Photo of Sarah Rodemann, MSSA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Rodemann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I offer trauma-informed psychodynamic therapy through a leftist/feminist theoretical perspective. I am passionate about serving those who have felt let down by the mental healthcare system or disempowered by past providers, and welcome skepticism about the healthcare system in late-stage capitalism. I draw from IFS, developmental and evolutionary psychology, and more. I reject the hierarchical nature of traditional Western healthcare and encourage collaboration to achieve empowerment. I know effective therapy requires trust, and that I have to earn yours. My goal is to decolonize and destigmatize mental health.
I offer trauma-informed psychodynamic therapy through a leftist/feminist theoretical perspective. I am passionate about serving those who have felt let down by the mental healthcare system or disempowered by past providers, and welcome skepticism about the healthcare system in late-stage capitalism. I draw from IFS, developmental and evolutionary psychology, and more. I reject the hierarchical nature of traditional Western healthcare and encourage collaboration to achieve empowerment. I know effective therapy requires trust, and that I have to earn yours. My goal is to decolonize and destigmatize mental health.
(630) 315-0485 View (630) 315-0485
Photo of Andrea Gaspar Gonzalez, PsyD, PsyPact, Psychologist
Andrea Gaspar Gonzalez
Psychologist, PsyD, PsyPact
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I work from a psychodynamic and feminist framework.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
I work from a psychodynamic and feminist framework.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
(224) 970-2471 View (224) 970-2471
Photo of Lucas Byron Swenink, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lucas Byron Swenink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Lucas practices from an integrative approach with groundings in psychodynamic theory.
Lucas specializes in working with individuals and couples who identify as part of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer population. Within the LGBTQ population, he has further expertise in working with those who wish to address the implications of their trauma history, HIV/AIDS-related health and wellness, Depression, Anxiety, issues related to Aging and Substance Abuse and Dependance related disorders.
Lucas practices from an integrative approach with groundings in psychodynamic theory.
Lucas specializes in working with individuals and couples who identify as part of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer population. Within the LGBTQ population, he has further expertise in working with those who wish to address the implications of their trauma history, HIV/AIDS-related health and wellness, Depression, Anxiety, issues related to Aging and Substance Abuse and Dependance related disorders.
(872) 221-6391 View (872) 221-6391
Photo of Albe Gutierrez, MAATC, BFA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Albe Gutierrez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAATC, BFA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I combine expressive arts with psychodynamic, client-centered, and Positive CBT to promote a trauma-informed environment for growth.
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
I combine expressive arts with psychodynamic, client-centered, and Positive CBT to promote a trauma-informed environment for growth.
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
(773) 694-8550 View (773) 694-8550
Photo of Jennifer Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I offer a holistic, individualized approach to therapy centered around the client-therapist relationship. My training is in relational psychodynamic psychotherapy; however, I use a variety of therapeutic interventions including art therapy, breathwork, yoga for trauma, meditation and mindfulness. I believe in empowering each individual through psychoeducation around sleep and diet, attachment styles, the mind-body connection, etc. I have extensive experience in working with trauma, including survivors of domestic violence, emotional & sexual abuse as well as complex childhood trauma. I see adults, adolescents and families.
I offer a holistic, individualized approach to therapy centered around the client-therapist relationship. My training is in relational psychodynamic psychotherapy; however, I use a variety of therapeutic interventions including art therapy, breathwork, yoga for trauma, meditation and mindfulness. I believe in empowering each individual through psychoeducation around sleep and diet, attachment styles, the mind-body connection, etc. I have extensive experience in working with trauma, including survivors of domestic violence, emotional & sexual abuse as well as complex childhood trauma. I see adults, adolescents and families.
(773) 570-5445 View (773) 570-5445
Photo of Alison O'Hara, PsyD, Psychologist
Alison O'Hara
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
My practice of therapy is influenced by humanistic, interpersonal, existential, and psychodynamic approaches.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes how our perspectives on life and relationships are informed by past experiences, where we are in the present, and our future hopes. I strive to create an open environment allowing access to the meaning of these experiences and explore the impact this has on our lives.
My practice of therapy is influenced by humanistic, interpersonal, existential, and psychodynamic approaches.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes how our perspectives on life and relationships are informed by past experiences, where we are in the present, and our future hopes. I strive to create an open environment allowing access to the meaning of these experiences and explore the impact this has on our lives.
(224) 214-5067 View (224) 214-5067
Photo of Jack Disselhorst, MHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jack Disselhorst
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
For the past 3 years I've worked in mental health crisis work, developing an adaptive technique blending Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Experiential, and Relational therapies.
