in how early attachment relationships impact how we see ourselves and relate to others. I believe our adult relationships reflect in part what we did or did not experience growing up. A safe therapeutic relationship creates space to unpack what is getting in our way, help us make sense of emotions and reactions, and learn skills and strategies to bring more peace and stability into our lives.
I generally work from a psychodynamic, attachment-based perspective, but often incorporate other approaches in order to best meet the needs of my clients.
You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending. - C.S. Lewis. I am interested in how early attachment relationships impact how we see ourselves and relate to others. I believe our adult relationships reflect in part what we did or did not experience growing up. A safe therapeutic relationship creates space to unpack what is getting in our way, help us make sense of emotions and reactions, and learn skills and strategies to bring more peace and stability into our lives.
(253) 248-4508 View (253) 248-4508
Photo of Kristen Lindley, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Lindley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
I practice psychodynamic psychology.
Choosing therapy is putting yourself first. As a therapist at Self Space, I work alongside clients who might struggle with prioritizing their well-being. Together, we can process your innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a collaborative way that feels safe. It is my goal to help people seek healing through acceptance, and fulfillment through self-exploration.
I practice psychodynamic psychology.
Choosing therapy is putting yourself first. As a therapist at Self Space, I work alongside clients who might struggle with prioritizing their well-being. Together, we can process your innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a collaborative way that feels safe. It is my goal to help people seek healing through acceptance, and fulfillment through self-exploration.
(206) 672-3367 x40 View (206) 672-3367 x40
Photo of Janaki Tremaglio, MA, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janaki Tremaglio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I approach counseling from a psychodynamic and psychoanalytic lens, which means I see the dynamic of the therapeutic relationship and understanding the dynamics throughout one's life as central to healing.
Are you looking for attuned support to explore your struggles? Do you wish to become mindful of how your life history impacts your present experience? Are you interested in intuitive and spiritual practices, and holistic supports (including food, herbs)? If these questions resonate with you, reach out to me! I offer relationship-focused therapy, drawing from wisdom traditions and holistic approaches.
I approach counseling from a psychodynamic and psychoanalytic lens, which means I see the dynamic of the therapeutic relationship and understanding the dynamics throughout one's life as central to healing.
Are you looking for attuned support to explore your struggles? Do you wish to become mindful of how your life history impacts your present experience? Are you interested in intuitive and spiritual practices, and holistic supports (including food, herbs)? If these questions resonate with you, reach out to me! I offer relationship-focused therapy, drawing from wisdom traditions and holistic approaches.
(206) 589-2437 View (206) 589-2437
Photo of Courtney Palmer, Counselor
Courtney Palmer
Counselor
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
My approach is shaped by relational psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic theories, as well as humanistic and existential phenomenological approaches to therapy.
Being human is both beautiful and hard. Along with joy and happiness, we can feel anxious, depressed or experience other forms of emotional distress. Together, we will investigate what your experiences of grief, loneliness, isolation, and anxiety may be trying to tell you about your life and where it may be possible to change these conditions to find more joy and happiness. We will explore larger questions about what it means to be human. As a therapist at Self Space, I seek to create a safe space where you can feel seen, heard, and understood so that you can have the courage to look inward and discover what may be holding you back.
My approach is shaped by relational psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic theories, as well as humanistic and existential phenomenological approaches to therapy.
Being human is both beautiful and hard. Along with joy and happiness, we can feel anxious, depressed or experience other forms of emotional distress. Together, we will investigate what your experiences of grief, loneliness, isolation, and anxiety may be trying to tell you about your life and where it may be possible to change these conditions to find more joy and happiness. We will explore larger questions about what it means to be human. As a therapist at Self Space, I seek to create a safe space where you can feel seen, heard, and understood so that you can have the courage to look inward and discover what may be holding you back.
(206) 558-8352 x45 View (206) 558-8352 x45
Photo of Kelsey L. Watkins, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kelsey L. Watkins
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I offer psychodynamic talk therapy at my office in Ballard and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) at a horse ranch in Smokey Point, WA.
