Psychodynamic Counselling in Sydney, NSW

Photo of Robyn Paula Adler, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Robyn Paula Adler
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist working from a Psychoanalytical Psychodynamic perspective to support people to find understanding of their anxieties and stresses that may have been present for years.
Through understanding and engaging with difficult memories and experiences from the past, more space becomes possible for spontaneity, free from anxiety and self-denigration, a genuine ability to respond more fully, in the present, to those people close to you and in work situations. Rather than reacting in old and unhelpful ways, through a supportive therapeutic relationship where difficult issues can be thought about and talked through together, new conscious choices for your life are possible and energy and full potential realised.
I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist working from a Psychoanalytical Psychodynamic perspective to support people to find understanding of their anxieties and stresses that may have been present for years.
Through understanding and engaging with difficult memories and experiences from the past, more space becomes possible for spontaneity, free from anxiety and self-denigration, a genuine ability to respond more fully, in the present, to those people close to you and in work situations. Rather than reacting in old and unhelpful ways, through a supportive therapeutic relationship where difficult issues can be thought about and talked through together, new conscious choices for your life are possible and energy and full potential realised.
(02) 9100 0087 View (02) 9100 0087
Photo of Danielle Lass, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Danielle Lass
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I support adults, couples and families wanting to navigate life’s challenges in a safe and respectful space. Utilising person-centred, systemic, psychodynamic, narrative, trauma informed and EMDR modalities, I will support you to process, recover, explore and flourish.
I support adults, couples and families wanting to navigate life’s challenges in a safe and respectful space. Utilising person-centred, systemic, psychodynamic, narrative, trauma informed and EMDR modalities, I will support you to process, recover, explore and flourish.
(02) 9159 6153 View (02) 9159 6153
Photo of Emma Craig - The Flawed Journey
The Flawed Journey
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
My approach is relaxed and non-clinical, blending three key therapeutic modalities: Person-Centred, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Hello, I’m Emma, the founder of The Flawed Journey, a private practice I established in 2019. My journey to becoming a mental health therapist is driven by a profound desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I work with. My practice is focused on creating a safe, trusting space where you can feel seen, heard, and understood. Together, we’ll work toward empowering you to become the best version of yourself.
My approach is relaxed and non-clinical, blending three key therapeutic modalities: Person-Centred, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Hello, I’m Emma, the founder of The Flawed Journey, a private practice I established in 2019. My journey to becoming a mental health therapist is driven by a profound desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I work with. My practice is focused on creating a safe, trusting space where you can feel seen, heard, and understood. Together, we’ll work toward empowering you to become the best version of yourself.
(02) 8294 7878 x61 View (02) 8294 7878 x61
Photo of Vassilka Dimitrova, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Vassilka Dimitrova
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am not a devotee to any particular approach, however I base my work on the Relational Psychodynamic framework, drawing also on other techniques.
Due to various reasons, and often reasons beyond our control, we might hide from ourselves ... in ourselves, or in other people. Depression, anxiety, grief ... We fall, we rise. We laugh, we love, but we feel anger and pain. In a conversation with another we could find our way out of this state. Recovery from trauma perhaps is not about forgetting the past; perhaps it's about expanding your Self, your narrative.
I am not a devotee to any particular approach, however I base my work on the Relational Psychodynamic framework, drawing also on other techniques.
Due to various reasons, and often reasons beyond our control, we might hide from ourselves ... in ourselves, or in other people. Depression, anxiety, grief ... We fall, we rise. We laugh, we love, but we feel anger and pain. In a conversation with another we could find our way out of this state. Recovery from trauma perhaps is not about forgetting the past; perhaps it's about expanding your Self, your narrative.
0493 627 800 View 0493 627 800
Photo of Kamila Schneltser, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Kamila Schneltser
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
My approach integrates a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities through a strength-based approach weaving in symbolic work, Eastern practices, nature-based therapy, and psychodynamic therapy tailored to empower you on your journey toward healing.
At the heart of my work is the commitment to fostering a therapeutic space where you can safely navigate through personal challenges, such as depression, grief, intimacy-related issues, self-esteem, creative blockages, and relationship issues.
