Photo of Grace Malonai - TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment , PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
(925) 350-8130 View (925) 350-8130
Photo of Teri 'sachi' Swanberg, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Teri 'sachi' Swanberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
My belief is everything is interconnected. When we hurt in one area of our lives, often times the other areas hurt with it. As simple as it may sound, sometimes feeling our feelings can be hard work. Truly understanding and being honest with authentic selves can be challenging and sometimes scary. No one should have to do this alone. Together, we can deeply listen and nurture your authentic self to help you heal and grow. We are not just talking together, we are experiencing. To learn more, visit my website at: nakaimatherapy.com
My belief is everything is interconnected. When we hurt in one area of our lives, often times the other areas hurt with it. As simple as it may sound, sometimes feeling our feelings can be hard work. Truly understanding and being honest with authentic selves can be challenging and sometimes scary. No one should have to do this alone. Together, we can deeply listen and nurture your authentic self to help you heal and grow. We are not just talking together, we are experiencing. To learn more, visit my website at: nakaimatherapy.com
(415) 496-0915 View (415) 496-0915
Photo of Colette M. Bischer-Choate, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Colette M. Bischer-Choate
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
It takes courage and awareness to seek therapy. If you are experiencing depression or anxiety, difficult relationships (past or present) or going through a life transition I may be able to help. Together we will work to determine whether this will be short-term solution focused treatment or more long-term, deeper work. We will build a safe place for you to experience yourself and help you to identify your strengths as well as areas of challenge. A place that is yours to receive the care you need.
It takes courage and awareness to seek therapy. If you are experiencing depression or anxiety, difficult relationships (past or present) or going through a life transition I may be able to help. Together we will work to determine whether this will be short-term solution focused treatment or more long-term, deeper work. We will build a safe place for you to experience yourself and help you to identify your strengths as well as areas of challenge. A place that is yours to receive the care you need.
(925) 204-3981 View (925) 204-3981
Photo of Karen Chow, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Chow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
Are you feeling overwhelmed with trying to keep your family together, your relationships, job demands and daily responsibilities? Are your children struggling with peer relationships and/or school functioning? Reaching out to get support takes courage. This is an unimaginable time. If you find yourself struggling with anxiety and depression or feeling isolated, you deserve to take care of your mental health and emotional well being. Your adolescent or teen can benefit from getting support with a trusted ally who will listen and help improve functioning.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with trying to keep your family together, your relationships, job demands and daily responsibilities? Are your children struggling with peer relationships and/or school functioning? Reaching out to get support takes courage. This is an unimaginable time. If you find yourself struggling with anxiety and depression or feeling isolated, you deserve to take care of your mental health and emotional well being. Your adolescent or teen can benefit from getting support with a trusted ally who will listen and help improve functioning.
(925) 306-1483 View (925) 306-1483
Photo of Arwin Cotas-Girard - Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD, PsyD, Psychologist
Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
(925) 212-4757 View (925) 212-4757

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa M Miranda, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa M Miranda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553  (Online Only)
I incorporate NARM (Neuroaffective Relational Model for CPTSD), EMDR, psychodynamic approaches and parts work.
Do you have trauma, anxiety or depression and feel ready to work on yourself? Perhaps you are new to therapy but feel motivated or inspired to heal and work through emotions, conflicts or blockages to living a more fulfilling life. Have you had other therapies but feel “it’s time” to go deeper and explore root causes of patterns and issues? Do you feel you are in an “awakening“ and hope to work with a Transpersonal Therapist to support the integration of your higher or Whole/Core Self?
I incorporate NARM (Neuroaffective Relational Model for CPTSD), EMDR, psychodynamic approaches and parts work.
Do you have trauma, anxiety or depression and feel ready to work on yourself? Perhaps you are new to therapy but feel motivated or inspired to heal and work through emotions, conflicts or blockages to living a more fulfilling life. Have you had other therapies but feel “it’s time” to go deeper and explore root causes of patterns and issues? Do you feel you are in an “awakening“ and hope to work with a Transpersonal Therapist to support the integration of your higher or Whole/Core Self?
(510) 800-9538 View (510) 800-9538
Photo of Grace Parker-Guerrero, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Grace Parker-Guerrero
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Fundamentally, I am a relationally-driven therapist carrying the psychodynamic tradition.
As a practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals cultivate greater awareness of their emotional, physical, and spiritual experiences. My work helps people understand the ways in which the unconscious shapes their present day reality. Sometimes, this involves a compassionate inquiry into a a person’s family of origin, relational dynamics, trauma, and habituated beliefs. I am committed to helping my clients live purposefully, joyfully, and with greater awareness and self-acceptance.
