Psychodynamic Therapists in Bolton, ON

Photo of Shruti Kankaria - Bolton Pyschology, PsyD, Psychologist
Bolton Pyschology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Our clinicians are trained in multiple evidence based theoretical orientations: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic therapy, Family Systems & Interpersonal Therapy.
Feeling overwhelmed or lost? Feeling burnt out and misunderstood? Is your relationship stuck in the same dance no matter what you do? We understand how intimidating & difficult it can be to find a psychologist that can truly help. At Bolton Psychology we ensure that you will experience a non judgemental, collaborative, empathetic & safe environment. We provide psychological therapy services for teens, adults, and couples (in-person and virtually). We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, burnout, trauma and abuse, anger, stress, family and relationship issues, perfectionism, postpartum support, self-esteem, and ADHD.
Our clinicians are trained in multiple evidence based theoretical orientations: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic therapy, Family Systems & Interpersonal Therapy.
Feeling overwhelmed or lost? Feeling burnt out and misunderstood? Is your relationship stuck in the same dance no matter what you do? We understand how intimidating & difficult it can be to find a psychologist that can truly help. At Bolton Psychology we ensure that you will experience a non judgemental, collaborative, empathetic & safe environment. We provide psychological therapy services for teens, adults, and couples (in-person and virtually). We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, burnout, trauma and abuse, anger, stress, family and relationship issues, perfectionism, postpartum support, self-esteem, and ADHD.
(289) 206-5293 View (289) 206-5293
Photo of Elsia La Caria And Co. Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Elsia La Caria And Co. Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Bolton, ON L7E
You may find yourself feeling stuck, overwhelmed by anxiety/stress, or feeling triggered by past trauma. We are a team of caring RSW's and RP's providing support to adolescents, adults, couples and First Responders. We specialize in trauma, childhood abuse and attachment wounds, maternal mental health, fertility, domestic violence, and couple therapy. Our approach is attachment-based and we are passionate about helping individuals to feel more connected to themselves and their relationships. We strongly believe that a therapist-client relationship should be rooted in trust and safety and characterized by warmth and acceptance.
You may find yourself feeling stuck, overwhelmed by anxiety/stress, or feeling triggered by past trauma. We are a team of caring RSW's and RP's providing support to adolescents, adults, couples and First Responders. We specialize in trauma, childhood abuse and attachment wounds, maternal mental health, fertility, domestic violence, and couple therapy. Our approach is attachment-based and we are passionate about helping individuals to feel more connected to themselves and their relationships. We strongly believe that a therapist-client relationship should be rooted in trust and safety and characterized by warmth and acceptance.
(289) 206-5362 View (289) 206-5362
Photo of Sarah Palozzi, MACP, BA, BEd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sarah Palozzi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA, BEd
Verified Verified
Bolton, ON L7E
Do you feel like your life is stuck on autopilot, but you can’t figure out why or what to do to change things? This often stems from a disconnection from ourselves, which, in turn, hinders our ability to connect to others and the world around us. As an adult, you may be overworking and engaging in negative self-talk, while children and teenagers may experience a more general sense of confusion, sadness, and frustration with the world. I believe we all have the answers to living our most joyous and embodied lives—we just need to create the right conditions for our truth to shine.
Do you feel like your life is stuck on autopilot, but you can’t figure out why or what to do to change things? This often stems from a disconnection from ourselves, which, in turn, hinders our ability to connect to others and the world around us. As an adult, you may be overworking and engaging in negative self-talk, while children and teenagers may experience a more general sense of confusion, sadness, and frustration with the world. I believe we all have the answers to living our most joyous and embodied lives—we just need to create the right conditions for our truth to shine.
(289) 273-2926 View (289) 273-2926
Photo of Alexandra Rebelo, Registered Psychotherapist
Alexandra Rebelo
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
I believe that resilience lies within each of us. We often forget this powerful strength we have inside of us because of the challenges life confronts us with. My goal is to empower you to rediscover your inner light and collaboratively work to improve your overall well-being and quality of life. I strive to create a safe, trusting, inclusive, and non-judgemental space where you can feel comfortable sharing your lived experiences with me.
