Psychodynamic Therapists in Laguna Niguel, CA

Photo of Kelsey Nunziata, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelsey Nunziata
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
A few of the methods I use are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, family systems therapy, and mindfulness based practices.
Hello. Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile and for the courage to step into the therapeutic experience. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and that it is an honor to step into my clients' lives and innermost experiences. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, and adults with trauma, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and low self-esteem. I also specialize in working with couples and families trying to improve their overall relationship and communication. In addition, I am an EMDR practitioner trained by EMDRIA to provide Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to treat PTSD/trauma.
A few of the methods I use are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, family systems therapy, and mindfulness based practices.
Hello. Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile and for the courage to step into the therapeutic experience. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and that it is an honor to step into my clients' lives and innermost experiences. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, and adults with trauma, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and low self-esteem. I also specialize in working with couples and families trying to improve their overall relationship and communication. In addition, I am an EMDR practitioner trained by EMDRIA to provide Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to treat PTSD/trauma.
(949) 353-5633 View (949) 353-5633
Photo of Megan Buhrlen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Buhrlen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
I use a psychodynamic approach that targets unhelpful beliefs about yourself and negative coping behaviors based in childhood.
Currently accepting new clients! Sometimes life in general can feel overwhelming. This feeling can intensify if you also struggle with unprocessed trauma and/or feelings of low self-worth. My clients have either had a chaotic childhood or a single traumatic experience that has led to self-consciousness, self-sabotage or simply difficulty handling stress. They have so much compassion for others, yet struggle to turn it inward. Their coping strategies "make sense" but they struggle to believe in their own worth. The individuals I work with are hoping to find peace, stability and increased self-esteem.
I use a psychodynamic approach that targets unhelpful beliefs about yourself and negative coping behaviors based in childhood.
Currently accepting new clients! Sometimes life in general can feel overwhelming. This feeling can intensify if you also struggle with unprocessed trauma and/or feelings of low self-worth. My clients have either had a chaotic childhood or a single traumatic experience that has led to self-consciousness, self-sabotage or simply difficulty handling stress. They have so much compassion for others, yet struggle to turn it inward. Their coping strategies "make sense" but they struggle to believe in their own worth. The individuals I work with are hoping to find peace, stability and increased self-esteem.
(949) 353-6283 View (949) 353-6283
Photo of Philip Silverman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Philip Silverman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
My name is Phil Silverman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA. I work primarily from a psychodynamic framework, with a focus not only on symptom relief but on making substantive changes and assisting individuals in breaking free from unhealthy and unhelpful patterns impacting their well-being, career, and relationships. Traumas can result in unconscious "triggers" that wreak havoc on a person’s goals for health, intimacy, success, sense of connection, or even the ability to process grief, and can manifest in the form of unmanageable anxiety, depression, substance use, existential dilemmas, self-sabotage, feeling stuck, etc.
My name is Phil Silverman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA. I work primarily from a psychodynamic framework, with a focus not only on symptom relief but on making substantive changes and assisting individuals in breaking free from unhealthy and unhelpful patterns impacting their well-being, career, and relationships. Traumas can result in unconscious "triggers" that wreak havoc on a person’s goals for health, intimacy, success, sense of connection, or even the ability to process grief, and can manifest in the form of unmanageable anxiety, depression, substance use, existential dilemmas, self-sabotage, feeling stuck, etc.
(949) 356-7611 View (949) 356-7611
Photo of Eve Elizabeth Lievonen - Dr. Eve Lievonen, PHD, LCSW, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Eve Lievonen, PHD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I use cognitive/behavioral therapy, psychodynamic approaches and family/couples therapy but I'm also comfortable using other approaches to augment these.
My approach to therapy is straight forward and personable. I see symptoms or life problems as the mind's "wake-up call" signaling the need for change and growth. I enjoy working with people to help maximize their strengths and meet their goals. My thirty years of varied practice experience enable me to understand most problems and work expeditiously to help you solve them. I work together with you to help you understand your symptoms better and to make appropriate changes for symptom relief and personal growth.
I use cognitive/behavioral therapy, psychodynamic approaches and family/couples therapy but I'm also comfortable using other approaches to augment these.
My approach to therapy is straight forward and personable. I see symptoms or life problems as the mind's "wake-up call" signaling the need for change and growth. I enjoy working with people to help maximize their strengths and meet their goals. My thirty years of varied practice experience enable me to understand most problems and work expeditiously to help you solve them. I work together with you to help you understand your symptoms better and to make appropriate changes for symptom relief and personal growth.
(949) 436-0861 View (949) 436-0861
Photo of Steve Rockman, PhD, Psychologist
Steve Rockman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
The treatment methods that I use include behavior therapy, psychodynamic therapy,structural family therapy, EMDR, Bioenergetic therapy, group therapy.
