Psychodynamic Therapists in Seal Beach, CA

Photo of Joanna Rogers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joanna Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I have been trained in a variety of treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, guided imagery, expressive arts, and solution focused therapy.
My style is warm, down-to-earth, and creative. I try to do my best to provide a welcoming and safe environment for my patients to express themselves. I have a passion for working with patients who are seeking a meaningful life and see value in deepening their self-awareness. I take an integrative approach to treating patients, recognizing the individual needs of each person.
I have been trained in a variety of treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, guided imagery, expressive arts, and solution focused therapy.
My style is warm, down-to-earth, and creative. I try to do my best to provide a welcoming and safe environment for my patients to express themselves. I have a passion for working with patients who are seeking a meaningful life and see value in deepening their self-awareness. I take an integrative approach to treating patients, recognizing the individual needs of each person.
(562) 371-0156 View (562) 371-0156
Photo of Vitoria Cottiss, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Vitoria Cottiss
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I take a warm, slow, and attentive approach using integrative psychodynamic therapy, giving you the space to discover what you need in relationship to self or in relationship to others.
Although we live in an age of endless connectivity, many of us struggle with building and maintaining genuine interpersonal bonds. If you’re currently feeling overwhelmed trying to navigate new stages in your life, friendships or partnership, I would be honored to support you. During our time together, we will explore the past to better understand the beliefs we have in the present. We will work together to build self-awareness and attain more meaningful connections with others and ourselves.
I take a warm, slow, and attentive approach using integrative psychodynamic therapy, giving you the space to discover what you need in relationship to self or in relationship to others.
Although we live in an age of endless connectivity, many of us struggle with building and maintaining genuine interpersonal bonds. If you’re currently feeling overwhelmed trying to navigate new stages in your life, friendships or partnership, I would be honored to support you. During our time together, we will explore the past to better understand the beliefs we have in the present. We will work together to build self-awareness and attain more meaningful connections with others and ourselves.
(562) 539-4451 View (562) 539-4451
Photo of Cathy DeBuono, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy DeBuono
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
There is no one approach to psychotherapy that is right for everyone.  As your therapist, I will take a highly individualized approach to the work that we do by starting with a comprehensive approach to understanding your unique circumstances and goals.  My work is always guided by the  principles of a psychodynamic approach, is informed by a wide range of psychoanalytic theories and is grounded in the wisdom of somatic experiencing.
There is no one approach to psychotherapy that is right for everyone.  As your therapist, I will take a highly individualized approach to the work that we do by starting with a comprehensive approach to understanding your unique circumstances and goals.  My work is always guided by the  principles of a psychodynamic approach, is informed by a wide range of psychoanalytic theories and is grounded in the wisdom of somatic experiencing.
(310) 361-5898 View (310) 361-5898
Photo of Allison Adamovic, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Adamovic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Feeling inadequate as a new mom? Having conflict with your partner? Your anxiety feel all-consuming? My specialties are Postpartum & Women's Issues, EMDR for Trauma & Self-Esteem issues, Relationships (including Pre-marital counseling). I often use CBT tools, Psychodynamic approach, and Solution-focused techniques. My goal is to support and empower you during life's changing tides. Things never seem to go quite as expected, and it's time to put your needs first.
Feeling inadequate as a new mom? Having conflict with your partner? Your anxiety feel all-consuming? My specialties are Postpartum & Women's Issues, EMDR for Trauma & Self-Esteem issues, Relationships (including Pre-marital counseling). I often use CBT tools, Psychodynamic approach, and Solution-focused techniques. My goal is to support and empower you during life's changing tides. Things never seem to go quite as expected, and it's time to put your needs first.
(562) 352-2806 View (562) 352-2806
Photo of Sarah Greenspan, MS, APCC, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Greenspan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, APCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
My approach is a combination of CBT, IFS, Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic & Trauma Informed therapy.
I want to help you heal in a way that works for you. I’m an intuitive, hands-on therapist who will work with you to set your goals and to meet them by the end of therapy. We wil work on finding ways for you to feel relief from feelings of anxiety or depression or in exploring traumatic areas from your past. I understand the struggles people go through in relationships and how important it is to find somebody who really gets what you are going through, will help you to learn new communication skills, and guide you to feel content, gain clarity and peace of mind.