I believe that resilience lies within each of us. We often forget this powerful strength we have inside of us because of the challenges life confronts us with. My goal is to empower you to rediscover your inner light and collaboratively work to improve your overall well-being and quality of life. I strive to create a safe, trusting, inclusive, and non-judgemental space where you can feel comfortable sharing your lived experiences with me.
(289) 273-2965 View (289) 273-2965
Photo of Christina Crowe, HBSc, MA, RP, (Cert), OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Christina Crowe
Registered Psychotherapist, HBSc, MA, RP, (Cert), OAMHP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
We can only change unhelpful patterns or address symptoms of a condition, when we see them clearly. If you might be ready to ‘Dig a Little Deeper’, you've come to the right place. Whether you are working on mental health resiliency, or seeking a specific treatment, we offer a compassionate ear, safe space to unpack your story, with your values and evidenced-based strategies, to support your treatment journey. When we Dig Deeper, we make sense of the Why. It's not just about managing triggers - it's about having fewer triggers.
We can only change unhelpful patterns or address symptoms of a condition, when we see them clearly. If you might be ready to ‘Dig a Little Deeper’, you've come to the right place. Whether you are working on mental health resiliency, or seeking a specific treatment, we offer a compassionate ear, safe space to unpack your story, with your values and evidenced-based strategies, to support your treatment journey. When we Dig Deeper, we make sense of the Why. It's not just about managing triggers - it's about having fewer triggers.
(289) 512-2559 View (289) 512-2559
Photo of Aneliya Saley, MA, MTA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Aneliya Saley
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MTA, RP
Verified Verified
Bolton, ON L7E
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Psychotherapists and Certified Music Therapist (MTA) with the Canadian Association of Music Therapy. I am passionate about supporting and empowering individuals on their journey to healing and well-being by focusing on the power of the music experience. I use music to facilitate healing for the mind, body and soul. Music therapy can be used with the very young, right up to the very old. It can be used to treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, anger issues, acting out, eating disorders, PTSD, separation or divorce.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Psychotherapists and Certified Music Therapist (MTA) with the Canadian Association of Music Therapy. I am passionate about supporting and empowering individuals on their journey to healing and well-being by focusing on the power of the music experience. I use music to facilitate healing for the mind, body and soul. Music therapy can be used with the very young, right up to the very old. It can be used to treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, anger issues, acting out, eating disorders, PTSD, separation or divorce.
(289) 206-5311 View (289) 206-5311
Photo of Stephanie Telegdi, MA, RP, CCC, SEP, Registered Psychotherapist
Stephanie Telegdi
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Bolton, ON L7C
Do you feel stuck and unable to change? You’ve worked hard to get to where you are but find yourself asking “is this as good as it gets?”. You know that pain and stress are a normal part of life, but it throws you every time. You feel irritated when something doesn’t go as planned, or feel like you go from 0 to 100 within a matter of moments. You find yourself going into autopilot just to get through the day, or sometimes even crying all alone. Regardless of when life got hard, it’s the same old pattern. You want to feel better – you just don’t know how.
Do you feel stuck and unable to change? You’ve worked hard to get to where you are but find yourself asking “is this as good as it gets?”. You know that pain and stress are a normal part of life, but it throws you every time. You feel irritated when something doesn’t go as planned, or feel like you go from 0 to 100 within a matter of moments. You find yourself going into autopilot just to get through the day, or sometimes even crying all alone. Regardless of when life got hard, it’s the same old pattern. You want to feel better – you just don’t know how.
(289) 802-4480 View (289) 802-4480
Photo of Kathleen Killen, HBA, MA, ACC, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kathleen Killen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBA, MA, ACC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Imagine being able to sit down with your partner, discuss a challenging topic, and find a way forward together. How much safer and more secure would you feel, no matter what life throws your way? Longing for deeper connection and understanding in your relationship is completely natural—and by reading this, you’re already showing the desire and potential for growth.
Imagine being able to sit down with your partner, discuss a challenging topic, and find a way forward together. How much safer and more secure would you feel, no matter what life throws your way? Longing for deeper connection and understanding in your relationship is completely natural—and by reading this, you’re already showing the desire and potential for growth.
