Psychodynamic Therapists in Kamloops, BC

Photo of Jessica A Fukushima, MA, RCAT, RCC, Counsellor
Jessica A Fukushima
Counsellor, MA, RCAT, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C
Hi, I'm Jessica. I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Registered Canadian Art Therapist. I specialize in complex trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, depression, and general mental health issues. As a mixed-race and neurodiverse counsellor, I have a unique understanding of neurodiversity, cultural and ethnic diversity, and mental health. I have experience working with discrimination and racism, youth and adults with ADHD, parents raising children with ADHD, and children who follow a different developmental path.
Hi, I'm Jessica. I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Registered Canadian Art Therapist. I specialize in complex trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, depression, and general mental health issues. As a mixed-race and neurodiverse counsellor, I have a unique understanding of neurodiversity, cultural and ethnic diversity, and mental health. I have experience working with discrimination and racism, youth and adults with ADHD, parents raising children with ADHD, and children who follow a different developmental path.
(778) 400-4956 View (778) 400-4956
Photo of Madhu Sai Deevanapalli - The Happyness Center, RPC, IAYT, E-RYT, Counsellor
The Happyness Center
Counsellor, RPC, IAYT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2C
Counselling can be helpful to people who are struggling to cope with daily life for a long time or people who need support to move them through challenging moments. Our main objective is to help clients discover their true authentic self. Some of the issues we help include Trauma, PTSD, and mental conditioning like Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Addictions, self-esteem, cognitive, and behavioural issues. During the sessions, we will help clients feel connected, build inner confidence, and create boundaries, to have better control of their life. We will help clients feel empowered and build inner resilience to feel happy and relaxed.
Counselling can be helpful to people who are struggling to cope with daily life for a long time or people who need support to move them through challenging moments. Our main objective is to help clients discover their true authentic self. Some of the issues we help include Trauma, PTSD, and mental conditioning like Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Addictions, self-esteem, cognitive, and behavioural issues. During the sessions, we will help clients feel connected, build inner confidence, and create boundaries, to have better control of their life. We will help clients feel empowered and build inner resilience to feel happy and relaxed.
(902) 201-2775 View (902) 201-2775
Photo of Sarah Ryan, RSW, BSW, MACP, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Ryan
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MACP
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2C
I work with individuals, children and youth as well as families and couples. I have been supporting families through conflict for many years and am ready to support your family through life's challenges. I have a passion for supporting parents through the early days/years of parenthood all the way through those difficult teen years.
I work with individuals, children and youth as well as families and couples. I have been supporting families through conflict for many years and am ready to support your family through life's challenges. I have a passion for supporting parents through the early days/years of parenthood all the way through those difficult teen years.
(249) 294-2443 View (249) 294-2443
Photo of Susan Morris-McEwan, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Susan Morris-McEwan
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2B  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years experience in mental health and counselling, predominantly working with adolescents in community mental health, adolescent residential mental health and with young offenders. I have a particular interest in working with adolescents and adults helping to address issues related to parent-teen conflict, stress management, anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties. I also specialize in grief, loss and life-transitions with teens and adults.
I have over 30 years experience in mental health and counselling, predominantly working with adolescents in community mental health, adolescent residential mental health and with young offenders. I have a particular interest in working with adolescents and adults helping to address issues related to parent-teen conflict, stress management, anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties. I also specialize in grief, loss and life-transitions with teens and adults.
(604) 243-5778 x778918 View (604) 243-5778 x778918
Photo of Sarah Coyle, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Coyle
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2E  (Online Only)
Many people have had a life full of moments: good, bad, ugly, and somewhere in the mediocre middle. You are here because some of those experiences have left you feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you can’t make sense of the emotions that you’re wrestling with. Perhaps you're constantly treading water and afraid that you're going to drown. If you are looking for a life raft, maybe counseling is it. I have worked with folks from all walks of life - including families who may have had interactions with the criminal justice system. If you are nervous to talk about some of the big things in your life, reach out.
Many people have had a life full of moments: good, bad, ugly, and somewhere in the mediocre middle. You are here because some of those experiences have left you feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you can’t make sense of the emotions that you’re wrestling with. Perhaps you're constantly treading water and afraid that you're going to drown. If you are looking for a life raft, maybe counseling is it. I have worked with folks from all walks of life - including families who may have had interactions with the criminal justice system. If you are nervous to talk about some of the big things in your life, reach out.
