Psychodynamic Therapists in Sierra Vista, AZ

Photo of Jeffrey Trujillo - Deep Springs Counseling, MA, LPC, Counselor
Deep Springs Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
Do you find yourself stressed out and struggling within in order to fit in and take the safe and acceptable path? Are you living with the difficulty of not being authentically who you are? People seek therapy because they feel they are not living the life they want. Seeking counseling may feel risky or uncomfortable, yet therapy can provide a place to help achieve life transitions, or better understand ongoing relationships. Finding a therapist can be a courageous first step to having the life, relationships, career, and happiness you are meant to have.
Do you find yourself stressed out and struggling within in order to fit in and take the safe and acceptable path? Are you living with the difficulty of not being authentically who you are? People seek therapy because they feel they are not living the life they want. Seeking counseling may feel risky or uncomfortable, yet therapy can provide a place to help achieve life transitions, or better understand ongoing relationships. Finding a therapist can be a courageous first step to having the life, relationships, career, and happiness you are meant to have.
(520) 704-6697 View (520) 704-6697
Photo of Carlton F. Perk Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlton F. Perk Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sierra Vista, AZ 85613  (Online Only)
You are on the right track: seeking out assistants, allies. Kind of depressed? Anxious? Troubles in your relationship? Feeling alienated or a loss of direction? There are lots of ways to describe it, and initially that's all I'll ask you to do. You'll have the freedom of a confidential discussion and a trained professional to help illuminate issues, set goals, and pursue your concerns. You may want insight into your situation. You may want tools. You certainly want results, and to develop some capacities that you haven't seen for a while. That works for me. And I offer clinical supervision to other therapists as well.
You are on the right track: seeking out assistants, allies. Kind of depressed? Anxious? Troubles in your relationship? Feeling alienated or a loss of direction? There are lots of ways to describe it, and initially that's all I'll ask you to do. You'll have the freedom of a confidential discussion and a trained professional to help illuminate issues, set goals, and pursue your concerns. You may want insight into your situation. You may want tools. You certainly want results, and to develop some capacities that you haven't seen for a while. That works for me. And I offer clinical supervision to other therapists as well.
(520) 433-9132 View (520) 433-9132
Photo of E Jean DuBose - The Place of Healing | E Jean DuBose, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Place of Healing | E Jean DuBose, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sierra Vista, AZ 85613  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy, from its Greek origin, means to tend or render service to the soul or life spirit. My goal is to assist you to find that quiet place within you, your soul or life spirit, where your healing begins. From this source, you have the opportunity to transform your life. Couples can learn to truly know and accept one another and take their relationship to a higher level. Many of my clients describe me as warm and intuitive and believe that I am able to get to the core of their issues in a relatively short time.
Psychotherapy, from its Greek origin, means to tend or render service to the soul or life spirit. My goal is to assist you to find that quiet place within you, your soul or life spirit, where your healing begins. From this source, you have the opportunity to transform your life. Couples can learn to truly know and accept one another and take their relationship to a higher level. Many of my clients describe me as warm and intuitive and believe that I am able to get to the core of their issues in a relatively short time.
(520) 254-4970 View (520) 254-4970
Photo of Sandra jo Fletcher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra jo Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sierra Vista, AZ 85613
My practice encompasses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and many other forms of traditional therapy. EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has consistently demonstrated incredible benefits to individuals. youth, families and groups. Having practiced for over 17 years, I continue to enjoy sharing the passion and success of my work with others. Using my training and personal experiences with horses enables me to help clients move beyond fear and limitations to a life of freedom, inner peace and healing. I practice at my ranch in Elgin, Arizona located in the foothills of the Hauchuca mountain range.
My practice encompasses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and many other forms of traditional therapy. EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has consistently demonstrated incredible benefits to individuals. youth, families and groups. Having practiced for over 17 years, I continue to enjoy sharing the passion and success of my work with others. Using my training and personal experiences with horses enables me to help clients move beyond fear and limitations to a life of freedom, inner peace and healing. I practice at my ranch in Elgin, Arizona located in the foothills of the Hauchuca mountain range.