(289) 205-7558 View (289) 205-7558
Photo of Svitlana Chechel | Trauma | Emdr | Cptsd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Svitlana Chechel | Trauma | Emdr | Cptsd
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I understand the complexity of mind-body connections in healing. With collaborative efforts, we tackle accumulated trauma and various mental health challenges using somatic, behavioural, and cognitive techniques. In addition, I prioritize equipping individuals with diverse tools to deal with everyday/daily challenges. If you aim to tackle underlying issues rather than merely treating symptoms, then you're in the right place.
Welcome! I understand the complexity of mind-body connections in healing. With collaborative efforts, we tackle accumulated trauma and various mental health challenges using somatic, behavioural, and cognitive techniques. In addition, I prioritize equipping individuals with diverse tools to deal with everyday/daily challenges. If you aim to tackle underlying issues rather than merely treating symptoms, then you're in the right place.
(289) 271-0653 View (289) 271-0653
Photo of Holly Robinson, CIMHP, CCTP-II, CGCS, CCFP, CHyp, Registered Psychotherapist
Holly Robinson
Registered Psychotherapist, CIMHP, CCTP-II, CGCS, CCFP, CHyp
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is my passion to help individuals liberate their energy from the pain of the past, become more resourceful in the present, and move towards their most fulfilling vision for the future. I specialize in treating adults with trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, compassion fatigue, stress, burnout, grief, shame, and anxiety. I offer a holistic approach to psychotherapy integrating IFS, SE, EMDR, NLP, TIME, EFT, RTT, HeartMath, Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Spiritual Psychotherapy, and more. I have extensive training in evidence-based and cutting-edge approaches that allow me to create a customized therapeutic experience for you to awaken the healer within.
It is my passion to help individuals liberate their energy from the pain of the past, become more resourceful in the present, and move towards their most fulfilling vision for the future. I specialize in treating adults with trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, compassion fatigue, stress, burnout, grief, shame, and anxiety. I offer a holistic approach to psychotherapy integrating IFS, SE, EMDR, NLP, TIME, EFT, RTT, HeartMath, Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Spiritual Psychotherapy, and more. I have extensive training in evidence-based and cutting-edge approaches that allow me to create a customized therapeutic experience for you to awaken the healer within.
(289) 206-8704 View (289) 206-8704
Photo of Tracey Hand-Breckenridge - Carley Rawes Centre, MDiv, RP
Carley Rawes Centre
MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E  (Online Only)
Feeling like something isn't right in your life? Are you, or is someone you love in crisis? Are you consumed by worry, overwhelmed, unable to cope, exhausted, struggling at school, work or a relationship? Depression, anxiety anger or addictions rob you of joy, make you feel numb, isolated and that life is darker and far more challenging than it should be? We help people and families just like you to find hope. Internal Family Systems, EMDR and cognitive behavioural therapy are some of our approaches. Carley was my young, talented, vibrant, beautiful cousin, and it is in her memory that this centre was founded; that's her picture.
Feeling like something isn't right in your life? Are you, or is someone you love in crisis? Are you consumed by worry, overwhelmed, unable to cope, exhausted, struggling at school, work or a relationship? Depression, anxiety anger or addictions rob you of joy, make you feel numb, isolated and that life is darker and far more challenging than it should be? We help people and families just like you to find hope. Internal Family Systems, EMDR and cognitive behavioural therapy are some of our approaches. Carley was my young, talented, vibrant, beautiful cousin, and it is in her memory that this centre was founded; that's her picture.
(226) 641-6805 View (226) 641-6805
Photo of Bhagwant S Virk, RP(Q), MSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Bhagwant S Virk
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MSc
Verified Verified
Bolton, ON L7E
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel that there are times when you feel weak, a failure, inadequate, incompetent, not good enough, and because of that, life has become a jumbled mess where you feel like a pile of spaghetti noodles with all chaos, no order? Then read on…. Spaghetti is interesting. It can sit there as a big jumbled mess. But as soon as you pick up a couple of pieces, they slide right out from the pile. They're so easy to separate. They only look like a big mess. And just like anything else ... you eat that plate of spaghetti one bite at a time. Allow me to become the one who will help you to untangle, heal, and energize.