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Photo of Kristy Ricard, MACP, RCC, BSc, Counsellor
Kristy Ricard
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, BSc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C
Accepting NEW Clients Outdoors and Online – Tired of Scrolling? Tired of anxious thoughts & feelings, or low mood or lack of motivation getting in the way? Are you tired of feeling like you’re not enough, or like the standards you set are exhausting to meet? Is a new life change making you feel stuck? Do you feel burdened by obsessive thinking, or difficulties with food and body image? Are there relationships in your life that you’d like to explore, or better understand how you feel when around others? Are you simply hoping to build self-awareness or coping strategies? If you've answered "yes," I can't wait to hear from you.
Accepting NEW Clients Outdoors and Online – Tired of Scrolling? Tired of anxious thoughts & feelings, or low mood or lack of motivation getting in the way? Are you tired of feeling like you’re not enough, or like the standards you set are exhausting to meet? Is a new life change making you feel stuck? Do you feel burdened by obsessive thinking, or difficulties with food and body image? Are there relationships in your life that you’d like to explore, or better understand how you feel when around others? Are you simply hoping to build self-awareness or coping strategies? If you've answered "yes," I can't wait to hear from you.
(506) 804-3161 View (506) 804-3161
Photo of Kelsey Lauren Grimm - Healing Spaces, RCC, MACP, MAL, Counsellor
Healing Spaces
Counsellor, RCC, MACP, MAL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C
We believe counselling is about being open and willing about exploring that which is negatively impacting your life. Facing challenges and difficulties takes courage and a belief that something could be different and even, perhaps, better. I aim to create a warm and welcoming space. Here, you are invited to explore your current situation with a focus on how to create a brighter tomorrow. We believe each person has a sense of what is helpful. Personalizing each session, we collaboratively create a plan to move you through this challenge and to a tomorrow with greater freedom. We offer reduced rate counselling with our MACP candidate.
We believe counselling is about being open and willing about exploring that which is negatively impacting your life. Facing challenges and difficulties takes courage and a belief that something could be different and even, perhaps, better. I aim to create a warm and welcoming space. Here, you are invited to explore your current situation with a focus on how to create a brighter tomorrow. We believe each person has a sense of what is helpful. Personalizing each session, we collaboratively create a plan to move you through this challenge and to a tomorrow with greater freedom. We offer reduced rate counselling with our MACP candidate.
(604) 312-4371 View (604) 312-4371
Photo of Tania Burg, RSW, BSW, EMDR, Registered Social Worker
Tania Burg
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V1S  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients - Tired of scrolling through? Ready to talk to someone who gets you, minus the mom and dad vibe? Life, friends, school or family or stuff that happened in the past is throwing curveballs your way and you're not quite sure how to handle it? Does it feel like everyone expects different things from you, peer pressure and social media are confusing and you've had enough? Whether it's changes, tough times, or just needing to vent, I'm here for you. I've got the experience to help because I know every situation is unique. Let's tackle this together. You're in good hands! Reach out and let's chat.
Accepting NEW Clients - Tired of scrolling through? Ready to talk to someone who gets you, minus the mom and dad vibe? Life, friends, school or family or stuff that happened in the past is throwing curveballs your way and you're not quite sure how to handle it? Does it feel like everyone expects different things from you, peer pressure and social media are confusing and you've had enough? Whether it's changes, tough times, or just needing to vent, I'm here for you. I've got the experience to help because I know every situation is unique. Let's tackle this together. You're in good hands! Reach out and let's chat.
(431) 304-8937 View (431) 304-8937
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V1S  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(873) 363-1012 View (873) 363-1012
Photo of Michelle Bass - Your Path Counselling, PhD, MSW, RSW, RCC, Counsellor
Your Path Counselling
Counsellor, PhD, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V1S
Are you looking for high-quality, professional and accessible counselling? Our team of registered counsellors are ready to serve you. With us, you will find a personalized approach and a safe space to explore your experience without judgment. We provide various options and specialties; our Affordable Intern Clinic sessions cost $75. Visit our website today, yourpathcounselling.com. to learn more about our counsellors and their specializations. If you want help picking the right counsellor, we can match you.