Fundamentally, I am a relationally-driven therapist carrying the psychodynamic tradition.
As a practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals cultivate greater awareness of their emotional, physical, and spiritual experiences. My work helps people understand the ways in which the unconscious shapes their present day reality. Sometimes, this involves a compassionate inquiry into a a person’s family of origin, relational dynamics, trauma, and habituated beliefs. I am committed to helping my clients live purposefully, joyfully, and with greater awareness and self-acceptance.
View
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 Tenei Nakahara (杨天婴), MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tenei Nakahara (杨天婴)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720
My therapeutic approach is an eclectic integration of relational, psychodynamic, humanistic, and somatic methods, drawing from an array of theories and modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Polyvagal theory, Focusing-Oriented Psychotherapy and Depth psychology.
No matter what is happening in your life and what you are going through, you can expect me to hold a dedicated relational container to meet you with compassion, empathy, warmth, and curiosity. I believe these qualities of mine are what make a therapeutic relationship successful to accompany your healing and transformative journey. I don’t take your trust lightly, and I believe trust and safety are earned in an on-going process.
My therapeutic approach is an eclectic integration of relational, psychodynamic, humanistic, and somatic methods, drawing from an array of theories and modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Polyvagal theory, Focusing-Oriented Psychotherapy and Depth psychology.
No matter what is happening in your life and what you are going through, you can expect me to hold a dedicated relational container to meet you with compassion, empathy, warmth, and curiosity. I believe these qualities of mine are what make a therapeutic relationship successful to accompany your healing and transformative journey. I don’t take your trust lightly, and I believe trust and safety are earned in an on-going process.
(415) 853-3014 View (415) 853-3014
Photo of Stacy Taniguchi, PsyD, Psychologist
Stacy Taniguchi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94709  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with experience treating a broad range of psychological concerns. I help people create meaningful change in their lives. My approach to therapy is integrative, drawing upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, humanistic and psychodynamic theories. Above all, I aim to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel supported, understood and empowered. I work collaboratively with clients to develop a customized treatment plan that honors and builds upon personal strengths while also promoting self-compassion, healing and growth.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with experience treating a broad range of psychological concerns. I help people create meaningful change in their lives. My approach to therapy is integrative, drawing upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, humanistic and psychodynamic theories. Above all, I aim to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel supported, understood and empowered. I work collaboratively with clients to develop a customized treatment plan that honors and builds upon personal strengths while also promoting self-compassion, healing and growth.
(415) 843-8271 View (415) 843-8271
Photo of Valeriya Pestrikova - Anxiety - Couples - Sex Therapy, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Valeriya Pestrikova - Anxiety - Couples - Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94708  (Online Only)
My approach is integrative, rooted in Psychodynamic theory, tailored for those exploring alternative lifestyles.
I offer therapy for individuals and couples, specializing in alternative lifestyles, including non-monogamy, polyamory, BDSM/kink, and sex work. Utilizing Gottman's couples methods, I address relationship and intimacy issues, helping you navigate the complexities of your unique lifestyle and its societal pressures with understanding and depth. My work is committed to promoting emotional resilience and connection within a safe, non-judgemental, supportive environment. Let’s collaborate to foster your growth and well-being. Together, we'll explore new paths to enhance your relationships and personal growth.
My approach is integrative, rooted in Psychodynamic theory, tailored for those exploring alternative lifestyles.
I offer therapy for individuals and couples, specializing in alternative lifestyles, including non-monogamy, polyamory, BDSM/kink, and sex work. Utilizing Gottman's couples methods, I address relationship and intimacy issues, helping you navigate the complexities of your unique lifestyle and its societal pressures with understanding and depth. My work is committed to promoting emotional resilience and connection within a safe, non-judgemental, supportive environment. Let’s collaborate to foster your growth and well-being. Together, we'll explore new paths to enhance your relationships and personal growth.
(424) 392-6764 View (424) 392-6764
Photo of Shannel Benisano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannel Benisano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
As a client-centered, psychodynamic, trauma therapist I work with you in developing self- awareness to understand your needs and how to respond to them in a healthy and effective way.
Have you ever been overwhelmed by the thoughts and feelings of the past? Are you having a hard time completing daily tasks without feeling irritated or sad? Is it difficult to motivate yourself to do things you enjoy? Is it easier to be alone than be with the people you love? Do you freeze when feeling overwhelmed? Whether you have been experiencing these feelings more recently or for a long period of time, it can be so hard to know what to do or where to go. That is where I can help you.
As a client-centered, psychodynamic, trauma therapist I work with you in developing self- awareness to understand your needs and how to respond to them in a healthy and effective way.
