Psychodynamic Therapists in Kent, CT
![Photo of Ash Compton, MA, LMFT, LPC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3f370dc-d8e7-446b-8410-cd4db7c84b7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
These techniques pair with focuses on attachment traumas, anxiety, obsessions, disordered eating and thinking, stress, grief, existential-humanistic modalities, and addiction in humanistic and psychodynamic orientations.
I am a trauma-focused, relational licensed psychotherapist practicing in depth and existential traditions. I work together with clients to create and reach goals and commit to them inquisitively. We will employ myriad methods, including visual, expressive, and somatic modalities to enhance coping skills, make meaning, and foster change- all with an open and direct approach. I work well with persons undergoing stress, anxiety, depression, and existential concerns. We will together build a compassionate and curious container to undertake this work. I work extensively with creatives, activists, and highly attuned folks.
These techniques pair with focuses on attachment traumas, anxiety, obsessions, disordered eating and thinking, stress, grief, existential-humanistic modalities, and addiction in humanistic and psychodynamic orientations.
I am a trauma-focused, relational licensed psychotherapist practicing in depth and existential traditions. I work together with clients to create and reach goals and commit to them inquisitively. We will employ myriad methods, including visual, expressive, and somatic modalities to enhance coping skills, make meaning, and foster change- all with an open and direct approach. I work well with persons undergoing stress, anxiety, depression, and existential concerns. We will together build a compassionate and curious container to undertake this work. I work extensively with creatives, activists, and highly attuned folks.
![Photo of Giesele Fitzsimmons, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d3ecb0a-f009-4254-95a6-d4458fd6bd9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Giesele Fitzsimmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kent, CT 06757 (Online Only)
As we are all different, so is each therapeutic relationship. Therefore, no one approach works for all. I strive to meet people just as and where they are. We best serve others by seeing them as a whole within the context of their environment. This includes our: mental wellness/ state of mind, physical/ state of body, and spiritual/ state of soul. Together we will explore the relationship between your beliefs, experiences, and the lens in which you see yourself and the world around you. My practice is person-centered and strength-based; providing insight, advocacy, education and encouragement to help people reach their goals.
As we are all different, so is each therapeutic relationship. Therefore, no one approach works for all. I strive to meet people just as and where they are. We best serve others by seeing them as a whole within the context of their environment. This includes our: mental wellness/ state of mind, physical/ state of body, and spiritual/ state of soul. Together we will explore the relationship between your beliefs, experiences, and the lens in which you see yourself and the world around you. My practice is person-centered and strength-based; providing insight, advocacy, education and encouragement to help people reach their goals.
![Photo of Vanessa N Weber - New Milford Counseling, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7ba47f2-c766-49da-88f3-920e91943767/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Milford Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Kent, CT 06757
The old stories play back in your head - an event, a relationship, a group of friends. It's hard not to compare ‘now’ to those days; life is so much harder to cope with. You wonder why you no longer connect to people in the way you once did, or maybe you never really did at all. It's a roller coaster of feelings; these memories and old stories seem to have something to do with it. You know you need help figuring it all out- the ways you've been influenced, affected, and the roles you've played in it all. Most of all, you need someone to help you re-connect to others and help you figure out who you are really meant to be.
The old stories play back in your head - an event, a relationship, a group of friends. It's hard not to compare ‘now’ to those days; life is so much harder to cope with. You wonder why you no longer connect to people in the way you once did, or maybe you never really did at all. It's a roller coaster of feelings; these memories and old stories seem to have something to do with it. You know you need help figuring it all out- the ways you've been influenced, affected, and the roles you've played in it all. Most of all, you need someone to help you re-connect to others and help you figure out who you are really meant to be.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Caroline B. Reid, MSEd, LP, Licensed Psychoanalyst](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e80b870-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults who have difficulties with depression, anxiety, phobias, marital and other relationship conflicts.I see individuals and couples. In addition, I work with teens and children who have school, family, or peer problems. As a psychotherapist with psychoanalytic training, I can help you to be able to: 1. Identify and understand root patterns of behavior that cause depression, anxiety or problems in personal, marital, and professional relationships, and in academic or work performance; and, 2. Learn how to make changes.