I am passionate about working alongside individuals with complex issues and struggles who are seeking insight, clarity, and change. Between personal histories including hurt and trauma and a contemporary landscape that continues to make connection and fulfilment harder and harder, it can feel difficult (if not downright impossible) to break out of the cycles that keep us feeling trapped, unhappy, or stuck. However, I am a firm believer that change is always possible, and that with the proper support we are capable of finding clarity and enacting change to realize the life we want for ourselves.
For the past 3 years I've worked in mental health crisis work, developing an adaptive technique blending Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Experiential, and Relational therapies.
I am passionate about working alongside individuals with complex issues and struggles who are seeking insight, clarity, and change. Between personal histories including hurt and trauma and a contemporary landscape that continues to make connection and fulfilment harder and harder, it can feel difficult (if not downright impossible) to break out of the cycles that keep us feeling trapped, unhappy, or stuck. However, I am a firm believer that change is always possible, and that with the proper support we are capable of finding clarity and enacting change to realize the life we want for ourselves.
(872) 327-9517 View (872) 327-9517
Photo of Tamara Rostein, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tamara Rostein
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Rostein uses a combination of theoretical models which include psychodynamic and play therapy, relational techniques, and family systems approaches with developmental and trauma-informed lenses.
Dr. Rostein is a bi-cultural and bi-racial post-doctoral fellow working with children ages 0-18, with a variety of behavioral and emotional issues. Dr. Rostein provides services in both English and Spanish, and specializes in working with infants to young adults and families who have experienced complex trauma including abuse, neglect, and attachment ruptures. Dr. Rostein is rostered in Child-Parent Psychotherapy, a model for children (0-5) who have experienced trauma. Dr. Rostein works with individuals demonstrating symptoms associated with autism, intellectual disabilities, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.
Rostein uses a combination of theoretical models which include psychodynamic and play therapy, relational techniques, and family systems approaches with developmental and trauma-informed lenses.
Dr. Rostein is a bi-cultural and bi-racial post-doctoral fellow working with children ages 0-18, with a variety of behavioral and emotional issues. Dr. Rostein provides services in both English and Spanish, and specializes in working with infants to young adults and families who have experienced complex trauma including abuse, neglect, and attachment ruptures. Dr. Rostein is rostered in Child-Parent Psychotherapy, a model for children (0-5) who have experienced trauma. Dr. Rostein works with individuals demonstrating symptoms associated with autism, intellectual disabilities, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.
(773) 692-6695 x2025 View (773) 692-6695 x2025
Photo of Sonali Gupta, PsyD, Psychologist
Sonali Gupta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience providing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
As an empathic clinician, I place importance on establishing a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. I encourage a collaborative and authentic relationship in which my clients feel understood and supported. Because individuals are unique, I emphasize fully understanding each client and their specific concerns. My interventions are based on this understanding as well as my clients' preferences. I have lived and worked in several countries in Europe, South America and Africa and in my 20 years of practice have enjoyed working with individuals from diverse backgrounds on a wide range of concerns.
I have extensive experience providing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
As an empathic clinician, I place importance on establishing a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. I encourage a collaborative and authentic relationship in which my clients feel understood and supported. Because individuals are unique, I emphasize fully understanding each client and their specific concerns. My interventions are based on this understanding as well as my clients' preferences. I have lived and worked in several countries in Europe, South America and Africa and in my 20 years of practice have enjoyed working with individuals from diverse backgrounds on a wide range of concerns.
(773) 906-4049 View (773) 906-4049
Photo of Tara Medow, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Medow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I gather from existential, psychodynamic, relational, and evolutionary frameworks.
I like people, and I believe in an elastic understanding of the human condition. My approach is informal and centered in the belief people move within the world in ways that make sense to them. Daily decisions often reveal parts of the self developed during formative years; it is human to adapt emotions to stressful events. It is also human to reenact distress because it is familiar. Personhood is largely informed by the body's fundamental desire to feel physiological balance. Exposure to trauma may be part of someone’s balance, and therapy can be a place to gain clarity in ways we bond with ourselves/others and understand purpose.
I gather from existential, psychodynamic, relational, and evolutionary frameworks.
I like people, and I believe in an elastic understanding of the human condition. My approach is informal and centered in the belief people move within the world in ways that make sense to them. Daily decisions often reveal parts of the self developed during formative years; it is human to adapt emotions to stressful events. It is also human to reenact distress because it is familiar. Personhood is largely informed by the body's fundamental desire to feel physiological balance. Exposure to trauma may be part of someone’s balance, and therapy can be a place to gain clarity in ways we bond with ourselves/others and understand purpose.
