Psychodynamic Therapists in Chicago, IL
I utilize a psychodynamic foundation to raise consciousness aid in well being.
I enjoy working with diverse individuals and have clinical experience from a variety of settings, like community partners, residential substance use treatment facilities, department of corrections, college counseling centers, and schools. Largely, my work has been with marginalized groups, complex trauma, and severe mental illness.
I utilize a psychodynamic foundation to raise consciousness aid in well being.
I enjoy working with diverse individuals and have clinical experience from a variety of settings, like community partners, residential substance use treatment facilities, department of corrections, college counseling centers, and schools. Largely, my work has been with marginalized groups, complex trauma, and severe mental illness.
Neha Chandani
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Modalities I use include psychodynamic theory, DBT, and MI.
As a collaborative counselor, I create a therapeutic relationship that is genuine, warm, and non-judgmental. My approach is centered on considering the client as expert while working to help you reach stability, manage your challenges, and reach your goals. Coming from a cultural background where mental health is often stigmatized, I understand that seeking support can be difficult and therefore I aim to create a welcoming space for you ... a space of empowerment, improvement, and healing.
Modalities I use include psychodynamic theory, DBT, and MI.
As a collaborative counselor, I create a therapeutic relationship that is genuine, warm, and non-judgmental. My approach is centered on considering the client as expert while working to help you reach stability, manage your challenges, and reach your goals. Coming from a cultural background where mental health is often stigmatized, I understand that seeking support can be difficult and therefore I aim to create a welcoming space for you ... a space of empowerment, improvement, and healing.
I love my work and feel honored to be a part of your healing and growth. My style is interactive, empathic, and respectful. Together, we will clarify your goals, identify obstacles, and find ways to overcome them. The process often involves a psychodynamic approach in which we discuss the past as it impacts the present. Frequently cognitive-behavioral approaches are helpful to improve immediate coping abilities. Couples often require attention to communication styles as well. My approach is always based on a collaborative effort to define your needs, support your strengths, and help you create the life you want to live.
I love my work and feel honored to be a part of your healing and growth. My style is interactive, empathic, and respectful. Together, we will clarify your goals, identify obstacles, and find ways to overcome them. The process often involves a psychodynamic approach in which we discuss the past as it impacts the present. Frequently cognitive-behavioral approaches are helpful to improve immediate coping abilities. Couples often require attention to communication styles as well. My approach is always based on a collaborative effort to define your needs, support your strengths, and help you create the life you want to live.
Rose Elias
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Waitlist for new clients
I approach my work from a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, existential and interpersonal base of understanding.
***Please note: I do not currently have openings for new clients and I do not anticipate availability within the next few months. Please feel free to contact me if you would like assistance with referrals or if you would like me to contact you when I have availability. Thank you.***
I approach my work from a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, existential and interpersonal base of understanding.
***Please note: I do not currently have openings for new clients and I do not anticipate availability within the next few months. Please feel free to contact me if you would like assistance with referrals or if you would like me to contact you when I have availability. Thank you.***
My focus is using psychodynamic psychotherapy as the tool to achieve your goals, which can include relief from feelings of depression and anxiety, understanding past experiences, living in the present, and navigating life changes.
Are you done struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships? Are you ready to feel fully yourself and alive again? Are you ready to build the life you want to live? My first goal when meeting with you is to establish a genuine & collaborative connection. This'll serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, understand experiences & make positive changes to your life. We'll work together to help you feel whole, peaceful, and connected. When you're done with therapy, you'll feel empowered and ready to face whatever challenges life throws at you. I can help you live your passion, purpose & truth.
My focus is using psychodynamic psychotherapy as the tool to achieve your goals, which can include relief from feelings of depression and anxiety, understanding past experiences, living in the present, and navigating life changes.
Are you done struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships? Are you ready to feel fully yourself and alive again? Are you ready to build the life you want to live? My first goal when meeting with you is to establish a genuine & collaborative connection. This'll serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, understand experiences & make positive changes to your life. We'll work together to help you feel whole, peaceful, and connected. When you're done with therapy, you'll feel empowered and ready to face whatever challenges life throws at you. I can help you live your passion, purpose & truth.
Shan Ru Lin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATCS, ATR-BC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
Using EMDR, counseling, and art therapy, I offer personalized, psychodynamic, and insight-oriented support tailored to their needs.
My ideal client is someone seeking personal growth and healing. They may be facing life changes, trauma, anxiety, or depression and are motivated to better understand their experiences. Their goal is to gain clarity, enhance emotional well-being, and foster more authentic relationships. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their inner world and work toward healing.