I use a variety of treatment modalities, such as psychodynamic, behavioral and family therapy, as needed.
I work with adults who have difficulties with depression, anxiety, phobias, marital and other relationship conflicts.I see individuals and couples. In addition, I work with teens and children who have school, family, or peer problems. As a psychotherapist with psychoanalytic training, I can help you to be able to: 1. Identify and understand root patterns of behavior that cause depression, anxiety or problems in personal, marital, and professional relationships, and in academic or work performance; and, 2. Learn how to make changes.
I use a variety of treatment modalities, such as psychodynamic, behavioral and family therapy, as needed.
![Photo of Ludi Pappas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fdb36c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ludi Pappas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Preston Marble Dale, CT 06777 (Online Only)
I believe in a client centered approach in a supportive environment. I have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and trauma.I work with individuals and their families coping with chronic mental illnesses. I use CBT, DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic theory, and play therapy. I have a focus on helping children through divorce, adolescents and a specialty in geriatric psychology. I work with individuals, couples and families, seeing all age groups.
I believe in a client centered approach in a supportive environment. I have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and trauma.I work with individuals and their families coping with chronic mental illnesses. I use CBT, DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic theory, and play therapy. I have a focus on helping children through divorce, adolescents and a specialty in geriatric psychology. I work with individuals, couples and families, seeing all age groups.
![Photo of Susanna Schindler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de9fd4bc-4ef4-48d3-970f-574a394398a7/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a former teacher who became more and more interested in social work as I observed the struggles of my students (anxiety, low self esteem, bullying etc.). I see young adults and older adults. My focus is on improving quality of life--helping reduce feelings of isolation, disconnection, constant worry, depression, relational difficulties, school problems, reactions to trauma reminders, insomnia, parenting issues and phobias. I have been trained in a number of Trauma Therapies. EMDR, ART, TF-CBT- to name a few.
I am a former teacher who became more and more interested in social work as I observed the struggles of my students (anxiety, low self esteem, bullying etc.). I see young adults and older adults. My focus is on improving quality of life--helping reduce feelings of isolation, disconnection, constant worry, depression, relational difficulties, school problems, reactions to trauma reminders, insomnia, parenting issues and phobias. I have been trained in a number of Trauma Therapies. EMDR, ART, TF-CBT- to name a few.
![Photo of Alistair James Highet, MA, LP, NCPsyA, CSD, Licensed Psychoanalyst](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63ce8ea8-feee-4153-8b3e-1fe543b1fa18/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alistair James Highet
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MA, LP, NCPsyA, CSD
Verified Verified
Washington Depot, CT 06794
For me, being a therapist is a privilege. I like to work with anyone eager to understand what is happening to them in their life. Together, we'll try to understand the factors that are creating the trouble - including some of the unconscious ones - and then we'll put them in perspective, cut them down to size, and talk about what can be done. I create a safe, intelligent, and empathic environment for counseling where we can talk about anything without judgment. My office is a safe place to be yourself. So many of our problems have their root in isolation and anxiety, and that is something we can address together.
For me, being a therapist is a privilege. I like to work with anyone eager to understand what is happening to them in their life. Together, we'll try to understand the factors that are creating the trouble - including some of the unconscious ones - and then we'll put them in perspective, cut them down to size, and talk about what can be done. I create a safe, intelligent, and empathic environment for counseling where we can talk about anything without judgment. My office is a safe place to be yourself. So many of our problems have their root in isolation and anxiety, and that is something we can address together.
![Photo of Lynne Oliva, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e24dcdd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lynne Oliva
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sharon, CT 06069 (Online Only)
My practice is based on an integrative model that privileges contemporary relational theory and practice. I work with a range of issues with individual adults, couples and families, and have a particular interest in working with artists, writers, and intellectuals. When choosing a psychotherapist, it is important to find a good fit - someone you feel comfortable with. Psychotherapy is at best a healing and transformational journey that allows you to have healthier and more satisfying relationships with yourself and others. A good relationship with your therapist is the most important factor in a successful outcome.
