Psychodynamic Therapists in Pasadena, CA

Photo of Kathlynn Gates, ASW
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
In my practice, I utilize CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic theory, and attachment theory to help clients experience healing that involves engaging both the mind and body.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
In my practice, I utilize CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic theory, and attachment theory to help clients experience healing that involves engaging both the mind and body.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(626) 788-8445 View (626) 788-8445
Photo of Audrey Ham, PhD, Psychologist
Audrey Ham
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I am trained in several theoretical orientations including Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
Telehealth Available: Compassionate Practice with an Open Mind is my motto. Everyone has the power to alter upsetting or confusing feelings, thoughts and behaviors through personal exploration and insight. My aim is to address the specific issues that have led you to therapy at this time of your life. I use therapeutic approaches that are compatible with your unique personality, problems and learning style. Clients describe my approach as caring and compassionate but at the same time straight forward. I am committed to accompanying you on your personal journey towards better mental health.
I am trained in several theoretical orientations including Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
Telehealth Available: Compassionate Practice with an Open Mind is my motto. Everyone has the power to alter upsetting or confusing feelings, thoughts and behaviors through personal exploration and insight. My aim is to address the specific issues that have led you to therapy at this time of your life. I use therapeutic approaches that are compatible with your unique personality, problems and learning style. Clients describe my approach as caring and compassionate but at the same time straight forward. I am committed to accompanying you on your personal journey towards better mental health.
(626) 385-7953 View (626) 385-7953
Photo of Lola Martin, PsyD, Psychologist
Lola Martin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy incorporates relational psychodynamic, behavioral, and somatic techniques.
Healing is possible. No matter who you are, or what happened to you, you deserve to feel safe and at home in your body. You can create a life that is worth living.
My approach to therapy incorporates relational psychodynamic, behavioral, and somatic techniques.
Healing is possible. No matter who you are, or what happened to you, you deserve to feel safe and at home in your body. You can create a life that is worth living.
(626) 240-5492 View (626) 240-5492
Photo of Laurel Salmon, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Laurel Salmon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Utilizing CBT, mindfulness, and psychodynamic perspectives, I provide therapy through a holistic lens, aiming to see my clients from a full picture rather than just their symptomatology.
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
Utilizing CBT, mindfulness, and psychodynamic perspectives, I provide therapy through a holistic lens, aiming to see my clients from a full picture rather than just their symptomatology.
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
(626) 606-2788 View (626) 606-2788
Photo of Cristin Crum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristin Crum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
I come from a strengths perspective incorporating psychodynamic, mindfulness, mind-body connection, and CBT work.
Are you struggling with relationships, life transitions, and/or getting your life where you want it to be? Are you trying to solve all your problems internally but end up going in circles? Do you turn to friends and family yet feel misunderstood? There is incredible usefulness in talking through your beliefs, problems, and feelings with a psychotherapist who has experience and expertise to understand what you are going through and to help create space for change and growth. Beginning therapy is an empowered step for self and to achieve your goals.
I come from a strengths perspective incorporating psychodynamic, mindfulness, mind-body connection, and CBT work.
Are you struggling with relationships, life transitions, and/or getting your life where you want it to be? Are you trying to solve all your problems internally but end up going in circles? Do you turn to friends and family yet feel misunderstood? There is incredible usefulness in talking through your beliefs, problems, and feelings with a psychotherapist who has experience and expertise to understand what you are going through and to help create space for change and growth. Beginning therapy is an empowered step for self and to achieve your goals.
(415) 966-2462 View (415) 966-2462
Photo of Robert Edward Diaz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Edward Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106
I use DBT skills, CBT, & psychodynamic, spiritual approaches.
I work with primarily adults, couples and adolescents. My work is to help you in meeting your potential and increasing abundance in all areas of your life. Working together in learning how to navigate thoughts, feelings and actions in difficult and non difficult times. Navigating to enhance your potential in relationship to everything, helping to ultimately increase your integrative sense of self, self worth and motivation to move.
I use DBT skills, CBT, & psychodynamic, spiritual approaches.
I work with primarily adults, couples and adolescents. My work is to help you in meeting your potential and increasing abundance in all areas of your life. Working together in learning how to navigate thoughts, feelings and actions in difficult and non difficult times. Navigating to enhance your potential in relationship to everything, helping to ultimately increase your integrative sense of self, self worth and motivation to move.
(626) 385-7973 View (626) 385-7973
Photo of Crystal Dunbar, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Crystal Dunbar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106
Whether you are struggling with depression, isolation, anxiety, social-emotional issues, racial inequity, colorism, support through transitions and identifying new passions, struggling with traumatic events, or relationship issues; I am here to support you. My approach includes a toolbox of practices and techniques using Psychodynamic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Relational Therapy, Mindfulness, and Wellness Coaching to help my clients facilitate social, emotional, and behavioral changes.