My approach integrates a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities through a strength-based approach weaving in symbolic work, Eastern practices, nature-based therapy, and psychodynamic therapy tailored to empower you on your journey toward healing.
At the heart of my work is the commitment to fostering a therapeutic space where you can safely navigate through personal challenges, such as depression, grief, intimacy-related issues, self-esteem, creative blockages, and relationship issues.
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Photo of Zipporah Oliver O.a.m., MAPS, Psychologist
Zipporah Oliver O.a.m.
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
My approach is eclectic, drawing from a repertoire of training which includes study in psychodynamic, cognitive behaviour, family therapy, couples counselling and solutions focus therapies.
I am a registered psychologist with over 28 years of experience. I am committed to applying my skills to help clients achieve the optimum outcome. I bring to my practice a dedication to integrity and a lifetime commitment to helping people cope with life challenges. In 2006 I was awarded the Order of Australia for honorary work in disability and broad-spectrum community service. I have an ongoing commitment to professional development and standard of practice. I counsel adults, couples and adolescents and offer telehealth appointments Australia wide.
My approach is eclectic, drawing from a repertoire of training which includes study in psychodynamic, cognitive behaviour, family therapy, couples counselling and solutions focus therapies.
I am a registered psychologist with over 28 years of experience. I am committed to applying my skills to help clients achieve the optimum outcome. I bring to my practice a dedication to integrity and a lifetime commitment to helping people cope with life challenges. In 2006 I was awarded the Order of Australia for honorary work in disability and broad-spectrum community service. I have an ongoing commitment to professional development and standard of practice. I counsel adults, couples and adolescents and offer telehealth appointments Australia wide.
(03) 9068 5216 View (03) 9068 5216
Photo of Claire Barkhuizen, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Claire Barkhuizen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Her approach to therapy is holistic, evidence based, and integrates multiple theories, with particular emphasis on relational, psychodynamic, and trauma-informed ways of thinking.
Claire Barkhuizen holds a Master of Professional Psychology, and a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours II). Claire believes that successful therapy is both an art and a science and aims to provide a collaborative experience built on a trusting therapeutic relationship, empathy, and understanding.
Her approach to therapy is holistic, evidence based, and integrates multiple theories, with particular emphasis on relational, psychodynamic, and trauma-informed ways of thinking.
Claire Barkhuizen holds a Master of Professional Psychology, and a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours II). Claire believes that successful therapy is both an art and a science and aims to provide a collaborative experience built on a trusting therapeutic relationship, empathy, and understanding.
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Photo of El-Afraa Chouchane, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
El-Afraa Chouchane
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
El-afraa is a registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist with postgraduate training. Drawing from a wealth of experience and expertise, El-afraa offers an integrative therapeutic approach tailored specifically to your unique needs and circumstances. She combines cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Interpersonal therapy (PIT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as well as mindfulness and attachment theory.
El-afraa is a registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist with postgraduate training. Drawing from a wealth of experience and expertise, El-afraa offers an integrative therapeutic approach tailored specifically to your unique needs and circumstances. She combines cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Interpersonal therapy (PIT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as well as mindfulness and attachment theory.
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Photo of David Hylton Fox - Fox Psychology, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Fox Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I draw from a diverse toolbox of techniques, including CBT, meditation, person-centered therapy, psychodynamic therapy as well as schema therapy, adapting my methods to suit each client’s unique needs.
I am a registered psychologist with a masters degree in psychology and over twenty years experience working with people from all walks of life. I am passionate about helping them overcome stress, anxiety, addictions and depression. I also have over 13 years experience working with couples and I am a trained couples and relationship counsellor with level two Gottman training.
I draw from a diverse toolbox of techniques, including CBT, meditation, person-centered therapy, psychodynamic therapy as well as schema therapy, adapting my methods to suit each client’s unique needs.
I am a registered psychologist with a masters degree in psychology and over twenty years experience working with people from all walks of life. I am passionate about helping them overcome stress, anxiety, addictions and depression. I also have over 13 years experience working with couples and I am a trained couples and relationship counsellor with level two Gottman training.