My practice is based on an integrative model that privileges contemporary relational theory and practice. I work with a range of issues with individual adults, couples and families, and have a particular interest in working with artists, writers, and intellectuals. When choosing a psychotherapist, it is important to find a good fit - someone you feel comfortable with. Psychotherapy is at best a healing and transformational journey that allows you to have healthier and more satisfying relationships with yourself and others. A good relationship with your therapist is the most important factor in a successful outcome.
![Photo of Erin N Boothby, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46eb9e51-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin N Boothby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Preston, CT 06777
**Daytime hours only** In my practice, I offer a warm, comfortable, and safe environment to help you to begin to explore the underlying issues that have brought you to therapy. My approach is non-judgmental and accepting, and I value openness and honesty in my clients. I understand that it can be anxiety-provoking for some to reach out for help initially, so my hope is that my relaxed, kind, and truly caring style will help to put you at ease.
**Daytime hours only** In my practice, I offer a warm, comfortable, and safe environment to help you to begin to explore the underlying issues that have brought you to therapy. My approach is non-judgmental and accepting, and I value openness and honesty in my clients. I understand that it can be anxiety-provoking for some to reach out for help initially, so my hope is that my relaxed, kind, and truly caring style will help to put you at ease.
My clients struggle with anxiety and depression. Some have been significantly traumatized. I strive to create a safe and nurturing relationship that fosters in-depth self-examination which is the building block to establish (or re-establish) a productive and fulfilling life. This process begins by offering them hope and my assurance that I will work with them to achieve their goals.
My clients struggle with anxiety and depression. Some have been significantly traumatized. I strive to create a safe and nurturing relationship that fosters in-depth self-examination which is the building block to establish (or re-establish) a productive and fulfilling life. This process begins by offering them hope and my assurance that I will work with them to achieve their goals.
![Photo of Sara E. Cousins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48229553-9256-4102-a736-4b89f9142678/4/320x400.jpeg)
Sara E. Cousins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sharon, CT 06069
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychotherapist in Lakeville CT and have been in private practice since 1999. I focus on where clients are and the short term and long term goals they have for themselves. I have been trained in many modalities and so my approach can be very specific or incorporate strands from different models depending on the needs of the individual or couple.
I am a psychotherapist in Lakeville CT and have been in private practice since 1999. I focus on where clients are and the short term and long term goals they have for themselves. I have been trained in many modalities and so my approach can be very specific or incorporate strands from different models depending on the needs of the individual or couple.
![Photo of Thomas Ratekin, LPC, MA, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e584bfbb-f8f8-4379-b010-f941acdbd406/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thomas Ratekin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
New Milford, CT 06776
Not accepting new clients
Long-term happiness typically comes from enriching connections to other people. Unfortunately, most of us receive sparse training on how to create and sustain healthy relationships. My particular passion is teaching couples and families how to give love and support--despite our inherent human flaws. In fact, good relationship skills are likely to increase satisfaction and success at work, school, or with friends. I approach couples therapy primarily from the Relational Life perspective developed by Terry Real, but I bring in elements from other modalities when appropriate. The primary focus is your relationship and what you need.
Long-term happiness typically comes from enriching connections to other people. Unfortunately, most of us receive sparse training on how to create and sustain healthy relationships. My particular passion is teaching couples and families how to give love and support--despite our inherent human flaws. In fact, good relationship skills are likely to increase satisfaction and success at work, school, or with friends. I approach couples therapy primarily from the Relational Life perspective developed by Terry Real, but I bring in elements from other modalities when appropriate. The primary focus is your relationship and what you need.