"Normal is nothing more than a setting on a dishwasher." -Whoopie Goldberg. Remembering that normal is a myth when it comes to being human helps ease the harsh self criticism that often interferes with exploring our inner worlds with kindness and curiosity. This is the posture I take as I work alongside adults and teens who want to deepen their relationship with themselves and thrive despite circumstances. They may find themselves struggling with relationships, ongoing emotional disturbance, feelings of depression and/or anxiety, trauma (past or present), and difficult life transitions among other concerns.
I offer psychodynamic talk therapy at my office in Ballard and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) at a horse ranch in Smokey Point, WA.
"Normal is nothing more than a setting on a dishwasher." -Whoopie Goldberg. Remembering that normal is a myth when it comes to being human helps ease the harsh self criticism that often interferes with exploring our inner worlds with kindness and curiosity. This is the posture I take as I work alongside adults and teens who want to deepen their relationship with themselves and thrive despite circumstances. They may find themselves struggling with relationships, ongoing emotional disturbance, feelings of depression and/or anxiety, trauma (past or present), and difficult life transitions among other concerns.
(206) 202-7589 View (206) 202-7589
Photo of Audria Jaggers - Audria Jaggers Riverside Therapy Center, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Audria Jaggers Riverside Therapy Center
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98178  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic & ever evolving.
Hi there! I’m Audria, your enthusiastic guide on the brave and beautiful journey of therapy, where transformation and growth await! I'm all about helping you discover that perfect balance of learning and healing, and I'm thrilled to support you every step of the way. Together, we’ll tackle stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, and all the twists and turns life throws our way. My therapeutic approach is as vibrant as a rainbow—eclectic, solution-focused, and person-centered. I blend the best of CBT, DBT, ACT, holistic and spiritual practices, and even the wisdom of plant medicines. We’ll team up to harness your strengths
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic & ever evolving.
Hi there! I’m Audria, your enthusiastic guide on the brave and beautiful journey of therapy, where transformation and growth await! I'm all about helping you discover that perfect balance of learning and healing, and I'm thrilled to support you every step of the way. Together, we’ll tackle stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, and all the twists and turns life throws our way. My therapeutic approach is as vibrant as a rainbow—eclectic, solution-focused, and person-centered. I blend the best of CBT, DBT, ACT, holistic and spiritual practices, and even the wisdom of plant medicines. We’ll team up to harness your strengths
(425) 358-9179 View (425) 358-9179
Photo of Ardyn White, MA, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor
Ardyn White
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic approaches, such as humanistic, psychodynamic, strengths-based, IFS, and attachment theory, my interventions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
I specialize in working with queer adults who seek a therapeutic relationship that values and celebrates their diverse identities. Whether you're navigating the complexities of gender and relationship diversity or grappling with trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, depression, or anxiety, I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore, and grow. As a queer, trans-masc and polyamorous human, I am dedicated to supporting and affirming queer adults on their path to healing and self-discovery.
Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic approaches, such as humanistic, psychodynamic, strengths-based, IFS, and attachment theory, my interventions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
I specialize in working with queer adults who seek a therapeutic relationship that values and celebrates their diverse identities. Whether you're navigating the complexities of gender and relationship diversity or grappling with trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, depression, or anxiety, I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore, and grow. As a queer, trans-masc and polyamorous human, I am dedicated to supporting and affirming queer adults on their path to healing and self-discovery.
(206) 737-1408 View (206) 737-1408
Photo of Katia Marynevich, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Katia Marynevich
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
My work incorporates psychodynamic theory, Lifespan Integration (a gentle, body-based therapeutic method which deals with trauma), CBT-E (one of the leading evidence-based treatments for eating disorders), and meditation.
No one should face difficult times alone. Are you feeling lost, hurt from past trauma, worried about the future, ashamed of your eating habits, insecure about your body, or feeling out of place while adapting to a new culture? There’s hope for you. I believe in healing. I believe in relationship restoration. I believe in new beginnings. Whether you were hurt by your family, partner, system, church, diet culture, or military conflict, there’s hope for you.
My work incorporates psychodynamic theory, Lifespan Integration (a gentle, body-based therapeutic method which deals with trauma), CBT-E (one of the leading evidence-based treatments for eating disorders), and meditation.