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
The treatment methods that I use include behavior therapy, psychodynamic therapy,structural family therapy, EMDR, Bioenergetic therapy, group therapy.
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
(949) 230-9602 View (949) 230-9602
Photo of Linda Abramson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Abramson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
With over 25 years of experience in the field, I have honed my skills in various therapeutic modalities, including attachment therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Being a psychotherapist is more than just a profession for me; it is a calling to make a positive impact on people's lives. Throughout my journey, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of therapy and the immense value it brings to individuals seeking support and guidance. My passion for psychotherapy stems from a deep-rooted empathy and genuine desire to help others navigate their emotional challenges. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where patients can explore their thoughts and emotions freely, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration.
With over 25 years of experience in the field, I have honed my skills in various therapeutic modalities, including attachment therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Being a psychotherapist is more than just a profession for me; it is a calling to make a positive impact on people's lives. Throughout my journey, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of therapy and the immense value it brings to individuals seeking support and guidance. My passion for psychotherapy stems from a deep-rooted empathy and genuine desire to help others navigate their emotional challenges. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where patients can explore their thoughts and emotions freely, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration.
(949) 828-3440 View (949) 828-3440
Photo of Cheryl Pitts, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Pitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
My focus of therapy is strengths based, problem-solution focused and psychodynamic.
Are you tired of "being sick and tired"? Do you need to break unhealthy habits? It is time to take control. Deal with the issues that cause you to feel depressed, anxious, angry and stuck in unhealthy relationships. Stop blaming others, beating yourself up and sabotaging yourself. Stop feeling guilty and recalling mistakes you have made. Love yourself and be the best person you can be. Improve your self-confidence, your self -esteem and your relationships. It is time for you to decide " What do you want to do with your life"? You can be transformed and re-newed.
My focus of therapy is strengths based, problem-solution focused and psychodynamic.
Are you tired of "being sick and tired"? Do you need to break unhealthy habits? It is time to take control. Deal with the issues that cause you to feel depressed, anxious, angry and stuck in unhealthy relationships. Stop blaming others, beating yourself up and sabotaging yourself. Stop feeling guilty and recalling mistakes you have made. Love yourself and be the best person you can be. Improve your self-confidence, your self -esteem and your relationships. It is time for you to decide " What do you want to do with your life"? You can be transformed and re-newed.
(949) 461-1233 View (949) 461-1233
Photo of Sloane Rickman, PhD, Psychologist
Sloane Rickman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
I have experiences with a range of treatments including CBT, psychodynamic, DBT, compassion-focused, and mindfulness-based interventions, as well as individuals of diverse identities and backgrounds.
My goal is to help you overcome whatever difficulties may have led you to be reading these words and searching for support. I strive to provide care that is specifically tailored to each person, as each person’s needs, experiences, and desires are different. Though it is important to me to ground all that work within trauma-informed and compassionate perspectives. I truly love this work and the opportunity to walk alongside folks on their journeys though life. Being a human in this world is hard, but finding a competent, supportive, therapist to help you through it doesn’t need to be.
I have experiences with a range of treatments including CBT, psychodynamic, DBT, compassion-focused, and mindfulness-based interventions, as well as individuals of diverse identities and backgrounds.
My goal is to help you overcome whatever difficulties may have led you to be reading these words and searching for support. I strive to provide care that is specifically tailored to each person, as each person’s needs, experiences, and desires are different. Though it is important to me to ground all that work within trauma-informed and compassionate perspectives. I truly love this work and the opportunity to walk alongside folks on their journeys though life. Being a human in this world is hard, but finding a competent, supportive, therapist to help you through it doesn’t need to be.
(949) 919-6909 View (949) 919-6909
Photo of Marc Bruderer, MS, MBA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marc Bruderer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MBA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I am trained and I practice evidence-based therapy methods like CBT, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, and Solution-Focused.
I believe that emotional insights are the cornerstone of therapeutic growth. Drawing from life experience, I offer empathy and understanding to individuals navigating issues like anxiety, depression, family dysfunction, relationship conflicts, past trauma, grief, loneliness, life crises, shame, self-esteem issues, aging, body image concerns, parenting problems, and divorce. My clients seek to uncover emotional insights, foster healthier relationships, and achieve personal growth. They desire a therapist who can empathize and understand their experiences. I help navigate my clients' journey toward health, happiness, and healing.
I am trained and I practice evidence-based therapy methods like CBT, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, and Solution-Focused.