Gretchen O'Shea
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
New Milford, CT 06776
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with adults and couples. My approach is client-centered helping to bring that much needed physical and emotional balance back to the client. I am a Gottman trained Couples Therapist and have a strong background in helping clients work through grief and bereavement issues having helped in the development of three Hospice programs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with adults and couples. My approach is client-centered helping to bring that much needed physical and emotional balance back to the client. I am a Gottman trained Couples Therapist and have a strong background in helping clients work through grief and bereavement issues having helped in the development of three Hospice programs.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Alana DiPesa - Kindred Psychotherapy and Consultation, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25576704-762e-4396-b627-53f5b42c7f3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kindred Psychotherapy and Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Our work with our clients draws upon psychodynamic theories and evidence-based methods of treatment including Problem Solving Therapy (PST), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT).
Kindred Psychotherapy is a collaborative group of highly-skilled therapists with specialized training in a variety of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life issues, trauma and family conflict. We know how powerful and necessary good therapy can be so we pride ourselves on providing compassionate, effective treatment to all of our clients. We all work with adults and elders through individual therapy and some of us also offer individual and joint sessions with children and adolescents.
Our work with our clients draws upon psychodynamic theories and evidence-based methods of treatment including Problem Solving Therapy (PST), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT).
Kindred Psychotherapy is a collaborative group of highly-skilled therapists with specialized training in a variety of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life issues, trauma and family conflict. We know how powerful and necessary good therapy can be so we pride ourselves on providing compassionate, effective treatment to all of our clients. We all work with adults and elders through individual therapy and some of us also offer individual and joint sessions with children and adolescents.
![Photo of Amy E. Goldfarb, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41a725c6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My work is grounded in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and relational approaches.
(PLEASE NOTE: My practice is currently full). You're struggling; you aren't feeling like yourself. You'd like to understand your own feelings or those of someone you love. Maybe you feel bogged down; you can't make decisions. Or you're hurting; you've suffered a loss and you don't know how to move forward. Perhaps you'd like to feel more genuine, comfortable, and happy in your close relationships. Or you're always worried; you can't fall asleep because your mind won't stop. You need tools and strategies. I am a seasoned, Yale-trained psychoIogist and I offer compassionate, responsive, effective therapy for people like you.
My work is grounded in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and relational approaches.
(PLEASE NOTE: My practice is currently full). You're struggling; you aren't feeling like yourself. You'd like to understand your own feelings or those of someone you love. Maybe you feel bogged down; you can't make decisions. Or you're hurting; you've suffered a loss and you don't know how to move forward. Perhaps you'd like to feel more genuine, comfortable, and happy in your close relationships. Or you're always worried; you can't fall asleep because your mind won't stop. You need tools and strategies. I am a seasoned, Yale-trained psychoIogist and I offer compassionate, responsive, effective therapy for people like you.
![Photo of Sonya Rencevicz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f5195ed-aa52-4615-a9db-4cc70fb1e2a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sonya Rencevicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenwich, CT 06830
An interactive therapist, I integrate a variety of techniques (psychodynamic, CBT, relational, EMDR, etc) as I listen and provide feedback, sometimes challenging and where appropriate, a dash humor .
I am glad you have found your way to this page. My master's degree is from the University of Chicago. I work with adults of all ages, college students and teens who are anxious/stressed, sad/depressed, dealing with relationship issues, divorce, trauma & eating disorders (and more) for 30+ years. I can help you to understand your reactions, navigate road blocks, identify self destructive behaviors and build resilience. Along the way, I will offer perspectives, options and real solutions. It takes strength and courage to consider talking with a professional. Take the time to find a therapist that fits.
An interactive therapist, I integrate a variety of techniques (psychodynamic, CBT, relational, EMDR, etc) as I listen and provide feedback, sometimes challenging and where appropriate, a dash humor .
I am glad you have found your way to this page. My master's degree is from the University of Chicago. I work with adults of all ages, college students and teens who are anxious/stressed, sad/depressed, dealing with relationship issues, divorce, trauma & eating disorders (and more) for 30+ years. I can help you to understand your reactions, navigate road blocks, identify self destructive behaviors and build resilience. Along the way, I will offer perspectives, options and real solutions. It takes strength and courage to consider talking with a professional. Take the time to find a therapist that fits.
![Photo of Nicole Altbaum-Nash, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f93f89f5-b891-4e4a-b668-347931caa2f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to using other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and solution focused therapies, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which we can use to help work through any past trauma that continues to impact your life.