Whether you are struggling with depression, isolation, anxiety, social-emotional issues, racial inequity, colorism, support through transitions and identifying new passions, struggling with traumatic events, or relationship issues; I am here to support you. My approach includes a toolbox of practices and techniques using Psychodynamic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Relational Therapy, Mindfulness, and Wellness Coaching to help my clients facilitate social, emotional, and behavioral changes.
(424) 377-1517 View (424) 377-1517
Photo of Gustine Fudickar, AMFT
Gustine Fudickar
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
My approach to treatment is trauma informed and influenced by Attachment Research, Psychodynamic perspectives, Jungian analytic psychology, Buddhist philosophy, and socio-cultural diversity consciousness.
So often, people seek therapy due to immediate life circumstances. And yet, many of the challenges people face often involve larger emotional, spiritual, and existential questions. To promote meaningful change, therapy must involve exploration of both dimensions of people's experience. As we strengthen our capacity to face discomforting depths, we create space for insight, flexibility, and self-compassion. Turning our attention towards what has been in shadow, we will endeavor to bring light to what might lead to greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and meaningful change in your life.
My approach to treatment is trauma informed and influenced by Attachment Research, Psychodynamic perspectives, Jungian analytic psychology, Buddhist philosophy, and socio-cultural diversity consciousness.
So often, people seek therapy due to immediate life circumstances. And yet, many of the challenges people face often involve larger emotional, spiritual, and existential questions. To promote meaningful change, therapy must involve exploration of both dimensions of people's experience. As we strengthen our capacity to face discomforting depths, we create space for insight, flexibility, and self-compassion. Turning our attention towards what has been in shadow, we will endeavor to bring light to what might lead to greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and meaningful change in your life.
(323) 601-0465 View (323) 601-0465
Photo of Rachel Mukai, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rachel Mukai
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I provide therapy through a feminist/systematic/ psychodynamic framework, where I work with you to break old thought patterns, process and heal from trauma, and view issues through a systematic lens to evaluate how cisheteronormative, patriarchal, and anti queer systems contribute to your concerns and play a part in your healing.
Are you looking for a queer feminist therapist who is as passionate about LGBTQIA+ rights, fat liberation, and healing from religious trauma as they are about Chappell Roan? If so, then you’ve come to the right place! I specialize in helping people navigate the ups and downs of identity, body image, and spiritual recovery with a mix of deep insight and a dash of humor. Whether you're grappling with society’s latest fad diets, questioning long-held religious beliefs, or just trying to figure out where you fit in the ever-expanding rainbow of human experience, I’m here to help you find your path—and have a few laughs along the way.
I provide therapy through a feminist/systematic/ psychodynamic framework, where I work with you to break old thought patterns, process and heal from trauma, and view issues through a systematic lens to evaluate how cisheteronormative, patriarchal, and anti queer systems contribute to your concerns and play a part in your healing.
Are you looking for a queer feminist therapist who is as passionate about LGBTQIA+ rights, fat liberation, and healing from religious trauma as they are about Chappell Roan? If so, then you’ve come to the right place! I specialize in helping people navigate the ups and downs of identity, body image, and spiritual recovery with a mix of deep insight and a dash of humor. Whether you're grappling with society’s latest fad diets, questioning long-held religious beliefs, or just trying to figure out where you fit in the ever-expanding rainbow of human experience, I’m here to help you find your path—and have a few laughs along the way.
(323) 990-8493 View (323) 990-8493
Photo of Nancy Salvatierra, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Salvatierra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I use different interventions/methods which depends on the clients goals but I incorporate (CBT, Family Systems, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Strength Based) to help clients reach their goals in therapy.
I am passionate about increasing mental health awareness among minorities because I wish that someone would have talked about the importance of talking to someone when I was younger. I want people to have access to mental health services and reduce the barriers. I hope that I am able to impact those by helping them make positive changes in their lives and create healthier boundaries to decrease anxiety and stress and built healthier coping skills. I focus on the individual strengths and collaborate with them on creating the environment and habits that will help you them feel empowered.
I use different interventions/methods which depends on the clients goals but I incorporate (CBT, Family Systems, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Strength Based) to help clients reach their goals in therapy.
I am passionate about increasing mental health awareness among minorities because I wish that someone would have talked about the importance of talking to someone when I was younger. I want people to have access to mental health services and reduce the barriers. I hope that I am able to impact those by helping them make positive changes in their lives and create healthier boundaries to decrease anxiety and stress and built healthier coping skills. I focus on the individual strengths and collaborate with them on creating the environment and habits that will help you them feel empowered.
(323) 766-6911 View (323) 766-6911
Photo of Natalie Azurdia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Azurdia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
My techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy to help my clients meet their personal goals.