(773) 825-9761 View (773) 825-9761
Photo of Jeff Zacharias, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Zacharias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
My background draws on psychodynamic theory with a strength based and solution focused perspective.
There are numerous reasons why an individual makes a decision to seek therapy. From my perspective, the key factor in being able to examine your individual reasons is based upon the relationship between yourself and your therapist. I offer a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment in order to explore your individual needs with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your care. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your concerns in order to foster meaningful change in your life. My clinical experience has included working not only with individuals but couples, families and groups.
My background draws on psychodynamic theory with a strength based and solution focused perspective.
There are numerous reasons why an individual makes a decision to seek therapy. From my perspective, the key factor in being able to examine your individual reasons is based upon the relationship between yourself and your therapist. I offer a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment in order to explore your individual needs with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your care. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your concerns in order to foster meaningful change in your life. My clinical experience has included working not only with individuals but couples, families and groups.
(773) 295-7727 View (773) 295-7727
Photo of Catherine Burris-Schnur - Center for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago, Counselor
Center for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago
Counselor
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Each therapist is licensed by the State of Illinois, and is trained both in psychodynamic psychotherapy and in the engagement of the spiritual and religious dynamics of human experience.
Are you looking for an outstanding psychotherapist in the Chicago area? Would you like to speak with someone who can understand your spiritual and religious concerns as well as your emotional needs? The Center for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago has been in operation since 1965 and offers psychotherapy for adults, children, adolescents, and couples. Fully accredited as a clinical and educational site by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, the Center is staffed by licensed pastoral professional clinical counselors, social workers, and clinical psychologists.
Each therapist is licensed by the State of Illinois, and is trained both in psychodynamic psychotherapy and in the engagement of the spiritual and religious dynamics of human experience.
Are you looking for an outstanding psychotherapist in the Chicago area? Would you like to speak with someone who can understand your spiritual and religious concerns as well as your emotional needs? The Center for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago has been in operation since 1965 and offers psychotherapy for adults, children, adolescents, and couples. Fully accredited as a clinical and educational site by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, the Center is staffed by licensed pastoral professional clinical counselors, social workers, and clinical psychologists.
(312) 263-4368 x9090 View (312) 263-4368 x9090
Photo of Xoe Wise, AM, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Xoe Wise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I believe trusting relationships, creativity, and community are at the heart of inner peace. I offer you a compassionate, empathetic, playful, and non-judgmental space. Trauma influences the body, and brain in complex ways and therefore sometimes in therapy we need to talk, and sometimes we need to pause, move, or create. I am informed by attachment theory, psychodynamic approach, and embrace the relational elements of healing. As a musician, and with music therapy training, I understand the regulatory power of art and invite you to integrate expressive elements. I also offer music-centered and songwriting focused sessions.
I believe trusting relationships, creativity, and community are at the heart of inner peace. I offer you a compassionate, empathetic, playful, and non-judgmental space. Trauma influences the body, and brain in complex ways and therefore sometimes in therapy we need to talk, and sometimes we need to pause, move, or create. I am informed by attachment theory, psychodynamic approach, and embrace the relational elements of healing. As a musician, and with music therapy training, I understand the regulatory power of art and invite you to integrate expressive elements. I also offer music-centered and songwriting focused sessions.
(872) 276-9875 View (872) 276-9875
Photo of Michele Day - MyLCSW, Ltd., Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MyLCSW, Ltd.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Our clients are diverse people, some struggle with depression or anxiety, others seek clarity in communication and adapting to change. What you request assistance with is our goal, and we will empathize and assist you in navigating the therapeutic journey. You, the client, are in charge of your life and your change. Your therapist is here to help you look at your choices, provide new skills, and be a support. All the MyLCSW clinicians believe that therapy starts where the client is.
Our clients are diverse people, some struggle with depression or anxiety, others seek clarity in communication and adapting to change. What you request assistance with is our goal, and we will empathize and assist you in navigating the therapeutic journey. You, the client, are in charge of your life and your change. Your therapist is here to help you look at your choices, provide new skills, and be a support. All the MyLCSW clinicians believe that therapy starts where the client is.