My approach is a combination of CBT, IFS, Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic & Trauma Informed therapy.
I want to help you heal in a way that works for you. I’m an intuitive, hands-on therapist who will work with you to set your goals and to meet them by the end of therapy. We wil work on finding ways for you to feel relief from feelings of anxiety or depression or in exploring traumatic areas from your past. I understand the struggles people go through in relationships and how important it is to find somebody who really gets what you are going through, will help you to learn new communication skills, and guide you to feel content, gain clarity and peace of mind.
(949) 326-9462 View (949) 326-9462
Photo of Patricia Richmond, MA,  PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
My treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, Psychodynamic and Mindfulness.
It is very hard to feel safe and grounded in this uncertain world. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who uses humor and compassion when providing the support, understanding and empathy necessary to help you with your emotions . You may have experienced a sudden career transition , life change. or loss. COVID may be contributing to social anxiety. I can help you master these unwelcome emotions that prevent you from living your best life. Our goal together will be to assist you in obtaining the personal insight, strength and skills to find peace. It's spring, a time for beginnings
My treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative, Psychodynamic and Mindfulness.
It is very hard to feel safe and grounded in this uncertain world. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who uses humor and compassion when providing the support, understanding and empathy necessary to help you with your emotions . You may have experienced a sudden career transition , life change. or loss. COVID may be contributing to social anxiety. I can help you master these unwelcome emotions that prevent you from living your best life. Our goal together will be to assist you in obtaining the personal insight, strength and skills to find peace. It's spring, a time for beginnings
(562) 418-5612 View (562) 418-5612
Photo of Evelyn K Co, MFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Evelyn K Co
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I have provided mental health services for a wide variety of disorders and diverse populations of children and adults for over 20 years. I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in multiple states. I use a holistic approaches to facilitate therapeutic change. I infuse my work with elements from evidenced-based interventions, behavioral, cognitive, experiential and psychodynamic therapies, and art therapy. My therapeutic work facilitates the individuals' desired changes using traditional and non-traditional methods, such as art therapy, EMDR, neurofeedback, mindfulness, and interpersonal process therapy.
I have provided mental health services for a wide variety of disorders and diverse populations of children and adults for over 20 years. I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in multiple states. I use a holistic approaches to facilitate therapeutic change. I infuse my work with elements from evidenced-based interventions, behavioral, cognitive, experiential and psychodynamic therapies, and art therapy. My therapeutic work facilitates the individuals' desired changes using traditional and non-traditional methods, such as art therapy, EMDR, neurofeedback, mindfulness, and interpersonal process therapy.
(323) 403-4831 View (323) 403-4831
Photo of Holly Joy Argott, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Joy Argott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My integrated, client-centered approach utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral treatment strategies.
If you're reading this, you are most likely feeling overwhelmed with stress and anxiety. You may be in the midst of a crisis, re-living traumas or depressed from repeating the same unhealthy patterns that are holding you back. Looking for help can be a daunting experience, my hope is to make that process easier for you.
My integrated, client-centered approach utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral treatment strategies.
If you're reading this, you are most likely feeling overwhelmed with stress and anxiety. You may be in the midst of a crisis, re-living traumas or depressed from repeating the same unhealthy patterns that are holding you back. Looking for help can be a daunting experience, my hope is to make that process easier for you.
(714) 695-5196 View (714) 695-5196
Photo of Michael Dempsey, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Dempsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
To help you meet your unique needs, I thoughtfully integrate a number of therapeutic approaches, and put to use psychodynamic and psychoanalytically informed therapy to help you reach a deeper level of understanding and meaning, such that life may be experienced at once as more down to earth and more creative.
Are you struggling? Have you given up on your dreams? I offer a safe place where we bring compassionate attention to your challenges, and help you uncover a rich source of understanding to light your way forward. Together, we help you discover for yourself your own truths, so you may pick up the tools to aid you with your distress. Your path is unique to you alone. I walk alongside you, and guide within a supportive and empathic environment to help you broaden your way forward toward more satisfying relationships and a more full experience of life.