(844) 919-0326 View (844) 919-0326
Photo of Jennifer O'Neill, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Jennifer O'Neill
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sierra Vista, AZ 85613
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes life brings challenges which become opportunities to grow and change. It can catch one off guard and may cause disillusion. When that happens, we seek answers, resolutions or someone for validation. As a psychotherapist, I am fortunate to witness miracles everyday with my clients. The smallest step forward is still a miracle. It takes courage to take the smallest step.
Sometimes life brings challenges which become opportunities to grow and change. It can catch one off guard and may cause disillusion. When that happens, we seek answers, resolutions or someone for validation. As a psychotherapist, I am fortunate to witness miracles everyday with my clients. The smallest step forward is still a miracle. It takes courage to take the smallest step.
(520) 582-9401 View (520) 582-9401

Online Therapists

Photo of Jessica Flayer, PhD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Flayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85718
I draw from modalities such as cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, and person-centered while also utilizing the lens of mental performance/sport psychology.
I believe it is helpful to have a safe place where you feel heard and supported. My aim is to assist you in identifying your strengths to improve your relationship with yourself and others. I believe your needs are unique which is why I use an integrative approach when working with individuals. I provide strength-based interventions to assist you in uncovering your own resilience to manage challenges as well as to grow and improve your overall quality of life.
I draw from modalities such as cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, and person-centered while also utilizing the lens of mental performance/sport psychology.
I believe it is helpful to have a safe place where you feel heard and supported. My aim is to assist you in identifying your strengths to improve your relationship with yourself and others. I believe your needs are unique which is why I use an integrative approach when working with individuals. I provide strength-based interventions to assist you in uncovering your own resilience to manage challenges as well as to grow and improve your overall quality of life.
(520) 300-9284 View (520) 300-9284
Photo of Robin Memel Fox, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, Counselor
Robin Memel Fox
Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85715
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize relational, psychodynamic, body-centered/somatic psychotherapy, neuro-psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, dance/movement therapy & expressive arts.
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
I utilize relational, psychodynamic, body-centered/somatic psychotherapy, neuro-psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, dance/movement therapy & expressive arts.
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
(520) 332-6144 View (520) 332-6144
Photo of Rebecca Rae Palmer, MA, CRC, LPC, Counselor
Rebecca Rae Palmer
Counselor, MA, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
I am trained in EMDR, Play Therapy, Psychodynamic approach.
My aim is to provide a therapeutic environment that is conducive to change, growth, and healing. I take an integrated approach to therapy, treating each individual with interventions best suited to a client's unique experiences. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals with disabilities in a vocational rehabilitation setting. I have worked with kids of all ages. I am also experienced in working with individuals adjusting to major life changes due to illness, traumatic events, and those experiencing grief, loss, anxiety, and depression.
I am trained in EMDR, Play Therapy, Psychodynamic approach.
My aim is to provide a therapeutic environment that is conducive to change, growth, and healing. I take an integrated approach to therapy, treating each individual with interventions best suited to a client's unique experiences. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals with disabilities in a vocational rehabilitation setting. I have worked with kids of all ages. I am also experienced in working with individuals adjusting to major life changes due to illness, traumatic events, and those experiencing grief, loss, anxiety, and depression.
(520) 462-2229 View (520) 462-2229
Photo of Krishna Bright - Krishna Bright, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krishna Bright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
I provide both counseling and astrology services, integrating 40 years experience of astrology into my counseling practice. 20 years of counseling experience involves guiding and supporting others through relationship concerns, family issues, anxiety, depression, sleep problems & women's health (sexual, physical, emotional.) I use CBT, psychodynamic, solution focused and emotionally focused modalities to help the client feel confident and secure in their positive coping skills. I also use mindfulness techniques and encourage the client to approach life holistically (mind, body, spirit) to obtain optimum goals of peace and happiness.