(02) 9159 6042 View (02) 9159 6042
Photo of Tarryn Ellison, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Tarryn Ellison
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I draw from a range of depth-oriented therapeutic modalities such as Dream Work, Jungian Psychology, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Somatic Psychotherapy and Psychedelic Integration.
With a deeply curious and open-minded approach, I work in a way that integrates the paradigms of ancient wisdom and evidence based practice. I believe that there is a unique intelligence behind the challenges or experiences individuals bring to therapy. I aim to be led by this inherent intelligence, with an understanding that we all have a natural inclination towards health and wholeness when we are provided with the appropriate support.
I draw from a range of depth-oriented therapeutic modalities such as Dream Work, Jungian Psychology, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Somatic Psychotherapy and Psychedelic Integration.
With a deeply curious and open-minded approach, I work in a way that integrates the paradigms of ancient wisdom and evidence based practice. I believe that there is a unique intelligence behind the challenges or experiences individuals bring to therapy. I aim to be led by this inherent intelligence, with an understanding that we all have a natural inclination towards health and wholeness when we are provided with the appropriate support.
(02) 9100 0519 View (02) 9100 0519
Photo of Abelina Wolf - Abelina Wolf (Psychology with Abelina), MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Abelina Wolf (Psychology with Abelina)
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Therapy approaches: somatic-informed trauma practices, attachment or psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, compassionate inquiry, self-compassion or inner child work, CBT.
My passion is to offer a safe and reflective space to those who are looking to build a deeper understanding of themselves and re-gain the capacity to cope with or overcome the difficult emotional challenges that life can bring. It is re-building a sense of connection to ourselves that can help us live a more meaningful life aligned with our values. I work with adults (18 and above) and am passionate about the area of trauma and self-esteem concerns.
Therapy approaches: somatic-informed trauma practices, attachment or psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, compassionate inquiry, self-compassion or inner child work, CBT.
My passion is to offer a safe and reflective space to those who are looking to build a deeper understanding of themselves and re-gain the capacity to cope with or overcome the difficult emotional challenges that life can bring. It is re-building a sense of connection to ourselves that can help us live a more meaningful life aligned with our values. I work with adults (18 and above) and am passionate about the area of trauma and self-esteem concerns.
(07) 3477 9296 View (07) 3477 9296
Photo of Brenton Webb, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenton Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I provide short and long term psychodynamic psychotherapy informed by training in the Conversational Model through the University of Sydney.
Hello, I work with people using a range of psychotherapeutic approaches that are trauma-informed to support people in achieving lasting growth. Developing together a safe space within which to explore, we can work towards understanding your story and underlying life themes to find opportunities for growth and change. I am passionate about supporting people towards healing and wellbeing and work with an interest in the body-mind connection. I am an ANZAP Registered Psychotherapist(r) and member of the Australian Association of Social Workers.
I provide short and long term psychodynamic psychotherapy informed by training in the Conversational Model through the University of Sydney.
Hello, I work with people using a range of psychotherapeutic approaches that are trauma-informed to support people in achieving lasting growth. Developing together a safe space within which to explore, we can work towards understanding your story and underlying life themes to find opportunities for growth and change. I am passionate about supporting people towards healing and wellbeing and work with an interest in the body-mind connection. I am an ANZAP Registered Psychotherapist(r) and member of the Australian Association of Social Workers.
(02) 9100 0779 View (02) 9100 0779
Photo of Vass Tsiakalis, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Vass Tsiakalis
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
He mainly utilises the psychodynamic modality, with the aim of increasing self-awareness and better understanding the effect of the past on present behaviour.
Vass holds degrees in Psychology, Counselling and Psychotherapy, and works with individuals through short-term counselling and longer-term psychotherapy. He provides treatment for life dissatisfaction, negative thinking, anxiety, substance use, relationship difficulties, and others. Vass is also trained in the Life Management Program to determine the root causes of dissatisfaction in life and the blocks to personal growth.
He mainly utilises the psychodynamic modality, with the aim of increasing self-awareness and better understanding the effect of the past on present behaviour.