I am a Hispanic bi-cultural therapist who specializes in working with first-generation adults 18+. I have my Master's Degree in Social Work from USC. Clients who see me are typically going through life changes, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with my clients to identify their strengths and empower them to be the best version of themselves. I am a firm believer that we are all deserving of healthy relationships, not only with others but with ourselves as well.
My techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy to help my clients meet their personal goals.
I am a Hispanic bi-cultural therapist who specializes in working with first-generation adults 18+. I have my Master's Degree in Social Work from USC. Clients who see me are typically going through life changes, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with my clients to identify their strengths and empower them to be the best version of themselves. I am a firm believer that we are all deserving of healthy relationships, not only with others but with ourselves as well.
(626) 869-2606 View (626) 869-2606
Photo of Abigail F. Schoenberg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abigail F. Schoenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Her treatment is always individualized; while operating from a primarily psychodynamic framework, she also enjoys using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and play therapy when indicated.
Abby is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting her clients on their journeys toward growth and healing. She enjoys creating collaborative therapeutic relationships with each of her clients, acknowledging that they are the experts on their own experiences. She cultivates an environment of safety and open communication, in order for clients to feel comfortable and empowered in their treatment. She prioritizes principles of antiracism and equitability in her practice.
Her treatment is always individualized; while operating from a primarily psychodynamic framework, she also enjoys using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and play therapy when indicated.
Abby is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting her clients on their journeys toward growth and healing. She enjoys creating collaborative therapeutic relationships with each of her clients, acknowledging that they are the experts on their own experiences. She cultivates an environment of safety and open communication, in order for clients to feel comfortable and empowered in their treatment. She prioritizes principles of antiracism and equitability in her practice.
(747) 205-1126 View (747) 205-1126
Photo of Susan J Buchanan, PhD, Psychologist
Susan J Buchanan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
In my work with individuals and couples, I seek to provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment in which individual and relational issues can be explored. In this environment, challenges become opportunities for growth. I use a psychodynamic approach to explore what is occurring in one's life and/or relationship in the present, what occurred in one's past which influences the way one views him or herself in the present, and what may be going on at an unconscious level which impacts one's choices, behaviors, and beliefs about self and other.
In my work with individuals and couples, I seek to provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment in which individual and relational issues can be explored. In this environment, challenges become opportunities for growth. I use a psychodynamic approach to explore what is occurring in one's life and/or relationship in the present, what occurred in one's past which influences the way one views him or herself in the present, and what may be going on at an unconscious level which impacts one's choices, behaviors, and beliefs about self and other.
(424) 221-5979 View (424) 221-5979
Photo of Feliz Lucia Molina, MFA, MSW, ACSW
Feliz Lucia Molina
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MFA, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and client-centered.
We often go through life transitions unaware of how the past might still have a hold on us. Sometimes we simply need to take a moment to reflect on how experiences and relationships have shaped our perception of ourselves and situations. Processing how past traumas are linked to the present can help us to recover, heal, and to understand how behavior patterns and responses are formed in the first place so that we can change for the better.
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and client-centered.
We often go through life transitions unaware of how the past might still have a hold on us. Sometimes we simply need to take a moment to reflect on how experiences and relationships have shaped our perception of ourselves and situations. Processing how past traumas are linked to the present can help us to recover, heal, and to understand how behavior patterns and responses are formed in the first place so that we can change for the better.
(626) 779-9465 View (626) 779-9465
Photo of Steven H Graubard, PhD, Psychologist
Steven H Graubard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
I practice psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
We all want to become, be, and remain adults able to enjoy times of great happiness and grow from times of stress, difficulty, and sadness. This is not an easy process and requires learning from feeling, thinking about, and experiencing the ups and downs of our lives, understanding what our experiences mean, where they come from, and what we can do to make changes in our lives. In this process we know that we can experience anxiety, depression, stress, tension, and many other things that require professional help in order to maintain our footing and keep moving forward in our lives.
I practice psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
We all want to become, be, and remain adults able to enjoy times of great happiness and grow from times of stress, difficulty, and sadness. This is not an easy process and requires learning from feeling, thinking about, and experiencing the ups and downs of our lives, understanding what our experiences mean, where they come from, and what we can do to make changes in our lives. In this process we know that we can experience anxiety, depression, stress, tension, and many other things that require professional help in order to maintain our footing and keep moving forward in our lives.
(626) 314-6219 View (626) 314-6219
Photo of Lane Assaf, MA, AMFT, CTP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lane Assaf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
Some of these include Somatic work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness approaches.
I take a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, blending western and eastern healing practices, evidence based approaches, and trauma informed care. I believe that you are the expert of your own life. I will collaborate with you, explore past experiences that have shaped who you are today, and figure out what's keeping you from living the life you want. This isn't always an easy process. It takes courage and hard work, but the rewards are great. I provide an environment that is curious, empathetic, supportive, and down to Earth. I'll help you discover your strengths and become more in-tune with your emotions. You can do this!
