Psychodynamic Therapists in Kensington, CA

Photo of Kelly L Ravenel-Mueller, MA, MFT, CBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly L Ravenel-Mueller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CBT
Verified Verified
Kensington, CA 94707
If you find yourself struggling in life to feel whole, happy, at ease with yourself and being in the world, or feel frustrated with a lack of intimacy in your relationships, I can help you. It is important when searching for a therapist that you feel an honest connection. I give a free 30-minute consultation to help you decide if working with me is a match. I have trained in trauma recovery, somatic work, psychodynamic, cognitive, mindfulness, bioenergetic analysis. My focus has been working with individuals around healing from PTSD, anxiety, eating disorders, bi-polar, and marital relationship issues.
If you find yourself struggling in life to feel whole, happy, at ease with yourself and being in the world, or feel frustrated with a lack of intimacy in your relationships, I can help you. It is important when searching for a therapist that you feel an honest connection. I give a free 30-minute consultation to help you decide if working with me is a match. I have trained in trauma recovery, somatic work, psychodynamic, cognitive, mindfulness, bioenergetic analysis. My focus has been working with individuals around healing from PTSD, anxiety, eating disorders, bi-polar, and marital relationship issues.
(510) 851-8869 View (510) 851-8869
Photo of Rachel Greenberg, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Greenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
My training includes extensive work in brief, dynamic, solution focused therapy as well as long term psychodynamic therapy.
Are you ready for change and personal growth? Would like to explore and experience more fulfilling relationships? People seek therapy for many reasons, often it is when they are confronted by a challenging life circumstance or interested in resolving familiar issues or breaking destructive patterns. Whatever your reason for wanting therapy at this time, chances are you would like to feel happier more of the time.
My training includes extensive work in brief, dynamic, solution focused therapy as well as long term psychodynamic therapy.
Are you ready for change and personal growth? Would like to explore and experience more fulfilling relationships? People seek therapy for many reasons, often it is when they are confronted by a challenging life circumstance or interested in resolving familiar issues or breaking destructive patterns. Whatever your reason for wanting therapy at this time, chances are you would like to feel happier more of the time.
(510) 250-3886 View (510) 250-3886
Photo of Robin Eve Greenberg - Robin Eve Greenberg MFT, Jungian Psychoanalyst, MA , MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin Eve Greenberg MFT, Jungian Psychoanalyst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , MFT
Verified Verified
Kensington, CA 94707
I feel honored to provide an environment where the inner life can emerge. People seek therapy at a vulnerable time in their lives. I offer a warmly related environment where suffering can be approached gently, and new possibilities can emerge.
I feel honored to provide an environment where the inner life can emerge. People seek therapy at a vulnerable time in their lives. I offer a warmly related environment where suffering can be approached gently, and new possibilities can emerge.
(415) 830-9404 View (415) 830-9404
Photo of Ken Benau, PhD, Psychologist
Ken Benau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
My aim is to accompany you in discovering your unique pathway to change or healing. We will identify the thoughts, beliefs, emotions and behavior patterns you wish to change, and those particular aspects of yourself that keep you feeling stuck or distressed. Working experientially, we will pay close attention to your moment to moment emotional, physical, and relational experience. Together we will not only address your problems but also deepen your awareness and experience of your strengths and capacities, both to help you face your life challenges and to feel more whole and fulfilled.
My aim is to accompany you in discovering your unique pathway to change or healing. We will identify the thoughts, beliefs, emotions and behavior patterns you wish to change, and those particular aspects of yourself that keep you feeling stuck or distressed. Working experientially, we will pay close attention to your moment to moment emotional, physical, and relational experience. Together we will not only address your problems but also deepen your awareness and experience of your strengths and capacities, both to help you face your life challenges and to feel more whole and fulfilled.