To help you meet your unique needs, I thoughtfully integrate a number of therapeutic approaches, and put to use psychodynamic and psychoanalytically informed therapy to help you reach a deeper level of understanding and meaning, such that life may be experienced at once as more down to earth and more creative.
Are you struggling? Have you given up on your dreams? I offer a safe place where we bring compassionate attention to your challenges, and help you uncover a rich source of understanding to light your way forward. Together, we help you discover for yourself your own truths, so you may pick up the tools to aid you with your distress. Your path is unique to you alone. I walk alongside you, and guide within a supportive and empathic environment to help you broaden your way forward toward more satisfying relationships and a more full experience of life.
(949) 391-4995 View (949) 391-4995
Photo of Ana Arellano Ramos, AMFT , EMDR , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ana Arellano Ramos
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT , EMDR
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Ana allows for clients to express their experiences and emotions, while utilizing Psychodynamic, Attachment theory, as well as Schema Therapy to fulfill treatments goals.
Ana Arellano is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who is providing services under the supervision of Tatiana T. Melendez, LCSW. Ana earned a Bachelors degree in Psychology from California State University, Fullerton and a Masters in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family therapy from Pepperdine University. Ana has completed her hours working for community mental health clinic where she focused her experience on supporting individuals experiencing a variety of symptoms and provided the understanding of the origin of behaviors, as well as learning coping skills and techniques to encourage clients.
Ana allows for clients to express their experiences and emotions, while utilizing Psychodynamic, Attachment theory, as well as Schema Therapy to fulfill treatments goals.
Ana Arellano is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who is providing services under the supervision of Tatiana T. Melendez, LCSW. Ana earned a Bachelors degree in Psychology from California State University, Fullerton and a Masters in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family therapy from Pepperdine University. Ana has completed her hours working for community mental health clinic where she focused her experience on supporting individuals experiencing a variety of symptoms and provided the understanding of the origin of behaviors, as well as learning coping skills and techniques to encourage clients.
(949) 284-2841 View (949) 284-2841
Photo of Christina Michelle Zandi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Michelle Zandi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Let's begin a new journey on a path that YOU choose. Whether you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or searching for deeper insight and personal growth, I seek to help you become the best version of yourself. I focus on building your self-awareness and insight because I believe that we have to intimately know ourselves in order to implement change successfully. Growth is not easy, immediate or painless, but it is well worth it as you begin to move closer to your most authentic, fulfilling life.
Let's begin a new journey on a path that YOU choose. Whether you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or searching for deeper insight and personal growth, I seek to help you become the best version of yourself. I focus on building your self-awareness and insight because I believe that we have to intimately know ourselves in order to implement change successfully. Growth is not easy, immediate or painless, but it is well worth it as you begin to move closer to your most authentic, fulfilling life.
(714) 707-2018 View (714) 707-2018
Photo of Vanessa K. Patterson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa K. Patterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Hello and welcome! Finding the right therapist can be a challenging task and I want to acknowledge your courage for taking the first step towards creating vital change in your life. When reaching out for help, we all want to feel at ease and comfortable; working with someone free of judgement who treats us with kindness and respect. I am very easy to talk to and my aim is to assist you in obtaining a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I have been working with children, adults, teenagers, families and couples for over 10 years.
Hello and welcome! Finding the right therapist can be a challenging task and I want to acknowledge your courage for taking the first step towards creating vital change in your life. When reaching out for help, we all want to feel at ease and comfortable; working with someone free of judgement who treats us with kindness and respect. I am very easy to talk to and my aim is to assist you in obtaining a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I have been working with children, adults, teenagers, families and couples for over 10 years.