Some of these include Somatic work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness approaches.
I take a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, blending western and eastern healing practices, evidence based approaches, and trauma informed care. I believe that you are the expert of your own life. I will collaborate with you, explore past experiences that have shaped who you are today, and figure out what's keeping you from living the life you want. This isn't always an easy process. It takes courage and hard work, but the rewards are great. I provide an environment that is curious, empathetic, supportive, and down to Earth. I'll help you discover your strengths and become more in-tune with your emotions. You can do this!
(323) 218-7927 View (323) 218-7927
Photo of Marica Thomas, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marica Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I believe that therapy is a truly personal experience. The decision to seek support is a courageous one. As your therapist, I feel the privilege of being allowed into your life in a way that you may have not allowed others to be. My approach is customized to each of my clients because each one of us is on our own personal journey. My treatments are rooted in psychodynamic, humanistic, and family systems theories. Based on your individual goals and needs, I may integrate mindfulness-based interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or trauma focused therapy. I am an EMDR trained therapist and current member of EMDRIA.
I believe that therapy is a truly personal experience. The decision to seek support is a courageous one. As your therapist, I feel the privilege of being allowed into your life in a way that you may have not allowed others to be. My approach is customized to each of my clients because each one of us is on our own personal journey. My treatments are rooted in psychodynamic, humanistic, and family systems theories. Based on your individual goals and needs, I may integrate mindfulness-based interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or trauma focused therapy. I am an EMDR trained therapist and current member of EMDRIA.
(626) 790-2881 View (626) 790-2881
Photo of Hannah Elizabeth Sandle, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hannah Elizabeth Sandle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I work using integrative psychodynamic, behavioral, and somatic-focused frameworks to help clients build resilience, increase distress tolerance, and discover their values in order to live more fulfilling lives.
Change is inevitable, and happens time and time again throughout our life. Sometimes, these ever-shifting transitions have a way of making us feel stuck, isolated, confused, and ashamed. I'm interested in helping clients navigate life's challenges with self-compassion and curiosity, and collaborating with them to build a life full of meaning.
I work using integrative psychodynamic, behavioral, and somatic-focused frameworks to help clients build resilience, increase distress tolerance, and discover their values in order to live more fulfilling lives.
Change is inevitable, and happens time and time again throughout our life. Sometimes, these ever-shifting transitions have a way of making us feel stuck, isolated, confused, and ashamed. I'm interested in helping clients navigate life's challenges with self-compassion and curiosity, and collaborating with them to build a life full of meaning.
(323) 927-7855 View (323) 927-7855
Photo of Esther Chon, PhD, EdM, Psychologist
Esther Chon
Psychologist, PhD, EdM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I work from trauma-informed, relationship based, psychodynamic perspectives.
I am licensed in California and Washington and am accepting new clients via telehealth sessions. Whether the challenge you are facing is due to past trauma, depression, anxiety, family or work dynamics, or feeling stuck in a phase of life, I'm here to provide a safe, compassionate and nonjudgmental space as we work toward your goals. I've worked for nearly 20 years supporting individuals and families work through various challenges to find healing, relief and to gain critical insights that help unlock potential for positive change.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I work from trauma-informed, relationship based, psychodynamic perspectives.
I am licensed in California and Washington and am accepting new clients via telehealth sessions. Whether the challenge you are facing is due to past trauma, depression, anxiety, family or work dynamics, or feeling stuck in a phase of life, I'm here to provide a safe, compassionate and nonjudgmental space as we work toward your goals. I've worked for nearly 20 years supporting individuals and families work through various challenges to find healing, relief and to gain critical insights that help unlock potential for positive change.
(626) 243-7750 View (626) 243-7750
Photo of Terese Forster, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Terese Forster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
Along with EMDR and somatic techniques I am trained in Psychodynamic therapy and use an Attachment informed approach.
As a therapist, my goal is to help my clients heal from the traumas in their life to find true fulfillment and a more peaceful future. To do this, I place special emphasis on valuing the intelligence of each individual's journey. By attuning to your process with compassion, I provide a secure and nurturing environment which makes it easier to explore the challenges you face. My focus is to walk you through the process and help you to find what works best for you. I hold the space for you to become at peace with your past.
Along with EMDR and somatic techniques I am trained in Psychodynamic therapy and use an Attachment informed approach.
As a therapist, my goal is to help my clients heal from the traumas in their life to find true fulfillment and a more peaceful future. To do this, I place special emphasis on valuing the intelligence of each individual's journey. By attuning to your process with compassion, I provide a secure and nurturing environment which makes it easier to explore the challenges you face. My focus is to walk you through the process and help you to find what works best for you. I hold the space for you to become at peace with your past.
(626) 498-1802 View (626) 498-1802
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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.