Psychodynamic Therapists in Temecula, CA

Photo of Cynthia L Robles - Cynthia L. Robles, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia L. Robles, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92592  (Online Only)
I am well trained in the application of behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, family systems, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and humanistic therapies.
Telehealth appointments are available! Se Habla Espanol. Your emotional health and relationships are important, and you deserve to receive quality assistance with these vital aspects of your life. As a therapist, I am dedicated to assist you to maximize your potential and live a full, gratifying life. Every client with whom I work deserves personalized care, respect, and responsiveness. This attitude helps clients feel safe enough to consider new ways of approaching life's challenges. Whether you seek individual, couple's or family therapy (or perhaps some combination of these) I invite you to call for an appointment.
I am well trained in the application of behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, family systems, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and humanistic therapies.
Telehealth appointments are available! Se Habla Espanol. Your emotional health and relationships are important, and you deserve to receive quality assistance with these vital aspects of your life. As a therapist, I am dedicated to assist you to maximize your potential and live a full, gratifying life. Every client with whom I work deserves personalized care, respect, and responsiveness. This attitude helps clients feel safe enough to consider new ways of approaching life's challenges. Whether you seek individual, couple's or family therapy (or perhaps some combination of these) I invite you to call for an appointment.
(951) 290-0302 View (951) 290-0302
Photo of Rachel Kane-Cooley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Kane-Cooley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
I most commonly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-centered, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness approaches in my practice.
Hi there. My name is Rachel Kane-Cooley and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I love connecting with and supporting others on their therapeutic journey. I consider this work a delight and a privilege. Over the years, I have met so many wonderful people looking to heal, grow, and evolve. It's a beautiful process and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
I most commonly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-centered, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness approaches in my practice.
Hi there. My name is Rachel Kane-Cooley and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I love connecting with and supporting others on their therapeutic journey. I consider this work a delight and a privilege. Over the years, I have met so many wonderful people looking to heal, grow, and evolve. It's a beautiful process and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
(951) 383-6952 View (951) 383-6952
Photo of Amy Leigh Fernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Leigh Fernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Hey there! Deciding to start the journey of therapy is something people come to for so many reasons. To heal trauma. To grieve. To vent. To find the way through a huge life transition. To discover who they are. To learn better ways to cope. To find a way to become un-stuck when things just aren’t working. It is about sitting through feelings in a safe space where you can develop new patterns and experience emotional wellness and healing. I practice from a variety of theoretical frameworks, drawing on aspects of Cognitive-Behavioral and Psychodynamic approaches through a trauma-informed lens.
Hey there! Deciding to start the journey of therapy is something people come to for so many reasons. To heal trauma. To grieve. To vent. To find the way through a huge life transition. To discover who they are. To learn better ways to cope. To find a way to become un-stuck when things just aren’t working. It is about sitting through feelings in a safe space where you can develop new patterns and experience emotional wellness and healing. I practice from a variety of theoretical frameworks, drawing on aspects of Cognitive-Behavioral and Psychodynamic approaches through a trauma-informed lens.
(951) 447-8926 View (951) 447-8926
Photo of Christine Clarke, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
I enjoy working with a variety of techniques including Forward Facing Trauma Therapy: Eric Gentry PhD, EMDR exercises, Art Therapy, psychodynamic approaches, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hi, I'm Christine Clarke, LMFT. I have practiced psychotherapy for 30 years with specific advanced training and experience in treating PTSD, mood disorders, and those suffering from wounds from narcissistic abuse. I work in body-centered, Gestalt, movement therapy, and art therapy as well as cognitive behavioral techniques. I'm dedicated to my clients and to the art of psychotherapy. My clients are those who have been frustrated by repeating negative, self-destructive relationship dynamics and personally limiting beliefs.