(510) 849-6653 View (510) 849-6653
Photo of Ananda M Patterson, PsyD, Psychologist
Ananda M Patterson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kensington, CA 94707
My practice is dedicated to fostering healing through warm, relational therapy. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life, with special focus on members of the LGBTQIA+ community, those in trauma recovery, and those navigating disability or neurodiversity. I work to create a therapeutic space that fosters trust and human connection. Within this space we can engage in compassionate exploration of lifelong patterns of belief and behaviors, the impacts of trauma and stigma, relationship and intimacy concerns, identity intersections, life transitions, and issues stemming from aging, disability, and/or chronic pain.
My practice is dedicated to fostering healing through warm, relational therapy. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life, with special focus on members of the LGBTQIA+ community, those in trauma recovery, and those navigating disability or neurodiversity. I work to create a therapeutic space that fosters trust and human connection. Within this space we can engage in compassionate exploration of lifelong patterns of belief and behaviors, the impacts of trauma and stigma, relationship and intimacy concerns, identity intersections, life transitions, and issues stemming from aging, disability, and/or chronic pain.
(510) 999-8508 View (510) 999-8508
Photo of Tina R Smelser - Tina Smelser MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tina Smelser MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
Often, much of the suffering a person experiences comes from difficulties in relationships; with others and with oneself. With compassion and understanding, I can help you explore what gets in the way of having satisfying relationships. As part of that process, we can look at ways to communicate more effectively. I have special interest and experience in working with people from different cultural backgrounds, of mixed cultural backgrounds, or in cross-cultural relationships. I have worked with many clients who are adult children of alcoholics, and understand the challenges of such an upbringing. I work with individual adults and couples.
Often, much of the suffering a person experiences comes from difficulties in relationships; with others and with oneself. With compassion and understanding, I can help you explore what gets in the way of having satisfying relationships. As part of that process, we can look at ways to communicate more effectively. I have special interest and experience in working with people from different cultural backgrounds, of mixed cultural backgrounds, or in cross-cultural relationships. I have worked with many clients who are adult children of alcoholics, and understand the challenges of such an upbringing. I work with individual adults and couples.
(415) 663-2971 View (415) 663-2971
Photo of Ros Wyatt, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ros Wyatt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
Are you struggling in your life right now?  Are you going through a challenging life transition, experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling anxious or depressed? You are very far from being alone.  There are times in our lives when we all need support and guidance, and seeking therapy shows both your courage and your desire to create change in your life.  I work to create a warm and welcoming environment and bring both empathy and humor to our collaboration. My aim is to create a trusting relationship where my clients feel safe and heard.
Are you struggling in your life right now?  Are you going through a challenging life transition, experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling anxious or depressed? You are very far from being alone.  There are times in our lives when we all need support and guidance, and seeking therapy shows both your courage and your desire to create change in your life.  I work to create a warm and welcoming environment and bring both empathy and humor to our collaboration. My aim is to create a trusting relationship where my clients feel safe and heard.
(925) 431-6279 View (925) 431-6279
Photo of Dana McMullen, MA, LPCC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana McMullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kensington, CA 94707
I have worked with adults, couples, adolescents and children for over 18 years. I offer a free telephone consultation as you explore what your needs are in finding a therapist and whether you feel I might be of help to you.
I have worked with adults, couples, adolescents and children for over 18 years. I offer a free telephone consultation as you explore what your needs are in finding a therapist and whether you feel I might be of help to you.
(510) 466-1217 View (510) 466-1217
Photo of Kayoko Yokoyama, PhD, Psychologist
Kayoko Yokoyama
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working with clients to face the challenges that life may bring with respect and compassion. I use my knowledge and training as a counseling psychologist to create a safe space for you to explore your challenges in the context of your strengths while taking the full complexity of who you are into consideration. I balance my traditional psychological and scientific training by grounding my work firmly within a sociocultural context. I utilize an integrative, strength-based approach informed by multicultural and feminist perspectives.
I am dedicated to working with clients to face the challenges that life may bring with respect and compassion. I use my knowledge and training as a counseling psychologist to create a safe space for you to explore your challenges in the context of your strengths while taking the full complexity of who you are into consideration. I balance my traditional psychological and scientific training by grounding my work firmly within a sociocultural context. I utilize an integrative, strength-based approach informed by multicultural and feminist perspectives.