Are you looking for high-quality, professional and accessible counselling? Our team of registered counsellors are ready to serve you. With us, you will find a personalized approach and a safe space to explore your experience without judgment. We provide various options and specialties; our Affordable Intern Clinic sessions cost $75. Visit our website today, yourpathcounselling.com. to learn more about our counsellors and their specializations. If you want help picking the right counsellor, we can match you.
(873) 501-1146 View (873) 501-1146
Photo of Joy Sereda - The Sereda Psychotherapy Group, MA, RCC, RSW, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
The Sereda Psychotherapy Group
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients (low-cost options available)! Life doesn't have to feel like a constant struggle - there is a way to find some peace, and life the fulfilling life you want and deserve. We will work with our clients to help them recover from a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, narcissistic abuse, relationship and family conflict, ADHD, anger management problems, parenting struggles, work-related issues and burnout, those memories from the past that keep getting in your way - and so much more.
Now Accepting New Clients (low-cost options available)! Life doesn't have to feel like a constant struggle - there is a way to find some peace, and life the fulfilling life you want and deserve. We will work with our clients to help them recover from a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, narcissistic abuse, relationship and family conflict, ADHD, anger management problems, parenting struggles, work-related issues and burnout, those memories from the past that keep getting in your way - and so much more.
(365) 661-5098 View (365) 661-5098
Photo of Lisa Neill, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lisa Neill
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life. I'm so glad you're here. My name is Lisa (she/her), and I support adolescent (13+) and adult clients who are looking to overcome and heal from the challenges of life, and discover the best possible version of themselves. I've been a mental health and developmental services professional for nearly 20 years, and have supported those who experience anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), trauma and relational trauma, working in emergency services and their spouses, low self-esteem, and more.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life. I'm so glad you're here. My name is Lisa (she/her), and I support adolescent (13+) and adult clients who are looking to overcome and heal from the challenges of life, and discover the best possible version of themselves. I've been a mental health and developmental services professional for nearly 20 years, and have supported those who experience anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), trauma and relational trauma, working in emergency services and their spouses, low self-esteem, and more.
(866) 574-1122 x5 View (866) 574-1122 x5

Online Therapists

Photo of Rhea Redivo, BSW, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhea Redivo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Penticton, BC V2A
Since no one strategy works for everyone, I individualize my approach to meet each person's needs drawing from various modalities, including mindfulness, self-compassion, psychodynamic, CBT, somatic approaches, trauma-informed, EFT, attachment, and neurobiology.
Life is a journey, and like all journeys, the road can be unpredictable - sometimes smooth, other times rough. While we can handle most rough spots, sometimes we feel defeated by daily responsibilities, or generally exhausted, and we may not even know why. At times like this, it can help to explore what's going on with someone who is safe, supportive and understanding. Reaching out takes courage and wisdom. My goal is to walk with you through those rough times, offering hope, inspiration, skills and tools, and discovering your new best self. We learn and grow through challenges - let's take this road together.
Since no one strategy works for everyone, I individualize my approach to meet each person's needs drawing from various modalities, including mindfulness, self-compassion, psychodynamic, CBT, somatic approaches, trauma-informed, EFT, attachment, and neurobiology.
Life is a journey, and like all journeys, the road can be unpredictable - sometimes smooth, other times rough. While we can handle most rough spots, sometimes we feel defeated by daily responsibilities, or generally exhausted, and we may not even know why. At times like this, it can help to explore what's going on with someone who is safe, supportive and understanding. Reaching out takes courage and wisdom. My goal is to walk with you through those rough times, offering hope, inspiration, skills and tools, and discovering your new best self. We learn and grow through challenges - let's take this road together.
(855) 976-2104 View (855) 976-2104
Photo of Brian Howard, BA, MAC, RCC, Counsellor
Brian Howard
Counsellor, BA, MAC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X
I also use therapies and techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Exposure Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, boundary and assertive training, coping strategies, and self-confidence building.
If you hope to overcome a dreadful anxiety, come out of a hopeless depression, build inner self-confidence, learn how to stand up for yourself, or just try to get a grip on life today; together we can achieve it. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters in Counselling, 7 years experience, and a genuine compassion for people, I sincerely create an encouraging and safe space where we will find what your next step looks like and provide you with the correct tools and techniques to ultimately attain what brought you to seek counselling.