Vass holds degrees in Psychology, Counselling and Psychotherapy, and works with individuals through short-term counselling and longer-term psychotherapy. He provides treatment for life dissatisfaction, negative thinking, anxiety, substance use, relationship difficulties, and others. Vass is also trained in the Life Management Program to determine the root causes of dissatisfaction in life and the blocks to personal growth.
(02) 8806 0069 View (02) 8806 0069
Photo of Angela Yazbeck And Adriana Cvitan - The Mind Health Clinic, PACFA, Psychotherapist
The Mind Health Clinic
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
We practice from a humanistic framework informed by psychodynamic theory and trauma informed care and utilise evidence-based therapies including Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
The Mind Health Clinic is dedicated to providing wellbeing support to individuals experiencing challenging moments in their lives. We tailor our services to meet the unique needs of each individual in order to encourage positive developments and perspective growth in our clients. We work collaboratively and ethically with our clients to achieve therapeutic goals and transform insights into effective action. Our clinicians are Miss Angela Yazbeck and Miss Adriana Cvitan. Both hold a Masters in Psychotherapy and Counselling and are registered psychotherapist and counsellors with PACFA.
We practice from a humanistic framework informed by psychodynamic theory and trauma informed care and utilise evidence-based therapies including Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
The Mind Health Clinic is dedicated to providing wellbeing support to individuals experiencing challenging moments in their lives. We tailor our services to meet the unique needs of each individual in order to encourage positive developments and perspective growth in our clients. We work collaboratively and ethically with our clients to achieve therapeutic goals and transform insights into effective action. Our clinicians are Miss Angela Yazbeck and Miss Adriana Cvitan. Both hold a Masters in Psychotherapy and Counselling and are registered psychotherapist and counsellors with PACFA.
(02) 9538 7702 View (02) 9538 7702
Photo of Reinier Moolman, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Reinier Moolman
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Specialities: Inner-child psychodynamic work, CBT, Gestalt Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Grief Therapy, ADHD assessments and ASD assessments.
Psychotherapy is implemented in a unique fashion. You sign up for one of the following packages or workshops that matches your specific challenge: 1. Anxiety Warrior (10 session package integrating CBT, Mindfulness, and Relaxation therapy). 2. Depression: Searching for the light ( 12 session package integrating Behaviour activation, lifestyle focused intervention, Meaning and Inner-Child focused therapy). 3. Bereavement/Grief (6 session package integrating 4 Tasks of Worden). 4. Disability support (Year-long psychotherapy support integrating differently-abled mindset and positive psychological techniques).
Specialities: Inner-child psychodynamic work, CBT, Gestalt Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Grief Therapy, ADHD assessments and ASD assessments.
Psychotherapy is implemented in a unique fashion. You sign up for one of the following packages or workshops that matches your specific challenge: 1. Anxiety Warrior (10 session package integrating CBT, Mindfulness, and Relaxation therapy). 2. Depression: Searching for the light ( 12 session package integrating Behaviour activation, lifestyle focused intervention, Meaning and Inner-Child focused therapy). 3. Bereavement/Grief (6 session package integrating 4 Tasks of Worden). 4. Disability support (Year-long psychotherapy support integrating differently-abled mindset and positive psychological techniques).
(08) 7184 4746 View (08) 7184 4746
Photo of Rina Daluz, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Rina Daluz
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Rina is a psychologist with over 18 years of experience & brings a supportive, caring, empathetic nature to the therapeutic relationship. She is trained in a variety of evidence-based practices (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Positive Psychology). She is passionate about integrating approaches to best suit the uniqueness of each person's individuality, presenting issues and therapeutic goals. She is a member of the Australian Psychological Society and a Psychology Board Approved Supervisor.
Rina is a psychologist with over 18 years of experience & brings a supportive, caring, empathetic nature to the therapeutic relationship. She is trained in a variety of evidence-based practices (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Positive Psychology). She is passionate about integrating approaches to best suit the uniqueness of each person's individuality, presenting issues and therapeutic goals. She is a member of the Australian Psychological Society and a Psychology Board Approved Supervisor.
(02) 9056 8888 View (02) 9056 8888
Photo of Michelle Dennerstein, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Michelle Dennerstein
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
She draws primarily on Psychodynamic, depth psychology principles and trauma-informed care and is an experienced Eye Movement and Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) practitioner.