Using EMDR, counseling, and art therapy, I offer personalized, psychodynamic, and insight-oriented support tailored to their needs.
My ideal client is someone seeking personal growth and healing. They may be facing life changes, trauma, anxiety, or depression and are motivated to better understand their experiences. Their goal is to gain clarity, enhance emotional well-being, and foster more authentic relationships. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their inner world and work toward healing.
My use of psychotherapy integrates various treatments, such as, but not limited to, traditional Talk Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution Focused, Trauma Informed, Mindfulness and Art Therapy practices.
I understand the vulnerabilities that come with seeking psychological services. I believe that within a safe, supportive, educational and reciprocal environment we can learn new and effective coping skills. Together we will explore identified problems/challenges and work towards finding coping strategies that are a good fit for you.
My use of psychotherapy integrates various treatments, such as, but not limited to, traditional Talk Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution Focused, Trauma Informed, Mindfulness and Art Therapy practices.
I understand the vulnerabilities that come with seeking psychological services. I believe that within a safe, supportive, educational and reciprocal environment we can learn new and effective coping skills. Together we will explore identified problems/challenges and work towards finding coping strategies that are a good fit for you.
Lb Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I incorporate Relational Psychodynamic Theory, Motivational Interviewing, Relational Cultural Feminist Theory, and third wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methods.
Our authentic connections to one another sustain us as human beings. Often past harms and invalidation make us further disconnected from ourselves and each other. By moving beyond binaries created and sustained by capitalism and other constructs of oppression, I pathologize systems and not people. I work to create an environment that affirms a person’s complete and complex humanity with a sense of compassion that is free from judgment or imposed expectations. When we establish secure and affirming relationships, we have the ability to embrace our authentic selves and the numerous possibilities of transformation.
In my practice, I incorporate Relational Psychodynamic Theory, Motivational Interviewing, Relational Cultural Feminist Theory, and third wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methods.
Our authentic connections to one another sustain us as human beings. Often past harms and invalidation make us further disconnected from ourselves and each other. By moving beyond binaries created and sustained by capitalism and other constructs of oppression, I pathologize systems and not people. I work to create an environment that affirms a person’s complete and complex humanity with a sense of compassion that is free from judgment or imposed expectations. When we establish secure and affirming relationships, we have the ability to embrace our authentic selves and the numerous possibilities of transformation.
As a therapist I work from an anti-oppressive and LGBTQIA2S+ affirming space with an emphasis on trauma informed work. I specialize in working with individuals overcoming pregnancy loss, relationship issues, and grief. I practice from a psychodynamic and attachment theory perspective, while incorporating mindfulness and somatic regulation skills into sessions. Additionally I have experience supporting those who have experienced CPTSD, trauma, and life transitions.
As a therapist I work from an anti-oppressive and LGBTQIA2S+ affirming space with an emphasis on trauma informed work. I specialize in working with individuals overcoming pregnancy loss, relationship issues, and grief. I practice from a psychodynamic and attachment theory perspective, while incorporating mindfulness and somatic regulation skills into sessions. Additionally I have experience supporting those who have experienced CPTSD, trauma, and life transitions.
I practice from an emotions-focused, attachment, and psychodynamic lens.
I help people struggling with issues with relationships, anxiety, mood, grief, trauma, and neurodivergence. I believe healing comes from mutually empowering relationships and connection to one’s identities. As a queer and neurodivergent clinician, I enjoy working with folks exploring their intersecting identities. My approach to therapy is relational and collaborative. In our work together, I will emphasize transparency and authenticity as we bring awareness to the different aspects of your experiences and struggles. My practice is guided by curiosity and nonjudgment and my style is deeply introspective with a sense of playfulness.
I practice from an emotions-focused, attachment, and psychodynamic lens.
I help people struggling with issues with relationships, anxiety, mood, grief, trauma, and neurodivergence. I believe healing comes from mutually empowering relationships and connection to one’s identities. As a queer and neurodivergent clinician, I enjoy working with folks exploring their intersecting identities. My approach to therapy is relational and collaborative. In our work together, I will emphasize transparency and authenticity as we bring awareness to the different aspects of your experiences and struggles. My practice is guided by curiosity and nonjudgment and my style is deeply introspective with a sense of playfulness.
Jess London Shields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660 (Online Only)
My style is collaborative and relational with a basis in depth and psychodynamic perspectives.