I also use therapies and techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Exposure Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, boundary and assertive training, coping strategies, and self-confidence building.
If you hope to overcome a dreadful anxiety, come out of a hopeless depression, build inner self-confidence, learn how to stand up for yourself, or just try to get a grip on life today; together we can achieve it. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters in Counselling, 7 years experience, and a genuine compassion for people, I sincerely create an encouraging and safe space where we will find what your next step looks like and provide you with the correct tools and techniques to ultimately attain what brought you to seek counselling.
(778) 902-4506 View (778) 902-4506
Photo of Dr. Sylvia Peske, Psychologist
Dr. Sylvia Peske
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Peachland, BC V0H
My treatment approaches include, but are not limited to, EMDR, Sandplay, (IFS), MBCT, Acceptance and Commitment, Psychoanalytic, Psychodynamic, Gestalt and Somatic Therapies.
I work with clients who are seeking to connect, understand, and embrace their own authenticity; people who are looking for self-development and growth. You want to understand yourself in relation to your lived experience, of course pursuing symptom-reduction, but not just that. You want to work toward lasting change, not just a temporary reprieve from whatever is causing them distress. You are open to exploring parts of yourself that you do not like and make you feel uncomfortable because this is where your truth exists, and without knowing or embracing these parts, you will remain only half of your whole and change will not occur.
My treatment approaches include, but are not limited to, EMDR, Sandplay, (IFS), MBCT, Acceptance and Commitment, Psychoanalytic, Psychodynamic, Gestalt and Somatic Therapies.
I work with clients who are seeking to connect, understand, and embrace their own authenticity; people who are looking for self-development and growth. You want to understand yourself in relation to your lived experience, of course pursuing symptom-reduction, but not just that. You want to work toward lasting change, not just a temporary reprieve from whatever is causing them distress. You are open to exploring parts of yourself that you do not like and make you feel uncomfortable because this is where your truth exists, and without knowing or embracing these parts, you will remain only half of your whole and change will not occur.
(825) 360-0520 View (825) 360-0520
Photo of Avril Paice, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Avril Paice
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1X
I am Level 2 Accredited in Trauma-Focused CBT, and have training in DBT, EFT, IFS, Somatic Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy & Positive Neuroplasticity.
My clients want a safe place where they will be deeply heard, understood, and validated. Many of my clients had childhoods that were lacking in nurturing. I support adults who are dealing with issues such as self-care and worthiness struggles, unresolved emotional wounds, body acceptance and battles with diet culture, chronic illness/pain, disability, work stress, anxiety, depression, relationship/family conflict, and grief/loss. Come enjoy a complimentary beverage, unload what weighs on your heart, and leave feeling supported, lighter, and more hopeful.
I am Level 2 Accredited in Trauma-Focused CBT, and have training in DBT, EFT, IFS, Somatic Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy & Positive Neuroplasticity.
My clients want a safe place where they will be deeply heard, understood, and validated. Many of my clients had childhoods that were lacking in nurturing. I support adults who are dealing with issues such as self-care and worthiness struggles, unresolved emotional wounds, body acceptance and battles with diet culture, chronic illness/pain, disability, work stress, anxiety, depression, relationship/family conflict, and grief/loss. Come enjoy a complimentary beverage, unload what weighs on your heart, and leave feeling supported, lighter, and more hopeful.
(604) 210-3860 View (604) 210-3860
Photo of Melissa Hooper, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Melissa Hooper
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
West Kelowna, BC V4T  (Online Only)
I offer an integrative approach to psychotherapy that uses psychodynamic, experiential, emotionally focused and cognitive behaviour therapy.
Hello. My practice specializes in issues with sexuality, sexual dysfunction, infidelity, infertility, couple dynamics and the often connected feelings of anxiety, depression and shame. I offer respectful, judgment free compassionate care to clients experiencing troubling emotions and behaviours and work to release and heal feelings of guilt/fear/hurt related to sexual dysfunction, intimacy and identity. I work extensively with both individuals and couples in the areas of high/low sexual desire, arousal/orgasm disorders and Erectile Dysfunction, among others. My practice is LGBTQIA2S+Kink and Ethical non-monogamy supportive.