I believe that emotional insights are the cornerstone of therapeutic growth. Drawing from life experience, I offer empathy and understanding to individuals navigating issues like anxiety, depression, family dysfunction, relationship conflicts, past trauma, grief, loneliness, life crises, shame, self-esteem issues, aging, body image concerns, parenting problems, and divorce. My clients seek to uncover emotional insights, foster healthier relationships, and achieve personal growth. They desire a therapist who can empathize and understand their experiences. I help navigate my clients' journey toward health, happiness, and healing.
(949) 298-2963 View (949) 298-2963
Photo of Laura E Adams, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura E Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I work with individuals, couples, and families who want to address long-term problems and patterns. It is through this kind of personal exploration that a deeper understanding can be attained and the sense-of-self can be strengthened. A psychodynamic approach can go below the surface to address problems, improve personal relationships, and stop self-destructive behavior. So often, past experiences can interfere with our present lives and we find ourselves suffering through repeated ongoing pain.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who want to address long-term problems and patterns. It is through this kind of personal exploration that a deeper understanding can be attained and the sense-of-self can be strengthened. A psychodynamic approach can go below the surface to address problems, improve personal relationships, and stop self-destructive behavior. So often, past experiences can interfere with our present lives and we find ourselves suffering through repeated ongoing pain.
(949) 391-1499 View (949) 391-1499
Photo of Dr. Molly Kierein, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Molly Kierein
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
I use evidence-based strategies and specialize in both psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy.
After 14 years of higher education in psychology, I use a variety of evidence-based methods to address a broad spectrum of challenges for adults and teens from diverse backgrounds. Some people require a more structured approach with homework and skill-based work to enact change. Others require a more fluid and exploratory approach to develop insights used to improve outcomes. We usually need a combination of both. Regardless of the course of treatment, I am active and engaged in your process and always adapt my approach to you. I am outcome focused and work diligently along side you to grow and meet your goals in a timely way.
I use evidence-based strategies and specialize in both psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy.
After 14 years of higher education in psychology, I use a variety of evidence-based methods to address a broad spectrum of challenges for adults and teens from diverse backgrounds. Some people require a more structured approach with homework and skill-based work to enact change. Others require a more fluid and exploratory approach to develop insights used to improve outcomes. We usually need a combination of both. Regardless of the course of treatment, I am active and engaged in your process and always adapt my approach to you. I am outcome focused and work diligently along side you to grow and meet your goals in a timely way.
(415) 855-3451 View (415) 855-3451
Photo of Melissa Medina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
It takes 2 to know 1. As a therapist, I utilize multiple approaches (for example, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, family systems, strengths based, EMDR) to deliver effective interventions tailored for each indvidual. I will meet you where you are at, and I am committed to getting you where you want to go. Therapy is both a journey and a destination.
It takes 2 to know 1. As a therapist, I utilize multiple approaches (for example, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, family systems, strengths based, EMDR) to deliver effective interventions tailored for each indvidual. I will meet you where you are at, and I am committed to getting you where you want to go. Therapy is both a journey and a destination.
(209) 899-1540 View (209) 899-1540
Photo of Armine Manukian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Armine Manukian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Hi there, I'm Armine! I have provided mental health services for 15 years helping clients with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic illness, postpartum, and life/career transitions in diverse populations of adults. Given my experience, I have developed a therapeutic approach that is based on the needs of clients. I combine evidence-based interventions with cognitive, and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a supportive environment where clients openly and safely express their experiences, emotions, and thoughts with acceptance and non-judgment.
Hi there, I'm Armine! I have provided mental health services for 15 years helping clients with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic illness, postpartum, and life/career transitions in diverse populations of adults. Given my experience, I have developed a therapeutic approach that is based on the needs of clients. I combine evidence-based interventions with cognitive, and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a supportive environment where clients openly and safely express their experiences, emotions, and thoughts with acceptance and non-judgment.
(916) 794-3439 View (916) 794-3439
Photo of Alicia Marie Hutton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alicia Marie Hutton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Alicia Marie Hutton, licensed marriage & family therapist 114668, has experience treating individuals diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, & substance use disorders. She also treats ADHD & autism spectrum disorder through a neurodiversity affirming lens. Alicia works with adults utilizing person centered, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, & dialectical behavior therapies & is certified in The Program for the Education & Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS) & Learn-Empathize-Agree-Partner (LEAP).
Alicia Marie Hutton, licensed marriage & family therapist 114668, has experience treating individuals diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, & substance use disorders. She also treats ADHD & autism spectrum disorder through a neurodiversity affirming lens. Alicia works with adults utilizing person centered, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, & dialectical behavior therapies & is certified in The Program for the Education & Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS) & Learn-Empathize-Agree-Partner (LEAP).