I enjoy working with a variety of techniques including Forward Facing Trauma Therapy: Eric Gentry PhD, EMDR exercises, Art Therapy, psychodynamic approaches, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hi, I'm Christine Clarke, LMFT. I have practiced psychotherapy for 30 years with specific advanced training and experience in treating PTSD, mood disorders, and those suffering from wounds from narcissistic abuse. I work in body-centered, Gestalt, movement therapy, and art therapy as well as cognitive behavioral techniques. I'm dedicated to my clients and to the art of psychotherapy. My clients are those who have been frustrated by repeating negative, self-destructive relationship dynamics and personally limiting beliefs.
(951) 499-4115 View (951) 499-4115
Photo of Sarah Ruminson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Ruminson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
Hello, I am Sarah Ruminson LMFT 140887, and I have worked in the mental health field for over 3 years. I worked for a community-based mental health company which provided me the opportunity to treat all ages and a variety of diagnoses. I have worked with a variety of clients ranging from infantry to elderly. I am open to all ages and really enjoy working with children. I gravitate toward using CBT, DBT, Client-centered, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, and Family Systems approaches.
Hello, I am Sarah Ruminson LMFT 140887, and I have worked in the mental health field for over 3 years. I worked for a community-based mental health company which provided me the opportunity to treat all ages and a variety of diagnoses. I have worked with a variety of clients ranging from infantry to elderly. I am open to all ages and really enjoy working with children. I gravitate toward using CBT, DBT, Client-centered, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, and Family Systems approaches.
(951) 349-4754 View (951) 349-4754
Photo of Justin Omar Navarro, AMFT
Justin Omar Navarro
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a Certified Psychodynamic and Prolonged Exposure Therapist, I am committed to aiding individuals, families, and couples in exploring diverse perspectives within their relationships.
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a Certified Psychodynamic and Prolonged Exposure Therapist, I am committed to aiding individuals, families, and couples in exploring diverse perspectives within their relationships.
(909) 530-3080 View (909) 530-3080
Photo of Kathy O'Fallon, PsyD, Psychologist
Kathy O'Fallon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92589
Waitlist for new clients
I've been in practice for many years, in both medical clinics and private practice settings, so I have treated all kinds of issues. Psychotherapy is a deeply personal and intimate experience, and I value the privilege of being a part of a person's commitment to change. Areas of advanced training include but are not limited to Brainspotting, the quick pulse (by Jo Dunning), codependence and abuse recovery, emotional freedom technique, Matrix Reimprinting, cognitive and psychodynamic psychotherapy, poetry therapy, marital and family therapy, sexual therapy, focused mindfulness, quantum entrainment, and spiritually focused therapy.
I've been in practice for many years, in both medical clinics and private practice settings, so I have treated all kinds of issues. Psychotherapy is a deeply personal and intimate experience, and I value the privilege of being a part of a person's commitment to change. Areas of advanced training include but are not limited to Brainspotting, the quick pulse (by Jo Dunning), codependence and abuse recovery, emotional freedom technique, Matrix Reimprinting, cognitive and psychodynamic psychotherapy, poetry therapy, marital and family therapy, sexual therapy, focused mindfulness, quantum entrainment, and spiritually focused therapy.
(909) 570-1795 View (909) 570-1795
Photo of Mark Ingram - Dr. Mark Ingram, PsyD, KAP, Psychologist
Dr. Mark Ingram
Psychologist, PsyD, KAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92592  (Online Only)
I offer a unique integration of KAP, CBT and Psychodynamic approaches to facilitate learning and teach you to think, behave and feel differently.
Do you feel stuck? Does worry, fear, self-doubt or anxiety interfere with daily your life? Do you experience sadness, grief or depression that you can't seem to move beyond? If these issues prevent you from reaching your goals and having the life and relationships you want, I can help you build the skills you need to regain control of your life. We will work together to develop goals and create a process to address your unique needs. I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy to ALL residents of California.
I offer a unique integration of KAP, CBT and Psychodynamic approaches to facilitate learning and teach you to think, behave and feel differently.