I offer an integrative approach to psychotherapy that uses psychodynamic, experiential, emotionally focused and cognitive behaviour therapy.
Hello. My practice specializes in issues with sexuality, sexual dysfunction, infidelity, infertility, couple dynamics and the often connected feelings of anxiety, depression and shame. I offer respectful, judgment free compassionate care to clients experiencing troubling emotions and behaviours and work to release and heal feelings of guilt/fear/hurt related to sexual dysfunction, intimacy and identity. I work extensively with both individuals and couples in the areas of high/low sexual desire, arousal/orgasm disorders and Erectile Dysfunction, among others. My practice is LGBTQIA2S+Kink and Ethical non-monogamy supportive.
(343) 306-1527 View (343) 306-1527
Photo of Iveth Zwyssig, MA , RCC, LLC, BA, Counsellor
Iveth Zwyssig
Counsellor, MA , RCC, LLC, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Penticton, BC V2A
I have extensive experience in different techniques, including CBT and other psychodynamic methods that have proven to be very effective in my practice.
I am a Registered Clinical Counselor with a Master's in Clinical Psychology, practicing since 1993, Helping people heal from those events that impact the mind and spirit when circumstances in life make it almost impossible to process those events. Different methods exist to help with the right flow of that process to overcome emotional difficulties. Through different psychotherapeutic techniques, I guide my clients on the journey to self-discovery and personal growth. You and I together will analyze the conflicts and obstacles you face in your life, work with your fears and beliefs, overcome them, and free yourself from them.
I have extensive experience in different techniques, including CBT and other psychodynamic methods that have proven to be very effective in my practice.
I am a Registered Clinical Counselor with a Master's in Clinical Psychology, practicing since 1993, Helping people heal from those events that impact the mind and spirit when circumstances in life make it almost impossible to process those events. Different methods exist to help with the right flow of that process to overcome emotional difficulties. Through different psychotherapeutic techniques, I guide my clients on the journey to self-discovery and personal growth. You and I together will analyze the conflicts and obstacles you face in your life, work with your fears and beliefs, overcome them, and free yourself from them.
(778) 764-1562 View (778) 764-1562
Photo of Lindsay Deane, MSW, RSW, RCC, Counsellor
Lindsay Deane
Counsellor, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I tend to rely on EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, IFS, and psychodynamic approaches.
There are times in life that can leave us feeling vulnerable and alone - my goal is to come alongside you, so you don't have to feel this way. If you are struggling with guilt, shame, life transitions, anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns, I can help. I also support adults, teens, and parents who are struggling with relationship dynamics, suicidal ideation, or those who have experienced traumatic events.
I tend to rely on EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, IFS, and psychodynamic approaches.
There are times in life that can leave us feeling vulnerable and alone - my goal is to come alongside you, so you don't have to feel this way. If you are struggling with guilt, shame, life transitions, anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns, I can help. I also support adults, teens, and parents who are struggling with relationship dynamics, suicidal ideation, or those who have experienced traumatic events.
(581) 221-0837 View (581) 221-0837
Photo of Poe Liberado - Hive Counselling & Consultancy, MSW, RSW, Counsellor
Hive Counselling & Consultancy
Counsellor, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Penticton, BC V2A  (Online Only)
Interventions include psychodynamic, somatic and expressive arts.
Are you different? So am I. I specialize in working with people who break the mold. This includes neuro-diverse adults (ADHD, Autistic, C-PTSD), chronically ill, 2SLGBTQ, and racialized people. Focusing on resiliency and emotional intelligence, I use evidence-based practices and creative interventions to use the wounds of the past as seeds for growth. Adverse childhood experiences, trauma, and relationship fractures disrupt our feelings of safety and trust. In order to thrive, we need to heal.
Interventions include psychodynamic, somatic and expressive arts.
Are you different? So am I. I specialize in working with people who break the mold. This includes neuro-diverse adults (ADHD, Autistic, C-PTSD), chronically ill, 2SLGBTQ, and racialized people. Focusing on resiliency and emotional intelligence, I use evidence-based practices and creative interventions to use the wounds of the past as seeds for growth. Adverse childhood experiences, trauma, and relationship fractures disrupt our feelings of safety and trust. In order to thrive, we need to heal.
(778) 200-3189 View (778) 200-3189

See more therapy options for Kamloops

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.