Many clients I see may feel “different” or invalidated by society at large, due to identity, gender, race, their body, queerness or relationship structures. I work to build a strong relationship that is affirming of who you are. Often our complexity of self is not well recognized or honored in the places and capacities in which we spend our days. In therapy, we can work to explore and integrate those complexities, histories, and fractured parts, to benefit from their wisdom and move forward in new ways. We can explore what’s working and what’s not working, your strengths and areas of tenderness, and what’s known and unknown.
My style is collaborative and relational with a basis in depth and psychodynamic perspectives.
Many clients I see may feel “different” or invalidated by society at large, due to identity, gender, race, their body, queerness or relationship structures. I work to build a strong relationship that is affirming of who you are. Often our complexity of self is not well recognized or honored in the places and capacities in which we spend our days. In therapy, we can work to explore and integrate those complexities, histories, and fractured parts, to benefit from their wisdom and move forward in new ways. We can explore what’s working and what’s not working, your strengths and areas of tenderness, and what’s known and unknown.
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Through both a psychodynamic perspective and cognitive behavioral approach, my goal is to help you target your source of suffering, initiate breakthroughs and step into your true potential.
Carl Jung once said: "Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." Coming to therapy is an act of courage in itself and a testament to awakening your heart as a compass. Working together in a safe environment of acceptance and empathic dialogue, we will navigate struggles, develop healthy coping skills, and outline strategies that create hope and healing in the short term and generate meaningful, lasting change in the long term.
Through both a psychodynamic perspective and cognitive behavioral approach, my goal is to help you target your source of suffering, initiate breakthroughs and step into your true potential.
Carl Jung once said: "Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." Coming to therapy is an act of courage in itself and a testament to awakening your heart as a compass. Working together in a safe environment of acceptance and empathic dialogue, we will navigate struggles, develop healthy coping skills, and outline strategies that create hope and healing in the short term and generate meaningful, lasting change in the long term.
It is my passion to help individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve their therapeutic goals. With an intuitive and compassionate approach, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel heard and understood. I recognize the power in the client-therapist relationship, and I work to create meaningful, trusting connections with my clients. My therapeutic approach is holistic and culturally sensitive, drawing on a variety of evidence-based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
It is my passion to help individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve their therapeutic goals. With an intuitive and compassionate approach, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel heard and understood. I recognize the power in the client-therapist relationship, and I work to create meaningful, trusting connections with my clients. My therapeutic approach is holistic and culturally sensitive, drawing on a variety of evidence-based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Angelika Danek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60631
I have been trained in a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Client-centered and Solution Focused therapies.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience offering in-person and online counseling. My great passion is helping people to regain their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships so they can feel peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I work with individuals, couples and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and marital problems. Being a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. Also, I provide psychological immigration evaluations: Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancelation of Removal etc.
I have been trained in a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Client-centered and Solution Focused therapies.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience offering in-person and online counseling. My great passion is helping people to regain their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships so they can feel peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I work with individuals, couples and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and marital problems. Being a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. Also, I provide psychological immigration evaluations: Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancelation of Removal etc.
I have had additional training in psychodynamic psychotherapy from the Institute of Psychoanalysis.
I believe that we all deserve to feel our best and experience joy in our relationships and lives. The therapeutic process can help develop a deeper understanding of our true selves and ourselves in relation to others. Through this understanding growth can occur.
I have had additional training in psychodynamic psychotherapy from the Institute of Psychoanalysis.
I believe that we all deserve to feel our best and experience joy in our relationships and lives. The therapeutic process can help develop a deeper understanding of our true selves and ourselves in relation to others. Through this understanding growth can occur.
My approach is holistic, meaning I integrate humanistic, cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing and psychodynamic modalities into my approach.
The most important thing I want potential clients to know is that I truly love doing therapy and sincerely care about the people I with work with. The belief that clients can create greater self awareness, insight and transformation through a non-judgmental, safe and compassionate relationship is the foundation of my approach. By providing an open and collaborative space, clients can explore their thought patterns, emotional/somatic states and behavioral experience to promote meaningful changes. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, down to earth manner, a sense of humor and an authentic self into the therapy room.
My approach is holistic, meaning I integrate humanistic, cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing and psychodynamic modalities into my approach.
The most important thing I want potential clients to know is that I truly love doing therapy and sincerely care about the people I with work with. The belief that clients can create greater self awareness, insight and transformation through a non-judgmental, safe and compassionate relationship is the foundation of my approach. By providing an open and collaborative space, clients can explore their thought patterns, emotional/somatic states and behavioral experience to promote meaningful changes. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, down to earth manner, a sense of humor and an authentic self into the therapy room.