Do you feel stuck? Does worry, fear, self-doubt or anxiety interfere with daily your life? Do you experience sadness, grief or depression that you can't seem to move beyond? If these issues prevent you from reaching your goals and having the life and relationships you want, I can help you build the skills you need to regain control of your life. We will work together to develop goals and create a process to address your unique needs. I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy to ALL residents of California.
(424) 276-6031 View (424) 276-6031
Photo of Elizabeth Butler Greene, LCP, Psychologist
Elizabeth Butler Greene
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
I most frequently use psychodynamic, attachment-based, and mindfulness theories to help us build a shared understanding of the client’s reality.
Hello, my name is Dr. Elizabeth Butler. I have been a licensed clinical psychologist based in California since 2007. My focus is simple: providing tools and a safe space to help my clients make progress in their lives and feel better. I have over 20 years of experience working with adults in group and individual settings, helping navigate life challenges that cause anxiety, stress, depression, and interpersonal difficulties. I have treated emotion dysregulation, anger management problems, boundary-setting issues, and core identity issues.
I most frequently use psychodynamic, attachment-based, and mindfulness theories to help us build a shared understanding of the client’s reality.
Hello, my name is Dr. Elizabeth Butler. I have been a licensed clinical psychologist based in California since 2007. My focus is simple: providing tools and a safe space to help my clients make progress in their lives and feel better. I have over 20 years of experience working with adults in group and individual settings, helping navigate life challenges that cause anxiety, stress, depression, and interpersonal difficulties. I have treated emotion dysregulation, anger management problems, boundary-setting issues, and core identity issues.
(559) 527-0975 View (559) 527-0975
Photo of Sean Kennedy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
In addition to all of these modalities, I employ the psychodynamic approach in working with childhood trauma.
Welcome to my profile. I am Sean Kennedy LCSW. As a Licenced Clinical Social Worker, I come from a strengths-based approach. This means I will never ask what is wrong with you but instead, what is right with you. I work with a diverse range of clients. The most common kinds of clients with whom I work are people like you who are going through the muck and mire of life. We all know life can get really hectic and we just need someone to help sort it all out.
In addition to all of these modalities, I employ the psychodynamic approach in working with childhood trauma.
Welcome to my profile. I am Sean Kennedy LCSW. As a Licenced Clinical Social Worker, I come from a strengths-based approach. This means I will never ask what is wrong with you but instead, what is right with you. I work with a diverse range of clients. The most common kinds of clients with whom I work are people like you who are going through the muck and mire of life. We all know life can get really hectic and we just need someone to help sort it all out.
(661) 689-5275 View (661) 689-5275
Photo of Jennifer Dayoan, MSW, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Dayoan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92589  (Online Only)
I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic.
Saying affirmations regularly helps our brain create positive responses to different circumstances. Here is one of my favorites: "Sometimes you have to let go of the picture of what you thought life would be like & learn to find the joy in the story you are actually living" (Rachel Marie Martin). Welcome to insight, awareness & self discovery! I have worked in behavioral & medical health care for over 20 years, working in depth with mental health, substance, end of life, crisis management, bereavement, the homeless.
I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic.
Saying affirmations regularly helps our brain create positive responses to different circumstances. Here is one of my favorites: "Sometimes you have to let go of the picture of what you thought life would be like & learn to find the joy in the story you are actually living" (Rachel Marie Martin). Welcome to insight, awareness & self discovery! I have worked in behavioral & medical health care for over 20 years, working in depth with mental health, substance, end of life, crisis management, bereavement, the homeless.
(949) 676-8236 View (949) 676-8236
Photo of Emily Narvaez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Narvaez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92592
My name is Emily Narvaez, I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California, and work with clients via Telehealth. I work with adults, children, and adolescents specializing in anxiety, depression and trauma, using a Cognitive Behavioral and Psychodynamic approach to help make progress and ultimately reach goals. I use these two approaches to assist the client in identifying and challenging their negative cognitions, feelings, and behaviors as well as looking at behaviors in their present and past in order to explore how it has affected their life.