(773) 389-2691 View (773) 389-2691
Photo of Jade Hull, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jade Hull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
(773) 207-2098 View (773) 207-2098
Photo of Jessica Ransom - Dr. Jessica Ransom and Associates LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jessica Ransom and Associates LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As a Prescribing Psychologist, I have the unique privilege to treat the totality of my patient's symptoms and fully support them along the way. I believe with the right support, each person can enhance his or her own interpersonal relationships. And sometimes, medication is a great option to enhance the progress made in therapy. I practice unconditional positive regard and attempt to balance humor with the occasional, yet necessary, curse word. Psychotherapy and psychopharmacology should not be a mystery and I try to make the process as comfortable and as real as possible.
As a Prescribing Psychologist, I have the unique privilege to treat the totality of my patient's symptoms and fully support them along the way. I believe with the right support, each person can enhance his or her own interpersonal relationships. And sometimes, medication is a great option to enhance the progress made in therapy. I practice unconditional positive regard and attempt to balance humor with the occasional, yet necessary, curse word. Psychotherapy and psychopharmacology should not be a mystery and I try to make the process as comfortable and as real as possible.
(773) 800-1510 View (773) 800-1510
Photo of Kanika Shukul, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kanika Shukul
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I strongly believe in every individual's ability to bring about meaningful changes through self-awareness. A trusting relationship between a client and therapist offers a safe space to reflect on our experiences, our histories that we carry with us, and the way in which these histories impact our present experiences. I understand that every client's personal journey is unique; therefore, my approach is tailored to fit the specific needs of each client.
I strongly believe in every individual's ability to bring about meaningful changes through self-awareness. A trusting relationship between a client and therapist offers a safe space to reflect on our experiences, our histories that we carry with us, and the way in which these histories impact our present experiences. I understand that every client's personal journey is unique; therefore, my approach is tailored to fit the specific needs of each client.
(312) 985-9746 View (312) 985-9746
Photo of Debra Bartelt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Bartelt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Often what brings people to therapy is the desire to change a pattern of behavior that no longer works in your best interest. Changing the way we handle certain areas of our lives can be a difficult process. Finding the right therapist for you is essential in making this change happen. Together we will explore what change you would like to move towards, and understand how your patterns developed over time. What once were effective coping skills may no longer be necessary or useful, but letting go and finding another way is the work we can do together.
Often what brings people to therapy is the desire to change a pattern of behavior that no longer works in your best interest. Changing the way we handle certain areas of our lives can be a difficult process. Finding the right therapist for you is essential in making this change happen. Together we will explore what change you would like to move towards, and understand how your patterns developed over time. What once were effective coping skills may no longer be necessary or useful, but letting go and finding another way is the work we can do together.
(773) 906-7448 View (773) 906-7448
Photo of Mark J Woodward, LCPC, Counselor
Mark J Woodward
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
People wanting to change something about themselves, whether it's their mood, personal life patterns, anxiety, stress level, or ways of relating to others, find real benefits from therapy. If you find you lack the motivation and skills needed to make those changes you will find comfort and help in my office. Some life issues might be resolved relatively quickly, but lasting change for long-term problems may require more time and commitment. Above all, I will honor your wish to change!
People wanting to change something about themselves, whether it's their mood, personal life patterns, anxiety, stress level, or ways of relating to others, find real benefits from therapy. If you find you lack the motivation and skills needed to make those changes you will find comfort and help in my office. Some life issues might be resolved relatively quickly, but lasting change for long-term problems may require more time and commitment. Above all, I will honor your wish to change!
(773) 249-9225 View (773) 249-9225
Photo of Sarah Ward, MA, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Over the past 25 years I have been committed to supporting teens and adults healing journey. My clients are seeking emotional healing, self-regulation, and personal growth. In addition to therapeutic support, I help leaders, entrepreneurs and managers develop emotional intelligence, resilience, and relational skills critical for leading teams through difficult transitions and challenges. My leadership experience enables me to guide individuals who not only want to improve their personal lives but also those looking to enhance their leadership effectiveness, empowering them to foster strong, compassionate, and high-performing teams.
Over the past 25 years I have been committed to supporting teens and adults healing journey. My clients are seeking emotional healing, self-regulation, and personal growth. In addition to therapeutic support, I help leaders, entrepreneurs and managers develop emotional intelligence, resilience, and relational skills critical for leading teams through difficult transitions and challenges. My leadership experience enables me to guide individuals who not only want to improve their personal lives but also those looking to enhance their leadership effectiveness, empowering them to foster strong, compassionate, and high-performing teams.
(773) 923-2975 View (773) 923-2975
1
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.