Do you feel that there are times when you feel weak, a failure, inadequate, incompetent, not good enough, and because of that, life has become a jumbled mess where you feel like a pile of spaghetti noodles with all chaos, no order? Then read on…. Spaghetti is interesting. It can sit there as a big jumbled mess. But as soon as you pick up a couple of pieces, they slide right out from the pile. They're so easy to separate. They only look like a big mess. And just like anything else ... you eat that plate of spaghetti one bite at a time. Allow me to become the one who will help you to untangle, heal, and energize.
(289) 277-6461 View (289) 277-6461
Photo of Riley Thompson, BA, MA, RP-Q, Pre-Licensed Professional
Riley Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MA, RP-Q
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Not accepting new clients
I view attending psychotherapy as a courageous decision to make positive changes in one's life. My aim with clients is to hear and understand who they are, what they are struggling with, the context around those struggles, and what they want to get out of counselling. Don't know the answers to all those questions? Many of us don't!
I view attending psychotherapy as a courageous decision to make positive changes in one's life. My aim with clients is to hear and understand who they are, what they are struggling with, the context around those struggles, and what they want to get out of counselling. Don't know the answers to all those questions? Many of us don't!
(289) 803-8227 View (289) 803-8227
Photo of Jennifer Page, RP, OATR, Registered Psychotherapist
Jennifer Page
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, OATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Not accepting new clients
I firmly believe that we all hold within us the strengths and skills to cope with whatever life brings to our way. Together, in our sessions, we will discover creative and accessible ways to work towards and cope with the changes that you wish to make in the name of positive mental health. I have had the honor of supporting children, adults and seniors discover how the 'drawing out' of their story can heal. Whether you’re a child or a child-at-heart, I look forward to walking with you to support your journey.
I firmly believe that we all hold within us the strengths and skills to cope with whatever life brings to our way. Together, in our sessions, we will discover creative and accessible ways to work towards and cope with the changes that you wish to make in the name of positive mental health. I have had the honor of supporting children, adults and seniors discover how the 'drawing out' of their story can heal. Whether you’re a child or a child-at-heart, I look forward to walking with you to support your journey.
(289) 207-6432 View (289) 207-6432
Photo of Juliette Harriott, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Juliette Harriott
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Bolton, ON L7E
Not accepting new clients
When we are struggling to manage life challenges, our ability to cope can become strained. Such stressors can affect our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in unhealthy ways. They can also show up as frustration, irritability, and/or anger. Exploring relevant past experiences, with skillful therapeutic interventions, I support individuals, couples, and families to understand what is happening for them in the present. Believing that the client is the expert in their lives, I also help people to develop care plans intended to challenge unhelpful ways of functioning in their world while restoring feelings of happiness and hopefulness.
When we are struggling to manage life challenges, our ability to cope can become strained. Such stressors can affect our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in unhealthy ways. They can also show up as frustration, irritability, and/or anger. Exploring relevant past experiences, with skillful therapeutic interventions, I support individuals, couples, and families to understand what is happening for them in the present. Believing that the client is the expert in their lives, I also help people to develop care plans intended to challenge unhelpful ways of functioning in their world while restoring feelings of happiness and hopefulness.
(647) 691-9129 View (647) 691-9129

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stacey Beach, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Stacey Beach
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6V
She is also skilled in incorporating elements of other evidence-based approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and brief psychodynamic therapy to assist with clients' specific concerns.
***Now accepting new clients**** Dr. Beach holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and is Registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Her training and experience allow her to provide effective therapy for a variety of common problems such as anxiety, depression, coping with stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma, and others. Dr. Beach takes a collaborative and integrative approach, tailoring treatment to the personality and needs of each client.
She is also skilled in incorporating elements of other evidence-based approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and brief psychodynamic therapy to assist with clients' specific concerns.
***Now accepting new clients**** Dr. Beach holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and is Registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Her training and experience allow her to provide effective therapy for a variety of common problems such as anxiety, depression, coping with stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma, and others. Dr. Beach takes a collaborative and integrative approach, tailoring treatment to the personality and needs of each client.
(365) 657-1047 View (365) 657-1047
Photo of Freshta Jamasi, MA, HBSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Freshta Jamasi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, HBSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H
I implement techniques borrowed from EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Interventions.