I believe trusting relationships, creativity, and community are at the heart of inner peace. I offer you a compassionate, empathetic, playful, and non-judgmental space. Trauma influences the body, and brain in complex ways and therefore sometimes in therapy we need to talk, and sometimes we need to pause, move, or create. I am informed by attachment theory, psychodynamic approach, and embrace the relational elements of healing. As a musician, and with music therapy training, I understand the regulatory power of art and invite you to integrate expressive elements. I also offer music-centered and songwriting focused sessions.
I believe trusting relationships, creativity, and community are at the heart of inner peace. I offer you a compassionate, empathetic, playful, and non-judgmental space. Trauma influences the body, and brain in complex ways and therefore sometimes in therapy we need to talk, and sometimes we need to pause, move, or create. I am informed by attachment theory, psychodynamic approach, and embrace the relational elements of healing. As a musician, and with music therapy training, I understand the regulatory power of art and invite you to integrate expressive elements. I also offer music-centered and songwriting focused sessions.
I emphasize building strong, empathic therapeutic alliances with clients and utilize an integrationist and holistic approach, drawing heavily from psychodynamic principles and trauma-informed practice.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's in Social Work from New York University with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health. In my clinical training and work, I have experience providing psychosocial services and therapy within both the New York City Public School and Public Hospital systems as well as a residential treatment school at the University of Chicago. I have years of experience working with clients ranging from early childhood to seniors and with a wide range of presenting problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, and psychosis symptoms.
I emphasize building strong, empathic therapeutic alliances with clients and utilize an integrationist and holistic approach, drawing heavily from psychodynamic principles and trauma-informed practice.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's in Social Work from New York University with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health. In my clinical training and work, I have experience providing psychosocial services and therapy within both the New York City Public School and Public Hospital systems as well as a residential treatment school at the University of Chicago. I have years of experience working with clients ranging from early childhood to seniors and with a wide range of presenting problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, and psychosis symptoms.
Emma Coate, LCSW - Lake Park Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive therapy, attachment-based, relation-based therapy, and mindfulness.
I understand that making the decision to begin therapy can be as daunting as it is positive. I will provide a warm, supportive space to begin to sort out life's challenges. I believe that everyone has the resilient capacity to create change and will help guide clients toward healthy goals by letting go of past issues, negative thoughts, and/or unwanted behaviors. As an experienced, licensed psychotherapist with a masters degree in clinical social work from the University of Chicago, I have been a practicing social worker since 2004 and a psychotherapist since 2011.
I utilize a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive therapy, attachment-based, relation-based therapy, and mindfulness.
I understand that making the decision to begin therapy can be as daunting as it is positive. I will provide a warm, supportive space to begin to sort out life's challenges. I believe that everyone has the resilient capacity to create change and will help guide clients toward healthy goals by letting go of past issues, negative thoughts, and/or unwanted behaviors. As an experienced, licensed psychotherapist with a masters degree in clinical social work from the University of Chicago, I have been a practicing social worker since 2004 and a psychotherapist since 2011.
Julia Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
Waitlist for new clients
I am neurodivergent-affirming and often utilize evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and also incorporate a relational psychodynamic style to identify and address current ways of relating to others and the world that often stem from our past.
My clinical areas of specialty include neurodivergence (e.g ADHD, Autism, OCD) and those exploring it, anxiety, relationship challenges, career concerns, and perinatal mental health. Some folks I work with also might describe themselves as sensitive, deep thinkers/feelers. As a neurodivergent woman myself, I feel passionate about working with clients who face challenges related to these areas. Overall, I often support clients in growing self-compassion, increasing self-awareness, living more aligned with their values, and in creating a life that feels sustainable and meaningful.
I am neurodivergent-affirming and often utilize evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and also incorporate a relational psychodynamic style to identify and address current ways of relating to others and the world that often stem from our past.
My clinical areas of specialty include neurodivergence (e.g ADHD, Autism, OCD) and those exploring it, anxiety, relationship challenges, career concerns, and perinatal mental health. Some folks I work with also might describe themselves as sensitive, deep thinkers/feelers. As a neurodivergent woman myself, I feel passionate about working with clients who face challenges related to these areas. Overall, I often support clients in growing self-compassion, increasing self-awareness, living more aligned with their values, and in creating a life that feels sustainable and meaningful.
See more therapy options for Chicago
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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.