I provide both counseling and astrology services, integrating 40 years experience of astrology into my counseling practice. 20 years of counseling experience involves guiding and supporting others through relationship concerns, family issues, anxiety, depression, sleep problems & women's health (sexual, physical, emotional.) I use CBT, psychodynamic, solution focused and emotionally focused modalities to help the client feel confident and secure in their positive coping skills. I also use mindfulness techniques and encourage the client to approach life holistically (mind, body, spirit) to obtain optimum goals of peace and happiness.
(520) 214-8272 View (520) 214-8272
Photo of Azita Abtin, PsyD, CADC, Psychologist
Azita Abtin
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I have extensive experience with individual, couples and families, using systemic, psychodynamic and CBT, based on the client's needs. Experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse/dependence, codependency, adjustment and grief issues, divorce, relationship and personal growth issues for the last 25 years. I have assisted veterans and active duty personnel and their families since I was an Air Force officer. The Couples Manual published by Amazon increases the therapeutic gains from the regular or video or telephonic sessions for all patients. I was honored as the Top 3 Marriage Counselors by Tree Best Rated Group.
I have extensive experience with individual, couples and families, using systemic, psychodynamic and CBT, based on the client's needs. Experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse/dependence, codependency, adjustment and grief issues, divorce, relationship and personal growth issues for the last 25 years. I have assisted veterans and active duty personnel and their families since I was an Air Force officer. The Couples Manual published by Amazon increases the therapeutic gains from the regular or video or telephonic sessions for all patients. I was honored as the Top 3 Marriage Counselors by Tree Best Rated Group.
(520) 221-4197 View (520) 221-4197
Photo of Ryan Schulz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Schulz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85701  (Online Only)
I work with people using a variety of philosophies, but those encompassing humanistic and psychodynamic theories inform most of my practice. This generally means I am most interested in focusing on emotions, insight, relationships, past experiences, meta-emotion, self-worth, authenticity, fantasies, and the unconscious. I rely heavily on discussing shame, vulnerability, emotional needs, and creating meaning in life. I am fairly non-directive, and I will be most focused on helping you find your own authentic path by reflecting and exploring deeper meanings and patterns that arise in our discussions.
I work with people using a variety of philosophies, but those encompassing humanistic and psychodynamic theories inform most of my practice. This generally means I am most interested in focusing on emotions, insight, relationships, past experiences, meta-emotion, self-worth, authenticity, fantasies, and the unconscious. I rely heavily on discussing shame, vulnerability, emotional needs, and creating meaning in life. I am fairly non-directive, and I will be most focused on helping you find your own authentic path by reflecting and exploring deeper meanings and patterns that arise in our discussions.
(520) 210-5268 View (520) 210-5268
Photo of Amra Stafford, PsyD, Psychologist
Amra Stafford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704  (Online Only)
My approach is psychodynamic (your unconscious mind & feelings matter!) and may integrate mindfulness, ACT therapy, boundary work, body-tracking, spiritual beliefs, dreams, or coaching.
Crises and life transitions tend to spotlight where we need to grow. I have two typical clients. One is interested in ongoing psychotherapy and has often (though not necessarily) been in therapy before. The other is looking for shorter-term work to sort through a decision or transition. Depression, anxiety, "stuckness" or "emptiness" often inspire people to call. I work with adults of all backgrounds, but have niche experience with many chronic illnesses, including long COVID, MCAS, EDS and cancer; neurodiversity-affirming work with autism & ADHD; older adults & aging; and healthcare & mental health professionals.
My approach is psychodynamic (your unconscious mind & feelings matter!) and may integrate mindfulness, ACT therapy, boundary work, body-tracking, spiritual beliefs, dreams, or coaching.
Crises and life transitions tend to spotlight where we need to grow. I have two typical clients. One is interested in ongoing psychotherapy and has often (though not necessarily) been in therapy before. The other is looking for shorter-term work to sort through a decision or transition. Depression, anxiety, "stuckness" or "emptiness" often inspire people to call. I work with adults of all backgrounds, but have niche experience with many chronic illnesses, including long COVID, MCAS, EDS and cancer; neurodiversity-affirming work with autism & ADHD; older adults & aging; and healthcare & mental health professionals.