We all have moments when life can feel unmanageable. At times it can cause us to feel depressed or anxious. You don’t have to struggle alone. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment to help you find solutions to a variety of life's challenges. Together, we will tailor your treatment to meet your needs by building on your strengths as well as developing techniques to manage and reduce life stress.
In addition to using other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and solution focused therapies, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which we can use to help work through any past trauma that continues to impact your life.
We all have moments when life can feel unmanageable. At times it can cause us to feel depressed or anxious. You don’t have to struggle alone. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment to help you find solutions to a variety of life's challenges. Together, we will tailor your treatment to meet your needs by building on your strengths as well as developing techniques to manage and reduce life stress.
![Photo of Lindsay McGarril, LMHC, LPC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/117c000f-0314-4a9a-83b1-894e5f9dd851/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide CBT, DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic work and tangible actions or insight for clients to utilize inside and outside of sessions to ensure they get the most out of our work together.
I invite clients struggling with an array of issues from anxiety, codependency, addiction, and eating disorders to work with me. I am usually the best fit for people who are motivated and looking to make difficult changes in their life that they have struggled with managing on their own and need more support with. In a world of artificial intimacy (AI), my goal as a therapist is to build authentic connections with people to help them shrink the gap between where they are and where they want to be. When working with me, my approach is gently direct and collaborative.
I provide CBT, DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic work and tangible actions or insight for clients to utilize inside and outside of sessions to ensure they get the most out of our work together.
I invite clients struggling with an array of issues from anxiety, codependency, addiction, and eating disorders to work with me. I am usually the best fit for people who are motivated and looking to make difficult changes in their life that they have struggled with managing on their own and need more support with. In a world of artificial intimacy (AI), my goal as a therapist is to build authentic connections with people to help them shrink the gap between where they are and where they want to be. When working with me, my approach is gently direct and collaborative.
![Photo of Jaime Sanchez, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e945732e-4d8b-44ee-8768-150bc9cc44f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jaime Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield, CT 06759
My therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused, Narrative, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals in a supportive, confidential, and non-judgmental environment to resolve issues and reconnect with a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach is client-centered, collaborative, and tailored to meet specific needs to assist each individual in self-reflection, actively staying present, and moving forward with positive changes. I assist individuals in exploring their thoughts and feelings by challenging their thinking and offering alternative perspectives for the development of healthier relationships with themself and others.
My therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused, Narrative, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals in a supportive, confidential, and non-judgmental environment to resolve issues and reconnect with a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach is client-centered, collaborative, and tailored to meet specific needs to assist each individual in self-reflection, actively staying present, and moving forward with positive changes. I assist individuals in exploring their thoughts and feelings by challenging their thinking and offering alternative perspectives for the development of healthier relationships with themself and others.
![Photo of Ilana Sterman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e28a0ba-66dd-4449-9df3-776c2300ca93/1/320x400.jpeg)
When a particular area of life is less rewarding or is problematic, you may seek assistance rediscovering your path to mental health. Understanding that therapy is more likely to be helpful when you feel comfortable with your therapist, and hopeful about the therapy, my approach emphasizes accessing each person’s unique strengths and resources in order to facilitate growth, new learning, and fulfillment. I use a person-centered integrative approach drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic theories to work collaboratively with you toward mutually agreed-upon goals.
When a particular area of life is less rewarding or is problematic, you may seek assistance rediscovering your path to mental health. Understanding that therapy is more likely to be helpful when you feel comfortable with your therapist, and hopeful about the therapy, my approach emphasizes accessing each person’s unique strengths and resources in order to facilitate growth, new learning, and fulfillment. I use a person-centered integrative approach drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic theories to work collaboratively with you toward mutually agreed-upon goals.
See more therapy options for Kent
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Kent
- Brookfield
- Lakeville
- Litchfield
- New Fairfield
- New Milford
- Salisbury
- Sharon
- Sherman
- Torrington
- Washington
- Watertown
- Woodbury
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.