(510) 900-8303 View (510) 900-8303
Photo of Kai Lillie, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kai Lillie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
(510) 990-9815 View (510) 990-9815
Photo of Monika S Broecker, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monika S Broecker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kensington, CA 94707  (Online Only)
I am the therapist for the working professional and their families. I am available to accept new clients. I provide Problem Solving Strategic Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, Career and work-related Coaching and Leadership Development. I work with high functioning adults and adolescents, individuals and families; with students on performance and anxiety issues; with couples to improve communication and emotional connection/intimacy. Trying to conceive, Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenting (including parenting of autistic/2e/PDA kids). I work in California for therapy; globally for coaching.
I am the therapist for the working professional and their families. I am available to accept new clients. I provide Problem Solving Strategic Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, Career and work-related Coaching and Leadership Development. I work with high functioning adults and adolescents, individuals and families; with students on performance and anxiety issues; with couples to improve communication and emotional connection/intimacy. Trying to conceive, Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenting (including parenting of autistic/2e/PDA kids). I work in California for therapy; globally for coaching.
(650) 241-1330 View (650) 241-1330
Photo of Bryn Kahn, PsyD, Psychologist
Bryn Kahn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, CA 94707
(510) 680-2591 View (510) 680-2591

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa C. Tracy, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa C. Tracy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (64812), I integrate a variety of treatment approaches in my work including relational psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and EFT couples therapy.
I work with individuals and couples facing significant life choices and transitions in areas such as relationships, marriage, divorce, parenthood, career, and identity. I also have a sub-specialization in work with survivors of trauma. I am experienced in working with clients from a wide range of cultural and geographic backgrounds. In our sessions I provide clients a place to find support, acceptance, perspective and hope, to explore themselves and their lives in depth, and to develop more effective ways of relating to themselves and others.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (64812), I integrate a variety of treatment approaches in my work including relational psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and EFT couples therapy.
I work with individuals and couples facing significant life choices and transitions in areas such as relationships, marriage, divorce, parenthood, career, and identity. I also have a sub-specialization in work with survivors of trauma. I am experienced in working with clients from a wide range of cultural and geographic backgrounds. In our sessions I provide clients a place to find support, acceptance, perspective and hope, to explore themselves and their lives in depth, and to develop more effective ways of relating to themselves and others.
(510) 279-3808 View (510) 279-3808
Photo of Jennifer Glick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Glick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94701
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am passionate about guiding individuals and couples through the complexities of life’s challenges. My approach is grounded in a person-centered philosophy, meaning I prioritize creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and understood. I believe therapy should be as unique as the individual, which is why I customize my approach to fit your specific needs and goals. I have advanced training in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), along with a strong foundation in psychodynamic, existential, and person-centered therapies.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am passionate about guiding individuals and couples through the complexities of life’s challenges. My approach is grounded in a person-centered philosophy, meaning I prioritize creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and understood. I believe therapy should be as unique as the individual, which is why I customize my approach to fit your specific needs and goals. I have advanced training in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), along with a strong foundation in psychodynamic, existential, and person-centered therapies.
(925) 369-3046 View (925) 369-3046
Photo of Sarah Alexander, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707
My work is essentially depth-oriented, psychodynamic, rooted in attachment.
I hold a deeply calm, present, and nurturing space for your brightest dreams and your darkest wounds. Whatever your concerns, you will feel sincerely heard, held, and guided in a safe and constructive way. You will be supported in discovering and reclaiming hidden or submerged parts of your fullest self, as well as the positive and promising reasons behind the challenges that you face. Together, we will creatively explore new and vital directions for you, internally and dynamically, into the world. My commitment is for your purpose to become more grounded, more meaningful, more genuinely alive.
My work is essentially depth-oriented, psychodynamic, rooted in attachment.
I hold a deeply calm, present, and nurturing space for your brightest dreams and your darkest wounds. Whatever your concerns, you will feel sincerely heard, held, and guided in a safe and constructive way. You will be supported in discovering and reclaiming hidden or submerged parts of your fullest self, as well as the positive and promising reasons behind the challenges that you face. Together, we will creatively explore new and vital directions for you, internally and dynamically, into the world. My commitment is for your purpose to become more grounded, more meaningful, more genuinely alive.