(520) 210-5421 View (520) 210-5421
Photo of Nancy Clare Skocy, MC, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Clare Skocy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I enjoy working with individuals interested in healing relational or developmental trauma. I am certified as a somatic experiencing practitioner and as a psychodynamic psychotherapist. I am also trained in equine therapy and utilize horses in individual sessions when appropriate as an adjunct to deepening body awareness and developing joyful connections to living beings. I am focused on positive interactions and stabilizing internal resources in a safe environment. Increasing awareness of the external environment through the senses and noticing how this impacts body sensations begins a process of self development through observation. The person begins to individuate from the trauma.
I enjoy working with individuals interested in healing relational or developmental trauma. I am certified as a somatic experiencing practitioner and as a psychodynamic psychotherapist. I am also trained in equine therapy and utilize horses in individual sessions when appropriate as an adjunct to deepening body awareness and developing joyful connections to living beings. I am focused on positive interactions and stabilizing internal resources in a safe environment. Increasing awareness of the external environment through the senses and noticing how this impacts body sensations begins a process of self development through observation. The person begins to individuate from the trauma.
(520) 399-6305 View (520) 399-6305
Photo of Dr. Brittany Burdick, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brittany Burdick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718  (Online Only)
My treatment approach comes from an attachment-based, psychodynamic background.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist employed at Metta, a group private practice in Tucson. I have training and interest in working with a diverse number of clinical concerns including trauma and PTSD, attachment and developmental wounds, substance abuse, identity, self-discovery, and self-worth, difficult life transitions, relational issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I highly prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental, trusting relationship with clients. I believe clients know themselves best, but I assist with gaining insight, self-understanding, and developing self-compassion and worth.
My treatment approach comes from an attachment-based, psychodynamic background.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist employed at Metta, a group private practice in Tucson. I have training and interest in working with a diverse number of clinical concerns including trauma and PTSD, attachment and developmental wounds, substance abuse, identity, self-discovery, and self-worth, difficult life transitions, relational issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I highly prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental, trusting relationship with clients. I believe clients know themselves best, but I assist with gaining insight, self-understanding, and developing self-compassion and worth.
(520) 619-4475 View (520) 619-4475
Photo of Amanda L Morse, LPC, NCC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda L Morse
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85705
Theoretical orientations include psychodynamic, humanistic, existential, and experiential models.
I understand how difficult it can be to take the first step towards healing. To me, the most important aspect of psychotherapy is the relationship between therapist and client. I strive to provide an environment where clients feel safe to disclose private thoughts, feelings, dreams and feel comfortable taking emotional risks. Clients come to me seeking help with unresolved trauma, relationship difficulties, mood, and disordered eating. It is my privilege to work alongside others towards creating a more fulfilling and peaceful life.
Theoretical orientations include psychodynamic, humanistic, existential, and experiential models.
I understand how difficult it can be to take the first step towards healing. To me, the most important aspect of psychotherapy is the relationship between therapist and client. I strive to provide an environment where clients feel safe to disclose private thoughts, feelings, dreams and feel comfortable taking emotional risks. Clients come to me seeking help with unresolved trauma, relationship difficulties, mood, and disordered eating. It is my privilege to work alongside others towards creating a more fulfilling and peaceful life.
(520) 201-0397 View (520) 201-0397
Photo of Eileen Maria Bauer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen Maria Bauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and I can help you explore deeper issues and help you become aware of patterns in an ego- supportive way.
Do you feel lost on your path? Our life's journey is not always as clear as we would like it to be. Sometimes we have doubts about work, family life or relationships. You realize that life seems off balance and wonder how to fix things. As we hurry through life we can lose touch with our authentic Self and symptoms of depression/anxiety may appear. Valleys are a natural part of life but you do not need to suffer through these alone. As you reach out for help you will come to realize that it is during these times exactly, when we grow the most - I will be here for you, to listen and give you the safe space to figure things out.
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and I can help you explore deeper issues and help you become aware of patterns in an ego- supportive way.