My name is Emily Narvaez, I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California, and work with clients via Telehealth. I work with adults, children, and adolescents specializing in anxiety, depression and trauma, using a Cognitive Behavioral and Psychodynamic approach to help make progress and ultimately reach goals. I use these two approaches to assist the client in identifying and challenging their negative cognitions, feelings, and behaviors as well as looking at behaviors in their present and past in order to explore how it has affected their life.
(323) 375-1928 View (323) 375-1928
Photo of Angel Rodriguez, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angel Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92591  (Online Only)
I can help by providing psychoeducation to reduce shame, empathy to increase acceptance and vulnerability, as well as a number of evidence based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Inquiry, and Resilience Building to work through trauma and its impacts as well as everyday life.
We all have goals, strengths, needs, and difficulties that present themselves daily. If you have been impacted by increased stress or trauma, a new diagnosis, need more coping skills, are becoming familiar with mental health or this is your 10th round of therapy, I welcome you. Life is a journey and healing is non-linear so I seek to provide a nonjudgmental, safe space for us to explore where healing and recovery can take place in your life. Intersectionality is a key component of my practice, so every aspect of your identity is welcome here.
I can help by providing psychoeducation to reduce shame, empathy to increase acceptance and vulnerability, as well as a number of evidence based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Inquiry, and Resilience Building to work through trauma and its impacts as well as everyday life.
We all have goals, strengths, needs, and difficulties that present themselves daily. If you have been impacted by increased stress or trauma, a new diagnosis, need more coping skills, are becoming familiar with mental health or this is your 10th round of therapy, I welcome you. Life is a journey and healing is non-linear so I seek to provide a nonjudgmental, safe space for us to explore where healing and recovery can take place in your life. Intersectionality is a key component of my practice, so every aspect of your identity is welcome here.
(805) 515-3040 View (805) 515-3040
Photo of Amanda Vadney, MA, LMFT, CLE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Vadney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CLE
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you feel unsatisfied with where your life is right now? Are you unhappy because of a relationship, job or family situation? Perhaps things are going well on the surface, but you still feel like something is missing. Maybe you've become so stressed out that you don't even feel like yourself anymore. Stress, depression, and anxiety can change your personality, the dynamics of your relationship, and how you react to others. Whether you are dealing with these or other issues, or simply want to work on personal growth, I can help.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you feel unsatisfied with where your life is right now? Are you unhappy because of a relationship, job or family situation? Perhaps things are going well on the surface, but you still feel like something is missing. Maybe you've become so stressed out that you don't even feel like yourself anymore. Stress, depression, and anxiety can change your personality, the dynamics of your relationship, and how you react to others. Whether you are dealing with these or other issues, or simply want to work on personal growth, I can help.
(951) 639-8263 View (951) 639-8263
Photo of George Hunter, PhD, LMFT, CSAT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
George Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a Cognitive Behavioral therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying proven task oriented therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a Cognitive Behavioral therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying proven task oriented therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(951) 383-6547 View (951) 383-6547
Photo of Angela Austin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92592  (Online Only)
Welcome to Positive Mind Counseling! I'm Angie and I am glad you found me. I am excited to start this journey with you. First thing, Positive Mind Counseling is a virtual private practice working with clients residing anywhere in California. I enjoy helping everyone, but my specialties include working with those struggling with relationship issues, PTSD, postpartum depression, parenting, depression, anger and anxiety. If you want to explore more of my background, and you think we might be a great fit, you can find out more by visiting www.positivemindcounseling.net. I hope we can connect soon!
Welcome to Positive Mind Counseling! I'm Angie and I am glad you found me. I am excited to start this journey with you. First thing, Positive Mind Counseling is a virtual private practice working with clients residing anywhere in California. I enjoy helping everyone, but my specialties include working with those struggling with relationship issues, PTSD, postpartum depression, parenting, depression, anger and anxiety. If you want to explore more of my background, and you think we might be a great fit, you can find out more by visiting www.positivemindcounseling.net. I hope we can connect soon!