Have you ever been overwhelmed by the thoughts and feelings of the past? Are you having a hard time completing daily tasks without feeling irritated or sad? Is it difficult to motivate yourself to do things you enjoy? Is it easier to be alone than be with the people you love? Do you freeze when feeling overwhelmed? Whether you have been experiencing these feelings more recently or for a long period of time, it can be so hard to know what to do or where to go. That is where I can help you.
(925) 481-5287 View (925) 481-5287
Photo of Juliet Small Ernst, LPCC, Counselor
Juliet Small Ernst
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94701
I primarily work from a psychodynamic perspective and also pull from cognitive, body-based, and mindfulness approaches as needed.
I provide compassionate, engaged therapy for adults, children, adolescents, and dyads. I'm committed to helping adults explore the roots of their persistent dissatisfaction, enhance self-awareness, and find more freedom in their work and relationships. With children & teens, I specialize in helping them navigate anxiety, low self-esteem, the impacts of traumatic experiences, and big or overwhelming emotions. I create a nurturing space where young clients can build their confidence through play, creativity, and relationship. I offer focused services for young children (0-5) & families at The Center for Early Childhood Connections.
I primarily work from a psychodynamic perspective and also pull from cognitive, body-based, and mindfulness approaches as needed.
I provide compassionate, engaged therapy for adults, children, adolescents, and dyads. I'm committed to helping adults explore the roots of their persistent dissatisfaction, enhance self-awareness, and find more freedom in their work and relationships. With children & teens, I specialize in helping them navigate anxiety, low self-esteem, the impacts of traumatic experiences, and big or overwhelming emotions. I create a nurturing space where young clients can build their confidence through play, creativity, and relationship. I offer focused services for young children (0-5) & families at The Center for Early Childhood Connections.
(510) 781-9568 View (510) 781-9568
Photo of Sandy Huynh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandy Huynh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Change is the one constant in life - but how do we adapt or make sense of it? My approach is relational and warm, with a focus on holding an expansive container for you to explore the depth of your feelings and what they mean to you. I integrate mindfulness based breathing practices, somatic practices, Eastern/Western philosophy, a psychodynamic (how the past impacts the present) lens, and the belief that we're all imperfect humans trying to figure out this messy endeavor of being alive. I welcome all the parts that make up who you are and the wisdom they have to share. I want to support you in living an aligned life.
Change is the one constant in life - but how do we adapt or make sense of it? My approach is relational and warm, with a focus on holding an expansive container for you to explore the depth of your feelings and what they mean to you. I integrate mindfulness based breathing practices, somatic practices, Eastern/Western philosophy, a psychodynamic (how the past impacts the present) lens, and the belief that we're all imperfect humans trying to figure out this messy endeavor of being alive. I welcome all the parts that make up who you are and the wisdom they have to share. I want to support you in living an aligned life.
(510) 328-4109 View (510) 328-4109
Photo of Fei Yi, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Fei Yi
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Additionally, she is experienced in psychodynamic therapy for those requiring in-depth, long-term care.
Dr. Fei Yi is now accepting new clients with Lyra. If you're seeking a Chinese/English speaking therapist specializing in complex PTSD and family relationships, you’re in the right place. With over 10 years of clinical experience, Dr. Yi, a licensed psychologist in California, helps with anxiety, depression, trauma, work stress, social skills, marriage/family conflict, and LGBTQ+ concerns. She offers evidence-based psychotherapy to adults, couples, and families, combining Western and Eastern wisdom for holistic, providing compassionate listening and immediate, actionable feedback. Email Dr. Yi now for a free 15-minute consultation.
Additionally, she is experienced in psychodynamic therapy for those requiring in-depth, long-term care.
Dr. Fei Yi is now accepting new clients with Lyra. If you're seeking a Chinese/English speaking therapist specializing in complex PTSD and family relationships, you’re in the right place. With over 10 years of clinical experience, Dr. Yi, a licensed psychologist in California, helps with anxiety, depression, trauma, work stress, social skills, marriage/family conflict, and LGBTQ+ concerns. She offers evidence-based psychotherapy to adults, couples, and families, combining Western and Eastern wisdom for holistic, providing compassionate listening and immediate, actionable feedback. Email Dr. Yi now for a free 15-minute consultation.
(415) 549-9151 View (415) 549-9151
Photo of Amina Elfiki, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amina Elfiki
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
I am oriented around psychodynamic and attachment theory: I am attuned to unconscious beliefs, fears and desires, and how our earliest relationships to caregivers influence how we relate to people, life pursuits or the world itself.