One of the many things I can appreciate about our society is how people come from different walks of life - we all have a story. These stories, or worldviews, are what shape our personalities and how we perceive and overcome the various obstacles that life may throw at us. I also understand how beginning therapy can be daunting, so I provide a validating and non-judgemental environment with the goal of making clients as comfortable as possible. Helping clients explore their emotions and navigate any problems they may have, together, has always been a passion of mine.
I implement techniques borrowed from EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Interventions.
One of the many things I can appreciate about our society is how people come from different walks of life - we all have a story. These stories, or worldviews, are what shape our personalities and how we perceive and overcome the various obstacles that life may throw at us. I also understand how beginning therapy can be daunting, so I provide a validating and non-judgemental environment with the goal of making clients as comfortable as possible. Helping clients explore their emotions and navigate any problems they may have, together, has always been a passion of mine.
(647) 576-2751 View (647) 576-2751
Photo of Gulneet Mand - Gulneet Mand, Aasra Therapy & Counselling, Bsc, DipPsyc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Gulneet Mand, Aasra Therapy & Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Bsc, DipPsyc
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6R  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with clients helping them navigate their feelings around stress, anxiety, relationships and cultural differences using the psychodynamic approach.
If you feel anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and feel that no one around you seems to understand, you are not alone. It can be very challenging to navigate day to day life while trying to make sense of this anxiety and stress. Many changes including breaking up, divorce, job loss, death of a loved one can lead to feeling lost or stuck. Trying to balance two cultures where on one side is your family's expectations and on the other side is western world's norms around dating, relationships and work can cause confusion around identity and self worth.
I have experience working with clients helping them navigate their feelings around stress, anxiety, relationships and cultural differences using the psychodynamic approach.
If you feel anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and feel that no one around you seems to understand, you are not alone. It can be very challenging to navigate day to day life while trying to make sense of this anxiety and stress. Many changes including breaking up, divorce, job loss, death of a loved one can lead to feeling lost or stuck. Trying to balance two cultures where on one side is your family's expectations and on the other side is western world's norms around dating, relationships and work can cause confusion around identity and self worth.
(289) 276-7374 View (289) 276-7374
Photo of Kavita Bala, BA, BEd, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kavita Bala
Registered Social Worker, BA, BEd, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6T
I use evidence-based interventions such as psychodynamic theory, trauma-informed care, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* I enjoy supporting people to create a lifestyle that brings them a sense of happiness and peace. I am culturally sensitive and I strive to create a safe and compassionate environment. My expertise lies in helping people improve mental health, family and relationship dynamics and personal development/spiritual growth. It would be my honour to support you in creating your ideal reality.
I use evidence-based interventions such as psychodynamic theory, trauma-informed care, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* I enjoy supporting people to create a lifestyle that brings them a sense of happiness and peace. I am culturally sensitive and I strive to create a safe and compassionate environment. My expertise lies in helping people improve mental health, family and relationship dynamics and personal development/spiritual growth. It would be my honour to support you in creating your ideal reality.
(289) 768-7378 View (289) 768-7378
Photo of Chris Toth, RP(Q), BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Chris Toth
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T  (Online Only)
As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and MA in Counseling Psychology student under clinical supervision, I use a combination of cognitive behavioral, solutions-focused, and psychodynamic psychotherapies.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress, struggling in your relationships, or searching for stronger self-esteem, I am here to support you. Specializing in issues of codependency, disability, dysfunctional family systems, boundary-setting, and burnout recovery, I offer a compassionate approach tailored to your unique needs. My passion for this work is grounded in a personal history with similar issues.
As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and MA in Counseling Psychology student under clinical supervision, I use a combination of cognitive behavioral, solutions-focused, and psychodynamic psychotherapies.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress, struggling in your relationships, or searching for stronger self-esteem, I am here to support you. Specializing in issues of codependency, disability, dysfunctional family systems, boundary-setting, and burnout recovery, I offer a compassionate approach tailored to your unique needs. My passion for this work is grounded in a personal history with similar issues.
(647) 955-7386 View (647) 955-7386

See more therapy options for Bolton

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.