(951) 338-5867 View (951) 338-5867
Photo of Katie McCowan, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie McCowan
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92592  (Online Only)
Hi and welcome, I'm really glad you're here taking this courageous first step toward meaningful change. Over the past 6 years, I’ve worked with individuals using a holistic approach that embraces the whole person. Therapy with me is a collaborative and down-to-earth process, one where we move at your pace, building on your strengths to help you establish clarity, mental & emotional grounding, resilience, and a self-identity that is strong & resourceful. My style is warm, uplifting, conversational, and rooted in genuine connection. I’m committed to creating a space where you feel seen, validated, and above all else, believed in.
Hi and welcome, I'm really glad you're here taking this courageous first step toward meaningful change. Over the past 6 years, I’ve worked with individuals using a holistic approach that embraces the whole person. Therapy with me is a collaborative and down-to-earth process, one where we move at your pace, building on your strengths to help you establish clarity, mental & emotional grounding, resilience, and a self-identity that is strong & resourceful. My style is warm, uplifting, conversational, and rooted in genuine connection. I’m committed to creating a space where you feel seen, validated, and above all else, believed in.
(951) 477-4877 View (951) 477-4877
Photo of Lisa Cocis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Cocis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
Hello, welcome to this space. Sometimes trying to find the right therapist can be very overwhelming. If you need more support, I would like to offer you a resource found at bbs.ca.gov entitled, Self-Empowerment: How to Choose a Mental Health Professional. I also offer a free phone consultation to give you space to ask specific questions that you may have. I'm not sure what you are personally facing, but I imagine you are tired of struggling alone. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship provides a safe space that opens the door for healing. I invite you to contact me.
Hello, welcome to this space. Sometimes trying to find the right therapist can be very overwhelming. If you need more support, I would like to offer you a resource found at bbs.ca.gov entitled, Self-Empowerment: How to Choose a Mental Health Professional. I also offer a free phone consultation to give you space to ask specific questions that you may have. I'm not sure what you are personally facing, but I imagine you are tired of struggling alone. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship provides a safe space that opens the door for healing. I invite you to contact me.
(951) 494-4487 View (951) 494-4487
Photo of Jill Diamond, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Diamond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
Welcome! Let's talk if obsessive, poor body image, eating disorders & disordered eating are holding you back from living a full, content life. I'd love for you to reach out if you need a specialist in identifying and finding solutions to issues blocking you from your best academic, sports, & professional performance such as poor concentration and sleep. You'll find me heimish - authentic, warm, and approachable. I offer a professional, respectful and laid back space to support you forward on your journey to building a life and relationships where you can finally breathe deeply and live to your full, individual potential.
Welcome! Let's talk if obsessive, poor body image, eating disorders & disordered eating are holding you back from living a full, content life. I'd love for you to reach out if you need a specialist in identifying and finding solutions to issues blocking you from your best academic, sports, & professional performance such as poor concentration and sleep. You'll find me heimish - authentic, warm, and approachable. I offer a professional, respectful and laid back space to support you forward on your journey to building a life and relationships where you can finally breathe deeply and live to your full, individual potential.
(951) 339-2485 View (951) 339-2485
Photo of Dylan Perese, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dylan Perese
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92591
Do you feel like life is pulling you in every direction, leaving you overwhelmed and disconnected from who you are? Imagine being caught in a whirlwind, trying to keep up with life’s demands while not knowing where to begin. As a spiritual psychotherapist, I offer a space to pause, breathe, and reconnect—a space where you’re truly seen, heard, and valued.
Do you feel like life is pulling you in every direction, leaving you overwhelmed and disconnected from who you are? Imagine being caught in a whirlwind, trying to keep up with life’s demands while not knowing where to begin. As a spiritual psychotherapist, I offer a space to pause, breathe, and reconnect—a space where you’re truly seen, heard, and valued.
(951) 494-6763 View (951) 494-6763
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.