I am passionate about working with: People of Color; Trans, non-binary, and genderqueer individuals, and their partners and families; Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Queer folks; Polyamorous and non-monogamous individuals, couples, families and other relationship configurations; Activists and organizers involved in social justice movements and struggles for liberation; and especially, people at the intersections of these categories. Therapy with me may be able to help with: depression and anxiety; grief and loss; PTSD and complex trauma; difficulty forming and maintaining nourishing relationships; and distress related to oppression.
I am oriented around psychodynamic and attachment theory: I am attuned to unconscious beliefs, fears and desires, and how our earliest relationships to caregivers influence how we relate to people, life pursuits or the world itself.
I am passionate about working with: People of Color; Trans, non-binary, and genderqueer individuals, and their partners and families; Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Queer folks; Polyamorous and non-monogamous individuals, couples, families and other relationship configurations; Activists and organizers involved in social justice movements and struggles for liberation; and especially, people at the intersections of these categories. Therapy with me may be able to help with: depression and anxiety; grief and loss; PTSD and complex trauma; difficulty forming and maintaining nourishing relationships; and distress related to oppression.
(510) 544-6870 View (510) 544-6870
Photo of Nathan Michael, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nathan Michael
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Life can be difficult. Sometimes we feel stuck. It may be that recent events, difficult feelings or relationship challenges are making it clear that some things are not working. It could be that stress, worry or confusion have felt overwhelming and lead to unhelpful patterns with yourself and the others you care most about. Within the frameworks of relational psychodynamic and somatic psychotherapy I offer a warm, supportive presence so you can explore whats difficult, hone your strengths and become more fully yourself.
Life can be difficult. Sometimes we feel stuck. It may be that recent events, difficult feelings or relationship challenges are making it clear that some things are not working. It could be that stress, worry or confusion have felt overwhelming and lead to unhelpful patterns with yourself and the others you care most about. Within the frameworks of relational psychodynamic and somatic psychotherapy I offer a warm, supportive presence so you can explore whats difficult, hone your strengths and become more fully yourself.
(415) 792-1901 View (415) 792-1901
Photo of Nicholas D Rosenberg, PhD, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas D Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
My approach to treatment is ecumenical: from CBT and DBT to psychodynamic.
I enjoy working with clients from every walk of life who are confronting some of life's biggest challenges: relationship conflicts, the stresses associated with immigration, career changes, alcohol and substance abuse, chronic pain, disability, the loss of a loved one.
My approach to treatment is ecumenical: from CBT and DBT to psychodynamic.
I enjoy working with clients from every walk of life who are confronting some of life's biggest challenges: relationship conflicts, the stresses associated with immigration, career changes, alcohol and substance abuse, chronic pain, disability, the loss of a loved one.
(917) 563-4249 View (917) 563-4249
Photo of Christine Chang, PhD, Psychologist
Christine Chang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705  (Online Only)
Therapy is an opportunity to address problems we want to change, gain insights into our concerns, and develop new ways of being. My approach to therapy is best described as integrative with a strong grounding in psychodynamic, relational, and multicultural principles. I draw on cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and accelerated experiential dynamic psychotherapy to co-construct effective strategies for everyday life beyond the therapy room. I strive to provide clients a safe space to increase awareness, make meaning of the experience, and begin to cope and overcome life's difficulties. I provide individual and couple's therapy. I speak Mandarin and English.
Therapy is an opportunity to address problems we want to change, gain insights into our concerns, and develop new ways of being. My approach to therapy is best described as integrative with a strong grounding in psychodynamic, relational, and multicultural principles. I draw on cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and accelerated experiential dynamic psychotherapy to co-construct effective strategies for everyday life beyond the therapy room. I strive to provide clients a safe space to increase awareness, make meaning of the experience, and begin to cope and overcome life's difficulties. I provide individual and couple's therapy. I speak Mandarin and English.
(510) 757-1320 View (510) 757-1320
Photo of Niku (Nick) Ashok Shah, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Niku (Nick) Ashok Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
As a queer, South Asian American therapist, I specialize in providing body-centered psychodynamic therapy to Queer, Trans, Non-Binary, people of color and immigrants of the diasporas. With a relational and somatic approach in treatment, I can help you manage depression, anxiety, overwhelm, worry, stress and dis-ease. My hope is to help you heal trauma, manage dissociation, build insight around how your mind works and compassionately transform unhelpful internalized messages. I specialize in working with adults and teens.
As a queer, South Asian American therapist, I specialize in providing body-centered psychodynamic therapy to Queer, Trans, Non-Binary, people of color and immigrants of the diasporas. With a relational and somatic approach in treatment, I can help you manage depression, anxiety, overwhelm, worry, stress and dis-ease. My hope is to help you heal trauma, manage dissociation, build insight around how your mind works and compassionately transform unhelpful internalized messages. I specialize in working with adults and teens.
(510) 473-2440 View (510) 473-2440
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.