(415) 801-0119 View (415) 801-0119
Photo of Emily Avilés, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Avilés
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
My practice is grounded in psychodynamic theories and perspectives.
I believe that we are shaped, known, and grow in relationships. Therapy can help you better understand your thoughts, feelings, and experiences—and find freedom and meaningful connection with yourself and others. With curiosity and openness, I work to create a supportive and collaborative environment. Together, we can explore who you are and the experiences that shape you. We can address your present concerns, and explore how your early experiences impact you.
My practice is grounded in psychodynamic theories and perspectives.
I believe that we are shaped, known, and grow in relationships. Therapy can help you better understand your thoughts, feelings, and experiences—and find freedom and meaningful connection with yourself and others. With curiosity and openness, I work to create a supportive and collaborative environment. Together, we can explore who you are and the experiences that shape you. We can address your present concerns, and explore how your early experiences impact you.
(628) 215-6138 View (628) 215-6138
Photo of Dr. Cecilia Winfield, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Cecilia Winfield
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
We often come to therapy because something in our life has emerged in a way we find challenging to navigate on our own. I approach our work together with this in mind, and as an honored participant in your journey toward growth and deepened insight. My therapeutic style is rooted in relational psychodynamic, IFS, and ACT interventions and centered in values of patience, humility, empathy, and humor. I strive to see you through the lens of your unique life experiences and to work collaboratively so we can effectively address your concerns. My hope is that, together, we can help you live a life that feels authentic and empowered.
We often come to therapy because something in our life has emerged in a way we find challenging to navigate on our own. I approach our work together with this in mind, and as an honored participant in your journey toward growth and deepened insight. My therapeutic style is rooted in relational psychodynamic, IFS, and ACT interventions and centered in values of patience, humility, empathy, and humor. I strive to see you through the lens of your unique life experiences and to work collaboratively so we can effectively address your concerns. My hope is that, together, we can help you live a life that feels authentic and empowered.
(415) 980-6482 View (415) 980-6482
Photo of Chyneitha Cook - Dr. Chyneitha Cook | California Teletherapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Chyneitha Cook | California Teletherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702  (Online Only)
As an integrative therapist, I am primarily cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and psychodynamic in orientation.
Are you worried, frustrated, or just plain disappointed with certain situations in your life? Perhaps your issues are current, or maybe they have been resurfacing, with no resolution. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive.
As an integrative therapist, I am primarily cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and psychodynamic in orientation.
Are you worried, frustrated, or just plain disappointed with certain situations in your life? Perhaps your issues are current, or maybe they have been resurfacing, with no resolution. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive.
(951) 221-4655 View (951) 221-4655
Photo of Melissa Satram, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Satram
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
By using CBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic approach, I can help you navigate life's ups and downs and shift patterns, thoughts, and behaviors.
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
By using CBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic approach, I can help you navigate life's ups and downs and shift patterns, thoughts, and behaviors.
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
(415) 223-2143 View (415) 223-2143
Photo of Mirella Mendoza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mirella Mendoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
My approach integrates psychodynamic, logotherapy, solution focused, strength based, mindfulness, person centered and motivational interviewing.
I am passionate about working with adults who are experiencing and dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic attacks, work stress, addiction, life transitions/changes, grief, divorce and relationship issues. I have experience working with those who have gone through childhood trauma, physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, substance use/addiction, domestic violence, parenting issues, loss of children, separation from parents, family court/cps issues, and foster care placements.
My approach integrates psychodynamic, logotherapy, solution focused, strength based, mindfulness, person centered and motivational interviewing.
I am passionate about working with adults who are experiencing and dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic attacks, work stress, addiction, life transitions/changes, grief, divorce and relationship issues. I have experience working with those who have gone through childhood trauma, physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, substance use/addiction, domestic violence, parenting issues, loss of children, separation from parents, family court/cps issues, and foster care placements.
(628) 209-5762 View (628) 209-5762

See more therapy options for Kensington

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.