(562) 741-3596 View (562) 741-3596
Photo of Karen Conklin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Conklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Let Us begin to unpack all that is weighing on you. I AM HERE TO HELP YOU LIVE THE LIFE YOU WANT TO BE LIVING. LIFE TRANSITIONS, GRIEF AND LOSS, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, MARITAL DISCORD OR DISSATISFACTION, UNHAPPY, UNDER ACHIEVING OR PERFECTIONISTIC TEENAGERS ? Life happens, and there is a choice on how to react/respond to each and every stimulus. I can provide the tools to achieve a healthier, happier, higher functioning, harmonious life. I am passionate about my profession and honored to be of service.
Let Us begin to unpack all that is weighing on you. I AM HERE TO HELP YOU LIVE THE LIFE YOU WANT TO BE LIVING. LIFE TRANSITIONS, GRIEF AND LOSS, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, MARITAL DISCORD OR DISSATISFACTION, UNHAPPY, UNDER ACHIEVING OR PERFECTIONISTIC TEENAGERS ? Life happens, and there is a choice on how to react/respond to each and every stimulus. I can provide the tools to achieve a healthier, happier, higher functioning, harmonious life. I am passionate about my profession and honored to be of service.
(562) 568-8004 View (562) 568-8004
Photo of Christophe Ngo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christophe Ngo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
You’ve spent years trying to make life make sense and to find where you fit in the world always feeling like an outsider, different from your family, or that you don’t belong. You bounce around from one hobby, friend group, or idea to another. Perhaps, your identity feels like it’s been chosen for you, and you’re ready to break free from expectations. Maybe you were praised your whole life for being a team player or high achiever in school or work, but the cost of that very thing has you full of stress and anxiety at home with partners, loved ones, and friends—seeking out external validation for shit you don’t really care about.
You’ve spent years trying to make life make sense and to find where you fit in the world always feeling like an outsider, different from your family, or that you don’t belong. You bounce around from one hobby, friend group, or idea to another. Perhaps, your identity feels like it’s been chosen for you, and you’re ready to break free from expectations. Maybe you were praised your whole life for being a team player or high achiever in school or work, but the cost of that very thing has you full of stress and anxiety at home with partners, loved ones, and friends—seeking out external validation for shit you don’t really care about.
(562) 247-0436 View (562) 247-0436
Photo of Mike Valenzuela Catholic Therapist, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mike Valenzuela Catholic Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. Life at times can create challenges that hinder our ability to live the life we would like. Do you find yourself feeling alone? Are you stuck and dealing with depression, past decisions or experiences, relationship issues or other issues that make you feel overwhelmed or impact your mental and emotional well-being? I am here and happy to help. I can provide an atmosphere that is free from judgment, support, and a safe place for us to work together.
Hello and welcome. Life at times can create challenges that hinder our ability to live the life we would like. Do you find yourself feeling alone? Are you stuck and dealing with depression, past decisions or experiences, relationship issues or other issues that make you feel overwhelmed or impact your mental and emotional well-being? I am here and happy to help. I can provide an atmosphere that is free from judgment, support, and a safe place for us to work together.
(562) 207-5658 View (562) 207-5658
Photo of Anita Herrera-Hamilton, PhD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist
Anita Herrera-Hamilton
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Dr. Anita Herrera-Hamilton is a board-certified NEUROpsychologist and Associate Professor at CHLA & USC Keck School of Medicine. She specializes in NEUROpsychological & psychoEDUCATional evaluations of children, adolescents & adults. Specialties include: concussion, traumatic brain injury, & medical conditions affecting brain functioning. As a psychoTHERAPIst & certified YOGA instructor, Dr. Herrera-Hamilton works exclusively with elite and Division I student-athletes, coaches, and parents, to optimize performance by targeting the central and peripheral nervous system via somatic, mindful, and talk therapy to enhance performance.
Dr. Anita Herrera-Hamilton is a board-certified NEUROpsychologist and Associate Professor at CHLA & USC Keck School of Medicine. She specializes in NEUROpsychological & psychoEDUCATional evaluations of children, adolescents & adults. Specialties include: concussion, traumatic brain injury, & medical conditions affecting brain functioning. As a psychoTHERAPIst & certified YOGA instructor, Dr. Herrera-Hamilton works exclusively with elite and Division I student-athletes, coaches, and parents, to optimize performance by targeting the central and peripheral nervous system via somatic, mindful, and talk therapy to enhance performance.