Do you feel lost on your path? Our life's journey is not always as clear as we would like it to be. Sometimes we have doubts about work, family life or relationships. You realize that life seems off balance and wonder how to fix things. As we hurry through life we can lose touch with our authentic Self and symptoms of depression/anxiety may appear. Valleys are a natural part of life but you do not need to suffer through these alone. As you reach out for help you will come to realize that it is during these times exactly, when we grow the most - I will be here for you, to listen and give you the safe space to figure things out.
(520) 518-3335 View (520) 518-3335
Photo of Russell Johnson, MA, LPC, LISAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Russell Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719  (Online Only)
I have an eclectic approach and I am skilled at cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, psychodynamic therapy, existential therapy, reality therapy, grief therapy, and family therapy.
I like working with individuals with a wide array of problems including: depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship problems, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, impulse control problems, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family problems, life skills deficits, and problems with decision-making. I provide compassionate care and I am an efficient and effective counselor who uses evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR.
I have an eclectic approach and I am skilled at cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, psychodynamic therapy, existential therapy, reality therapy, grief therapy, and family therapy.
I like working with individuals with a wide array of problems including: depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship problems, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, impulse control problems, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family problems, life skills deficits, and problems with decision-making. I provide compassionate care and I am an efficient and effective counselor who uses evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR.
(520) 462-2002 View (520) 462-2002
Photo of Liesl Elizabeth Scalzitti, PhD, Psychologist
Liesl Elizabeth Scalzitti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
In my practice, I use psychodynamic, and psychoanalytic theory to guide my practice.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working as a depth psychologist. I enjoy working with people to find meaningful insights and fresh perspectives in effort to break old patterns of life experiences such as dissatisfying relationships, loneliness, unhappiness, fear of failure, feeling misunderstood, emotional hurt, disappointment, loss, depression and/or anxiety. I strive to create the feeling of being well understood so that we may proceed together in exploring and uncovering what lies beneath the initial symptoms that are presented. From there, I hope that effective and lasting changes eventually take place.
In my practice, I use psychodynamic, and psychoanalytic theory to guide my practice.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working as a depth psychologist. I enjoy working with people to find meaningful insights and fresh perspectives in effort to break old patterns of life experiences such as dissatisfying relationships, loneliness, unhappiness, fear of failure, feeling misunderstood, emotional hurt, disappointment, loss, depression and/or anxiety. I strive to create the feeling of being well understood so that we may proceed together in exploring and uncovering what lies beneath the initial symptoms that are presented. From there, I hope that effective and lasting changes eventually take place.
(520) 447-2495 View (520) 447-2495
Photo of Mahkyla Howes, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Mahkyla Howes
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
Waitlist for new clients
My approach utilizes psychodynamic, DBT, and CBT orientations using a personal-centered, direct, and intersectional feminist lens and plenty of humor, embodying practices for unlearning white-body supremacy and other forms of oppression paying particular note of intersectionality.
My practice is likely a good fit for you if: you're a person with a disability/neurodivergent, a BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, are an otherwise marginalized person with intersecting identities, and/or are interested in an approach to therapy that is abolition-oriented and critical of systems that perpetuate harm.
My approach utilizes psychodynamic, DBT, and CBT orientations using a personal-centered, direct, and intersectional feminist lens and plenty of humor, embodying practices for unlearning white-body supremacy and other forms of oppression paying particular note of intersectionality.
My practice is likely a good fit for you if: you're a person with a disability/neurodivergent, a BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, are an otherwise marginalized person with intersecting identities, and/or are interested in an approach to therapy that is abolition-oriented and critical of systems that perpetuate harm.
(520) 210-3844 View (520) 210-3844
Photo of Kathleen Young, PsyD, Psychologist
Kathleen Young
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? Are you struggling with unresolved past pain? Healing is possible. I can help. My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? Are you struggling with unresolved past pain? Healing is possible. I can help. My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
(520) 346-0915 View (520) 346-0915

See more therapy options for Sierra Vista

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.