No one should face difficult times alone. Are you feeling lost, hurt from past trauma, worried about the future, ashamed of your eating habits, insecure about your body, or feeling out of place while adapting to a new culture? There’s hope for you. I believe in healing. I believe in relationship restoration. I believe in new beginnings. Whether you were hurt by your family, partner, system, church, diet culture, or military conflict, there’s hope for you.
(206) 759-8187 View (206) 759-8187
Photo of Paige Law - Paige Law , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Law
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
I have twelve years experience supporting adults in the midst of crises, transitions, and major life changes. My therapeutic approach flows directly from my experiences with clients. I utilize a mixture of psychodynamic (relational) theory, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Attachment Theory, and CBT. I approach life and work with a mixture of depth and lightheartedness. I invite you to reach out for a free consultation to see if we might be a good fit.
I have twelve years experience supporting adults in the midst of crises, transitions, and major life changes. My therapeutic approach flows directly from my experiences with clients. I utilize a mixture of psychodynamic (relational) theory, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Attachment Theory, and CBT. I approach life and work with a mixture of depth and lightheartedness. I invite you to reach out for a free consultation to see if we might be a good fit.
(206) 397-1898 View (206) 397-1898
Photo of Lani Granum, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lani Granum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I was trained in a traditional Western psychodynamic school of thought (Self Psychology to be specific), but have evolved over the last 20 years to include Eastern healing practices from yoga and meditation.
I practice what I like to call relationship therapy. This means I work best with people who are psychologically-minded and want to develop a therapeutic relationship with me. Together (key word!) we seek to understand (another key word) the roots of your emotional distress. My belief is that these roots may be hidden or disguised, but never totally beyond one's grasp. Change is always possible.
I was trained in a traditional Western psychodynamic school of thought (Self Psychology to be specific), but have evolved over the last 20 years to include Eastern healing practices from yoga and meditation.
I practice what I like to call relationship therapy. This means I work best with people who are psychologically-minded and want to develop a therapeutic relationship with me. Together (key word!) we seek to understand (another key word) the roots of your emotional distress. My belief is that these roots may be hidden or disguised, but never totally beyond one's grasp. Change is always possible.
(312) 380-0724 View (312) 380-0724
Photo of Macie Mooney - Mace Mooney, LMHCA, LMHCA, Counselor
Mace Mooney, LMHCA
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
While our work will be unique to you, my therapeutic approach is relational, playful, and psychodynamic.
Being alive in a complex and unknown world is difficult, as humans we are daily managing our emotions, instincts, desires, frustrations, confusions, and joys. This is no simple task, and difficult to do alone. That is where the work of psychotherapy comes in to provide a path forward. By creating a space of acceptance, presence, and honesty together we can move towards building more security and freedom to live and enjoy life.
While our work will be unique to you, my therapeutic approach is relational, playful, and psychodynamic.
Being alive in a complex and unknown world is difficult, as humans we are daily managing our emotions, instincts, desires, frustrations, confusions, and joys. This is no simple task, and difficult to do alone. That is where the work of psychotherapy comes in to provide a path forward. By creating a space of acceptance, presence, and honesty together we can move towards building more security and freedom to live and enjoy life.
(206) 672-7470 View (206) 672-7470
Photo of Carl Allen Tippins, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Carl Allen Tippins
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Waitlist for new clients
My background includes 8 years working in mental health agencies, 39 years of private practice experiences, and training in many different modalities including psychodynamic psychotherapy, Eriksonisan psychotherapy, Cognitive Therapy, Humanistic Therapies- and addiction counseling.
"What is the most important consideration when looking for a therapist? " The fit, the feel, the vibe you have with the therapist really is best way to decide if this is a good match. A good fit, you will work well together. We will work with the issues that you are currently experiencing, noticing the internal roots of conflict, and finding ways to make meaningful and purposeful shifts or changes in your life. Experiencing difficulties from depression, relationship endings, truama, abuse, addictions, let's talk. - I am now only taking cash, checks of credit card patients. Not accepting new insurance patients. Not taking couples.
My background includes 8 years working in mental health agencies, 39 years of private practice experiences, and training in many different modalities including psychodynamic psychotherapy, Eriksonisan psychotherapy, Cognitive Therapy, Humanistic Therapies- and addiction counseling.