(562) 374-7895 View (562) 374-7895
Photo of Allison Zeen - Allison Zeen - Anxiety, Eating Disorders, OCD, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Allison Zeen - Anxiety, Eating Disorders, OCD
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
If you're struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, or OCD, I'm here to offer practical tools to help you regain control and improve your life. I aim to create a safe space, where you can openly discuss your challenges without fear of judgment. Together, we'll work on reducing anxiety, managing obsessions and compulsions, and making peace with food and your body. My goal is to provide you with the support and understanding to build resilience and healthier relationships with yourself and others.
If you're struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, or OCD, I'm here to offer practical tools to help you regain control and improve your life. I aim to create a safe space, where you can openly discuss your challenges without fear of judgment. Together, we'll work on reducing anxiety, managing obsessions and compulsions, and making peace with food and your body. My goal is to provide you with the support and understanding to build resilience and healthier relationships with yourself and others.
(562) 669-2920 View (562) 669-2920
Photo of JoAnn Fitzpatrick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
JoAnn Fitzpatrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
You may be a parent worried about your teenager, a college student struggling to become independent, or an adult feeling "stuck" or unhappy in life. These are all very familiar experiences that I treat within my private practice. I have been helping adolescents, young adults & their families adapt, grow and thrive for over twenty years. Whether it is helping with the normal growing pains that are present at any age or helping to identify and address more serious issues (chronic mental illness, trauma, addiction, abuse, attachment disruptions/adoption), creating a supportive therapeutic environment to maximize healthy growth is my goal.
You may be a parent worried about your teenager, a college student struggling to become independent, or an adult feeling "stuck" or unhappy in life. These are all very familiar experiences that I treat within my private practice. I have been helping adolescents, young adults & their families adapt, grow and thrive for over twenty years. Whether it is helping with the normal growing pains that are present at any age or helping to identify and address more serious issues (chronic mental illness, trauma, addiction, abuse, attachment disruptions/adoption), creating a supportive therapeutic environment to maximize healthy growth is my goal.
(424) 625-2530 View (424) 625-2530
Photo of Debbie A. Freeman, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie A. Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 26 years of experience. As a former Director of Clinical Services and current adjunct professor, I have trained hundreds of upcoming therapists in both the science as well as the art of providing quality, enriching therapy. I am dedicated to helping you to "process" any pain keeping you from having the healthiest relationships possible and a successful life. The hardest step is often just getting started so feel free to reach out and we can have a conversation. Individuals, Couples and Families always welcome. Accepting New Clients-Free Consultation
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 26 years of experience. As a former Director of Clinical Services and current adjunct professor, I have trained hundreds of upcoming therapists in both the science as well as the art of providing quality, enriching therapy. I am dedicated to helping you to "process" any pain keeping you from having the healthiest relationships possible and a successful life. The hardest step is often just getting started so feel free to reach out and we can have a conversation. Individuals, Couples and Families always welcome. Accepting New Clients-Free Consultation
(424) 543-8473 View (424) 543-8473
Photo of Carolyn Ozimok, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Ozimok
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Sometimes our life experiences lead us astray from our true nature which may cause unwanted struggles and allow false beliefs to dictate how we show up in the world. If you are experiencing difficulties in your life or problems with your relationships and want to create a healthier life that brings you peace, joy, purpose, and fulfillment, I welcome the opportunity to support you. I have great admiration for those who choose transformation. I know the strength, courage, and vulnerability it takes to live and express as your authentic self. It is not easy, but with the proper support and guidance, positive growth is possible.
Sometimes our life experiences lead us astray from our true nature which may cause unwanted struggles and allow false beliefs to dictate how we show up in the world. If you are experiencing difficulties in your life or problems with your relationships and want to create a healthier life that brings you peace, joy, purpose, and fulfillment, I welcome the opportunity to support you. I have great admiration for those who choose transformation. I know the strength, courage, and vulnerability it takes to live and express as your authentic self. It is not easy, but with the proper support and guidance, positive growth is possible.
(657) 298-4615 View (657) 298-4615
1
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.