(949) 998-6278 View (949) 998-6278
Photo of Sabrina Fish, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sabrina Fish
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with feeling at loss with your sense of self, which affects your relationships and your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed by your mind constantly thinking about the what-ifs of life? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Now more than ever women are feeling anxious, uncertain, and overwhelmed about how to "manage it all" and take care of themselves. Constantly putting everyone else before you can lead to feeling burnt-out and disconnected from your mind and body. It shouldn't be this hard to live a happy life.
Do you struggle with feeling at loss with your sense of self, which affects your relationships and your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed by your mind constantly thinking about the what-ifs of life? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Now more than ever women are feeling anxious, uncertain, and overwhelmed about how to "manage it all" and take care of themselves. Constantly putting everyone else before you can lead to feeling burnt-out and disconnected from your mind and body. It shouldn't be this hard to live a happy life.
(424) 397-1941 View (424) 397-1941
Photo of Gabrielle Nabi, MSW, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabrielle Nabi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I provide psychotherapy for adults and adolescents in a warm, respectful environment. My primary goal is to guide you to a stronger sense of self and a place where you can feel at peace with yourself and those around you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, stress management, loss/grief, relationship issues (divorce/separation), effective parenting, and substance abuse recovery.
I provide psychotherapy for adults and adolescents in a warm, respectful environment. My primary goal is to guide you to a stronger sense of self and a place where you can feel at peace with yourself and those around you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, stress management, loss/grief, relationship issues (divorce/separation), effective parenting, and substance abuse recovery.
(949) 506-4636 View (949) 506-4636
Photo of Flavia Crovetto Hartley, MS, LPCC, PMH-C
Flavia Crovetto Hartley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Thank you for visiting my page. First of all, I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here, seeking help. I am glad you’re here. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures. I am passionate about helping my clients heal and become their most authentic selves by providing them with sensitive, trauma-informed care. I approach each client with empathy, self-awareness and cultural humility, as I believe they are the experts of their own lives and my role is to guide them in discovering their ability to heal past wounds and reach deep fulfillment.
Thank you for visiting my page. First of all, I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here, seeking help. I am glad you’re here. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures. I am passionate about helping my clients heal and become their most authentic selves by providing them with sensitive, trauma-informed care. I approach each client with empathy, self-awareness and cultural humility, as I believe they are the experts of their own lives and my role is to guide them in discovering their ability to heal past wounds and reach deep fulfillment.
(949) 979-4281 View (949) 979-4281
Photo of Aaron Koba, MA, LMFT, EMDRC, EMDRAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aaron Koba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDRC, EMDRAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
In every person resides the means and ability to overcome their personal challenges, however, not all therapists may be the best fit for every client. For example my session and fee structure are not typical, but work best with the psychotherapies I use and consist of comprehensive sessions lasting 1-3 hours each for a flat rate detailed below, usually 1-2 times per month, and are only provided virtually. If you require more consistent weekly in-person therapy or need to use insurance I would maybe not be the best choice for you. If the session structure and fee do not deter you and curiosity is your response to that, read on.
In every person resides the means and ability to overcome their personal challenges, however, not all therapists may be the best fit for every client. For example my session and fee structure are not typical, but work best with the psychotherapies I use and consist of comprehensive sessions lasting 1-3 hours each for a flat rate detailed below, usually 1-2 times per month, and are only provided virtually. If you require more consistent weekly in-person therapy or need to use insurance I would maybe not be the best choice for you. If the session structure and fee do not deter you and curiosity is your response to that, read on.
(626) 986-3445 View (626) 986-3445
Photo of Holly Plummer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Plummer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Waitlist for new clients
It is my belief that the most healing aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. For it is only through this foundation that our deepest and most personal wounds can be healed. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families and teens and helping patients gain a greater understanding of themselves and the important people in their life. My goal is to empower patients to be vulnerable and honest with themselves and others and thereby make healthy life choices and impact change in their relationships.
It is my belief that the most healing aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. For it is only through this foundation that our deepest and most personal wounds can be healed. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families and teens and helping patients gain a greater understanding of themselves and the important people in their life. My goal is to empower patients to be vulnerable and honest with themselves and others and thereby make healthy life choices and impact change in their relationships.
(949) 954-5668 View (949) 954-5668
Photo of Pamela J Adams - Pamela J. Adams, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela J. Adams, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
The decision to talk to a counselor can be a challenging one. I offer you a supportive, warm environment in which to explore your personal life issues, family dynamics, couple concerns, and employee challenges. Together we can help you create more satisfaction and joy in your life--no matter the issue!
The decision to talk to a counselor can be a challenging one. I offer you a supportive, warm environment in which to explore your personal life issues, family dynamics, couple concerns, and employee challenges. Together we can help you create more satisfaction and joy in your life--no matter the issue!
(760) 523-2866 View (760) 523-2866
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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.