"What is the most important consideration when looking for a therapist? " The fit, the feel, the vibe you have with the therapist really is best way to decide if this is a good match. A good fit, you will work well together. We will work with the issues that you are currently experiencing, noticing the internal roots of conflict, and finding ways to make meaningful and purposeful shifts or changes in your life. Experiencing difficulties from depression, relationship endings, truama, abuse, addictions, let's talk. - I am now only taking cash, checks of credit card patients. Not accepting new insurance patients. Not taking couples.
(253) 214-9352 View (253) 214-9352
Photo of Harry Ariel Atlas, PhD, Psychologist
Harry Ariel Atlas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Treatment Modalities incude :Mindfulness, Cognitive Therapy, Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Psychodynamic Relational Therapy, Internal Family System, Timeline Therapy, Life Coaching .
Whatever the present condition of our life, we have had an intrinsic role in creating it, whether we see it or not. The good news is that once we have enough awareness to take ownership, we can consciously create what is next. Our greatest ally is self awareness and clarity. My role as a therapist is to help you identify and resolve your obstacles (internal and external) and to help you clarify your life purpose and direction. In an empathic relationship that stresses authenticity, our processes will lead to in depth exploration and releasing.
Treatment Modalities incude :Mindfulness, Cognitive Therapy, Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Psychodynamic Relational Therapy, Internal Family System, Timeline Therapy, Life Coaching .
Whatever the present condition of our life, we have had an intrinsic role in creating it, whether we see it or not. The good news is that once we have enough awareness to take ownership, we can consciously create what is next. Our greatest ally is self awareness and clarity. My role as a therapist is to help you identify and resolve your obstacles (internal and external) and to help you clarify your life purpose and direction. In an empathic relationship that stresses authenticity, our processes will lead to in depth exploration and releasing.
(206) 745-5778 View (206) 745-5778
Photo of Kara Edson, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Kara Edson
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133
I use a largely insight-oriented, psychodynamic approach to establish a strong therapeutic alliance and help clients identify patterns that occur in their lives and relationships, so they can take steps toward the life they want to live.
When I was a teen, I had my first experience of individual therapy and realized the value that can come from a strong connection to a helping professional that wants to take the time to really see, hear, and understand their clients. I endeavor to be this sort of therapist with each of my clients, seeing them for their unique experience, personality, struggles, and strengths.
I use a largely insight-oriented, psychodynamic approach to establish a strong therapeutic alliance and help clients identify patterns that occur in their lives and relationships, so they can take steps toward the life they want to live.
When I was a teen, I had my first experience of individual therapy and realized the value that can come from a strong connection to a helping professional that wants to take the time to really see, hear, and understand their clients. I endeavor to be this sort of therapist with each of my clients, seeing them for their unique experience, personality, struggles, and strengths.
(425) 324-3976 View (425) 324-3976
Photo of Eric Stephen Jannazzo, PhD, Psychologist
Eric Stephen Jannazzo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
My style results from the influences of several schools of thought, including psychodynamic, interpersonal, and existential theories; cognitive-behavioral approaches to change; and Eastern psychology.
Those I work with describe me as receptive and kind, yet extremely engaged and at times even challenging. I am not a passive listener; my therapy work takes the form of an active, two-way dialogue. While my style is warm, informal, and truly nonjudgmental, I believe it is often essential for our default positions to be questioned within a safe context. Good therapy provides the help of someone trained to see and artfully communicate what we sometimes cannot see ourselves. The therapeutic relationship must be compassionate, open-hearted, and enjoyable, yet honest, even when such honesty is challenging.
My style results from the influences of several schools of thought, including psychodynamic, interpersonal, and existential theories; cognitive-behavioral approaches to change; and Eastern psychology.
Those I work with describe me as receptive and kind, yet extremely engaged and at times even challenging. I am not a passive listener; my therapy work takes the form of an active, two-way dialogue. While my style is warm, informal, and truly nonjudgmental, I believe it is often essential for our default positions to be questioned within a safe context. Good therapy provides the help of someone trained to see and artfully communicate what we sometimes cannot see ourselves. The therapeutic relationship must be compassionate, open-hearted, and enjoyable, yet honest, even when such honesty is challenging.
(253) 200-9158 View (253) 200-9158
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Psychodynamic Therapists

Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?

Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?

Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?

Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?

Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.