Michelle is a warm and compassionate psychologist, counsellor, and therapist, who works collaboratively with you to create a welcoming and safe counselling space. She supports and guides you towards a deeper understanding and insight of yourself and your situation, leading to personal growth, self-compassion, and deep transformation so that you can be freer to live your best life. With over 20 years of professional experience, Michelle has provided counselling services within diverse settings, including community health organizations, hospital outpatient services, and university environments.
She draws primarily on Psychodynamic, depth psychology principles and trauma-informed care and is an experienced Eye Movement and Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) practitioner.
Michelle is a warm and compassionate psychologist, counsellor, and therapist, who works collaboratively with you to create a welcoming and safe counselling space. She supports and guides you towards a deeper understanding and insight of yourself and your situation, leading to personal growth, self-compassion, and deep transformation so that you can be freer to live your best life. With over 20 years of professional experience, Michelle has provided counselling services within diverse settings, including community health organizations, hospital outpatient services, and university environments.
(03) 7003 2388 View (03) 7003 2388
Photo of Dr Sandra Darmanin, PsychD, MACPA, Psychologist
Dr Sandra Darmanin
Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am a dedicated patient-focused Clinical Psychologist and have proven strengths in Psychodynamic therapy, Schema Focused Therapy,Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and evidence-based modalities.
Providing clinical and professional leadership to the Clinical Director and Psychologists in delivering individualised care •Delivering specialised psychological therapies for service users from all professional levels, including CEOs and Senior Executives, from diverse industries, such as healthcare, finance, banking, and advertising. Have been nominated and awarded schema focused psychologist of the year by the global mental health awards
I am a dedicated patient-focused Clinical Psychologist and have proven strengths in Psychodynamic therapy, Schema Focused Therapy,Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and evidence-based modalities.
Providing clinical and professional leadership to the Clinical Director and Psychologists in delivering individualised care •Delivering specialised psychological therapies for service users from all professional levels, including CEOs and Senior Executives, from diverse industries, such as healthcare, finance, banking, and advertising. Have been nominated and awarded schema focused psychologist of the year by the global mental health awards
(02) 8074 1629 View (02) 8074 1629
Photo of Melissa Tso, PsychD, Psychologist
Melissa Tso
Psychologist, PsychD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
I utilise a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic- and Schema-informed therapy. I can assist with mood disorders (such as anxiety and depression), adjustment issues (including cultural issues), stress management (including improving emotional regulation, and impulsive and compulsive behaviours), interpersonal/relationship difficulties, and difficulties associated with perinatal mental health.
I utilise a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic- and Schema-informed therapy. I can assist with mood disorders (such as anxiety and depression), adjustment issues (including cultural issues), stress management (including improving emotional regulation, and impulsive and compulsive behaviours), interpersonal/relationship difficulties, and difficulties associated with perinatal mental health.
(03) 7500 5630 View (03) 7500 5630
Photo of Eitan Dekel - Eitan Dekel - Counselling & Psychotherapy, AMHSW, Counsellor
Eitan Dekel - Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
My therapeutic approach integrates contemporary psychodynamic therapies, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), systemic approaches, and other advanced techniques.
As a collaborative, integrative and highly experienced therapist, I delve deeply into understanding the origins of problems to offer compassionate support, direction, and practical feedback, empowering individuals on their journey towards healing and personal growth. With over 35 years of diverse experience in community mental health, hospitals, Headspace, and private practice, I specialize in guiding individuals through their emotional challenges. I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds, addressing all sorts of emotional challenges such as anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, and various life transitions.
My therapeutic approach integrates contemporary psychodynamic therapies, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), systemic approaches, and other advanced techniques.
As a collaborative, integrative and highly experienced therapist, I delve deeply into understanding the origins of problems to offer compassionate support, direction, and practical feedback, empowering individuals on their journey towards healing and personal growth. With over 35 years of diverse experience in community mental health, hospitals, Headspace, and private practice, I specialize in guiding individuals through their emotional challenges. I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds, addressing all sorts of emotional challenges such as anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, and various life transitions.
(02) 8403 2869 View (02) 8403 2869
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Psychodynamic Counsellors

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.